Sushi Chef Salary in Palm Coast, FL
Sushi Chefs in Palm Coast, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $19.08 per hour, which translates to about $763.20 per week, $3,307.20 per month, and $39,686.40 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Palm Coast is growing steadily at about 5% per year, showing an encouraging job outlook in the area for culinary professionals specializing in Japanese cuisine.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Palm Coast, FL?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Palm Coast varies depending on experience and venue, but here is an overview across different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.08 | $763.20 | $3,307.20 | $39,686.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.64 | $985.60 | $4,243.73 | $50,995.20 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Palm Coast Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs generally earn some tips especially in higher-end or specialty restaurants. Tips can amount to approximately $5 to $15 per hour extra depending on the establishment and customer volume, supplementing their base salary.
Sushi Chef Salary in Palm Coast vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs make around $19.08 per hour and approximately $39,686.40 annually.
Salaries in Palm Coast align closely with the national average, which reflects the competitive and steady market for Sushi Chefs both locally and across the United States.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Palm Coast for Sushi Chefs
Nearby cities offer higher pay rates for Sushi Chefs, including:
- Palm Beach Gardens: $31.67 per hour
- Palm Beach: $22.59 per hour
These locations generally feature upscale dining scenes, potentially offering better compensation for skilled Sushi Chefs.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Palm Coast?
Several important factors impact the salary of a Sushi Chef in Palm Coast:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Sushi Chefs with refined knife skills and knowledge of authentic techniques command higher salaries.
- Certification and Education: Culinary training and certifications such as ServSafe or Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) can boost earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Working in high-end Japanese restaurants or luxury resorts typically offers better pay than casual dining.
- Location and Demand: Areas with more affluent clientele or thriving tourism industries tend to pay more.
- Additional Skills: Ability to prepare diverse Japanese dishes and manage kitchen duties can increase compensation.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Palm Coast
Becoming a Sushi Chef involves developing culinary skills, gaining experience, and often obtaining certifications:
- Complete Culinary Arts Programs: Consider local programs like the Daytona State College Culinary Arts Program or First Coast Technical College Culinary Arts Program to build foundational skills in cooking techniques and kitchen management.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Earning the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is essential to learn proper food safety practices important for handling raw fish.
- Earn Specialized Certification: The Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) credential offered by the American Culinary Federation demonstrates proficiency in sushi preparation and Japanese cuisine.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in sushi bars or Japanese restaurants as an apprentice or junior chef helps hone skills.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Palm Coast
Some notable employers in the Palm Coast area include:
- The Breakers
- LoLa Hospitality
- Frenchman's Creek Beach & Country Club
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Palm Coast Work At
Sushi Chefs typically find employment in various establishment types such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These usually offer the highest salaries due to the demand for exceptional quality and presentation.
- Casual and Fast Casual Sushi Bars: Often pay moderate salaries but may provide steadier shifts.
- Hotels and Resorts: Upscale resorts and hotels typically pay more and may include benefits.
- Catering Companies: Jobs preparing sushi for events can also be an option and vary in pay.
The type of establishment strongly influences earnings, with fine dining and luxury venues providing greater salary potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Palm Coast for Sushi Chefs
If you are interested in roles related to Sushi Chef, consider these similar careers which share culinary and management skills:
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Palm Coast
Sushi Chefs should familiarize themselves with federal, state, and local labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and manage their rights effectively.
- Learn about federal labor laws through the Department of Labor website.
- Understand Florida-specific regulations and resources by visiting the State of Florida official site.
- For local information relevant to Palm Coast, consult the City of Palm Coast’s website.