Sushi Chef Salary in Anchorage, AK
Sushi Chefs in Anchorage, AK, in 2026, earn approximately $22.11 per hour, which translates to about $884.40 per week, $3,832.40 per month, and $45,988.80 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Anchorage is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive trend in the culinary industry, especially given Alaska’s unique seafood offerings and growing interest in Japanese cuisine.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Anchorage, AK?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Anchorage can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general view across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,933.33 | $35,360.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.11 | $884.40 | $3,832.40 | $45,988.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Anchorage Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs often do earn tips, especially in restaurants where sushi is prepared in front of customers at the bar or sushi counter. Tips can add an approximate $10 per hour or more to their overall earnings, depending on the establishment's service model and location.
Sushi Chef Salary in Anchorage vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of around $21.00 per hour, which amounts to approximately $43,680 per year.
Comparatively, Sushi Chefs in Anchorage earn slightly higher at about $22.11 per hour and $45,988.80 annually. This can be attributed to the specialization required and Alaska's reputation for fresh seafood.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Anchorage for Sushi Chefs
Sushi Chef salaries in areas surrounding Anchorage show some variation:
- Downtown Anchorage: $24.00 per hour
- Midtown Anchorage: $23.00 per hour
Those working in Downtown Anchorage tend to earn the highest wages, reflecting the area's concentration of upscale restaurants and sushi bars.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Anchorage?
Several factors influence how much a Sushi Chef can earn in Anchorage:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sushi Chefs, especially those skilled in advanced sushi preparation techniques, command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale or specialty sushi restaurants usually offer better pay compared to casual dining options.
- Certifications and Training: Completion of culinary programs or certifications related to seafood handling can enhance earning potential.
- Reputation and Location: Sushi Chefs in popular, high-traffic locations generally have access to higher wages and more tipping opportunities.
- Shift Times: Working peak dining hours or weekends can sometimes increase pay through shift differentials or higher tips.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Anchorage
Embarking on a career as a Sushi Chef involves several important steps:
- Formal Culinary Education: Programs like the University of Alaska Anchorage Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive training including sushi preparation techniques.
- Specialized Courses: Alaska Culinary Academy offers focused courses on seafood and sushi techniques, tailored to local cuisine.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining the ServSafe Certification ensures knowledge of proper food handling and hygiene standards.
- State Licensing: All food service workers in Alaska, including Sushi Chefs, must have an Alaska Food Worker Card acknowledging safe food handling practices.
- Gaining Experience: Apprenticeships or entry-level roles in sushi or seafood restaurants provide vital hands-on experience.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Anchorage
Anchorage's culinary scene includes several prominent restaurants actively hiring Sushi Chefs, such as:
- Benihana
- Sushi & Sushi
- Samurai Sushi Garden
- Kobe Teppanyaki House
- Ronnie Sushi
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Anchorage Work At
Sushi Chefs typically find employment in various types of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Sushi Restaurants: May offer consistent hours but moderate pay.
- Fast Casual and Sushi Bars: Often busier with higher tipping potential but can be fast-paced.
- Upscale and Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer the highest salaries, reflecting greater skill requirements and quality standards.
- Hotel and Resort Kitchens: May provide competitive wages and additional benefits.
The type of establishment can heavily influence a Sushi Chef’s wage and tip earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Anchorage for Sushi Chefs
If you're interested in positions related to that of a Sushi Chef, consider exploring these similar roles:
These include Head Chef, Executive Chef, and Chef de Partie, roles that share culinary skill sets and offer different salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Anchorage
Sushi Chefs in Anchorage should be knowledgeable about labor laws and tax obligations to ensure compliance and proper financial management.
- Visit the State of Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development website for information on employment standards, wages, and workplace rights.
- For federal tax guidance, consult the Internal Revenue Service website to understand tax responsibilities.