Gastronomy is a sector that is developing dynamically across Europe, offering employment both in luxury restaurants and in café chains or small bistros. One of the most common questions asked by people planning to work in this sector is: how much do gastronomy workers earn in EU countries? In this guide, we take a closer look at the average salaries of chefs, waiters, and baristas, compare wages between countries, and consider how the cost of living affects real earnings.
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Salaries in gastronomy in the EU – an overall market overview
Salaries in gastronomy across European Union countries vary widely and depend on many factors, such as location, type of establishment, employee experience, and specialization. In Western countries such as Germany, France, or the Netherlands, average wages are clearly higher than in Central and Eastern Europe, for example in Poland, Romania, or Bulgaria.
According to data from 2025, the average salary in the HoReCa sector (hotels, restaurants, catering) in the EU ranges from around €1,200 per month in Eastern countries to over €2,500 in Western countries. These differences reflect both the level of economic development and the cost of living in individual countries.
Average salary of chefs in the EU
The average salary of chefs in the EU differs significantly depending on the country. For example, in Germany a chef with several years of experience can expect around €2,300–2,700 gross per month. While in France these amounts range between €2,000 and €2,500. In Poland, the average salary of a chef is approximately €1,200–1,500 gross, which represents a significant difference compared to Western neighbors.
Experience, the reputation of the establishment, and the type of cuisine are of great importance. Chefs specializing in French, Italian, or Asian cuisine can expect higher rates, especially in large tourist cities.
Salaries of waiters in the EU
Salaries of waiters in the EU are equally diverse. In Germany, a waiter can earn between €1,800 and €2,200 gross per month. And in France between €1,700 and €2,100. In contrast, in Poland and other Central and Eastern European countries, average waiter salaries range from €1,000 to €1,400 gross.
It is worth remembering that in many countries, part of a waiter’s income comes from tips. Which can significantly increase monthly earnings, especially in premium restaurants and tourist venues.
Salaries of baristas in the EU
Baristas, like chefs and waiters, receive varying salaries depending on the country. Salaries of baristas in the EU most often fall within the range of €1,200–2,200 gross per month. The highest rates are offered by Western countries, while the lowest are found in Eastern countries. Experience, café location, and brand reputation play a major role. In large tourist cities, a barista can earn even several hundred euros more than in smaller towns.
Comparison of wages in gastronomy in the EU
A comparison of wages in gastronomy in the EU shows a clear relationship between a country’s economic level and the height of salaries. Below are sample average monthly salaries in selected EU countries (gross):
- Germany: chef €2,500, waiter €2,000, barista €2,000
- France: chef €2,300, waiter €1,900, barista €1,800
- Poland: chef €1,400, waiter €1,200, barista €1,200
- Spain: chef €1,700, waiter €1,400, barista €1,300
It is therefore clear that wage differences are significant, and choosing the country of employment in the EU has a major impact on earnings.
Cost of living vs. gastronomy salaries in the EU
Salaries cannot be assessed without considering the cost of living. Even a high salary in Germany or France may mean that, after deducting expenses for housing, transport, and food, real income will not be dramatically higher than in Poland or the Czech Republic. Therefore, when choosing a place to work, it is worth comparing not only the gross amount. But also the purchasing power of earnings in a given country.
HoReCa wages in the EU in 2026 – trends and forecasts
Labor market experts predict that HoReCa wages in the EU in 2026 will gradually increase. Especially in Western countries, where the gastronomy sector is struggling with a shortage of qualified workers. Pay rises may primarily affect chefs and gastronomy specialists. As well as service staff with experience in premium hotels and restaurants.
Wage differences in the EU for chefs, waiters, and baristas
So wage differences in the EU for chefs are the largest. From less than €1,500 in Eastern Europe to over €2,500 in Germany or Switzerland. Wage differences in the EU for waiters are slightly smaller but still significant. Meanwhile, wage differences in the EU for baristas depend mainly on location and experience, although the highest earnings are also found in Western countries.
Salary prospects in gastronomy in the EU
The gastronomy sector in the EU is developing dynamically, and demand for qualified workers continues to grow. Salary prospects in gastronomy in the EU indicate that people with experience and additional skills (e.g., international cuisines or barista specialization) will be able to expect higher pay and attractive working conditions.
How to negotiate salary in gastronomy in the EU
Negotiating salary in gastronomy in the EU requires preparation. It is worth knowing the average wages in a given country and region, highlighting your experience and specializations, and being aware of additional benefits such as tips, accommodation, or training. Knowledge of gastronomy wages in the EU is key to securing favorable working conditions.
If you are looking for a job in gastronomy or other industries across Europe, it is worth checking job offers on our europa.jobs platform. You will find up-to-date listings tailored to your skills and preferences.
