Sushi Chef Salary in Atlanta, GA
Sushi Chefs in Atlanta, GA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.13 per hour, which translates to about $725.20 per week, $3,142.53 per month, and $37,710.40 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Atlanta is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the culinary and hospitality industry in the region.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Atlanta, GA?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Atlanta can vary depending on skills, experience, and employer, but here is an overview of pay across different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.82 | $592.80 | $2,562.80 | $30,825.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.13 | $725.20 | $3,142.53 | $37,710.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.17 | $886.80 | $3,827.20 | $45,993.60 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Atlanta Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs often earn tips directly or indirectly. Depending on the restaurant, they can make an additional around $5 to $10 per hour in tips, supplementing their base salary significantly.
Sushi Chef Salary in Atlanta vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of approximately $19.91 per hour, which amounts to about $41,412.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sushi Chefs in Atlanta earn slightly less, at about $18.13 per hour and $37,710.40 annually. This difference might be influenced by local market factors and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Atlanta for Sushi Chefs
Considering areas near Atlanta, the following locations offer higher pay rates for Sushi Chefs:
- Roswell: $24.05 per hour
- Augusta: $20.69 per hour
Among these, Roswell stands out as a lucrative area for Sushi Chefs seeking higher compensation.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Atlanta?
Experience and Expertise: Sushi Chefs with greater experience and mastery of knife skills, fish selection, and traditional techniques often command higher salaries.
Skills and Certifications: Earning certifications such as the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) can enhance credibility and pay.
Type of Establishment: Working in upscale, fine-dining Japanese restaurants or luxury hotels typically offers better compensation than casual or fast-casual sushi places.
Working Hours and Shifts: Shifts during peak dining times or weekends may come with premium pay or higher tips.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Atlanta
Becoming a successful Sushi Chef in Atlanta involves several clear steps:
- Education: Enroll in culinary programs such as those at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Atlanta which include classical and Japanese cooking techniques, especially sushi preparation.
- Training: The Art Institute of Atlanta also offers degrees focusing on culinary arts with components of Japanese cuisine.
- Certification: Earning ServSafe Certification ensures food safety compliance, while the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) credential demonstrates skill mastery.
- Apprenticeship: Gaining hands-on experience through internships or apprenticeships in sushi restaurants hones practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Atlanta
Several notable establishments in Atlanta currently seek talented Sushi Chefs:
- Umi Buckhead
- aiTWorks
- RA Sushi Bar Restaurant
- HANA Group
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Atlanta Work At
Sushi Chefs in Atlanta work across various types of food establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These usually offer the highest salaries reflecting the demand for exceptional skill and presentation.
- Casual and Fast Casual Sushi Bars: Pay tends to be moderate but these environments may offer more advancement opportunities.
- Hotels and Resorts: Employment in upscale hotels combines salary and benefits with high culinary standards.
- Catering and Private Events: Chefs in this setting often enjoy flexible schedules with opportunities for premium pricing based on event demands.
The salary a Sushi Chef earns can vary notably depending on the prestige and style of the establishment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Atlanta for Sushi Chefs
If you are interested in roles similar to Sushi Chef, consider exploring the following related positions:
These include Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Chef positions, each offering various culinary responsibilities and compensation structures.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Atlanta
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Sushi Chefs working in Atlanta.
- Information on federal labor laws can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Georgia-specific employment laws and resources, visit the Georgia Department of Labor website.