They certainly can. In most restaurants I know of they make more than the managers. A server who is personable, who has a good memory and the ability to upsell, is willing/able to work nights and weekends, and works in a busy restaurant with a decent ticket average can make a good living.

Do servers make a lot in tips?

Servers will have a better chance at making 16% to 20% tips on these, nights versus the 8% to 13% during the weekdays (and sometimes even Sundays).

How much do you make in tips as a server?

According to the BLS, bartenders make on average $18,900, or $9.09 an hour including tips. Waiters and waitresses in Miami, Boston, and San Francisco reported the highest median tips per hour at around $13. The lowest median tips per hour for waiters and waitresses—around $7—were in Minneapolis, Detroit, and Seattle.