Sushi Chef Salary in Santa Monica, CA
Sushi Chefs in Santa Monica, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $26.00 per hour, which translates to about $1,040.00 per week, $4,506.67 per month, and $54,080.00 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Santa Monica is looking up with a growth rate of about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in this specialty culinary field.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Santa Monica, CA?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Santa Monica can vary based on experience and skill level. Here’s a breakdown of typical earnings at various stages of a Sushi Chef’s career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.43 | $737.20 | $3,187.87 | $38,246.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.10 | $924.00 | $3,993.33 | $47,952.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $47.74 | $1,909.60 | $8,289.33 | $99,299.20 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Santa Monica Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs typically do receive tips especially in higher-end restaurants and sushi bars. Tips can add an estimated an extra $10 per hour in tips on top of their base salary, significantly increasing their overall income.
Sushi Chef Salary in Santa Monica vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of around $18.43 per hour, translating to about $38,334.40 annually.
Compared to the national average, Sushi Chefs in Santa Monica earn notably more, with an average hourly rate of $26.00 and an annual salary of approximately $54,080.00. This reflects Santa Monica’s higher cost of living and demand for skilled culinary professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Monica for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas offer varying salary levels for Sushi Chefs, with some neighborhoods paying significantly higher rates:
- Downtown Santa Monica: $47.74 per hour
- Ocean Avenue: $23.10 per hour
Downtown Santa Monica stands out as the highest-paying area close by, rewarding top-tier Sushi Chefs with premium wages.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Santa Monica?
Several factors play a role in determining how much a Sushi Chef can earn in Santa Monica:
- Experience and Skill Level: More skilled Sushi Chefs with years of practice and mastery of traditional techniques command higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and specialty sushi bars often pay more compared to casual dining or fast-casual spots.
- Reputation and Certifications: Certifications or training from respected culinary institutes can boost credibility and wage potential.
- Work Hours and Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may come with additional pay incentives.
- Location Within Santa Monica: Employment in premium neighborhoods usually translates to better pay.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Santa Monica
Becoming a Sushi Chef in Santa Monica requires dedication and some formal training alongside practical experience. Here’s how you can start:
- Take Sushi Making Classes: Programs like Cozymeal Sushi Making Classes provide hands-on experience in mastering traditional sushi techniques.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required for culinary professionals working in California to ensure safe food handling.
- Gain Experience: Start working in kitchens or under experienced Sushi Chefs to build necessary skills and reputation.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Santa Monica
Several prominent employers in Santa Monica are known for hiring skilled Sushi Chefs, including:
- Cozymeal
- Sushi Roku Santa Monica
- Benihana
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Santa Monica Work At
Sushi Chefs typically find employment at various types of dining establishments:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments often pay higher salaries due to their emphasis on quality and customer experience.
- Casual Sushi Bars: These can offer solid wages and tips but may have less consistent pay compared to upscale venues.
- Japanese and Asian Fusion Restaurants: These places sometimes provide competitive salaries depending on popularity and location.
The salary can vary substantially depending on the prestige and clientele of these establishments.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Monica for Sushi Chefs
For those interested in related hospitality careers, consider exploring these similar roles:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Restaurant Manager positions, providing pathways to different culinary and hospitality career advancements.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Santa Monica
Sushi Chefs should be informed about labor laws and tax regulations relevant to their work location.
- For California’s labor laws and workplace regulations, visit the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- For federal tax information and compliance, consult the Internal Revenue Service.