90 Best Business Ideas For Waiters & Servers [2024]

Interested in starting a business as a server in 2024?

If managed well, building a business as a server could be more lucrative than employment. So, which are the best business ideas for servers?

We put together 30 of some of the best server business ideas you can start in today.

For each business idea, we'll show you real-world examples of other server businesses to help you see what it takes.

Here's the full list:

1. Start a food blog ($38.5K/month)

Starting a food blog could be a rewarding and fun way to supplement your income as a server. You already have firsthand experience with food and customer preferences, making you well-suited to share insightful tips and recipes focused on healthy eating and budget-friendly options. Your background in the restaurant industry gives you an edge in educating your audience on the importance of maintaining a nutritious diet.

You could begin by hiring someone to set up your website and create initial content, allowing you to focus on sharing your culinary insights. Engaging with your readers through informative posts could drive traffic to your blog, creating opportunities for monetization through ads, sponsored posts, and partnerships with health-focused brands. This venture not only complements your current skill set but also opens up new streams of income and personal fulfillment.

2. Start a beverages business ($1.79M/month)

Starting a beverage business could be a fantastic way for you to supplement your income or even transition into full-time entrepreneurship. With your experience as a server, you already have valuable insights into consumer preferences and what makes a drink appealing to customers. You could leverage these insights to create unique beverages, whether it’s a refreshing line of homemade juices, specialty coffee, or a signature blend of teas.

In addition, your daily interactions with customers provide a natural platform for market testing and receiving immediate feedback on new drink ideas. You could start small by introducing your products at local markets or supplying them to restaurants and cafes in your area. As your understanding of customer tastes and effective distribution channels grows, you could expand your business further.

Becoming a distributor of popular beverage brands is another viable path, allowing you to capitalize on existing brand loyalty while honing your business skills. Ultimately, your passion for serving great drinks can evolve into a thriving beverage business, fulfilling both personal and financial aspirations.

3. Start a virtual events business ($185K/month)

As a server, you might excel in starting a virtual events business due to your experience in customer service and attention to detail. Given that the global pandemic has increased the demand for online interactions, your skills in hospitality could translate well to planning and coordinating memorable virtual events.

You could use your knowledge of creating pleasant experiences for customers to craft engaging online events, tapping into the steady trend of virtual meetings and gatherings. Skills learned as a server, such as multitasking, understanding customer preferences, and managing real-time feedback, would be invaluable in this new venture.

Starting a virtual events business might require learning new technologies, but your background in creating enjoyable experiences could give you a solid foundation for developing creative, unique virtual events that stand out. The potential for supplemental income and the chance to leverage existing customer service skills make this an enticing entrepreneurial opportunity.

4. Start a youtube channel ($146K/month)

Starting a YouTube channel as a server could be an excellent way to supplement your income or even transition into a full-time business. You could use your channel to share insider tips about the restaurant industry, entertaining stories from your shifts, or helpful tutorials on drink mixing and food presentation. Given YouTube's established monetization system, reaching 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours could make your channel a source of viable revenue.

Another approach could be vlogging your daily life as a server, showcasing the hustle and bustle behind the scenes. This could attract viewers who are curious about the inner workings of food service, or those considering a career in hospitality. Through consistent content creation and strategic promotion, you could transform your experiences into a thriving YouTube channel.

5. Start a podcast ($97.9K/month)

Starting a podcast could be an excellent way for a server to supplement their income and make extra money. As a server, you interact with a wide range of people daily, giving you a unique perspective and endless stories that could captivate an audience. You could create a podcast focusing on restaurant life, interesting customer interactions, or tips and advice for others in the hospitality industry.

With minimal investment needed—just a decent microphone and hosting platform—you could start producing engaging content right from your own home. Use your natural storytelling skills to build an audience, and through social media and word of mouth, you could attract enough listeners to monetize your podcast through sponsorships and advertisements. This venture could not only serve as an additional revenue stream but also as a creative and fulfilling outlet outside of your regular server job.

6. Start a CBD business ($84.9K/month)

Starting a CBD business as a server could provide you with a fantastic opportunity to supplement your income and explore new entrepreneurial avenues. Given the rising awareness and acceptance of CBD's health benefits, such as treating chronic pain, inflammation, and anxiety, the market is thriving and expected to grow significantly in the coming years. With your daily interactions and people skills developed through serving, you could leverage your network and communication abilities to effectively promote and sell CBD products.

Moreover, the flexibility of many CBD business models like becoming a distributor or running a subscription box service means you could manage this venture alongside your existing job. As the CBD industry is predicted to expand at a CAGR of 21.7%, starting now puts you in a prime position to ride the growth wave and potentially transform your side business into a full-time endeavor. The key is tapping into your current skill set while taking advantage of an emerging, lucrative market.

7. Start a soap business ($67K/month)

Starting a soap business could be a perfect side gig for a server looking to supplement their income. With the ability to operate from home and a relatively low initial investment of under $1,000, you could quickly dive into this lucrative market. The growing demand for handcrafted skincare products, particularly online, means there's ample opportunity to carve out a profitable niche.

As a server, you already excel in customer service and multitasking—skills that are invaluable in managing your own soap business. In your free time between shifts, you could experiment with different recipes and market your creations to coworkers, patrons, and online communities. This could potentially turn into a full-fledged business, offering both financial rewards and personal fulfillment.

8. Start an online jewelry store ($165K/month)

Starting an online jewelry store could be a practical and profitable side business for servers looking to supplement their income. With the rapid growth of the online jewelry market, the demand for affordable and accessible jewelry is higher than ever. As a server, you likely already have excellent customer service skills, which you could leverage to provide a memorable shopping experience for your online customers.

Additionally, the flexibility of an online store allows you to manage your business around your serving schedule. By choosing the right e-commerce platform, you could effortlessly showcase your products, handle inventory, and process payments securely. With the U.S. jewelry market valued at around $76B and growing, tapping into this lucrative industry could be the perfect way to boost your earnings while pursuing your entrepreneurial dreams.

9. Start a men's clothing line ($60.4K/month)

Starting a men’s clothing line could be a lucrative side business for servers aiming to supplement their income. With market research highlighting that the growth of the menswear market has outpaced that of the women’s market, there is a notable opportunity here. This growth is driven by a cultural shift where more men are focusing on their appearances, presenting vast potential for anyone stepping into this niche.

As a server, you interact with a myriad of customers, giving you unique insights into current fashion trends and preferences. This firsthand knowledge could help you determine your clothing brand’s identity and pinpoint your target market. Furthermore, employing a blend of online and traditional marketing strategies will enable you to reach a broader audience and maximize growth potential for your clothing line.

2024 is primed as the perfect time to dive into men’s fashion, offering a variety of products that can cater to different tastes and needs. Whether it's chic office wear or trendy casual outfits, the opportunities to create a successful clothing brand are abundant.

10. Start a skin care product line ($110K/month)

Starting a skincare product line could be an excellent opportunity for servers looking to supplement their income or create a side business. With the skincare industry valued at $130 billion USD in 2021 and growing at a 4.6% annual rate, there's lucrative potential. Your job exposes you to diverse customer interactions, providing invaluable insights into market needs, trends, and preferences.

As a server, you likely have honed interpersonal and sales skills, which can be leveraged to promote and sell your skincare products. Your schedule may also offer flexible hours, allowing you to dedicate time to product development, marketing, and building your brand. Creativity and attention to customer feedback will be key in launching safe and effective skincare solutions that cater to your clientele's needs.

11. Start a fitness equipment company ($327K/month)

Starting a fitness equipment company could be a fantastic opportunity for servers looking to supplement their income or pivot into a new business venture. Given the growing focus on health and fitness, you could cater to a broad range of clients, including gyms, schools, and individuals seeking personal fitness equipment.

With your experience in customer service and interpersonal skills, you could excel in building strong customer relationships and effectively marketing your products. This entrepreneurial path also provides flexibility, allowing you to start with an online store to minimize overhead costs, or even assemble products to add a unique touch.

By leveraging your existing network and skills, you could seamlessly transition into this industry, blending your interest in fitness with your business acumen. Ultimately, a fitness equipment company offers the potential for significant growth and the freedom to scale your business at your own pace.

12. Start a travel agency ($174K/month)

If you're a server with a passion for travel and an entrepreneurial streak, starting a travel agency could be a lucrative side business or even a full-time venture. Your people skills and customer service expertise can translate seamlessly into helping travelers plan their perfect vacations, linking them to accommodations, transportation, sightseeing tours, and adventure activities.

Launching an online travel agency is simpler than you might think. With some market research, a few certifications like an IATA number, and a well-designed website, you could start booking trips in no time. By negotiating discounts with service providers and charging within market rates, you could maximize your earnings while offering competitive deals to your customers. This venture allows you to capitalize on your passion for travel and establish a flexible business that can grow with you.

13. Start a sleep product ($525K/month)

As a server, you could leverage your flexible work hours to start a side business selling sleep products. Given the increasing awareness of the importance of good sleep for overall health and the booming sleep aids market, there is substantial potential for profitability. You could tap into this growing demand by offering high-quality mattresses, bed sheets, or sleep wearables that cater to customers looking for better sleep solutions.

With your knack for customer service, you could excel in marketing and selling these products, either online or in a physical store. You have the advantage of understanding people's needs and preferences from your daily interactions, which could help you tailor your products to meet specific market demands. Plus, as serving hours vary, you could find time to manage your sleep product business alongside your current job, ultimately boosting your income and broadening your career horizons.

14. Start an ecommerce marketing agency ($463K/month)

As a server, you could leverage your interpersonal skills and customer service experience to start an eCommerce marketing agency. Your familiarity with different types of products and understanding of consumer behavior can be valuable when helping online sellers achieve their eCommerce goals.

An eCommerce agency helps businesses navigate the complex online marketplace by offering creative, technology, and marketing solutions. With the eCommerce industry constantly evolving, many online sellers need expert support to stay competitive, and your agency could provide that expertise. Starting an agency could be a profitable side business and a fulfilling entrepreneurial path that allows you to diversify your income while building digital skills.

By focusing on a particular niche, or offering comprehensive services, you could tailor your services to meet the specific needs of your clients, helping them grow without needing to hire full-time staff. This venture could be both a lucrative income supplement and a potential career shift into the growing field of eCommerce marketing.

15. Start a furniture business ($207K/month)

Starting a furniture business as a server could be a smart way to supplement your income and leverage your creativity. Given the expanding real estate industry and the shift towards flexible workspaces, the demand for well-designed furniture is growing. You could start small by focusing on a specific niche, such as unique home decor pieces or eco-friendly office furniture, and gradually expand your offerings.

Capital requirements are typically not high for this business, which makes it accessible even if you are currently waiting tables. However, you'll need to invest time in learning about furniture design, manufacturing, and market trends. Taking business classes and crafting a solid business plan could set you apart, especially if your pieces are unique and of high quality. By offering distinctive products, you could attract customers willing to pay a premium, covering shipping costs and more.

16. Start an influencer platform ($71.6K/month)

As a server, you could leverage your firsthand experience with people and exceptional communication skills to create a successful influencer platform, connecting brands with influential personalities to promote their products. Imagine setting up a digital space where you facilitate seamless collaborations between companies and social media influencers, turning your knack for understanding people into a scalable, tech-driven business.

You could build an intuitive online marketplace where brands can browse, evaluate, and contract influencers who resonate with their target audience. With built-in analytics tools to measure campaign success, this side venture not only has the potential to supplement your income but also positions you at the forefront of the booming digital marketing industry.

17. Start a mobile photography business ($104K/month)

Starting a mobile photography business makes sense as a server because you already possess valuable communication skills and a keen eye for detail, both essential for capturing the perfect shot. With the rise of social media and photo-sharing platforms, there's never been a better time to turn your passion for photography into a profitable side business. You could shoot weddings, create images for ad campaigns, freelance for magazines, or even travel while photographing breathtaking destinations.

To begin, you could research your target audience and find a niche that's lucrative and in demand. Investing in high-quality cameras, lenses, and professional photo-editing software will be key. Since you're already managing a busy schedule as a server, the flexibility of a mobile photography business allows you to work around your shifts, seamlessly blending your entrepreneurial aspirations with your current profession.

18. Start a background check software ($260K/month)

Starting a background check software business could be a lucrative and sensible side hustle for servers looking to supplement their income. With your intuitive understanding of customer interactions and attention to detail, you could effectively manage and streamline the verification process for companies who need to ensure they are hiring trustworthy individuals. While you provide excellent service in the hospitality industry, you could simultaneously run a background check business that verifies education history, past employment, criminal records, and other crucial data.

As a server, your people skills and experience with handling different types of personalities could give you a unique edge in understanding client needs and building trust. By leveraging your observational skills and customer service expertise, you could create a user-friendly software solution that attracts businesses seeking reliable background checks. This dual endeavor allows you to generate additional revenue while offering a valuable service that organizations will always need.

19. Start a remodelling business

Starting a remodeling business could be a lucrative side hustle or even a primary career shift for servers looking to leverage their customer service skills in a new field. As a server, your experience in understanding and fulfilling customer needs can translate seamlessly into managing client expectations and ensuring project satisfaction in home renovations.

By coordinating with architects and other remodeling professionals, you could play a central role in the renovation process, drawing on your ability to multitask and maintain high standards of service. This entrepreneurial venture would allow you to capitalize on your knack for creating a pleasant experience, but in a new context—transforming homes to meet clients' visions.

20. Start a social media marketing service ($97.8K/month)

For entrepreneurial servers, starting a social media marketing service could be a promising avenue to supplement income or even transition into a new career. As a server, you already have excellent people skills and a keen understanding of customer service, both of which are invaluable in managing and growing a brand's online presence. By helping businesses enhance their profiles on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, you could assist them in attracting more followers and driving engagement.

This venture allows for flexible hours, making it an ideal side business you can manage alongside your serving job. With a strong grasp of social media trends and marketing strategies, you could provide significant value to clients, creating a potential for recurring revenue and long-term growth. The expertise you'll develop can set you apart as an indispensable asset to any business looking to bolster its online reach.

21. Start a travel blog ($119K/month)

As a server, starting a travel blog is an excellent way to supplement your income and share your unique experiences, especially if you have a passion for exploring new places. Given your flexible work hours, you could take advantage of your days off to explore tropical destinations and create engaging content about exotic creatures, clear oceans, palm trees, and various water activities.

If you live on or frequently visit tropical islands, you could provide firsthand insights into the best sightseeing spots, local cuisines, and must-try activities that fellow travelers would find invaluable. Your blog could not only attract readers seeking travel advice but also open up opportunities for sponsored content and collaborations with travel brands, ultimately helping you turn your side hustle into a profitable business.

22. Start a tech support business ($139K/month)

Starting a tech support business as a server offers you an exciting opportunity to supplement your income while leveraging your customer service skills in a new industry. Given your experience in interacting with a diverse clientele, you could effectively translate those skills into troubleshooting and resolving technical issues for individuals and businesses. Your ability to actively listen and communicate clearly will be pivotal in diagnosing problems and providing patient, understandable tech support.

With technology being an integral part of everyone’s daily life, a tech support business can meet a constant and growing need for expert assistance with software, hardware, and other technical difficulties. If you have strong technical skills and some background in IT support, this could be a profitable side business or even a full-time venture. Staying updated with the latest technological advancements will ensure that you can offer the best possible service and maintain a loyal client base, thereby giving you a competitive edge in the market.

23. Start an event management company ($131K/month)

Starting an event management company makes perfect sense for a server looking to supplement their income. As a server, you already have a basic understanding of events, great communication skills, and experience interacting with a diverse range of people—from C-suite executives to event attendees. These skills are directly transferable to managing and orchestrating successful events.

With the event management and planning industry experiencing a growth rate of 10%, there is a robust market for your services. You could leverage your passion and expertise to focus on social and entertainment events, corporate functions, or even become a general event management company. Taking this entrepreneurial path could open endless opportunities and offer a profitable career beyond your current role.

24. Start a therapy business ($74.8K/month)

As a server, you might already possess strong interpersonal skills and a knack for making people feel comfortable, which are crucial traits for a successful therapist. By starting a therapy business, you could leverage these skills to help others address their mental and emotional challenges, opening up a deeply fulfilling and potentially lucrative side hustle or new career path.

Consider what type of therapy you wish to offer—whether it’s counseling, life coaching, or specialized therapy—and pursue the necessary certifications and licenses. This investment in your education could pay off significantly as you build a client base and establish a name for yourself in the therapy industry.

Transitioning from serving to therapy doesn't just help you supplement your income; it allows you to make a meaningful difference in people's lives, all while tapping into your natural strengths and expanding your professional horizons.

25. Start a travel company ($259K/month)

As a server, you could leverage your customer service skills and passion for hospitality to start a travel company. By organizing trips, you would provide personalized experiences that cater to travelers' needs and preferences, much like you cater to diners' tastes and expectations in the restaurant. Your attention to detail and knack for ensuring satisfaction could set your travel company apart in a competitive market.

You could choose a niche that aligns with your interests and market knowledge, whether it's luxury getaways, adventure tours, or budget-friendly family vacations. With an understanding of how to sell transportation, lodging, and entertainment activities, you could create comprehensive travel packages that offer seamless and memorable journeys for your clients. This venture would not only supplement your income but potentially grow into a full-time business focused on delivering outstanding travel experiences.

26. Start a home decor business ($43.4K/month)

As a server, you could leverage your keen eye for detail and your understanding of ambiance to start a home decor business as a side hustle. If you have a passion for interior design, this is an excellent way to supplement your income and explore your creative talents. By working on your portfolio, you can showcase your decor skills using your own living space or by offering to transform a friend's home.

Your experience in creating inviting atmospheres in a restaurant could seamlessly translate to crafting beautiful living spaces for clients, helping you build a strong brand. To get started, document your work with high-quality photos to include in your portfolio, and actively market your business. This venture not only lets you earn extra money but also allows you to explore a fulfilling entrepreneurial path.

27. Start a party planning business ($164K/month)

If you're a server looking to supplement your income or start a side business, a party planning business could be an ideal fit. Your experience in the service industry likely means you already possess critical skills like organization, multitasking, and client focus – all essential for successful party planning. You'll be adept at coordinating timelines, ensuring excellent customer service, and handling pressures similar to those found in a busy restaurant environment.

As a server, you might already have valuable connections with potential venues, caterers, and suppliers, allowing you to offer turnkey solutions to clients. The creativity you've shown in presenting dishes beautifully can also translate into designing and executing thematic décors for events. Your ability to remain calm under pressure will be crucial when it comes to troubleshooting any last-minute issues during parties, making you a reliable and trustworthy planner.

28. Rent party & events venue ($184K/month)

As a server, you already have experience in customer service and managing fast-paced environments—skills that are invaluable when running a rent party and events venue. You could leverage your refined interpersonal skills to create memorable and seamless experiences for your clients, making your venue stand out.

The events industry is rapidly growing, and the demand for unique event venues is on the rise. By focusing on a specific niche—whether it's corporate events, social gatherings, or parties—you could carve out a profitable side business or even a full-time venture. This opportunity allows you to supplement your income and diversify your revenue streams, using your existing expertise in hospitality to attract and retain clients.

29. Start an online food business ($336K/month)

Starting an online food business could be a great way to supplement your income and tap into your culinary passion. As a server, you already have a foothold in the food industry, an understanding of customer preferences, and often, insights into what makes a meal truly exceptional. This knowledge can be invaluable when planning menus, sourcing ingredients, and creating a delightful customer experience from the comfort of your kitchen.

By delivering ready-to-eat meals or pre-packaged ingredients directly to customers' doorsteps, you could cater to a diverse audience—busy professionals, cooking novices, or adventurous eaters. Leveraging your experience in the restaurant environment, you could innovate and adapt to current food trends, making your online food business a fresh and profitable venture.

30. Start a windshield repair business

As a server, you could tap into the automotive industry by starting a windshield repair business to supplement your income. This venture requires a relatively small investment in tools and training, making it an accessible option even if you’re working with a tight budget. With some initial effort to learn the specialized techniques, you could offer repairs for chips and cracks in car windshields – a service that’s always in demand.

You could schedule repairs around your current work hours, leveraging your existing customer service skills to build a strong client base. The consistent need for windshield repairs, as noted by the National Glass Association, ensures a steady stream of potential customers. Additionally, you could market your services online and network with local auto shops to gain referrals, gradually growing your side business into a profitable venture.

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163 Million Dollar Solopreneur Business Ideas

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163 Million Dollar Solopreneur Business Ideas

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163 Million Dollar Solopreneur Business Ideas

Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.

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163 Million Dollar Solopreneur Business Ideas

Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.

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163 Million Dollar Solopreneur Business Ideas

Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.

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163 Million Dollar Solopreneur Business Ideas

Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.

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163 Million Dollar Solopreneur Business Ideas

Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.

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163 Million Dollar Solopreneur Business Ideas

Download the report and join our email newsletter packed with business ideas and money-making opportunities, backed by real-life case studies.

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