What does a bartender in Italy make?

What can an experienced bartender and/or server expect to make in tips in the Ft. Lauderdale area?

• My wife and I are planning a move into the area and have plenty of experience in the industry. We are trying to figure out the cost of living vs. what it is here in southeastern CT and what we will be able to pay for rent on our expected tip wages. Is it difficult to gain employment in high volume or quality restaurants and bars?

• Answer:

  First, you have to find a place that will hire you, there are a million bartenders/waiters/servers already here. Second, most only hire part timers, so they don't have to give you benefits & can pay minimum wage. Third, depending on where you are, knowledge of Spanish will be useful. Most high quality places are beach resorts & winter is the tourist season. Finally, remember the pay scale is much lower down here. Jobs are available in the local neighbor pubs but don't expect to get rich out of it, you will be lucky if it pays the bills. If you must try it, bring references & valid ID & expect them to run a check on you. Good Luck.