How To Become A Restaurant Manager in 2026: A Comprehensive Guide

Restaurant management is one of the best pathways for servers and hosts looking to make the next step in their hospitality careers. As of 2024, they make around $26.42 an hour or $54,962 annually, 35% higher than the average server wage.

If you see yourself managing a team and overseeing operations, the path of a restaurant manager may be fulfilling. Discover the duties and responsibilities that come with the role, skills, and qualities you should have to succeed and how you can find job opportunities.

What do restaurant managers do?

A restaurant manager’s role is dynamic and multifaceted, requiring them to juggle various responsibilities. From managing staff to overseeing customer service and financials, they play a crucial role in ensuring the restaurant’s daily operations run smoothly. This diversity and tasks makes the role of a restaurant manager both challenging and exciting.

One of a restaurant manager’s primary responsibilities is hiring, training, and scheduling staff so that the business runs smoothly. On the front-of-house side, they focus on customer service, solving problems quickly to keep guests happy and returning.

Managers also handle budgeting, track income and expenses to maintain profitability, and work closely with the kitchen staff to ensure menu items are prepared according to the restaurant’s standards.

Additionally, they oversee inventory, vendor relationships, and even marketing and promotions to attract new customers. There are a few parts of the business that a manger doesn’t have an impact on.

Skills and qualities every restaurant manager should have

A diverse skill set it necessary to succed in a restaurant management role.

Leadership and communication

Leadership and communication are not just skills, but essential qualities for a successful restaurant manager. Good managers lead by example, demonstrating to their staff how to handle tasks and interact with customers. By honing these skills managers can take leadership courses and mentorship, aspiring managers can inspire and motivate their teams to deliver exceptional service.

Meanwhile, managers must balance one-on-one and group restaurant team communication. They should hold regular team meetings to discuss overall goals and updates. At the same time, taking the time to have individual check-ins with staff members can address personal concerns and provide tailored feedback.

Effective communication helps identify and resolve issues promptly. 72% of employees want corrective feedback to improve their performance.

Problem-solving and organizational skills

Restaurant managers must also be highly organized problem solvers. When issues arise, such as missing food delivery or a staff shortage, a manager must think quickly and find solutions.

One effective strategy is to create a checklist for daily tasks and potential problems, preparing solutions in advance. Keeping a detailed schedule and using restaurant management software can help managers stay on top of operations and increase task completion rates by 37%.

Financial management and budgeting

While you don’t need to be a whiz at financial management and budgeting, restaurant managers must understand effective restaurant financial principles. The restaurant’s profitability depends on its day-to-day sales, so managers must closely monitor income, expenses, and cash flow.

They should also understand restaurant payroll, taxes, and other financial regulations to ensure the store remains compliant. With strong financial skills, managers can identify areas for improvement, create budgets, and make strategic decisions to drive the business forward.

Passion for hospitality

A genuine passion for hospitality can set great restaurant managers apart. This level of enthusiasm and love for providing excellent service should be evident in their interactions with both customers and staff.

Douglas Grabe, owner-operator of Little Pub, had it right when he focused on three things for his Connecticut restaurant chain: making tasty food with great value, serving the guests, and being nice to people.

“Being nice to people goes for the people walking in the front door and the people walking in the back door. It’s not rocket science.”

Managers who are passionate about hospitality inspire their teams to deliver exceptional customer experiences and help them make strategic decisions that prioritize the guest experience.

Adaptability

Managers should be open to new ideas and ready to implement changes that improve the restaurant. For instance, one of the emerging trends this year is digital menus. As a restaurant manager, you should consider how you can make the most of digital menus to enhance your customers’ experiences.

Flexibility and a willingness to learn are essential for adapting to evolving industry trends and providing the best possible service.

Strong work ethic

Managers often work long hours, usually 50 to 60 hours a week, and handle multiple tasks simultaneously. A strong work ethic helps you complete each shift with your sanity intact and sets an example for your team. The more your team sees you willing to put in the extra effort, the more you can influence them to follow your footsteps and build their careers as well.

Teamwork

Managers must be able to work efficiently with a group. After all, you can’t do all the tasks on your own. You must be able to delegate responsibilities, provide guidance, and collaborate effectively with your team.

Restaurants and managers that foster a positive environment through teamwork saw a 31% increase in productivity.

The best managers empower their staff, creating an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to contribute to the restaurant’s success. A strong team is more efficient and provides better service, leading to happier customers and a more successful restaurant.

Step-by-step process to becoming a restaurant manager

Becoming a successful restaurant manager involves getting relevant education and training and building hands-on experience in the industry. This career path might not be as linear as you imagine, but knowing the steps in the process can help you chart your course.

Step 1: Get relevant education and training

Whether you’re considering starting a career in restaurant management or want to advance in your existing role, you should try to earn a degree in hospitality management or culinary arts. These courses give you a strong foundation in critical areas such as customer service, business operations, and food safety.

Being equipped with the concepts and principles of restaurant management can help you understand the complexities of running a food business. It also improves your ability to handle daily responsibilities, especially if it’s your first managerial role.

If you have years of server experience under your belt, you can enroll in industry-recognized certification programs, such as those offered by the National Restaurant Association. Programs and resources like their Restaurant & Hospitality Leadership Center and ServSafe cover essential topics like employee management and food safety.

7shifts also offers restaurant management courses to level up your career. Some of our free 7shifts Academy courses include the Restaurant Scheduling Course, Daily Restaurant Management Course, and Hiring and Training Course for Restaurants.

Step 2: Gain entry-level experience in the food and hospitality industry

Start in roles like server, host, or line cook to learn the inner workings of a restaurant. These positions provide firsthand experience in customer service, food preparation, and daily operations.

Working as a server teaches you how to interact with guests and handle their needs promptly. As a host, you learn to manage reservations and seating arrangements, while a line cook position gives you insight into kitchen operations. These roles are the building blocks of becoming a restaurant manager.

Even at an entry-level position, you should be dedicated and willing to learn everything you can. Being eager to learn and improve will set you apart from others and show you’re ready for more responsibilities.

Additionally, developing a well-rounded understanding of restaurant operations will be invaluable as you advance.

Step 3: Pursue opportunities to become a supervisor

Apply for positions that allow you to work directly under an experienced restaurant manager. Being an assistant manager or shift supervisor provides a chance to learn the ropes of restaurant management. Working closely with someone who’s been in the role for years offers valuable insights into effective leadership and operational strategies.

As a supervisor, you can hone your problem-solving skills and practice delegating tasks under a seasoned manager’s guidance. Take notes on their best practices and consider how to incorporate them into your management style.

Step 4: Apply for restaurant management roles

When you’re ready to become a restaurant manager, start by applying for restaurant management roles. Look for job postings on industry-specific job boards, such as those offered by the National Restaurant Association or hospitality job sites.

Before you send out applications, tailor your resume to highlight your achievements in previous roles, such as improving customer satisfaction, managing staff, or increasing sales.

As you edit your resume, provide specific numbers to demonstrate your quantifiable impact and make your application stand out. For instance, you can give context on how you increased sales by 20% or reduced labor costs by 10%.

Prepare for the interview by researching the restaurant. Study its menu, target customers, and business model, and then reference that information when answering questions.

Be ready to discuss how your experience and skills align with their needs. Practicing common interview questions for restaurant managers, such as handling customer complaints or managing a busy shift, can also help you perform better.

Step 5: Build a solid professional network

Building a solid professional network can help you find job opportunities and get relevant insights to advance your career. Start by attending industry events, such as food expos, restaurant association meetings, and hospitality conferences. These events are excellent opportunities to meet other restaurant managers and operators, share experiences, and learn from each other.

Don’t forget the importance of local networking. Join local business groups and chambers of commerce. These organizations often host networking events and can introduce you to other local restaurant managers and business owners. Building relationships in your local community can lead to valuable partnerships and collaborations.

Step 6: Keep learning to become a great manager

Pursue ongoing education and training to stay ahead in the restaurant industry. It also wouldn’t hurt to earn more since restaurant managers with a Master’s degree earn 2.9% more than those with Bachelor’s degrees and 12.3% more than those with Associate degrees.

Enroll in workshops, seminars, and online courses to keep your skills sharp and stay updated on the latest trends. Many organizations, like the National Restaurant Association, offer specialized training programs for restaurant managers.

Take advantage of webinars and industry conferences. These events provide insights into new technologies, customer service strategies, and food safety practices. Attending these events helps you learn from experts.

Set personal learning goals and track your progress. Whether it’s mastering new software for inventory management or understanding advanced financial reporting, having these goals helps you stay focused and motivated.

Best places to start a restaurant management apprenticeship

From local independent restaurants to fast-food chains and hotel/resort dining, each environment offers unique restaurant apprenticeship opportunities that can help develop the skills needed to succeed in the field.

Local and independent restaurants

Starting an apprenticeship at local and independent restaurants can provide a unique learning experience. These establishments often have a close-knit team, allowing apprentices to work directly with the restaurant manager and owner.

You will gain invaluable hands-on experience, learning the ins and outs of restaurant operations, from food preparation to customer service. Additionally, independent restaurants may offer more flexibility and opportunities to take on diverse responsibilities, helping you develop a well-rounded skill set.

Hotels and resorts

Hotels and resorts, like The Four Seasons and Hilton, offer a wide range of dining experiences, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants, giving apprentices diverse exposure. Meanwhile, working in a hotel or resort allows apprentices to understand the integration of food services within a more extensive hospitality operation.

Industry training programs

Culinary schools, hospitality organizations, and industry associations often offer industry training programs. These programs provide structured learning environments that combine classroom instruction with practical experience.

The Restaurant Association of Maryland, Louisiana Restaurant Association, and Delaware Restaurant Association are examples of state-specific industry associations that offer restaurant management apprenticeship programs.

Balancing skills and experience on your way up the restaurant career ladder

Becoming a restaurant manager requires a balance of skills and experience. Formal education and training provide a strong foundation in key concepts. Still, hands-on experience in the industry is how you can truly develop the practical skills needed to excel in the role.

As you climb up the ranks, leverage 7shifts to manage your team more effectively. By using restaurant management software, you can make the process of scheduling, communication, and reporting easier. This way, you can focus more on strategic decision-making and leading your team to success.

FAQs

What is the main objective of a restaurant manager?

A restaurant manager’s main objective is to ensure there’s no friction in the day-to-day operations. The role involves creating a positive customer dining experience, managing staff effectively, and maintaining financial health.

Restaurant managers aim to increase customer satisfaction, which leads to repeat business and positive reviews. They also focus on optimizing operations, from inventory management to marketing strategies, to improve efficiency and profitability.

What are the qualifications for a restaurant manager?

The qualifications to become a restaurant manager involve a combination of formal education and hands-on experience. A degree in hospitality management, culinary arts, or a related field provides a strong foundation in key areas such as customer service, business operations, and food safety.

Industry-recognized certifications, like those from the National Restaurant Association, can also enhance your qualifications. Additionally, experience in various restaurant roles, such as server, host, or line cook, is valuable for developing the practical skills needed for restaurant management.

How do you succeed as a restaurant manager?

To succeed as a restaurant manager, focus on continuous learning and improvement. Get relevant education and training to build a strong foundation in restaurant management principles.

It’s best to work your way up from entry-level roles like server or host to get a well-rounded understanding of restaurant operations. As you move into supervisory positions, find seasoned mentors and observe their leadership styles and best practices. Stay adaptable and open to feedback to improve your skills and become an effective leader for your team.

Is it hard to be a restaurant manager?

Being a restaurant manager can be challenging, but it’s also rewarding. The role involves balancing many responsibilities, including managing staff, overseeing customer service, handling financials, and ensuring smooth operations.

Restaurant managers often work long hours and must be prepared to solve problems quickly. Nonetheless, many find the challenge of improving their restaurant’s performance and creating a positive dining experience for customers to be very satisfying. Effective training and support, like those offered by 7shifts, can help make the role more manageable.

What will make you a good restaurant manager?

Strong leadership and communication skills are essential for leading your team and relaying information effectively.

For instance, when the restaurant is experiencing a rush, the manager needs to step up and provide clear direction to the staff. They can communicate the importance of working together efficiently, delegate tasks effectively, and offer encouragement to keep the team motivated and focused.

Additionally, being organized and knowing how to solve problems quickly will help you manage daily operations smoothly. Let’s say a crucial piece of kitchen equipment, like the oven or refrigerator, suddenly stops working.

The manager must act fast and assess the issue. They must determine if it can be fixed quickly or if alternative arrangements are needed and communicate the plan to the kitchen staff. Quick problem-solving helps minimize disruptions to service.