Sushi Chef Salary in Memphis, TN
Sushi Chefs in Memphis, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $17.22 per hour, which translates to about $688.80 per week, $2,984.80 per month, and $35,817.60 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Memphis is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities and career growth in this culinary specialty.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Memphis, TN?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Memphis varies depending on experience, skill level, and employer, but the following gives an overview of what you can expect at different stages of your career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.22 | $688.80 | $2,974.40 | $35,817.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Memphis Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs often earn tips in addition to their base salary. While the amount can vary, many Sushi Chefs in Memphis might earn an extra $5 to $15 per hour in tips, depending on the dining establishment and customer generosity. This can significantly increase their overall earnings, especially in higher-end restaurants.
Sushi Chef Salary in Memphis vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of around $20.36 per hour, translating to about $42,348.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Sushi Chefs in Memphis earn slightly less, at about $17.22 per hour and $35,817.60 annually. This difference can be influenced by cost of living, restaurant volume, and local market competition.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Memphis for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas offer varied pay rates for Sushi Chefs:
- Downtown Memphis: $18.00 per hour
- East Memphis: $17.50 per hour
Sushi Chefs working downtown in more upscale restaurants may earn higher wages than those in surrounding neighborhoods.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Memphis?
Several factors impact how much a Sushi Chef can earn in Memphis:
- Experience and Expertise: More experienced Sushi Chefs with skills in creating specialty rolls or running sushi stations tend to earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining, upscale Japanese restaurants typically offer higher salaries than casual or fast-casual spots.
- Certification and Training: Completion of certified sushi-making courses or culinary training can boost salary potential.
- Reputation and Customer Base: Restaurants with higher patronage and better reputations often pay more to attract skilled chefs.
- Location: Working in busier districts or neighborhoods with higher living costs usually correlates with higher pay.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Memphis
Starting a career as a Sushi Chef in Memphis involves several key steps and relevant certifications:
- Participate in Sushi-Making Classes: Enroll in hands-on classes like those offered by Cozymeal Sushi Making Classes where you learn seafood selection, rolling techniques, and presentation skills under expert guidance.
- Obtain Food Handler Certification: This certification ensures you understand proper food safety and hygiene, which is often a requirement for working in kitchens.
- Gain Kitchen Experience: Work as a kitchen assistant or line cook to build practical skills before specializing.
- Develop Knife Skills and Seafood Knowledge: Mastery of fish filleting, slicing, and knowledge of seafood freshness are crucial for a successful Sushi Chef career.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Memphis
Some prominent employers known for hiring experienced Sushi Chefs in Memphis include:
- Tsunami Sushi
- Sushi On the Square
- Ichiban Steakhouse
- Oshi Sushi
- Kabuki Japanese Restaurant
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Memphis Work At
Sushi Chefs in Memphis find employment in a variety of establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Often provide the highest salaries and rigorous standards for sushi preparation.
- Casual Japanese Restaurants: Moderate wages with steady demand, focusing on volume and affordability.
- Buffet and Fast Casual Sushi Outlets: Typically lower pay but with flexible hours and entry opportunities.
- Hotel and Resort Kitchens: High-end hotels may employ Sushi Chefs for their sushi bars or restaurants, often with competitive pay packages.
The type of establishment affects salary, with upscale venues typically offering higher pay and more opportunities for tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Memphis for Sushi Chefs
If you're interested in careers similar to Sushi Chef, consider exploring these related roles that share culinary and hospitality skills:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions that may offer different salary ranges and career advancement opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Memphis
Sushi Chefs should keep informed about labor regulations and tax requirements to ensure compliance and protect their rights:
- State-specific laws can be found on the Official website of the State of Tennessee, which provides detailed information on labor laws and workplace standards.
- Federal labor laws and workplace rights are available at the U.S. Department of Labor, offering useful guidance on wages, hours, and safety.