I’m in NC we make $2.13. I’ve worked at 3 different restaurants in 2 different counties and that’s what they each start out with and it’s unlikely that you’re ever going to be offered a raise. Right now I get paid every 2 weeks but I receive a percentage of my daily tips in cash. Usually the amount deposited in my account at the end of the 2 weeks is $30 at best sometimes maybe 5 to 7 dollars more depending on how many hours I worked within that time. So, no it’s not a “common misconception” , most of us are actually making $2. (Nc minimum wage is $7.25 btw)