Sushi Chef Salary in Kansas City, MO
Sushi Chefs in Kansas City, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $15.50 per hour, which translates to about $620.00 per week, $2,686.67 per month, and $32,240.00 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Kansas City is growing at about 6% per year, indicating a strong and positive outlook for this culinary specialty in the region.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Kansas City, MO?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Kansas City varies based on experience and skill level. Here is an outline of typical earnings based on entry-level, mid-level, and top-tier Sushi Chefs.
| 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) | $15.50 | $620.00 | $2,686.67 | $32,240.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Kansas City Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs often receive tips due to their direct interaction with customers, especially in high-end or specialty restaurants. They can earn an additional $5 to $10 per hour in tips, which can significantly boost overall income.
Sushi Chef Salary in Kansas City vs. National Average
The national average salary for Sushi Chefs is around $16.00 per hour, or about $33,280 per year.
Compared to this, Sushi Chefs in Kansas City earn slightly less at an average of $15.50 per hour and $32,240 annually, reflecting variations based on regional demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kansas City for Sushi Chefs
Salaries for Sushi Chefs can vary within the Kansas City metro area:
- Downtown: $18.00 per hour
- Country Club Plaza: $17.50 per hour
Working closer to Downtown Kansas City provides the highest average pay, likely due to upscale dining and high customer volume.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Kansas City?
Experience and Skill Level: Advanced knife skills, mastery of sushi techniques, and years of experience typically lead to higher wages.
Type of Establishment: Working in upscale, fine dining restaurants or exclusive sushi bars usually offers better pay compared to casual or fast-casual settings.
Certifications and Training: Holding culinary certifications related to sushi preparation or food safety can enhance salary potential.
Reputation and Customer Base: Chefs with a loyal customer following or who specialize in unique offerings may command premium wages.
Shift and Hours: Some establishments may pay higher rates for evening or weekend shifts.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Kansas City
Becoming a successful Sushi Chef in Kansas City involves several important steps:
- Complete Formal Training: Programs like the Johnson County Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive culinary education including sushi preparation and Asian cuisine.
- Specialized Sushi Training: The Kansas City Culinary Institute provides focused courses on sushi making and Japanese culinary techniques to develop essential skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required and demonstrate knowledge of safe food handling practices.
- Achieve Professional Recognition: Earning credentials like the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) certification can validate expertise and open more job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Kansas City
Several prominent establishments in Kansas City are known to employ skilled Sushi Chefs:
- Sushi House
- Nara
- Drunken Fish
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Kansas City Work At
Sushi Chefs in Kansas City are typically employed in a variety of dining environments:
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: These offer higher salaries due to the skill level required and premium pricing of menu items.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Sushi Spots: While these have more accessible menus, salaries may be somewhat lower but offer greater volume and steady hours.
- Hotel and Resort Restaurants: Larger operations may offer competitive pay along with benefits and possible advancement.
- Specialty Sushi Bars: These can be lucrative for chefs who bring unique skills and customer appeal.
Salary variations depend largely on the prestige and clientele of the establishment as well as the chef’s reputation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kansas City for Sushi Chefs
For those interested in related culinary roles, several opportunities complement the skills of a Sushi Chef. Exploring these can provide alternative or additional career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Kansas City
Sushi Chefs should be informed about federal, state, and local labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and proper employment conditions.
- For federal labor laws and employment information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific labor regulations and resources for Missouri can be found at labor.mo.gov.
- Local business regulations and employment-related guidance are available on the Kansas City government website.