Restaurants Where Servers Make the Most Money at in Winston-Salem, NC: Key Takeaways
- Servers in Winston-Salem earn an average hourly wage ranging from $19 to nearly $29 at top restaurants.
- The highest pay among these establishments is at Graylyn, with servers earning approximately $28.85 per hour.
- Tips can add an additional $10-$30 per hour in this region, significantly boosting server earnings, especially at upscale venues.
In Winston-Salem, servers can find well-paying opportunities that combine solid wages with substantial tips, especially in higher-end restaurants.
The following article details which restaurants in Winston-Salem offer the best pay for servers, along with insights on tip earnings and job strategies.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Servers in Winston-Salem, NC
Winston-Salem hosts a variety of restaurants where servers can earn competitive wages, often enhanced by generous tips and benefits.
From casual dining to upscale establishments, these venues provide diverse opportunities for servers looking to maximize income.
Red Robin
Famous for its gourmet burgers and casual, family-friendly atmosphere, Red Robin is a popular choice for servers seeking steady work and tips.
Razzoo's Cajun Cafe
A lively restaurant specializing in Cajun and Creole cuisine, Razzoo's offers servers a dynamic environment and a solid pay rate reflecting its popularity.
Applebee's
Applebee's is a well-known chain that provides reliable pay and consistent customer traffic, making it suitable for servers at various experience levels.
Famous Toastery
Offering a casual breakfast and brunch setting, Famous Toastery is favored for its friendly environment and consistent earning potential for servers.
Graylyn
Graylyn is an upscale hotel and event venue, notable for its elegant dining experiences where servers earn the highest pay on this list.
If you are an employer looking to hire servers or waiters at your restaurant, these insights can help you attract and retain top talent.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Server Earnings in Winston-Salem, NC
The style and type of restaurant strongly influence server wages and tips in Winston-Salem.
Upscale venues like Graylyn typically offer higher base wages and greater tip opportunities compared to casual chains such as Applebee's or Red Robin.
Additional factors affecting server earnings include:
- Location: Businesses in busier or more affluent areas usually attract customers who tip more generously.
- Certifications or Training: Servers with knowledge of fine dining etiquette or wine pairings may command better compensation.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts often result in larger tips due to higher customer volumes.
For servers interested in career advancement, understanding restaurant position descriptions can help plan their growth in hospitality.
How To Find a High Paying Server Job in Winston-Salem, NC
- Create a standout resume and cover letter highlighting hospitality experience and customer service skills.
- Practice common interview questions and emphasize your ability to work in fast-paced environments.
- Network with local restaurant managers and attend job fairs or industry events in Winston-Salem.
- Seek opportunities in upscale restaurants and hotels where base pay and tips tend to be higher.
If you're preparing for an interview as a server, reviewing common server interview questions can give you a key advantage.
Likewise, employers can refine their hiring approach with the top tips for hiring servers.
What’s the Outlook for Server Jobs in Winston-Salem, NC in 2025 and Beyond?
The demand for servers in Winston-Salem is expected to grow moderately over the next several years, driven by a recovering hospitality sector and increasing tourism.
With more restaurants and bars reopening or expanding, servers equipped with excellent customer service skills will find ample opportunities.
Local economic growth and events will support a steady need for front-of-house staff, ensuring stable employment prospects through 2025 and beyond.
For employers, staying updated on hospitality job interview statistics can support better recruitment strategies.
Is a Server’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Winston-Salem, NC?
With an average base wage of $20 per hour and potential tips of $10-$30 per hour, servers can earn between approximately $30,000 and $60,000 annually working full-time.
Winston-Salem has a relatively moderate cost of living compared to major metro areas:
- Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: Around $900 per month
- Utilities and internet: Approximately $150 per month
- Groceries and dining: $300-$400 per month
Combined income from wages and tips generally allows servers to live comfortably, especially when budgeting wisely.
Job seekers may find helpful guidance in our server salary insights article to understand the full financial picture.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Winston-Salem, NC Server Jobs
We selected these restaurants based on their reported wages, tip potential, and reputation for fair treatment of staff.
- Competitive Pay: Focus on establishments that offer higher-than-average base pay to servers.
- Tips and Benefits: Preference for venues known to provide generous tips and employee perks.
- Location and Volume: Restaurants in busy or upscale areas that maintain steady customer flow.
Our goal is to highlight workplaces where servers can maximize their earning potential and job satisfaction.
Employers aiming to reduce turnover should consider strategies to reduce restaurant employee turnover for a more stable team.