Sushi Chef Salary in Arlington, VA
Sushi Chefs in Arlington, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $17.41 per hour, which translates to about $696.40 per week, $3,017.73 per month, and $36,212.80 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Arlington is growing at a healthy rate of 5% per year, indicating an expanding market for Japanese cuisine and sushi dining in the area.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Arlington, VA?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Arlington varies with experience, skill level, and the employer, but here is a breakdown of what you can expect at different stages of your career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.21 | $568.40 | $2,453.73 | $29,536.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.41 | $696.40 | $3,017.73 | $36,212.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.31 | $852.40 | $3,696.53 | $44,324.80 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Arlington Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs typically earn some tips due to direct interaction with customers in many establishments. On average, they may earn an additional $5 to $10 per hour in tips, which can significantly increase their overall income.
Sushi Chef Salary in Arlington, VA vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of approximately $17.41 per hour or about $36,212.80 annually.
In Arlington, VA, Sushi Chefs earn roughly in line with the national average, reflecting a competitive local market and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Arlington for Sushi Chefs
Salaries for Sushi Chefs near Arlington vary slightly:
- McLean: $19.29 per hour
- Vienna: $19.12 per hour
Commuting to McLean or Vienna might offer higher hourly wages for skilled Sushi Chefs relative to Arlington.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Arlington?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Sushi Chef in Arlington:
- Experience and Skill Level: Highly skilled Sushi Chefs and those with extensive experience command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and specialty sushi bars tend to pay more than casual dining or fast-casual eateries.
- Certifications and Culinary Training: Formal training in culinary arts or specialized sushi techniques can boost earning potential.
- Location within Arlington: Working in more affluent or tourist-heavy parts of the city may result in better pay and tip opportunities.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Evening shifts and weekends might offer shift differentials or increased tips.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Arlington
Becoming a Sushi Chef in Arlington involves a combination of education, training, and experience:
- Enroll in culinary programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Northern Virginia Community College, which offers comprehensive culinary training including sushi preparation techniques.
- Consider specialized courses from the Sushi Chef Institute to enhance your skills in sushi making and Japanese cuisine.
- Obtain essential food safety certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, which is required in Virginia establishments.
- Achieve professional recognition such as the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) credential to validate your competency.
- Gain hands-on experience through apprenticeships or working as a sushi assistant in established restaurants.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Arlington
Some of the leading employers seeking skilled Sushi Chefs in Arlington include:
- Sushi-Zen
- Sushi Rock
- Endo Sushi
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Arlington Work At
Sushi Chefs generally find employment in a variety of dining establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer the highest salaries and opportunities for tips due to the upscale clientele.
- Casual and Fast Casual Sushi Bars: Provide more entry-level opportunities but may offer lower base pay and less tipping.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger venues with sushi bars often provide stable salaries and benefits.
- Catering Companies: Work in event-based settings, which can influence shift hours and earnings.
The type and prestige of the establishment greatly impact the earning potential and career growth for Sushi Chefs in Arlington.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Arlington for Sushi Chefs
If you're interested in careers similar to being a Sushi Chef, consider these related positions that share culinary and hospitality skills:
These include Chef, Commis Chef, and Banquet Chef, each offering varied responsibilities within the culinary field and differing salary opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Arlington
Sushi Chefs should be well-informed about relevant labor laws and tax requirements:
- For federal labor laws and employment information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Virginia-specific regulations, consult the Virginia state government site, which covers labor laws and workplace standards.