Sushi Chef Salary in Baltimore, MD
Sushi Chefs in Baltimore, MD, in 2025, earn approximately $16.68 per hour, which translates to about $667.20 per week, $2,891.20 per month, and $34,694.40 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Baltimore is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding market for skilled culinary professionals specializing in sushi preparation.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Baltimore, MD?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Baltimore can vary based on experience and the employer's scale. Below is a general salary range across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.45 | $578.00 | $2,502.33 | $30,016.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.68 | $667.20 | $2,891.20 | $34,694.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.25 | $770.00 | $3,316.67 | $39,998.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Baltimore Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs generally do not earn significant tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes preparing sushi for customers. However, in some upscale or specialty restaurants, they might receive an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and customer generosity.
Sushi Chef Salary in Baltimore vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of around $16.68 per hour, which translates to about $34,694.40 annually.
In Baltimore, Sushi Chefs earn very close to this national average, making it a competitive city for this role with salaries around $16.68 per hour and $34,694.40 annually.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Baltimore for Sushi Chefs
Nearby Baltimore, some areas offer slightly higher salaries for Sushi Chefs:
- Harbor East: $18.50 per hour
- Federal Hill: $17.60 per hour
Working in Harbor East can provide the highest local wages for Sushi Chefs, reflecting its upscale dining options and clientele.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Baltimore?
Several factors impact a Sushi Chef's salary in Baltimore:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sushi Chefs who master intricate knife skills and food presentation techniques tend to earn higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: High-end Japanese restaurants and luxury hotels often pay more compared to casual or fast-casual dining spots.
- Certifications and Education: Culinary education and certifications in food safety can positively influence pay.
- Reputation and Customer Base: Working in renowned establishments or trendy neighborhoods can command higher wages.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Baltimore
Becoming a Sushi Chef in Baltimore involves some key steps:
- Attend Sushi Making Classes by Cozymeal: These hands-on classes offer opportunity to learn traditional sushi techniques from experienced chefs in Baltimore.
- Obtain ServSafe Food Handler Certification: This certification demonstrates knowledge of food safety practices and is often required by employers in the food service industry.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Working as a kitchen assistant or apprentice under a skilled Sushi Chef helps build essential skills.
- Build Knife Skills and Culinary Knowledge: Continuous practice and learning about fish types, rice preparation, and presentation are crucial.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Baltimore
Some of the top establishments looking for skilled Sushi Chefs in Baltimore include:
- RA Sushi Bar Restaurant
- Minato Sushi Bar
- Kona Grill
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Baltimore Work At
Sushi Chefs most commonly work in:
- Upscale and Fine Dining Japanese Restaurants: These tend to offer the highest salaries due to premium menu pricing and clientele expectations.
- Casual Dining and Fast-Casual Restaurants: These usually offer moderate pay but more frequent employment opportunities.
- Hotel and Resort Restaurants: Larger hotels sometimes pay competitive wages and provide benefits to skilled Sushi Chefs.
The type of establishment greatly influences salary, with prestige and customer base playing significant roles.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Baltimore for Sushi Chefs
If you’re exploring careers similar to Sushi Chef, consider these related hospitality roles that draw on culinary skills:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Chef de Cuisine roles, offering a variety of culinary career paths with varying responsibilities and pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Baltimore
Sushi Chefs should stay informed about federal and state labor laws to understand their rights and responsibilities.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive labor laws and employment information.
- Check Maryland-specific regulations on the Maryland Department of Labor website for state labor laws and workers’ rights.