Pays the bills......barely.. - Server/Bartender Darden Employee Review

2.0
Mar 6, 2023
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

As far as jobs with supplemental pay go, [Olive Garden] pays a bit on the high end, roughly matches federal minimum wage, then you get to keep your tips and even get paid daily after each shift on a card they provide to you.

Cons

It sucks. The managers are incompetent, insufferable, and overtly racist. DO NOT be a bartender, unless you have intentions to take the training elsewhere- it's not worth it if you don't plan to stick around in the service industry for a while. You're have 5x the responsibilities as a bartender than you do a server, and end up with less pay because you're so busy behind the bar you don't get a lot of tables. HUGE turnover at this company, so don't get too comfortable around anyone. At the end of the day, it's a job at a company that doesn't care about anything but the bottom line- take that how you will..

Explore other reviews about Darden

5.0
Jul 19, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Good work culture & leaders that care deeply about growth and development

Cons

Compensation seems to be an uphill battle

4.0
Jul 26, 2026
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Flexible work environment that favors employee well being over sheer productivity

Cons

Raises might might be minuscule some years and not outpace inflation

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