Restaurant/bar opportunities (apartment, neighborhood, school)

[DavieJ89]

So as my plan B if Publix doesn't work out. I want to go back to school (to study what? I dont know yet) and I'm considering looking into some restaurant/bar opportunities anywhere in town

That being said, my car will be paid off next year along with some other bills and I will be in a good place financially speaking.

I know that tips aren't steady, but if I was careful enough with my money would a student who works as a server in a restaurant or in a bar earning tips, would I be able to make it on my own if I had my own place? Like a decent one bedroom apartment around $600 a month? AND go to school

FWIW if I left Publix and took a job in a bar/restaurant I would be cashing out my stock earned with them. It would be in the neighborhood of $3000-$4000 worth. Of course I would get a job first before leaving Publix if I decide to do that

[kyle19125]

I was a server for many years (almost 20 years/5 years locally) and with proper investigating you can find a restaurant that will offer steady income. In this area I would avoid most if not all of the local spots (too inconsistent) and look for something near Disney that is at least mid-scale. High volume chains like Seasons 52, Ocean Prime, Maggiano's or Cheesecake Factory would be my recommendation given you could work lunch or dinner and make some decent money. Most of the lower end chain restaurants should be avoided because they make you work split shifts and lunches, usually for little and/or inconsistent earnings.

[Crane's Rooster]

It really depends on the restaurant. I worked in the restaurants throughout college and was able to make it as a student. I worked at alot of locally owned sushi restaurants, on a good night I could make $120-$200 in tips, on a slow night I would make at least $80. So I think it's certainly doable, but you will not be rich in any sense, but hey if you're gonna be a student, you might as well live the student life.

[kyle19125]

Originally Posted by Crane's Rooster

It really depends on the restaurant. I worked in the restaurants throughout college and was able to make it as a student. I worked at alot of locally owned sushi restaurants, on a good night I could make $120-$200 in tips, on a slow night I would make at least $80. So I think it's certainly doable, but you will not be rich in any sense, but hey if you're gonna be a student, you might as well live the student life.

I agree though it certainly seems it would improve on his hourly wage at Publix.

[g0gat0rs]

Originally Posted by kyle19125

High volume chains like Seasons 52, Ocean Prime, Maggiano's or Cheesecake Factory would be my recommendation.

Yes I would recommend them too because they're so easy to get into.