When it comes to the food service industry, great jobs are at a premium. However, when you take into account the tipping nature of the business, it is a profitable work industry. If you’re a waitress or a waiter, a bartender, or a master of the culinary arts, then the city you live and work in determines how much you make and how enjoyable the job is. Here are just a few of the best places for the food service industry.
New York, New York
Nothing offers more culinary masterpieces than The Big Apple. From Chinatown to Little Italy, New York offers a plethora of great food in every genre. Due to the sheer number of restaurants that cater to locals and tourists alike, it’s one of the best places to live if you’re in the industry. Finding work here isn’t hard, but it might take you a while to find the place that is a perfect fit for your personality and skills.
Seattle, Washington
Although Seattle is one of the most expensive places to live, fear not. In 2014, the Seattle City Council voted unanimously to raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour, meaning that even busboys and cooks have enough money to sustain themselves. Remember that Seattle is home to coffee giants such as Starbucks, Seattle’s Best, and Tully’s, meaning that if you have barista experience, you’re pretty much guaranteed to find work.
Dorset, Minnesota
Dorset makes the list because it is known as the “Restaurant Capital of the United States.” If you can brave the bitterly cold winters and love a small town atmosphere, this city is the perfect fit for you. While there are only a few restaurants in the town, people from all over the northern Midwest come to eat at this sleepy resort town, even though the population is a mere 22 people and the mayor is a 16 year-old high school student.
Chicago, Illinois
Much like New York City, Chicago is home to a large amount of immigrants, and thus, a wide array of restaurants. The best part of the industry is the opportunity to serve Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, which tourists from across the country come to sample every year. As far as pay goes, just know that even the cheapest of pizzas still costs between $15 and $20, making your tips look a bit better.
Tampa, Florida
Tampa’s restaurant industry is booming thanks in large part to many chain restaurants and local cuisine as well. Cuban and Italian influences have worked their way into the food scene, with the best example being the Tampa take on the Cuban sandwich. While this sandwich is famous around the globe, Tampa adds its Italian influence by adding salami. If you find a restaurant in this town, make sure they serve this sandwich. Locals and tourists flock to get a sample, supplying work year round for industry employees.
No matter where you choose to live, the food industry is a business full of opportunity. While making a good living, you also get the chance to interact with customers and make their experience a memorable one. So, find a place that suits your interests and pack the car — a great food job is only one move away.
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