Sushi Chef Salary in Fayetteville, AR
Sushi Chefs in Fayetteville, AR, in 2026, earn approximately $15.00 per hour, which translates to about $600.00 per week, $2,600.00 per month, and $31,200.00 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Fayetteville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook in job opportunities and expanding interest in sushi cuisine across local dining establishments.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Fayetteville, AR?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Fayetteville can vary based on experience, skill, and employer, but here is an overview of compensation across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Fayetteville Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs typically do earn tips especially when working in full-service restaurants where customers sit at the sushi bar. They can make an additional approximately $10 per hour in tips, boosting their overall income significantly.
Sushi Chef Salary in Fayetteville vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of around $14.50 per hour or about $30,160 per year.
Compared to this, Sushi Chefs in Fayetteville earn slightly more on average, with a typical hourly rate of $15.00 and a yearly salary of $31,200. This suggests Fayetteville offers competitive wages for this role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fayetteville for Sushi Chefs
Salary levels for Sushi Chefs in the vicinity of Fayetteville vary:
- Downtown Fayetteville: $16.00 per hour
- Uptown Fayetteville: $17.00 per hour
Sushi Chefs working in Uptown Fayetteville can expect to earn slightly higher wages compared to Downtown, reflecting possible differences in restaurant types and clientele.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Fayetteville?
Several factors affect how much a Sushi Chef can earn in Fayetteville:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sushi Chefs with advanced knife skills and mastery in sushi preparation command higher salaries.
- Certifications and Training: Professional certifications, such as the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC), enhance credibility and earning potential.
- Restaurant Type: High-end and specialty Japanese restaurants often pay better than casual or fast-casual dining spots.
- Location: Working in premium locations within Fayetteville, such as Uptown areas, generally results in better pay.
- Reputation and Specialization: Sushi Chefs known for unique offerings or high-quality presentation may negotiate higher wages.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Fayetteville
Becoming a Sushi Chef in Fayetteville involves several important steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Consider pursuing courses like the Northwest Arkansas Community College Culinary Arts Program which offers training in sushi preparation and Asian cuisine.
- Gain Specialized Training: Institutions such as Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food provide focused courses on sushi-making techniques to hone skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is essential for working safely in food service environments.
- Pursue Professional Certification: Earning the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) credential demonstrates industry-level expertise and can enhance career prospects.
- Work Experience: Starting in entry-level kitchen positions or apprenticeships helps build practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Fayetteville
Some of the notable restaurants and employers looking for skilled Sushi Chefs in Fayetteville include:
- Sushi House
- Tokyo House
- Meiji Japanese Cuisine
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Fayetteville Work At
Sushi Chefs in Fayetteville commonly find employment in a variety of establishments:
- Fine Dining Japanese Restaurants: Often offer the highest wages and opportunities for creativity and specialization.
- Casual Dining and Fast-Casual Sushi Bars: Provide steady employment but usually at moderate pay levels.
- Hotel and Resort Restaurants: May offer competitive salaries along with benefits.
The type of establishment influences pay, with upscale and specialty restaurants generally rewarding more experience and skill with better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fayetteville for Sushi Chefs
If you are exploring related careers in the hospitality field, here are positions similar to Sushi Chef that might interest you:
These include Chef, Commis Chef, and Chef de Partie, roles that involve culinary skills closely related to sushi preparation and kitchen management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Fayetteville
Sushi Chefs should stay informed about applicable labor laws and tax requirements to protect their rights and manage earnings efficiently.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and employment information for details about minimum wage, overtime, and workplace regulations.
- The State government website for Arkansas offers resources on state-specific employment laws and labor standards.
