Sushi Chef Salary in Boise, ID
Sushi Chefs in Boise, ID, in 2025, earn approximately $17.86 per hour, which translates to about $714.40 per week, $3,095.73 per month, and $37,148.80 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Boise is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the culinary field focused on Japanese cuisine in the region.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Boise, ID?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Boise varies by experience level and employer, with entry-level workers earning less and more skilled professionals earning higher wages. Below is an overview of salaries based on experience:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.41 | $616.40 | $2,670.27 | $32,016.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.86 | $714.40 | $3,095.73 | $37,148.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.70 | $828.00 | $3,578.00 | $42,936.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Boise Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs typically do earn tips, as they often interact directly with customers in sushi bars and restaurants. On average, a Sushi Chef in Boise might earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the establishment's volume and generosity of patrons.
Sushi Chef Salary in Boise vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn about $18.13 per hour or roughly $37,710.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sushi Chefs in Boise earn slightly less per hour ($17.86 vs. $18.13), and their annual salary is just a bit below the national average ($37,148.80 vs. $37,710.40).
This small difference can be influenced by the local cost of living and regional demand for Japanese culinary specialties.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Boise for Sushi Chefs
Those willing to commute might find higher wages in these nearby locations:
- McCall: $30.08 per hour
- Garden City: $18.07 per hour
McCall stands out as a particularly lucrative location, offering almost double the hourly earnings compared to Boise, while Garden City's rates closely match Boise's.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Boise?
Experience is a major factor. More years in the role and the ability to craft high-quality sushi increase earning potential.
Skills and Techniques such as proficiency in traditional Japanese methods, knife skills, and presentation can set a Sushi Chef apart.
Type of establishment matters greatly. High-end sushi restaurants or fine dining venues usually offer higher wages compared to casual dining or fast-casual spots.
Certifications and training can also impact salary. Those with formal culinary education or certifications may command higher wages.
Location and demand also affect pay scales, with busier urban areas or resorts paying more.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Boise
Starting a career as a Sushi Chef in Boise typically involves several key steps.
First, consider enrolling in culinary training programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at College of Western Idaho, which offers comprehensive training including sushi preparation techniques.
Specialized programs like Sushi Chef Training at Boise Sushi Institute focus specifically on traditional and modern sushi-making skills, giving students an edge.
Obtaining certifications is essential. For example, ServSafe Certification is nationally recognized and required for food handling in many restaurants.
More specialized certifications such as Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) demonstrate proficiency in sushi preparation and Japanese cuisine and can boost employment prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Boise
Some of the top establishments currently hiring Sushi Chefs in Boise include:
- Sakana Sushi Bar and Grill
- Lucky Fins
- Kona Grill
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Boise Work At
Sushi Chefs find employment in various types of establishments, including:
- Fine dining restaurants that focus on authentic Japanese cuisine and offer higher wages.
- Casual sushi bars that provide a fast-paced environment with moderate pay.
- Resort and hotel restaurants where chefs may earn additional perks and higher salaries.
- Fast-casual sushi chains, which might offer entry-level salaries but greater employment opportunities.
The type of establishment influences the Sushi Chef’s salary and the possibility of earning tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Boise for Sushi Chefs
If you are exploring careers related to Sushi Chef, here are some similar roles to consider:
These include Chef, Head Chef, and Chef de Partie, roles that share culinary skills and offer various salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Boise
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements is essential for Sushi Chefs working in Boise.
- Federal employment standards and regulations can be reviewed at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Idaho-specific labor laws, wages, and workplace safety rules are available at the Idaho Department of Labor site.
- Local employment resources and laws are accessible through the City of Boise official website.