Food Server at Upscale Restaurant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of fine dining, the focus on food servers has never been more important.

As culinary trends evolve and expectations rise, the demand for skilled professionals who can deliver, enhance, and maintain an exceptional dining experience increases.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a food server at an upscale restaurant?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the essence of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate world of upscale dining,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable food server job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Food Server at Upscale Restaurant Duties and Responsibilities

Food Servers at upscale restaurants provide high-quality service to guests, ensuring their dining experience is enjoyable and satisfactory.

They not only serve food and beverages, but also offer suggestions on menu items, answer queries, and ensure the dining area is clean and presentable at all times.

Their key duties and responsibilities include:

• Greeting customers upon arrival and providing them with the menu
• Taking accurate food and beverage orders from guests
• Communicating order details to the kitchen staff
• Serving food and drink orders to the customers promptly
• Checking dishes before delivery for accuracy, presentation, and temperature
• Regularly refilling beverages and ensuring customers are satisfied with their meal
• Clearing tables after customers have finished their meals
• Handling customer complaints professionally and escalating them to a supervisor when necessary
• Processing payments, ensuring all bills are settled upon a customer’s departure
• Maintaining the cleanliness and organization of the dining area, including tables, floors, and service stations
• Following all relevant health department rules and regulations
• Recommending specials, wines, and other menu items to customers

 

Food Server at Upscale Restaurant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled and attentive Food Server to join our upscale restaurant team.

The Food Server is responsible for providing exceptional dining service to all guests, maintaining cleanliness of the dining area, and effectively managing customer complaints.

Food Server responsibilities include understanding the menu, assisting customers with food and drink selections, taking orders, delivering food to tables, and ensuring the dining area is clean and inviting.

Ideal candidates have a passion for customer service, knowledge about food preparation and wine pairings, and a commitment to maintaining high standards of cleanliness and service.

 

Responsibilities

• Greet guests and present them with the menu
• Inform guests about daily specials
• Take food and drink orders accurately
• Serve food and drinks in a timely manner
• Check with customers to ensure their satisfaction with their meal
• Clear used dishes and utensils from tables
• Handle customer complaints professionally
• Adhere to hygiene, safety and cleanliness standards
• Assist in setting tables and arranging the dining area

 

Qualifications

• Previous work experience as a Food Server, Waiter or Waitress
• Knowledge of food preparation and presentation
• Understanding of wine pairings and serving protocol
• Excellent communication skills with a customer service attitude
• Ability to multitask and remain calm under pressure
• High school diploma; Food safety training is a plus

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Employee discount
• Tip income
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Food Server at Upscale Restaurant
• Work Environment: High-end, fast-paced restaurant environment. Shifts may include nights, weekends and holidays.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Restaurant Manager or Head Waiter.
• Salary: Base hourly wage plus tips. Wage is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State]
• Employment Type: Full-time or Part-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Food Server at Upscale Restaurant Do?

Food Servers at upscale restaurants are hospitality professionals responsible for ensuring the customers enjoy their dining experience.

They are primarily responsible for taking orders, serving food and beverages to the tables, and ensuring customer satisfaction.

They may also offer meal suggestions, explain menu items, and answer any queries customers might have about the food or drinks.

In an upscale restaurant, Food Servers are expected to have extensive knowledge about various cuisines, wines, and cocktails.

They may be called upon to suggest wine pairings with meals, or describe the unique ingredients or preparation methods of exotic dishes.

Food Servers also handle tasks such as setting up tables, folding napkins in an attractive manner, and maintaining the overall cleanliness of their serving area.

They are also responsible for checking with customers to ensure they are enjoying their meals and take action to correct any problems.

In addition to these tasks, Food Servers at upscale restaurants may need to coordinate with kitchen staff to ensure orders are prepared in a timely manner, and work with other servers and the restaurant manager to ensure smooth operation during busy times.

They are expected to provide exceptional service to uphold the restaurant’s reputation, making the customers feel valued and ensuring they have a memorable dining experience.

 

Food Server at Upscale Restaurant Qualifications and Skills

A successful food server at an upscale restaurant should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Excellent customer service skills to create a welcoming and enjoyable dining experience for all guests.
• Strong communication skills to explain menu items, recommend dishes and wines, and clarify any queries guests might have.
• High attention to detail to ensure orders are correctly placed and fulfilled, and to notice any changes in customer behavior or preferences.
• Interpersonal skills to establish rapport with guests, make them feel valued, and handle any complaints or concerns professionally and tactfully.
• Physical stamina to stand for long hours, move around quickly and carry heavy trays.
• Knowledge of food safety and hygiene rules to ensure all food is served in a clean and safe manner.
• Basic math skills for calculating bills and change, and for handling cash transactions.
• Ability to work under pressure during busy hours while maintaining a professional and friendly demeanor.
• Knowledge of various cuisines and wines to be able to make appropriate suggestions to guests.
• Time management skills to ensure all tasks are done promptly and efficiently.

 

Food Server at Upscale Restaurant Experience Requirements

Food servers at upscale restaurants typically need a minimum of 2 to 3 years of fine dining experience.

This experience is usually acquired through entry-level positions at high-end or fine dining establishments, where they gain essential skills such as plate presentation, menu knowledge, and understanding of various types of cuisines and wines.

It’s critical for food servers to have undergone formal hospitality training, with many upscale restaurants preferring candidates with a diploma or degree in hospitality, culinary arts, or a related field.

They may also have received certifications in food safety and alcohol service.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience are often proficient in advanced customer service skills, such as handling customer complaints, special requests, and high-pressure situations.

They may also have experience in training new staff members, coordinating with the kitchen and bar staff, and ensuring smooth operations during peak dining hours.

Those with over 10 years of experience in the field have likely held senior roles such as Head Waiter or Maître d’.

These individuals are highly skilled in managing dining room operations, supervising staff, and providing exceptional customer service.

They may be ready for managerial positions or roles that involve overseeing the overall dining experience at an upscale restaurant.

 

Food Server at Upscale Restaurant Education and Training Requirements

Food Servers at upscale restaurants typically require a high school diploma or an equivalent education.

Many upscale restaurants provide on-the-job training for new servers, which can include instruction on customer service principles, familiarity with the menu, and knowledge of how to handle special dietary requests.

While not a mandatory requirement, some food servers opt to undergo professional training programs at culinary schools or community colleges.

These programs offer coursework in food safety, customer service, and restaurant management, and they can help servers improve their skills and knowledge about the hospitality industry.

In many jurisdictions, food servers must have a food handler’s card, which involves completing a food safety training course and passing an exam.

Some servers may also opt to pursue a certification in wine or spirits knowledge, such as the Certified Sommelier designation, particularly if they work in establishments with extensive wine lists or specialty drink menus.

Continuing education is also vital in this role, as food servers should stay up to-date with the latest food trends, dietary restrictions, and service techniques.

Experience in the hospitality industry, particularly in fine dining, is often preferred by upscale restaurants.

This can be gained through previous work experience or internships in similar settings.

Soft skills like excellent communication, multitasking, and a positive attitude are also highly desired by employers.

 

Food Server at Upscale Restaurant Salary Expectations

A Food Server at an Upscale Restaurant earns an average wage of $12.15 (USD) per hour, excluding tips.

However, with tips and gratuities, the average total compensation can reach up to $20 (USD) per hour or more.

The actual earnings may vary based on factors such as the server’s experience, the location of the restaurant, and the tipping culture of the clientele.

 

Food Server at Upscale Restaurant Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Food Server at an Upscale Restaurant need?

Food Servers at upscale restaurants require a range of skills including exceptional communication and customer service skills to understand the needs of patrons and accommodate them effectively.

They also need to have good knowledge of menu items, food preparation methods and wine pairing to provide the best dining suggestions.

Additionally, servers require patience and good stress management skills, as the environment can be fast-paced.

 

Do Food Servers need any specific qualification or certificate?

While Food Servers do not need a specific degree, having a high school diploma is often required.

Additional training in hospitality or food service management could be a bonus.

A certification in food handling and safety may also be necessary, depending on the local regulations.

Experience in fine dining or upscale restaurants is usually preferred.

 

What should you look for in a Food Server’s resume?

In a Food Server’s resume, look for previous experience in food service, particularly in fine dining or upscale restaurants.

A strong candidate will have demonstrated excellent customer service skills, familiarity with food and beverage menus, and the ability to work well under pressure.

Any additional certifications in food safety or hospitality can also be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Food Server at an Upscale Restaurant?

A good Food Server at an Upscale Restaurant is someone who is passionate about providing excellent customer service, has excellent attention to detail, and possesses strong communication skills.

They should also be knowledgeable about fine dining etiquette and have a good memory for remembering orders and customer preferences.

In addition, they should be able to handle stressful situations with grace and maintain a positive attitude.

 

Is it difficult to hire Food Servers for Upscale Restaurants?

Hiring Food Servers for upscale restaurants can be challenging.

It requires finding professionals who have a combination of experience, skill, and the right personality traits.

The high standards and expectations in upscale dining environments require servers to be top performers in their field, making this a competitive job role.

Offering competitive salaries and a healthy working environment can help attract quality candidates.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the intricacies of being a food server at an upscale restaurant.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about taking orders and serving food.

It’s about curating an unforgettable dining experience, one plate at a time.

With our comprehensive food server job description template and real-life examples, you’re all set to make your next move.

But why stop there?

Go one step further with our job description generator. It’s your pathway to creating precise job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every plate served is part of a larger dining experience.

Let’s create those memorable moments. Together.

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