Sushi Chef Salary in Denver, CO
Sushi Chefs in Denver, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $28.45 per hour, which translates to about $1,138.00 per week, $4,931.33 per month, and $59,176.00 per year.
The job demand for Sushi Chefs in Denver is growing at about 5% per year, indicating a positive trend and increasing opportunities for skilled culinary professionals specializing in sushi preparation.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Denver, CO?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Denver varies depending on experience and place of employment. Below is a general breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.81 | $752.40 | $3,257.00 | $39,024.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.45 | $1,138.00 | $4,931.33 | $59,176.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $44.69 | $1,787.60 | $7,714.13 | $92,963.20 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Denver Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs in Denver often earn tips in addition to their salary, especially in restaurants with a sushi bar. Tips can add up to an extra $10 per hour or more, depending on the establishment and customer volume, significantly boosting overall earnings.
Sushi Chef Salary in Denver vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of about $19.89 per hour and approximately $41,371.20 per year.
Compared to the national averages, Sushi Chefs in Denver earn considerably more, with hourly wages around $28.45, reflecting Denver's demand for skilled sushi culinary professionals and its higher living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Denver for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas offer competitive pay for Sushi Chefs as well:
- Littleton: $25.08 per hour
- Boulder: $23.53 per hour
Littleton and Boulder offer solid alternatives for Sushi Chefs seeking opportunities close to Denver, with Littleton offering higher hourly wages among the two.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Denver?
Several key factors can influence the salary of a Sushi Chef in Denver:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Sushi Chefs with refined knife skills and mastery of sushi-making techniques command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Employment at upscale sushi restaurants or hotels typically offers better compensation than casual dining.
- Certifications: Holding certifications such as Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) can increase earning potential.
- Location and Demand: Chefs working in busy metropolitan areas like Denver can expect higher wages due to increased demand.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Denver
Becoming a Sushi Chef in Denver begins with a combination of education and hands-on experience:
- Formal Culinary Education: Institutions like the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts in Boulder and the Cook Street School of Culinary Arts in Denver provide comprehensive culinary training, including sushi preparation courses.
- Food Safety Certification: Completing the ServSafe Certification is essential for safe food handling practices in professional kitchens.
- Professional Sushi Certification: Earning the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) credential from the American Culinary Federation can validate your skills.
- Apprenticeships and Internships: Gaining practical experience under experienced Sushi Chefs is crucial to mastering the craft.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Denver
Denver offers several notable establishments actively hiring Sushi Chefs:
- Sushi Den
- Uchi Denver
- Izakaya Den
- Morinoya
- Urban Sushi
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Denver Work At
Sushi Chefs typically work in a range of establishments, including:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often provide the highest pay due to skill demands and clientele expectations.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: May offer lower wages but more accessible positions.
- Hotels and Resorts: Usually pay well and can include benefits.
- Sushi Bars and Specialty Shops: Where tips are a common addition to salary, boosting income.
The type and prestige of the establishment greatly affect the salary of a Sushi Chef, with upscale venues tending to offer significantly better pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Denver for Sushi Chefs
For those interested in similar roles within the hospitality industry, consider these comparable careers:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Kitchen Manager, roles that involve extensive culinary expertise and leadership responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Denver
Sushi Chefs should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations that apply to them, ensuring compliance and proper management of their employment rights and obligations.
- For federal labor regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific information, the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment offers resources and guidelines.