Sushi Chef in Buffalo, NY
Sushi Chefs in Buffalo, NY, in 2025, earn approximately $18.61 per hour, which translates to about $744.40 per week, $3,225.73 per month, and $38,708.80 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Buffalo is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job growth prospects and a healthy market for skilled culinary professionals in this specialized field.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Buffalo, NY?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Buffalo can vary based on experience level and the employer, but the following table outlines typical earnings across different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.97 | $758.80 | $3,280.53 | $39,457.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.68 | $827.20 | $3,570.13 | $42,950.40 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Buffalo Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs often earn tips in addition to their base salary, especially in establishments where sushi preparation is part of customer interaction. They can make an extra $10 per hour in tips or more, depending on the venue and customer volume.
Sushi Chef Salary in Buffalo vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of around $23.80 per hour, translating to approximately $49,504 per year.
Compared to the national figures, Sushi Chefs in Buffalo earn about $18.61 per hour and $38,708.80 annually, which is below the national average. This difference can be influenced by local cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Buffalo for Sushi Chefs
Sushi Chefs in the Buffalo area can expect varying wages depending on the neighborhood:
- Downtown Buffalo: $19.50 per hour
- Elmwood Village: $18.75 per hour
Those working in Downtown Buffalo may find slightly higher salaries due to the area's commercial activity and dining demands.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Buffalo?
Several factors can influence how much a Sushi Chef earns in Buffalo:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced chefs with advanced sushi-making techniques can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and specialty sushi bars usually pay better than casual eateries.
- Certification and Training: Completion of culinary programs or certifications related to food safety and sushi preparation can improve salary prospects.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working evening or weekend shifts may attract premium pay.
- Local Economic Conditions: Buffalo's overall economic environment can impact salary ranges.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Buffalo
Becoming a Sushi Chef in Buffalo generally involves several steps and qualifications:
- Formal Training: Attend a culinary school such as the Buffalo School of Culinary Arts & Hospitality Management to build foundational skills in sushi making and general culinary arts.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Earning credentials like the ServSafe Certification is crucial for handling food safely and meeting regulatory standards.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting as a kitchen assistant or apprentice sushi chef to develop hands-on skills under experienced professionals.
- Continuing Education: Participate in workshops or additional courses to stay current with new trends and techniques in sushi preparation.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Buffalo
Buffalo features several notable employers that frequently seek skilled Sushi Chefs:
- Wegmans Food Markets
- Rec Room Buffalo
- Lime House Sushi & Ramen
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Buffalo Work At
Sushi Chefs typically find employment in a variety of settings:
- Upscale and Fine Dining Restaurants: These often provide the highest salaries due to need for premium culinary skills and presentation standards.
- Casual and Fast Casual Sushi Bars: These offer moderate wages but may provide more consistent hours.
- Hotels and Resort Restaurants: Big establishments can offer competitive pay and benefits along with staff development opportunities.
- Supermarkets with Sushi Counters: May offer entry-level positions with steady pay but generally lower salary levels than dedicated restaurants.
The type of establishment can significantly impact the pay rate and work environment for Sushi Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Buffalo for Sushi Chefs
If you are considering career paths related to Sushi Chef, there are several options to explore that utilize similar culinary skills.
These include Head Chef, Commis Chef, and Chef de Partie positions, which offer different levels of responsibility in the kitchen and diverse earning potential.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Buffalo
Sushi Chefs should be familiar with labor laws and tax requirements to ensure proper working conditions and compliance with regulations.
- For detailed information on federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific labor laws and employment resources can be found on the New York State Department of Labor's official site.