Sushi Chef Salary in Nashville, TN
Sushi Chefs in Nashville, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $20.36 per hour, which translates to about $814.40 per week, $3,529.07 per month, and $42,348.80 per year.
The job demand for Sushi Chefs in Nashville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, signaling a positive outlook for culinary professionals specializing in sushi and Japanese cuisine in the region.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Nashville, TN?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Nashville can vary notably based on experience, skill, and establishment type. Below is an overview of earnings for different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.88 | $715.20 | $3,096.80 | $37,209.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.36 | $814.40 | $3,529.07 | $42,348.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.18 | $927.20 | $4,013.87 | $48,150.40 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Nashville Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs typically do earn tips, although amounts vary depending on the workplace. It is common for Sushi Chefs to earn an extra $5 to $15 per hour in tips, especially in upscale or busy restaurants, significantly boosting their overall income.
Sushi Chef Salary in Nashville vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn around $20.36 per hour and approximately $42,348.80 annually, which aligns closely with the average pay in Nashville.
The parity in wage indicates that Nashville offers competitive pay for Sushi Chefs similar to the national market, with some variation depending on local demand and establishment prestige.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Nashville for Sushi Chefs
In the vicinity of Nashville, some areas offer higher salaries for Sushi Chefs:
- Downtown: $22.00 per hour
- Green Hills: $21.50 per hour
Working in these neighborhoods could provide higher earning potential due to the customer base and upscale dining options.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Nashville?
Several key factors influence a Sushi Chef’s salary in Nashville, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: Advanced sushi-making skills, knife techniques, and years of experience increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, luxury hotels, and specialty sushi bars generally offer higher pay than casual dining locations.
- Certifications and Training: Culinary degrees or certifications related to sushi preparation can enhance salary prospects.
- Shift and Hours: Working night shifts, weekends, or holidays may bring higher pay due to demand and tips.
- Reputation and Customer Base: Establishments with high-profile clients or excellent reviews often pay more.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Nashville
Starting a career as a Sushi Chef in Nashville typically involves the following steps:
- Complete Formal Culinary Training: Programs such as the Nashville State Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive skills, including sushi preparation.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Enroll in courses like those at the Art Institute of Tennessee Culinary Arts Program for practical, international cuisine training.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Certification are critical for ensuring food safety compliance.
- Earn Specialty Certifications: The Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) certification validates expert sushi skills and can improve job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Nashville
Some top employers that frequently hire Sushi Chefs in Nashville include:
- Virago
- Kayne Prime
- Morimoto Nashville
- Blue Sushi Sake Grill
- Naked Fish Nashville
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Nashville Work At
Sushi Chefs in Nashville typically find employment in a variety of establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These offer some of the highest salaries due to exclusive menu offerings and affluent clientele.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Sushi Bars: While pay may be lower, these provide more frequent employment opportunities and tips.
- Hotels and Resorts: Large-scale kitchens often pay competitive wages and offer benefits.
- Catering Services and Special Events: Temporary or contract work that can supplement income.
The type of establishment greatly impacts the Sushi Chef’s earnings, with prestige and location being significant determinants.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Nashville for Sushi Chefs
Those interested in similar careers to Sushi Chef might consider roles that involve culinary skills and hospitality management.
This includes Chef, Commis Chef, and Kitchen Manager positions—all of which require related culinary expertise and have varying salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Nashville
Sushi Chefs should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax obligations relevant to working in Nashville, Tennessee.
- For information on state-specific labor laws, visit the official Tennessee government website.
- For broader federal labor regulations and workplace standards, the U.S. Department of Labor website is a valuable resource.