Restaurant Manager Salaries

Restaurant managers play a vital role in running a successful eatery. On average, they earn about $52,796 a year. Salaries for restaurant managers can vary based on experience and location.

At the lower end of the scale, starting salaries are around $28,650. As managers gain experience, their earnings can increase significantly. For example, those with several years of experience may earn approximately $53,855, while highly experienced managers can make over $80,000.

Investing time in developing skills and gaining experience can lead to better salary opportunities in this field. The pay reflects the responsibility of managing staff, inventory, and the overall dining experience, making it a rewarding career choice for those passionate about the hospitality industry.

1. San Francisco, CA
   Average Salary: $71,163
   Working in San Francisco offers exciting opportunities for a Restaurant Manager. The city is known for its diverse food scene, with companies like Google and Facebook frequently hosting events at local restaurants.
   Find Restaurant Manager jobs in San Francisco, CA
   




2. Seattle, WA
   Average Salary: $67,310
   Seattle provides a unique culinary landscape for a Restaurant Manager to thrive. The city boasts big names like Starbucks and serious local eateries, creating a vibrant environment to lead food service operations.
   Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Seattle, WA
   




3. Washington, DC
   Average Salary: $67,212
   In Washington, DC, a Restaurant Manager finds a blend of local and international cuisines. The city's countless eateries attract political figures and tourists alike, making it crucial to deliver exceptional dining experiences.
   Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Washington, DC
   




4. Los Angeles, CA
   Average Salary: $66,388
   Los Angeles is a fantastic place to be a Restaurant Manager, thanks to its robust hospitality industry. Home to many celebrity-owned restaurants and trendy eateries, the city demands creativity and strong management skills.
   Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Los Angeles, CA
   




5. Boston, MA
   Average Salary: $65,727
   Boston's rich history and cultural events make it an ideal spot for a Restaurant Manager. The city features many famous seafood and Italian restaurants, where quality service plays a key role.
   Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Boston, MA
   




6. San Jose, CA
   Average Salary: $64,325
   San Jose stands out for its tech-driven food scene, making it an exciting place for a Restaurant Manager. With the nearby tech companies boosting the local dining culture, there are plenty of opportunities for growth.
   Find Restaurant Manager jobs in San Jose, CA
   




7. San Diego, CA
   Average Salary: $63,548
   San Diego combines beautiful weather and a vibrant culinary scene, which is great for a Restaurant Manager. The city thrives on its local food movements and beachside eateries, catering to a diverse clientele.
   Find Restaurant Manager jobs in San Diego, CA
   




8. Stamford, CT
   Average Salary: $62,105
   In Stamford, a Restaurant Manager can enjoy a mix of corporate guests and local residents. The city's growth and business presence offer a steady stream of customers for a variety of dining experiences.
   Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Stamford, CT
   




9. Salinas, CA
   Average Salary: $61,238
   Salinas provides a unique market for a Restaurant Manager, thanks to its agricultural background. The city’s focus on farm-to-table dining helps in creating memorable culinary experiences with fresh ingredients.
   Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Salinas, CA
   




10. Riverside, CA
    Average Salary: $60,581
    Riverside has a growing food scene that is perfect for a Restaurant Manager. The city combines traditional American fare with cultural diversity, making it important to adapt and cater to different tastes.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Riverside, CA
    

1. Sewell Family of Companies
   Average Salary: $116,250
   Sewell Family of Companies operates upscale dining venues in Texas. Restaurant Managers at Sewell focus on providing a high-quality customer experience while managing staff and inventory efficiently.
   




2. Din Tai Fung
   Average Salary: $113,706
   Din Tai Fung is famous for its Taiwanese dumplings and has locations worldwide, including several in the United States. Restaurant Managers ensure the highest standards in food quality and service, contributing to the restaurant's reputation.
   




3. Founding Farmers
   Average Salary: $103,000
   Founding Farmers is known for its farm-to-table approach and has locations mainly in the D.C. metro area. Restaurant Managers uphold the brand's values of sustainability and quality, managing both front and back of house operations.
   




4. CATCH
   Average Salary: $99,375
   CATCH offers a vibrant seafood dining experience, with locations in major cities like New York and Los Angeles. Restaurant Managers here cultivate a lively atmosphere and ensure outstanding service, customizing experiences for guests.
   




5. The Smith Restaurant
   Average Salary: $97,868
   The Smith Restaurant is an American brasserie with multiple locations in New York City and DC. Restaurant Managers coordinate daily operations, working closely with the kitchen and service staff to deliver a unique dining experience.
   




6. Hospitality One
   Average Salary: $94,771
   Hospitality One manages various restaurant brands across the U.S. Restaurant Managers work to create welcoming environments while focusing on staff training and operational efficiency to drive customer satisfaction.
   




7. Waffle House
   Average Salary: $91,989
   Waffle House operates numerous locations primarily in the southeastern U.S. Restaurant Managers implement the company's fast-paced service model, aiming to keep customers satisfied with a warm and friendly atmosphere.
   




8. RH
   Average Salary: $89,297
   RH, formerly known as Restoration Hardware, combines high-end retail with dining experiences in select locations. Restaurant Managers focus on upscale customer service and create a refined dining environment that aligns with the brand's luxury standards.
   




9. Hillstone Restaurant Group
   Average Salary: $88,978
   Hillstone Restaurant Group operates several popular dining establishments, with a focus on quality American cuisine. Restaurant Managers play a key role in maintaining brand standards and managing overall restaurant performance.
   




10. Erickson Senior Living
    Average Salary: $88,758
    Erickson Senior Living provides quality dining services in its senior living communities across the U.S. Restaurant Managers here oversee meal service and create a dining environment that fosters social connections among residents.
    

• Experience: Gain experience in different areas of restaurant management. This knowledge can lead to promotions and higher salaries.
• Training and Certification: Complete professional training programs or obtain certifications in restaurant management or food safety. These qualifications enhance your resume and can lead to better pay.
• Networking: Build strong relationships with industry professionals. Networking can open doors to better job opportunities and higher-paying positions.
• Location: Consider managing restaurants in high-demand areas. Cities or tourist spots often pay more for experienced managers.
• Adaptability: Stay updated on industry trends and customer preferences. Adapting to changes can help make your restaurant more profitable, which may lead to performance bonuses.