Sushi Chef Salary in Bellevue, WA
Sushi Chefs in Bellevue, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $22.17 per hour, which amounts to around $886.80 per week, $3,842.80 per month, and $46,113.60 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Bellevue is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a promising outlook and increasing job opportunities in this specialized culinary field.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Bellevue, WA?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Bellevue depends on experience, skill level, and employer, but here's a breakdown across typical experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.18 | $607.20 | $2,628.80 | $31,526.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.17 | $886.80 | $3,842.80 | $46,113.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.37 | $1,294.80 | $5,598.80 | $67,137.60 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Bellevue Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs typically earn tips, especially in higher-end restaurants. They can make an estimated an extra $8 to $12 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and the volume of customers served. This additional income can significantly boost overall earnings.
Sushi Chef Salary in Bellevue vs. National Average
The national average hourly salary for Sushi Chefs is approximately $22.17 per hour, with an annual salary of about $46,113.60.
Sushi Chefs in Bellevue earn around the national average, reflecting the city's competitive culinary market and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Bellevue for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas offering higher pay for Sushi Chefs include:
- Downtown Bellevue: $25.50 per hour
- Bellevue Square: $24.80 per hour
These locations provide attractive salary opportunities, often associated with upscale dining establishments and higher customer traffic.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Bellevue?
Several factors influence the salary levels of Sushi Chefs in Bellevue:
- Experience and Skill Level: Those with exceptional knife skills and advanced sushi-making expertise command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and specialty sushi bars tend to pay more than casual dining venues.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary education focused on Japanese cuisine can enhance job prospects and salaries.
- Reputation and Customer Base: Renowned chefs with a strong following may negotiate better pay.
- Shift Hours and Demand: Working peak dining hours or in busy locations can lead to higher compensation.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Bellevue
Becoming a Sushi Chef in Bellevue involves a combination of formal education and practical experience.
- Complete Culinary Training: Programs such as the Lake Washington Institute of Technology Culinary Arts Program and Seattle Central College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive instruction including sushi preparation.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Secure a Food Handler's Permit and consider the ServSafe Certification to demonstrate knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Apprenticeships or entry-level positions in sushi restaurants help develop essential skills.
- Develop Specialization: Focus on mastering traditional and contemporary sushi-making techniques.
- Networking: Engage with local culinary professionals to discover opportunities and build reputation.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Bellevue
Prominent employers in Bellevue looking for skilled Sushi Chefs include:
- Ginza Japanese Restaurant
- JOEY Restaurants
- Tokyo Japanese Restaurant
- Mix Sushi Bar
- I Love Sushi on Lake Bellevue
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Bellevue Work At
Sushi Chefs find employment across various establishment types such as:
- Fine Dining Sushi Bars: Offering higher pay due to premium quality and presentation demands.
- Casual Japanese Restaurants: Competitive wages with usually steady customer flow.
- Hotel Restaurants: Often provide stable employment and benefits.
- Fast-Casual Establishments: Pay is generally lower but can provide vibrant work environments.
The type of restaurant influences earnings, with upscale venues typically offering greater compensation and opportunities for tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Bellevue for Sushi Chefs
Those interested in related culinary roles can consider similar positions which require related skills and have comparable salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Bellevue
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is vital for Sushi Chefs working in Bellevue.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific information on labor laws and workplace rights can be found at the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries.