Position
Salary

How much does a Food Runner make?

The average salary for a Food Runner is $31,413 per year in the US.

A Food Runner, also known as a waiter, has a role that is essential in the hospitality industry. This job involves serving food and drinks to customers, taking orders, and ensuring guests have a pleasant dining experience. The average yearly salary for a Food Runner is $31,413. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the type of restaurant.

When looking at salary distribution, it is clear that most Food Runners earn between $22,777 and $37,014 annually. This range covers a large part of the food service sector. Some Food Runners may earn more if they work in high-end restaurants or receive tips. Food Runners who work during peak hours or in busy areas may also see higher earnings.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Food Runner?

Food runners looking to maximize their earnings should consider positions in Seattle, WA, and San Francisco, CA. Both cities offer the highest average salaries for this role, making them prime locations for job seekers in this field. Other notable cities include Honolulu, HI, and Los Angeles, CA, where food runners can expect competitive pay.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Food Runner jobs, highlighting Seattle, WA with the highest at $43,905 and Sacramento, CA with the lowest at $36,158.
  1. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $43,905
    In Seattle, working as a Food Runner can be exciting. The city’s vibrant food scene offers opportunities in many well-known restaurants. Many chefs value efficient service, making it a great place to learn and grow.
    Find Food Runner jobs in Seattle, WA


  2. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $42,194
    San Francisco offers a dynamic environment for Food Runners. With numerous Michelin-starred restaurants and trendy eateries, it provides chances to learn from top chefs. The competitive job market can lead to quick career advancement.
    Find Food Runner jobs in San Francisco, CA


  3. Honolulu, HI
    Average Salary: $41,074
    Working as a Food Runner in Honolulu combines a tropical lifestyle with a bustling food industry. Many restaurants focus on local Hawaiian cuisine. It’s a great place for those who enjoy a laid-back yet lively atmosphere.
    Find Food Runner jobs in Honolulu, HI


  4. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $39,922
    Los Angeles presents a diverse array of opportunities for Food Runners. The city’s film industry affects dining trends, so it can be a dynamic work environment. Being part of a large city means steady work and diverse dining options.
    Find Food Runner jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  5. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $39,687
    In Denver, Food Runners enjoy a thriving restaurant culture. The city’s passion for craft beer and farm-to-table dining creates a unique culinary environment. Many restaurants highlight local ingredients, offering a fresh perspective.
    Find Food Runner jobs in Denver, CO


  6. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $38,112
    San Jose’s Silicon Valley backdrop brings a tech influence to its food industry. Many restaurants cater to both tech professionals and families. It’s a place where Food Runners can experience a mix of casual and fine dining.
    Find Food Runner jobs in San Jose, CA


  7. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $36,925
    San Diego’s sunny climate and vibrant food scene make it an appealing place for Food Runners. The city’s coastal location means fresh seafood is abundant. Many restaurants focus on health and wellness, offering exciting menu options.
    Find Food Runner jobs in San Diego, CA


  8. Boulder, CO
    Average Salary: $36,875
    Boulder offers a laid-back atmosphere for Food Runners. The city’s emphasis on health and wellness influences its dining options. Many restaurants focus on organic and locally sourced ingredients, providing a unique work experience.
    Find Food Runner jobs in Boulder, CO


  9. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $36,534
    Working as a Food Runner in Washington, DC, means being at the heart of the nation’s capital. The city’s diverse population creates a rich culinary landscape. Many restaurants cater to both locals and tourists, ensuring steady work.
    Find Food Runner jobs in Washington, DC


  10. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $36,158
    In Sacramento, Food Runners find a welcoming community with a growing food scene. The city’s central location makes it a hub for diverse dining experiences. Many restaurants highlight California’s agricultural bounty, offering fresh and delicious meals.
    Find Food Runner jobs in Sacramento, CA

What are the best companies a Food Runner can work for?

Legal Sea Foods pays the highest salary for Food Runner jobs, offering an average of $42,696 annually. Auberge Resorts Collection and The Broadmoor also provide competitive salaries, making them attractive options for job seekers in this field. Hyatt, Food Fight Restaurant Group, and Marriott International also offer solid compensation for Food Runner positions.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Food Runner jobs, highlighting Legal Sea Foods with the highest at $42,696 and COASTAL FLATS, LLC with the lowest at $36,000.
  1. Legal Sea Foods
    Average Salary: $42,696
    Legal Sea Foods offers rewarding Food Runner positions in its restaurants located in the Northeast. These roles provide opportunities to serve delicious seafood in a dynamic environment. Locations include Boston, Massachusetts, and other areas along the East Coast.


  2. Auberge Resorts Collection
    Average Salary: $40,201
    At Auberge Resorts Collection, Food Runners enjoy competitive pay while serving in luxury resorts. They work in stunning settings such as Sedona, Arizona, and other exclusive locations. These positions emphasize top-notch service and teamwork.


  3. The Broadmoor
    Average Salary: $39,825
    The Broadmoor, a prestigious resort in Colorado Springs, Colorado, offers Food Runner jobs with a great average salary. Employees help create memorable dining experiences for guests. The resort offers beautiful views and a welcoming atmosphere.


  4. Marriott International
    Average Salary: $39,441
    Marriott International provides a range of Food Runner jobs in its hotels worldwide. Employees get to serve guests in many cities. Marriott values its staff and offers opportunities for growth and advancement.


  5. Hyatt
    Average Salary: $37,044
    Hyatt Hotels and Resorts offer Food Runner positions in many locations around the world. They provide a supportive work environment and focus on guest satisfaction. Employees in these roles enjoy competitive pay and benefits.


  6. Food Fight Restaurant Group
    Average Salary: $36,875
    Food Fight Restaurant Group runs trendy eateries where Food Runners serve up fresh and exciting dishes. Locations include San Diego and other vibrant cities. These positions emphasize teamwork and customer service.


  7. Davidson Hospitality Group
    Average Salary: $36,736
    Davidson Hospitality Group offers Food Runner positions in upscale dining environments. Employees enjoy competitive pay while working in various high-end locations. These roles focus on providing excellent dining experiences.


  8. The Cake Bake Shop
    Average Salary: $36,716
    The Cake Bake Shop, known for its delightful baked goods, offers Food Runner jobs with a good average salary. These roles involve serving customers in charming settings. Locations include several cities across the United States.


  9. Maggiano's Little Italy
    Average Salary: $36,074
    Maggiano's Little Italy offers Food Runner positions that provide a welcoming dining experience. These roles emphasize serving Italian cuisine in a family-friendly environment. Locations include many cities across the country.


  10. COASTAL FLATS, LLC
    Average Salary: $36,000
    COASTAL FLATS, LLC, offers Food Runner jobs with a competitive salary. Employees work in a laid-back setting, serving guests delicious meals. Locations include coastal areas where the company operates.

How to earn more as a Food Runner?

Becoming a Food Runner offers a dynamic and engaging way to earn income in the hospitality industry. This role involves moving food from the kitchen to the tables, and it can be a stepping stone to higher positions. Increasing earnings in this role involves several key strategies. First, developing strong customer service skills can lead to better tips and potentially more hours. Second, learning the menu inside and out helps in answering questions and making recommendations, which can lead to a better dining experience for guests and higher satisfaction.

To earn more as a Food Runner, focus on efficiency and accuracy. Speed in serving can improve table turnover, allowing for more service in less time. Attention to detail ensures that orders are correct, reducing errors and complaints. Additionally, showing a willingness to assist in other areas of the restaurant, such as clearing tables or helping in the kitchen, can impress management and lead to promotions or higher pay. Lastly, maintaining a positive attitude and being reliable can build a reputation as a valuable team member, which can lead to bonuses or raises.

Here are five factors that can help increase earnings as a Food Runner:

  1. Develop strong customer service skills.
  2. Learn the menu thoroughly.
  3. Move efficiently and accurately.
  4. Be willing to assist in other areas.
  5. Maintain a positive and reliable attitude.

Currently 1,015 Food Runner job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Food Runner in the US?

Learn what a Food Runner does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Food Runner today.
Position
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Food Runner
1,015 Job Openings