Kitchen Manager Salary in San Francisco, CA
Kitchen Managers in San Francisco, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $36.97 per hour, which translates to about $1,478.80 per week, $6,408.13 per month, and $76,897.60 per year.
The demand for Kitchen Managers in San Francisco is growing steadily at about 10% per year, signaling a positive outlook for job opportunities and advancement in this field within the city.
How Much Does a Kitchen Manager Make in San Francisco, CA?
The salary of a Kitchen Manager in San Francisco varies depending on experience and the specific workplace, but the following breakdown provides a general overview.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $26.00 | $1,040.00 | $4,506.67 | $54,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $30.00 | $1,200.00 | $5,200.00 | $62,400.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $44.00 | $1,760.00 | $7,626.67 | $91,520.00 |
Do Kitchen Managers in San Francisco Earn Tips?
Kitchen Managers typically do not earn tips as their roles are managerial and predominantly behind the scenes. Their earnings usually come from their salary or hourly wages rather than gratuities.
Kitchen Manager Salary in San Francisco vs. National Average
Nationally, Kitchen Managers make about $30.00 per hour or approximately $62,400 per year.
Compared to the national average, Kitchen Managers in San Francisco earn a higher hourly wage of around $36.97 and an annual salary nearing $76,897.60.
This difference reflects the higher cost of living in San Francisco and the competitive culinary industry within the city.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Francisco for Kitchen Managers
Nearby areas with high salaries for Kitchen Managers include:
- Redwood City: $117,500 per year
- Santa Clara: $84,040 per year
Moving to or commuting to Redwood City can offer Kitchen Managers in the area a significant salary increase compared to San Francisco, while Santa Clara also provides competitive pay rates.
What Influences a Kitchen Manager’s Salary in San Francisco?
Several factors contribute to the variation in salary for Kitchen Managers:
- Experience and Leadership Skills: More experienced Kitchen Managers with proven leadership and organizational abilities tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and catering companies often offer better pay than fast casual or chain eateries.
- Education and Certifications: Formal culinary education and food safety certifications can boost earning potential.
- Size and Location of the Kitchen: Larger kitchens or those in upscale neighborhoods may pay more due to operational complexity.
- Shift Hours and Responsibilities: Managing night shifts or multiple outlets can increase compensation.
How To Become a Kitchen Manager in San Francisco
Becoming a successful Kitchen Manager in San Francisco generally involves the following steps:
- Gain Culinary Education: Programs such as those offered by San Francisco Cooking School and City College of San Francisco Culinary Arts and Hospitality Studies provide solid professional training.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: The ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification and California’s Certified Food Manager (CFM) credential are essential for food safety compliance.
- Acquire Experience: Working as a line cook, kitchen supervisor, or in other culinary roles builds valuable hands-on skills necessary for management.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Managing kitchen staff and coordinating operations require strong communication and organizational capabilities.
Top Employers Hiring Kitchen Managers in San Francisco
Some of the most notable employers in San Francisco hiring Kitchen Managers include:
- Bi-Rite Family of Businesses
- Sweetgreen
- The Cheesecake Factory
Establishments That Kitchen Managers in San Francisco Work At
Kitchen Managers can be found working in a variety of establishments, such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These usually offer higher salaries due to demanding standards and upscale clientele.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These may pay moderately but often offer opportunities for growth and experience.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Larger operations with diverse food services tend to offer competitive packages and benefits.
- Hospitality Venues and Institutional Kitchens: Pay can vary widely based on the complexity and volume of food prepared.
The type and scale of the establishment significantly impact the pay scale and job responsibilities of a Kitchen Manager.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Francisco for Kitchen Managers
Professionals considering roles similar to Kitchen Manager may explore these options:
These include Kitchen Supervisor, Restaurant Manager, and Assistant Restaurant Manager roles.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Kitchen Managers in San Francisco
Kitchen Managers should be aware of important labor laws and tax regulations:
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations for detailed information on state labor laws and employee rights.
- The San Francisco Department of Public Health provides vital resources on local health codes and food safety regulations that affect kitchen operations.