What Restaurants Do Waitresses Make the Most Money at in Norfolk, VA?

The average hourly wage for Waitresses in Norfolk is around $12 to $15 per hour. However, the true earning potential is often boosted substantially by tips, which can range roughly from $5 up to $20 per hour in casual spots and even higher in upscale or busy tourist areas. For front-of-house roles like Waitress, tips frequently surpass the base pay, making total income notably higher than the hourly wage alone.

Interested in knowing where in Norfolk you can maximize your earnings as a Waitress? This article will go over some of the top-paying restaurants in the area, the factors influencing Waitress income and tips for finding high-paying positions. You’ll also get insight into the outlook for these jobs and whether the pay can cover living comfortably in Norfolk.

Top-Paying Restaurants for Waitresses in Norfolk, VA

Norfolk has a rich culinary scene that blends traditional Southern dining with fresh seafood and modern American cuisine. Many restaurants here offer competitive wages, especially those attracting tourists and Naval personnel.

Consider these top-paying spots sought after by Waitresses for their solid base wages and promising tip opportunities:

1. The Chart House

Located on the waterfront, The Chart House provides stunning views of the Elizabeth River alongside upscale seafood dining. Its reputation for excellent service and higher ticket prices generally translates into strong tips for the serving staff.

2. Freemason Abbey Restaurant

Housed in a beautifully restored church, this elegant eatery offers a unique setting with a diverse menu ranging from steaks to fresh seafood. The ambience attracts both locals and tourists, creating a solid income potential for Waitresses.

3. Saltine Oyster Joint

Known for its casual vibe and delicious oysters and seafood, Saltine is a favorite for both lunchtime and dinner crowds. While the base wage might be modest, the consistent customer flow provides reliable tipping opportunities.

4. Village Bistro

A cozy neighborhood bistro blending Southern charm and French-inspired cuisine, Village Bistro has a loyal local following. The intimate dining room often leads to attentive tipping from regular customers and food enthusiasts.

5. Lollipop’s Sweet & Savory Cafe

Famous for breakfast and brunch, Lollipop’s offers a fun, energetic atmosphere. Waitresses here benefit from steady weekend crowds and people eager to tip well after enjoying their meals.

The Impact of Restaurant Type on Waitress Earnings

Various factors such as the restaurant’s theme, clientele and location greatly affect a Waitress's total earnings. Upscale and fine dining venues in Norfolk typically offer better hourly wages and significantly higher tipping possibilities compared to casual eateries.

Meanwhile, tips in casual dining spots often range from $5 to $10 per hour, particularly during slower shifts or weekdays. In contrast, upscale restaurants or waterfront locations where meals and drinks come at premium prices can see tips exceeding $20 per hour, especially on weekends or holidays.

Additionally, restaurants that attract regular tourists, military personnel or business clients tend to generate larger bills and consequently more generous gratuities. Certifications like food handler’s permits or alcohol service training might also play a role in some establishments offering higher base wages or bonuses.

How To Find a High Paying Waitress Job in Norfolk

Target Established Upscale Venues

Research well-rated restaurants, especially those with waterfront views or located near tourist hubs, as they are more likely to pay competitive hourly wages and attract patrons who tip well.

Craft a Stellar Resume and Cover Letter

Emphasize Hospitality experience, positive customer feedback and knowledge of local cuisine or beverage offerings to make your application stand out to hiring managers.

Network Within the Local Hospitality Community

Attend food and wine events or visit restaurants in person during off-hours to introduce yourself, as many openings are filled through referrals or direct connections.

Prepare for Interviews Thoroughly

Learn about menus and the restaurant concept and demonstrate enthusiasm, reliability and professionalism to impress interviewers.

What’s the Outlook for Waitress Jobs in Norfolk in 2025 and Beyond?

The Hospitality Industry in Norfolk is expected to maintain steady growth through 2025 and beyond. The city's growing tourism sector, with visitors drawn to its Naval history, riverfront parks and vibrant arts scene, supports ongoing demand for Waitstaff.

According to state labor projections, Waitress and Waiter roles should see modest growth, especially in areas near downtown and the waterfront. Expansion in casual dining and upscale establishments both contributes to a healthy job market in the region.

Moreover, seasonal events and festivals tend to generate temporary surges in hiring, giving Waitresses additional income opportunities during peak times.

Is a Waitress’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Norfolk?

A Waitress in Norfolk making between $12 and $15 hourly plus averaging $8 to $15 per hour in tips can expect total earnings between approximately $20 and $30 per hour. Annually, this might translate to around $35,000 to $50,000 depending on hours worked and tipping consistency.

Norfolk boasts a relatively affordable cost of living compared to bigger metro areas. Average rents for a one-bedroom apartment hover around $1,000 per month, with utilities averaging $150 and groceries costing approximately $300 to $400 monthly.

Although more luxurious lifestyles may require additional income sources, many Waitresses in Norfolk find they can enjoy a comfortable standard of living through combined wages and tips.

Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Norfolk Waitress Jobs

We selected restaurants based on several key factors to ensure you’re looking at genuinely lucrative opportunities in Norfolk:

• Competitive Base Pay: Preference given to venues offering at least or above the city’s average hourly wage for Waitresses.
• Tip Potential: Consideration of restaurants located in areas with high foot traffic, affluent clientele or tourist appeal where tipping is substantial.
• Reputation & Ambiance: Establishments with strong reviews and well-regarded service standards that typically support better earnings.
• Location: Prime areas like downtown Norfolk, waterfront districts and near larger entertainment venues that boost patronage.

These factors combine to create environments where Waitresses can maximize their earnings while working in pleasant and stable settings.