Sushi Chef Salary in Madison, WI
Sushi Chefs in Madison, WI, in 2025, earn approximately $19.80 per hour, which translates to about $792.00 per week, $3,432.00 per month, and $41,184.00 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Madison is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market with increasing opportunities as more establishments embrace sushi cuisine in the region.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Madison, WI?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Madison varies by level of experience and skill. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.93 | $597.20 | $2,581.87 | $31,006.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.68 | $747.20 | $3,217.87 | $38,886.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.36 | $934.40 | $4,014.93 | $48,588.80 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Madison Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs typically do earn tips, especially in establishments where they interact directly with customers. These tips can amount to an extra $5 to $15 per hour depending on the venue and customer flow, significantly boosting their overall income.
Sushi Chef Salary in Madison vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn around $18.68 per hour, equivalent to about $38,854.40 annually.
Compared to the national average, Sushi Chefs in Madison earn a slightly higher hourly wage at $19.80 per hour and make roughly $41,184.00 per year. This reflects the growing popularity and demand for skilled Sushi Chefs in Madison.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Madison for Sushi Chefs
Nearby establishments offer competitive salaries for Sushi Chefs:
- Sequoia Ramen & Sushi Lounge: $21.50 per hour
- Epic: $25.03 per hour
The higher wages at places like Epic indicate opportunities for Sushi Chefs to maximize earnings in upscale or high-volume restaurants near Madison.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Madison?
Several factors can influence the salary of a Sushi Chef in Madison, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sushi Chefs who master intricate knife skills and advanced sushi techniques command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and specialty sushi bars tend to offer better pay and tipping opportunities than casual or fast-casual venues.
- Location: Establishments in busier or more affluent areas often pay higher salaries to retain top talent.
- Certifications and Training: Possessing specialized certifications or formal culinary education can enhance job prospects and earning potential.
- Shift Availability: Working evening, weekend, or holiday shifts might offer shift differential premiums.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Madison
Becoming a professional Sushi Chef in Madison involves a combination of education, training, and passion for the craft. Here are some key steps:
- Pursue Culinary Education: Enroll in programs such as the Madison College Culinary Arts Program, which includes courses on international cuisines and sushi preparation techniques, or take continuing education courses at UW-Madison Continuing Studies: Culinary Arts.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Certification is essential for handling food safely and complying with health regulations.
- Earn Specialized Certifications: Consider obtaining the Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) credential offered by the World Sushi Skills Institute to validate your sushi expertise.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work as a kitchen assistant or apprentice to learn hands-on skills under experienced Sushi Chefs.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Madison
Madison offers employment opportunities for Sushi Chefs at several notable establishments including:
- Sequoia Ramen & Sushi Lounge
- Epic
- Muramoto Hilldale
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Madison Work At
Sushi Chefs typically find work in a variety of dining establishments, including:
- Casual Dining: These restaurants offer moderate pay and typically serve a broad clientele.
- Fast Casual: Often focusing on speed and affordability, fast casual sushi spots may offer lower wages but high volume tips.
- Upscale Restaurants and Sushi Bars: These venues command higher pay rates and more substantial tipping opportunities due to premium service and clientele.
- Hotels and Resorts: Employ Sushi Chefs who prepare high-end sushi for guests, often with benefits and salary premiums.
The type of establishment directly affects a Sushi Chef’s salary, with higher-end venues generally providing the best compensation and tip potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Madison for Sushi Chefs
If you are interested in careers similar to that of a Sushi Chef, consider these related hospitality roles:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Kitchen Supervisor roles, each involving culinary expertise and leadership responsibilities within foodservice operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Madison
Sushi Chefs in Madison should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Access federal labor law resources on the U.S. Department of Labor website, which covers standards on wages, hours, and workplace safety.
- Refer to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development for state-specific labor regulations, wage guidelines, and worker protections.