What Restaurants Do Waitresses Make the Most Money at in Norman, OK?

In Norman, OK, the average hourly wage for Waitresses is typically around $12 per hour. However, this base pay often only tells part of the story. With tips, many Waitresses earn an additional $5 to $15 per hour, depending on the restaurant and clientele.

This article will highlight some of the top restaurants where Waitresses can make the most money in Norman. We’ll also discuss how factors like restaurant style and location influence earnings, and share tips on how to secure a high-paying Waitress job in the area.

Top-Paying Restaurants for Waitresses in Norman, OK

Norman boasts a number of restaurants where Waitresses can earn solid income, thanks to a mix of steady customers, quality food and generous tipping cultures. Here’s a look at some of the best-paying spots for Waitresses in the city:

1. The Mont

The Mont is a vibrant bar and eatery known for its lively atmosphere and frequent live music events. Waitresses here benefit from high volume and enthusiastic patrons, resulting in healthy tip earnings.

2. Vast Brewery & Tap Room

This popular brewery and taproom draws a hip, local crowd that enjoys craft beers paired with elevated pub fare. Waitresses earn attractive tips during busy weekend nights.

3. Louie's Grill & Bar

A friendly neighborhood bar and grill with a loyal clientele, Louie's is known for its relaxed vibe and hearty menu, encouraging repeat business and consistent tipping.

4. Stella Modern Italian Cuisine

Stella serves up refined Italian dishes in an upscale setting. This restaurant’s elegant ambiance attracts diners who tend to tip generously, making it a lucrative place for Waitresses.

5. The Diner

Known for its classic American comfort food, The Diner draws a mix of locals and visitors. The fast-paced environment provides opportunities for Waitresses to maximize earnings through volume and tips.

The Impact of Restaurant Type on Waitress Earnings in Norman

The style and atmosphere of a restaurant in Norman largely determine the earning potential for Waitresses. Casual establishments usually offer steady work but may have lower hourly rates and tips, while upscale or specialty venues often provide higher base pay and better tipping chances.

Below are some important factors influencing Waitress earnings:

• Casual Dining and Diners: These locations typically have a lower base wage but steady customer flow. Tips might range from $3 to $8 per hour supplementing their income.
• Bars and Breweries: Popular local bars like The Mont can offer good tips, especially during weekends and events, pushing total earnings up.
• Upscale and Specialty Restaurants: Places like Stella Modern Italian and other fine dining restaurants in Norman generally have higher hourly wage and Waitresses often earn tips ranging from $10 to $20 per hour, depending on customer generosity.
• Location: Restaurants near the University of Oklahoma campus or downtown may experience higher volumes, which boosts tip pools and hourly wage opportunities for Waitresses.

How To Find a High Paying Waitress Job in Norman

Craft a Standout Resume

Highlight any hospitality experience, particularly roles involving customer service or fine dining. Emphasize reliability and your ability to manage busy shifts efficiently to attract attention from high-paying employers.

Leverage Local Connections

Tap into Norman’s community by networking through local events and social media groups. Personal recommendations from current employees or Managers can give you an edge when applying.

Apply Strategically

Target restaurants known for high earnings potential—like upscale venues or busy bars near the university. Visiting in person during off-peak hours with your resume can help showcase your enthusiasm.

Prepare for Interviews

Be ready to discuss your experience, multi-tasking skills and knowledge of the menu. Demonstrating a professional yet approachable demeanor can go a long way in securing a top-paying position.

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

The demand for Waitresses in Norman is expected to remain steady through 2025 and beyond, driven largely by continued growth in the local restaurant industry and Norman’s expanding population.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and local employment projections, hospitality jobs in Oklahoma are growing at an average pace, with Norman benefiting from a growing university community and increasing tourism.

Opportunities particularly abound in casual dining, bars and locally owned eateries, which account for a significant percentage of hospitality jobs. Upscale restaurants are also showing growth, especially those targeting professionals and residents in newer developments.

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

With an average hourly wage near $12 plus tips averaging $5 to $15 per hour, many Waitresses in Norman can earn approximately $25,000 to $35,000 annually if working full-time hours.

Living costs in Norman are relatively affordable compared to national averages. Typical monthly expenses for a single adult include:

• 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent: Around $750 to $900
• Utilities: $150
• Groceries: $250 to $350
• Transportation: $100 to $150

This suggests that with consistent work at a higher-paying restaurant plus good tipping, Waitresses in Norman can maintain a comfortable lifestyle covering rent, bills and daily expenses, with some room for savings.

Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Norman, OK Waitress Jobs

We selected these restaurants based on comprehensive research, including local job listings, employee reviews and feedback from hospitality experts in Norman.

Key selection factors included:

• Competitive Pay: Restaurants that offer above-average hourly wages and strong tipping potential.
• Positive Work Environment: Venues known for good Management, supportive teams and opportunities for advancement.
• Location: Establishments situated in areas with high foot traffic or popular with locals and visitors alike.
• Consistent Business: Restaurants with strong customer volumes and repeat patronage, ensuring reliable shifts and earning opportunities.

These criteria ensure that Waitresses working here have the chance to earn a solid income in a healthy and sustainable work setting.