How Much Does Server Make: Difference Between Server and Waiter

The salary of a server can vary depending on a number of factors such as location, type of establishment, and level of experience. Generally, servers in the United States make around $2.13 per hour as base pay, this is known as the "tipped wage" and it is lower than the federal minimum wage, which is $7.25 per hour.

However, servers make the majority of their money through tips, which can vary greatly depending on the number of customers, the type of establishment, and the level of service provided.

On average, servers in the US make around $12 to $15 per hour including tips. Servers working in fine dining restaurants and high-end resorts typically earn more than those working in casual dining or fast food restaurants.

It's important to note that salary can also vary by state, some states have a higher minimum wage for tipped employees and some states don't. In order to be fully aware, it is better ​​to check with the state labor department itself. 

What is the difference between a server and a waiter?

Server and waiter are often used interchangeably, but they can refer to slightly different roles in a restaurant or food service setting.

A server is an overall term used to refer to someone who works in the food service industry, responsible for taking orders, serving food, and handling payments. A server can work in a variety of settings including fine dining restaurants, casual dining restaurants, cafes, and bars.

A waiter, on the other hand, is more commonly used to refer to someone who works in a formal dining setting, such as a fine dining restaurant. Waiters are typically responsible for taking orders, serving food, and providing excellent customer service. They may also be responsible for wine service, setting tables, and making recommendations to customers.

To sum up the above, a server and a waiter are similar roles, but a waiter is more commonly used to refer to someone who works in a formal dining setting, and a server is an overall term used to refer to someone who functions in the food service industry. Both roles involve taking orders, serving food, and handling payments, but a waiter may have more responsibilities such as wine service, table setting, and customer service.

• Bartender: A bartender is responsible for preparing and serving alcoholic beverages, handling cash and credit card transactions, and providing excellent customer service.

• Chef: A chef is responsible for overseeing the kitchen, creating menus, and preparing and plating dishes.

• Culinary School: Some servers may choose to attend culinary school to learn more about the culinary arts and potentially become a chef.

• Food and Beverage Manager: A food and beverage manager is responsible for the overall operation of the food and beverage department in a hotel, casino, or another establishment.

• Sales and Marketing: Some servers may choose to go into sales and marketing for the restaurant industry or the food industry, representing the company and promoting its products.

• Owning a business: Some servers may choose to own their own food business, such as a restaurant or catering company.

The current list is not exhaustive and there are many other career paths that a server can take, but these are some of the most common next steps after working as a server. It is important to keep in mind that the next step will depend on the individual's personal goals, interests, and ambitions to grow within the industry.