15 Best Restaurants To Work For As a Server In 2024

The job of a server can be a rewarding yet challenging task. Whether you're passionate about the culinary arts, enjoy interacting with people, or simply love the fast-paced environment of the restaurant industry, finding the best restaurants to work for as a server is crucial for your career journey.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore 15 best restaurants to work for as a server in 2024. These are the places where servers enjoy their work and thrive in their job.

From renowned restaurant chains to exclusive fine dining destinations, each establishment offers a distinct experience. Join us as we explore these culinary havens, uncovering what makes them exceptional places to work as servers in 2024.

Topics we will be covering in this blog -

• 15 best restaurants to work for as a server in 2024

• Salary Insights: How much do servers make in different restaurants?

• Factors to consider before applying for a restaurant server job

• Tips before applying for a server role

• How to find a server job in 2024

• Other businesses where they need servers

15 Best Restaurants to Work for as a Server in 2024

1. Texas Roadhouse

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Known for its lively atmosphere, generous portions, and commitment to quality food and service, Texas Roadhouse offers its staff a fast-paced and fun work environment. With opportunities for advancement and a focus on teamwork, it's a popular choice for servers looking for a supportive workplace culture.

Career Page: Work at Texas Roadhouse

2. The Cheesecake Factory

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With an extensive menu featuring a variety of dishes and cheesecakes, The Cheesecake Factory offers servers the chance to work in a high-volume restaurant known for its consistency and quality. Servers can benefit from competitive salaries, flexible schedules, and comprehensive training programs.

Career Page: Work at The Cheesecake Factory

3. Olive Garden

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As a beloved Italian-American restaurant chain, Olive Garden offers the opportunity to work in a family-friendly atmosphere, serving classic dishes like pasta, breadsticks, and salads. With a focus on hospitality and guest satisfaction, Olive Garden provides servers with valuable customer service experience and opportunities for career growth.

Career Page: Work at Olive Garden

4. Waffle House

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Known for its round-the-clock service and iconic breakfast options, Waffle House allows servers to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment. With its open-kitchen concept and emphasis on teamwork, Waffle House offers servers the opportunity to develop their skills while enjoying competitive pay and other benefits.

Career Page: Work at Waffle House

5. Cracker Barrel

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Cracker Barrel is a combination restaurant and country store. It offers servers the chance to work in a unique and nostalgic setting. With its Southern-inspired menu and focus on hospitality, Cracker Barrel provides servers with opportunities for career advancement, training programs, and a supportive work environment.

Career Page: Work at Cracker Barrel

6. Red Lobster

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Specializing in seafood dishes and its famous Cheddar Bay Biscuits, Red Lobster allows servers to work in a casual dining environment known for its hospitality and value. With its emphasis on quality ingredients and guest satisfaction, Red Lobster offers servers competitive pay and several other benefits.

Career Page: Work at Red Lobster

7. Outback Steakhouse

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With its Australian-themed menu featuring steaks, seafood, and Bloomin' Onions, Outback Steakhouse allows servers to work in a lively and energetic environment. Known for its commitment to quality food and service, Outback Steakhouse offers servers competitive pay, flexible scheduling, and opportunities for career growth.

Career Page: Work at Outback Steakhouse

8. KFC

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As a global fast-food chain specializing in fried chicken, KFC allows servers to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment. With its focus on efficiency and teamwork, KFC offers servers competitive pay, training programs, and opportunities for advancement within the company.

Career Page: Work at KFC

9. McDonald's

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McDonald's is one of the largest fast-food chains in the world. McDonald's servers work in a fast-paced and diverse environment. With its focus on customer service and operational excellence, McDonald's offers competitive pay, flexible scheduling, training programs, and opportunities for career development.

Career Page: Work at McDonald's

10. Pizza Hut

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Known for its wide variety of pizzas and quick delivery services, Pizza Hut offers servers the opportunity to work in a fast-paced and dynamic environment. The company offers servers competitive pay, training programs, and opportunities for advancement within the company.

Career Page: Work at Pizza Hut

5 Premium and Exclusive Restaurants to Work for as Servers

11. The Capital Grille

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Known for its elegant atmosphere and exceptional service, The Capital Grille offers a fine dining experience focusing on high-quality steaks, seafood, and fine wines. With locations in major cities across the country, it allows servers to work in an upscale environment that caters to a discerning clientele.

Career Page: Work at The Capital Grille

12. Ruth's Chris Steak House

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Renowned for its sizzling hot steaks served on 500-degree plates, Ruth's Chris Steak House is a top destination for steak enthusiasts seeking a luxurious fine dining experience. Servers at Ruth's Chris have the chance to be part of a renowned brand synonymous with excellence and hospitality.

Career Page: Work at Ruth's Chris Steak House

13. Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steakhouse

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Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steakhouse sets the standard for fine dining with its prime steaks, fresh seafood, and extensive wine selections. With a sophisticated ambiance and emphasis on culinary excellence, this upscale restaurant chain provides servers with a prestigious environment to hone their skills.

Career Page: Work at Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steakhouse

14. Mastro's Restaurants

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Mastro's Restaurants offers a luxurious dining experience characterized by impeccable service, live music, and an extensive menu featuring prime steaks, fresh seafood, and decadent desserts. With locations in upscale destinations such as Beverly Hills, New York City, and Las Vegas, Mastro's servers have the opportunity to work in some of the most exclusive dining establishments in the country.

Career Page: Work at Mastro's Restaurants

15. Nobu

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Founded by renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa, Nobu is a global luxury hospitality brand known for its innovative fusion cuisine, sleek design, and celebrity clientele. With locations in major cities worldwide, including several in the US, servers at Nobu have the chance to be part of an iconic culinary institution synonymous with sophistication and refinement.

Career Page: Work at Nobu

Salary Insights: How Much do Servers Make in Different Restaurants

The average salary of a restaurant server in the United States can vary depending on location, type of restaurant, experience, and tips. On average, servers in the US earn an average salary of $29,120. Some servers from premium and top establishments make almost $ 36,000.

Texas Roadhouse

• Average Pay - $15.46/ hour

The Cheesecake Factory

• Average Pay - $17.08/ hour

Olive Garden

• Average Pay - $17.68/ hour

Waffle House

• Average Pay - $14.11/ hour

Cracker Barrel

• Average Pay - $27.55/ hour

Red Lobster

• Average Pay - $19.76/ hour

Outback Steakhouse

• Average Pay - $18.55/ hour

KFC

• Average Pay - $7.25/ hour

McDonald's

• Average Pay - $14.31/ hour

Pizza Hut

• Average Pay - $13.95/ hour

The Capital Grille

• Average Pay - $21.69/ hour

Ruth's Chris Steak House

• Average Pay - $15.43/ hour

Del Frisco's Double Eagle Steakhouse

• Average Pay - $51.88/ hour

Mastro's Restaurants

• Average Pay - $16.54/ hour

Nobu

• Average Pay - $15.50/ hour

Factors to Consider Before Applying for a Restaurant Server Job

• Work Environment and Culture: Assess the restaurant's atmosphere and culture. Do you prefer a fast-paced, energetic environment or a more relaxed and formal setting? Consider the restaurant's overall vibe and whether it suits your personality and work style.

• Training and Development Opportunities: Look for restaurants offering comprehensive training programs to help you grow. Consider whether the restaurant provides ongoing development opportunities, such as skill-building workshops or promotion opportunities within the company.

• Potential for Tips and Bonuses: Evaluate the restaurant's tipping policy and whether servers have the potential to earn significant tips based on the clientele and menu prices. Additionally, inquire about any bonus or incentive programs to recognize exceptional performance.

• Work-Life Balance: Consider the restaurant's scheduling policies and whether they offer flexible hours that accommodate your commitments and lifestyle.

• Benefits Package: Explore the benefits offered by the restaurant, such as healthcare coverage, retirement plans, employee discounts, and paid time off.

• Location and Commute: Consider the restaurant's location and your commuting distance. Also consider factors such as transportation options, transportation cost, parking availability, and the distance between your home and your work location.

• Company Reputation and Values: Research the restaurant's reputation in the industry and its value as an employer. Look for reviews from current and former employees to gain insights into the work environment, management style, and employee satisfaction.

• Opportunities for Advancement: Assess the restaurant's track record for promotion and whether there are opportunities for career advancement and growth.

Tips Before Applying for a Server Role

• A Great Resume and Cover Letter: Highlight relevant experience, skills, and accomplishments that demonstrate your suitability for the server role. Customize your resume and cover letter to showcase your ability to provide exceptional customer service, work in a fast-paced environment, and contribute to a team.

• Highlight Customer Service Skills: Emphasize your customer service skills and experiences in previous roles. Highlight instances where you went above and beyond to satisfy customers, resolve issues, and create memorable experiences.

• Dress Appropriately for Interviews: Present yourself professionally by dressing appropriately for interviews. Choose clean, well-fitting clothing that reflects the restaurant's dress code and atmosphere.

• Showcase Relevant Experience: If you have previous experience in the hospitality industry or related fields, highlight this experience on your resume and during interviews.

• Research about the Restaurant: Before applying, familiarize yourself with the restaurant's menu, ambiance, and customer base. During interviews, discuss specific menu items, specials, and unique features to demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm for the restaurant.

• Be Prepared to Multitask: Servers often juggle multiple tasks and responsibilities simultaneously. Showcase your ability to multitask effectively by discussing previous experiences where you managed multiple tables and maintained a high level of efficiency.

• Practice Good Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential for success as a server. Practice active listening, clear verbal communication, and nonverbal cues to convey professionalism and attentiveness to customers and colleagues.

• Stay Positive and Enthusiastic: Display a positive attitude and enthusiasm for the server role and the restaurant industry during interviews. Employers value candidates who are passionate about providing excellent service and contributing to a positive work environment.

How to Find a Server Job in 2024

• Online Job Platforms: Explore popular job search websites such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn to search for server job openings in your area. Use filters to narrow down your search based on location, experience level, and other preferences.

• Check Restaurant Websites and social media: Visit the restaurant’s websites and its social media pages. Many establishments post job openings and hiring announcements on their websites and social media platforms. Follow these pages to stay updated on job opportunities.

• Attend Job Fairs and Networking Events: Attend job fairs, career expos, and networking events in your area to connect with hiring managers and recruiters from different restaurants.

• Reach Out to Local Restaurants Directly: Take the initiative to contact restaurants directly to inquire about job openings. Visit restaurants in person, introduce yourself to the manager or hiring manager, and express your interest in joining their team as a server.

• Consider Part Time or Freelance Opportunities: Explore part-time or freelance server positions that may be available for events, catering gigs, or seasonal work. These opportunities can provide valuable experience and networking connections while you search for a more permanent position.

• Leverage Referrals and Recommendations: Reach out to friends, family members, and professional contacts who may have connections in the restaurant industry. Ask for referrals and recommendations to restaurants that are hiring servers. Personal recommendations can often carry significant weight with hiring managers.

• Consider Alternative Job Search Methods: In addition to traditional job search methods, consider alternative approaches such as volunteering, internships, or apprenticeships in restaurants to gain experience and make valuable connections in the industry.

Other Businesses Where They Need Servers

• Hotels and Resorts: Many hotels and resorts employ servers in their restaurants, banquet halls, and room service departments. Servers in these settings may serve hotel guests, event attendees, and guests dining on-site.

• Catering Companies: Catering companies often require servers to assist with serving food and beverages at weddings, corporate events, private parties, and other special occasions.

• Event Venues: Event venues such as stadiums, concert halls, and convention centers often hire servers to work during events and gatherings.

• Cruise Ships: Cruise ships often employ servers to work in onboard restaurants, buffets, bars, and lounges. Servers on cruise ships cater to passengers' dining needs throughout their voyage, providing attentive service in a unique and dynamic environment.

• Food Trucks and Pop-Up Events: Food trucks and pop-up events often hire servers to assist with taking orders, serving food, and handling transactions. Servers in this setting may work in outdoor venues, festivals, and street markets, providing quick and friendly service to customers on the go.

• Senior Living Facilities: Servers may be employed in dining rooms and cafeterias at assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and retirement communities.

• Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals, medical centers, and healthcare facilities often have dining services departments that require servers to assist with meal delivery, tray assembly, and patient dining assistance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, embarking on a career as a server offers numerous opportunities for growth, fulfillment, and connection within the vibrant hospitality industry.

Whether in restaurants, hotels, catering companies, event venues, or medical facilities, servers play a vital role in creating memorable experiences for people across various settings.

The journey to becoming a successful server is filled with possibilities, challenges, and rewards. With dedication, passion, and a commitment to excellence, individuals can carve out fulfilling careers in the dynamic world of hospitality, making a meaningful impact one table at a time.