Head Chef Salary in Honolulu, HI
Head Chefs in Honolulu, HI, in 2025, earn approximately $35.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,400.00 per week, $6,066.67 per month, and $72,800.00 per year.
The demand for Head Chefs in Honolulu is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing job opportunities for culinary professionals in this vibrant food scene.
How Much Does a Head Chef Make in Honolulu, HI?
The salary of a Head Chef in Honolulu varies depending on experience and employer, but the following table presents typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $30.00 | $1,200.00 | $5,200.00 | $62,400.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $35.00 | $1,400.00 | $6,066.67 | $72,800.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $40.00 | $1,600.00 | $6,933.33 | $83,200.00 |
Do Head Chefs in Honolulu Earn Tips?
Head Chefs typically do not earn tips as their role is focused on kitchen management and food preparation rather than direct customer service. Their income is primarily based on their salary.
Head Chef Salary in Honolulu vs. National Average
Nationally, Head Chefs earn about $28.40 per hour, which amounts to roughly $59,072.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Head Chefs in Honolulu earn a significantly higher hourly rate of $35.00 and an annual salary of about $72,800.00.
This difference reflects the higher living costs and competitive hospitality scene in Honolulu, HI.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Honolulu for Head Chefs
Nearby areas offering competitive salaries for Head Chefs include:
- Waikīkī: $36.00 per hour
- Kailua: $35.50 per hour
These locations provide slightly higher hourly wages than the average in Honolulu, making them attractive for Head Chefs seeking higher pay within the region.
What Influences a Head Chef’s Salary in Honolulu?
Several factors contribute to the salary variations for Head Chefs in Honolulu:
- Experience and Culinary Skill: More experienced chefs with advanced culinary techniques and leadership skills tend to command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Hotels and fine dining restaurants typically pay more than casual or fast-casual eateries.
- Size of the Kitchen Team: Managing larger kitchen teams can lead to increased compensation due to added responsibilities.
- Specialization: Expertise in Pacific Rim cuisine or other sought-after culinary styles can improve earning potential.
- Certifications and Education: Relevant culinary arts degrees and certifications positively impact salary negotiation.
How To Become a Head Chef in Honolulu
Becoming a Head Chef in Honolulu involves focused education, training, and experience.
- Pursue Culinary Education: Programs like the Kapiʻolani Community College Culinary Arts Program offer an Associate in Science degree, providing essential hands-on training and theoretical knowledge.
- Specialized Culinary Training: The Leeward Community College Culinary Arts Program offers comprehensive education with a Pacific Rim cuisine emphasis, preparing students for leadership roles.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification ensure knowledge in managing food safety.
- Earn Professional Certification: The Certified Executive Chef (CEC) credential from the American Culinary Federation recognizes superior culinary and management skills.
- Gain Experience: Work your way up through kitchen roles like Sous Chef and Chef de Partie to develop management capabilities.
Top Employers Hiring Head Chefs in Honolulu
Notable employers seeking skilled Head Chefs in Honolulu include:
- Chef Mavro
- Alan Wong’s Honolulu
- Roy’s Hawaii Kai
- La Mer
- MW Restaurant
Establishments That Head Chefs in Honolulu Work At
Head Chefs in Honolulu find employment across various establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often provide the highest wages and opportunities for creative culinary expression.
- Hotels and Resorts: Large kitchens with complex operations tend to offer competitive salaries and benefits.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically offer moderate pay, reflecting the scale and service style.
- Catering Companies: Salaries vary depending on the size and prestige of the business.
The type and prestige of the establishment influence the earning potential of Head Chefs in Honolulu significantly.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Honolulu for Head Chefs
If you are exploring careers related to Head Chef, consider these similar roles with overlapping skills and responsibilities: