Sushi Chef Salary in Little-Rock, AR
Sushi Chefs in Little-Rock, AR, in 2025, earn approximately $17.89 per hour, which translates to about $715.60 per week, $3,100.93 per month, and $37,211.20 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Little-Rock is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating increasing opportunities in the culinary scene, especially in Japanese cuisine and sushi preparation within the region.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Little-Rock, AR?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Little-Rock varies by experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings at different experience stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.29 | $571.60 | $2,470.13 | $29,641.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.89 | $715.60 | $3,100.93 | $37,211.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.39 | $895.60 | $3,867.73 | $46,531.20 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Little-Rock, AR Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs in Little-Rock often receive tips, especially in establishments where they interact directly with customers at sushi bars. Typically, they can earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, though this can vary depending on the venue and clientele.
Sushi Chef Salary in Little-Rock vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of around $19.88 per hour, or about $41,350.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sushi Chefs in Little-Rock earn slightly less on average, with an hourly wage of $17.89 and yearly salary of $37,211.20.
This difference may be influenced by local cost of living and demand factors in Arkansas.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Little-Rock for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas offer varying wage rates for Sushi Chefs:
- Downtown: $18.83 per hour
- River Market District: $18.50 per hour
Sushi Chefs working in Downtown or the River Market District may enjoy slightly higher pay compared to other parts of Little-Rock.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Little-Rock?
Several factors impact how much a Sushi Chef earns in Little-Rock:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Sushi Chefs with refined knife skills and expertise in specialty rolls command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale or fine dining Japanese restaurants generally offers better pay than casual or fast casual spots.
- Certifications and Culinary Education: Formal training in culinary arts or sushi-specific courses enhances salary prospects.
- Work Location: Restaurants in high-traffic or affluent areas tend to pay more competitively.
- Customer Interaction and Tips: Sushi Chefs who engage with customers at sushi bars can augment their income with tips.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Little-Rock
Becoming a Sushi Chef in Little-Rock involves a mix of education, training, and practical experience.
- Enroll in Culinary Programs: Institutions like The University of Arkansas – Pulaski Technical College offer accredited programs in Culinary Arts and Baking & Pastry that provide foundational skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Essential certifications such as ServSafe ensure compliance with food handling standards and boost employability.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working as a kitchen assistant or apprentice under skilled Sushi Chefs builds hands-on expertise.
- Learn Specialty Techniques: Mastery in knife skills, rice preparation, and ingredient quality is critical for success.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Little-Rock
Several notable establishments in Little-Rock hire skilled Sushi Chefs, including:
- Kemuri
- Benihana at Wyndham Riverfront Little Rock
- Little Rock N Roll LLC
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Little-Rock Work At
Sushi Chefs typically find employment in a variety of culinary venues:
- Fine Dining Japanese Restaurants: Often offer higher salaries and opportunities for creative sushi preparation.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Provide moderate wages; volume-based service may limit customization.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer competitive pay with additional benefits.
- Sushi Bars: Direct customer interaction allows for tip income, affecting total earnings.
The type of establishment significantly affects the earning potential of a Sushi Chef.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Little-Rock for Sushi Chefs
If you’re interested in roles related to Sushi Chef, you might consider these similar hospitality careers:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Chef de Cuisine positions, which require overlapping culinary expertise and provide various salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Little-Rock
Sushi Chefs should be familiar with labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment.
- Visit the Federal website for the U.S. Department of Labor for comprehensive information about worker rights and labor standards.
- The State website for Arkansas offers resources on state-specific labor laws and employment regulations.