Kitchen Manager Salary in Honolulu, HI
Kitchen Managers in Honolulu, HI, in 2025, earn approximately $28.71 per hour, which translates to about $1,148.40 per week, $4,976.40 per month, and $59,716.80 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in Honolulu is growing at a steady rate of 5% per year, indicating expanding opportunities and increased hiring in the hospitality sector within the region.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in Honolulu, HI?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in Honolulu can vary depending on experience and specific employers, but here is a general overview of earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $24.04 | $961.60 | $4,168.53 | $50,003.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $30.58 | $1,223.20 | $5,290.13 | $63,526.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.04 | $1,401.60 | $6,068.27 | $72,083.20 |
Do Kitchen Managers in Honolulu Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips because their role is managerial and operational, mainly behind the scenes rather than direct customer service. Their compensation is generally based on salary or hourly wages alone.
Kitchen Manager Salary in Honolulu vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers earn an average of about $28.71 per hour, translating to approximately $59,716.80 per year.
In Honolulu, the average salary is closely aligned with the national average at $28.71 per hour and $59,716.80 annually, reflecting competitive pay scales adjusted for regional cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Honolulu for Kitchen Managers
Some nearby areas offer varied pay rates for Kitchen Managers:
- Waikiki: $30.50 per hour
- Downtown Honolulu: $29.80 per hour
Waikiki offers some of the highest hourly wages due to its bustling tourism-driven hospitality industry, while Downtown Honolulu also presents strong compensation opportunities.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in Honolulu?
Several important factors influence how much a Kitchen Manager in Honolulu can earn:
- Experience and tenure: More years in kitchen management usually translate to higher salaries.
- Skill set and certifications: Leadership skills, budgeting knowledge, and relevant certifications can boost pay potential.
- Type of establishment: Luxury hotels and fine dining restaurants tend to offer higher compensation compared to casual eateries or small cafes.
- Location within the city: Areas with higher living costs or tourist traffic, like Waikiki, often pay better.
- Size and volume of the restaurant operation: Larger kitchens managing extensive menus may offer increased salaries.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in Honolulu
Obtaining a position as a Kitchen Manager in Honolulu involves several steps and educational pathways:
- Formal Culinary Training: Enrolling in programs such as the Kapiolani Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Leeward Community College Culinary Arts Program provides comprehensive culinary education including management skills.
- Certifications: Earning credentials like the ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification is often essential as it demonstrates proficiency in food safety practices.
- Licenses Specific to Honolulu: Obtaining a Hawaii Liquor Commission Manager's Card is necessary for managing establishments that serve alcohol.
- Gain Experience: Working your way up through roles such as line cook or kitchen supervisor before advancing to manager positions.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in Honolulu
Several renowned establishments in Honolulu frequently seek qualified Kitchen Managers to lead their kitchen teams, including:
- Roy's Waikiki
- Duke's Waikiki
- Alan Wong's Honolulu
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in Honolulu Work At
Kitchen Managers often find employment in a variety of hospitality venues, which can influence salary levels:
- Upscale Restaurants and Fine Dining: These establishments usually offer the highest compensation due to complex operations and high-quality standards.
- Hotels and Resorts: Large kitchens in hotels manage diverse menus for guests and events, typically providing competitive pay.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: These offer more entry-level management opportunities, often with moderate salaries.
- Catering and Events Venues: Pay can vary depending on event size and frequency.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly affect earning potential and career progression for Kitchen Managers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Honolulu for Kitchen Managers
If you are exploring similar career paths to Kitchen Manager, you might consider roles that involve culinary leadership or food service management.
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Head Chef, and Restaurant Manager, which are related roles offering varied leadership responsibilities in food service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in Honolulu
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is crucial for Kitchen Managers working in Honolulu to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- You can learn about federal labor laws and regulations on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The State of Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website provides state-specific information on wages, workplace safety, and more.
- For local ordinances and regulations, visit the City and County of Honolulu official website.