Change in Server Pay Again :(

Hey Everyone,

I am writing to issue an immediate correction regarding our recently announced payroll changes.

After reviewing Pennsylvania labor laws regarding tip pools, I realized that taking a percentage of shift tips to offset high base wages is not legally compliant. Under PA law, 100% of tips must go directly to the eligible staff working the floor. Because keeping all tips on the floor while paying $25–$30/hr base wages is financially unfeasible for our business model, we are walking back the previously proposed structure.

Moving forward, we are remaining on the tipped minimum wage model, but we are keeping the promised wage increases and ServSafe incentives by raising your hourly base pay above the standard rate.

New Base Hourly Rates + 100% Tips:

• $3.85/hr + Tips: New / Non-certified staff (less than 2 years)

• $4.85/hr + Tips: Staff with 2+ years of tenure OR ServSafe Food Handler Certified

• $5.85/hr + Tips: Staff with 3+ years of tenure AND ServSafe Food Handler Certified

• $6.85/hr + Tips: ServSafe Food Manager Certified

You only need to complete one of these exams to earn a raise. If you choose the Food Manager path, it automatically covers everything in the Food Handler certification, so you do not need to take both.

• ServSafe Food Handler: Takes roughly 1 to 2 hours to complete and immediately earns you the higher base hourly rate.

• ServSafe Food Manager: Requires more extensive study (around a week of preparation), but passing this exam earns you the top hourly rate ($6.85/hr), adding an extra $3.00/hour over base pay (an extra $15 per shift).

Choose whichever path works best for your schedule and goals!

ServSafe Exam Reimbursement: We still strongly encourage everyone to take control of their earnings through certification. We will cover 100% of the cost for your first exam attempt. If you require multiple attempts to pass, retakes will be at your own expense. Passing your exam will immediately raise your hourly base rate without having to wait on tenure.

I apologize for the confusion caused by the previous announcement. My goal was to create a better system for everyone, but compliance and fairness come first.

Please reach out to me directly if you have any questions about where you stand in this new structure.