Restaurants Where Servers Make the Most Money at in Wichita, KS: Key Takeaways
- The average hourly wage for Servers in Wichita, KS ranges from $17.38 to $21.35 depending on the restaurant.
- Servers in Wichita typically earn an additional $5 to $15 per hour in tips, boosting overall earnings significantly.
- Chili's and Texas Roadhouse are among the top local spots where Servers can earn top rates.
Servers in Wichita earn a competitive wage with potential to supplement income substantially through tips.
This article will break down which Wichita restaurants pay Servers the most and explore salary details and tips.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Servers in Wichita, KS
Chili's
Famous for its casual dining atmosphere and Tex-Mex menu, Chili's in Wichita is a go-to spot offering Servers competitive pay and steady tips.
Texas Roadhouse
Known for hand-cut steaks and lively environment, Texas Roadhouse offers Servers in Wichita strong hourly wages complemented by substantial tips.
Buffalo Wild Wings
A popular sports bar with a casual vibe, Buffalo Wild Wings provides Servers with solid base pay and the opportunity to earn good tips during game days.
K-Pot Korean BBQ & Hot Pot
This restaurant brings a unique interactive dining experience to Wichita servers, blending Korean BBQ with hot pot offerings and reasonable pay rates.
The Humidor Cocktail Lounge
Known for its intimate lounge setting and craft cocktails, The Humidor allows Servers to earn competitive wages potentially boosted by generous cocktail tips.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Server Earnings in Wichita, KS
Servers’ earnings in Wichita depend heavily on the type of restaurant and its clientele.
Casual diners and sports bars typically offer a base pay of $15-$18 per hour, with tips adding between $5 and $10.
In contrast, higher-end or specialty spots, like steakhouses or lounges, often have higher base pay ($20+) and tips that can reach $15 or more per hour during peak times.
- Location matters: Restaurants in busier districts attract more patrons and higher tipping potential.
- Experience and skill: Familiarity with menu items and upselling skills can enhance tip earnings.
- Certification: Alcohol service licenses can open doors to better positions and wages, especially at bars.
How To Find a High Paying Server Job in Wichita, KS
- Craft a strong cover letter and resume highlighting your customer service experience and any relevant certifications.
- Practice common interview questions to confidently demonstrate your communication skills and professionalism. For example, check out these server interview questions to prepare.
- Network in local hospitality circles by attending job fairs and industry events to learn about openings early.
- Consider shifting towards restaurants with higher-end menus or cocktail lounges, which often pay better tips.
Servers interested in career growth might consider resources on restaurant staff hiring strategies to understand employer expectations and improve their prospects.
What’s the Outlook for Server Jobs in Wichita, KS in 2025 and Beyond?
The hospitality sector in Wichita is expected to grow moderately, maintaining steady demand for Servers through 2025 and beyond.
As new restaurants and venues open, especially in revitalized entertainment districts, opportunities will increase, especially for those with prior experience.
Local data suggests servers with alcohol service certifications and experience in high-volume establishments will enjoy better job prospects and wages.
For those looking to enhance their bartending skills related to serving alcohol, guides on bartending techniques can be helpful to gain an edge in cocktail lounges.
Is a Server’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Wichita, KS?
Servers in Wichita, earning around $18 to $21 per hour plus $5-$15 per hour in tips, can make roughly $35,000 to $45,000 annually with full-time work.
Cost of living in Wichita is reasonable:
- Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $800 per month
- Utilities and internet: $150 per month
- Groceries and dining: $300 per month
- Transportation: $80 per month
This salary range, combined with tips, generally allows Servers to cover essential expenses and maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
For employers and managers, understanding salary range disclosure laws and how to write effective job postings can improve hiring transparency and attract better candidates.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Wichita, KS Server Jobs
We selected restaurants based on their competitive hourly wages, tip potential, and reputation within the Wichita hospitality community.
Restaurants that provide a supportive work environment, consistent customer flow, and opportunities for growth were prioritized.
The chosen venues represent a mix of casual dining, specialty cuisine, and cocktail lounges, catering to various Server skill sets and preferences.