Sushi Chef in Columbus, OH
Sushi Chefs in Columbus, OH, in 2026, earn approximately $20.42 per hour, which translates to about $816.80 per week, $3,539.47 per month, and $42,473.60 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Columbus is looking up with a steady growth of about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for this culinary specialization in the region.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Columbus, OH?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Columbus varies with experience and employer, but here’s an overview across different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.05 | $642.00 | $2,780.20 | $33,384.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.42 | $816.80 | $3,539.47 | $42,473.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.98 | $1,039.20 | $4,497.73 | $53,958.40 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Columbus Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs often earn tips in addition to their base salary due to direct interaction with customers and personalized service. Tips can amount to an extra $10 per hour in some cases, significantly boosting overall earnings.
Sushi Chef Salary in Columbus vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn about $20.42 per hour, or roughly $42,473.60 annually.
Sushi Chefs in Columbus, OH, earn about the same as the national average, showing competitive pay reflective of local dining trends and culinary demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Columbus for Sushi Chefs
Nearby locations offer varied pay for Sushi Chefs:
- Short North Arts District: $22.00 per hour
- Arena District: $21.50 per hour
Working in these neighborhoods may offer Sushi Chefs higher earnings compared to the broader Columbus area.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Columbus?
Several key factors impact the earnings of a Sushi Chef:
- Experience and Technical Skill: Mastery in sushi preparation and years of experience typically lead to higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or specialty sushi bars often pay more than casual dining venues.
- Reputation and Customer Base: Chefs with a strong local or regional reputation may command premium salaries.
- Certifications and Education: Formal culinary education and certifications can enhance salary potential.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Columbus
Starting a career as a Sushi Chef in Columbus involves several steps:
- Participate in culinary training programs such as the Columbus State Community College Culinary Apprenticeship Program to gain hands-on experience.
- Obtain industry-recognized credentials like the American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certification to boost professional credibility.
- Secure essential food safety certifications including the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and state-specific credentials like the Ohio Manager Certification in Food Protection.
- Gain practical experience through apprenticeships or entry-level kitchen roles at sushi restaurants.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Columbus
The following establishments are prominent employers of Sushi Chefs in Columbus:
- Kihachi
- Blue Sushi Sake Grill
- Sushi Rock
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Columbus Work At
Sushi Chefs find opportunities across several types of dining venues:
- Casual Restaurants: These offer regular hours and moderate pay, suitable for entry-level or mid-level sushi chefs.
- Fast Casual Sushi Bars: Typically provide faster-paced environments with variable tips, often offering slightly higher wages.
- Fine Dining Establishments: High-end locations generally pay better salaries and may offer advanced career growth but expect high skill levels.
The type of establishment significantly affects both the base pay and tip potential of Sushi Chefs.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Columbus for Sushi Chefs
If you are considering careers related to Sushi Chef, here are some similar options:
These include Head Chef, Commis Chef, and Restaurant Manager roles, which involve culinary expertise and leadership responsibilities within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Columbus
Sushi Chefs in Columbus should be mindful of both federal and state labor regulations governing wages and working conditions.
- Federal labor laws can be reviewed at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Labor statistics and occupational information are available via the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- For Ohio-specific labor laws and regulatory guidelines, the Ohio Department of Commerce provides comprehensive resources.