Sushi Chef Salary in Savannah, GA
Sushi Chefs in Savannah, GA, in 2025, earn approximately $15.47 per hour, which translates to about $618.80 per week, $2,681.47 per month, and $32,177.60 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in Savannah is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating an increasing interest and expansion in Japanese cuisine and sushi dining experiences in the area.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in Savannah, GA?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in Savannah varies with experience and skill level. Below is a detailed breakdown of typical earnings across entry, mid, and top levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.28 | $531.20 | $2,296.53 | $27,558.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.47 | $618.80 | $2,681.47 | $32,177.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.75 | $750.00 | $3,250.00 | $39,000.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in Savannah Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs in Savannah often earn tips on top of their base salary, depending on the restaurant's tipping policy. Skilled Sushi Chefs can receive an extra $10 to $20 per day in tips, sometimes even more in upscale establishments where chefs interact directly with customers.
Sushi Chef Salary in Savannah vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of about $17.23 per hour, translating to around $35,838.40 annually.
Compared to this, Sushi Chefs in Savannah earn slightly less, averaging $15.47 per hour and $32,177.60 annually. This difference may be influenced by local market conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Savannah for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas with higher pay for Sushi Chefs include:
- Historic District: $18.75 per hour
- Midtown: $17.50 per hour
Choosing to work in these neighborhoods can offer Sushi Chefs a higher hourly wage compared to the general Savannah area.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in Savannah?
Several factors influence the salary of a Sushi Chef in Savannah:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced chefs, particularly those skilled in traditional sushi techniques and knife work, command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and sushi bars tend to pay more than casual dining venues.
- Educational Background: Formal culinary education or sushi-specific training can enhance earning potential.
- Location: Chefs working in higher-paying districts such as the Historic District often enjoy better wages.
- Customer Interaction and Tips: Where tips are prevalent, total compensation can increase significantly.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in Savannah
Starting a career as a Sushi Chef in Savannah generally requires a combination of education, training, and experience:
- Formal Culinary Education: Programs such as the Savannah Technical College Culinary Arts Program provide a broad culinary foundation, including international cuisine and kitchen management.
- Specialized Training: The Culinary Institute of Savannah offers specialized courses focusing on sushi preparation techniques, knife skills, and food safety tailored for aspiring Sushi Chefs.
- Food Safety Certification: Earning a ServSafe Certification is essential for handling food safely in professional kitchens.
- Professional Certifications: Consider gaining certification from the American Culinary Federation (ACF) to validate your skills and improve job prospects.
- Apprenticeships and Experience: Practical experience is vital; working under experienced sushi chefs helps refine skills.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in Savannah
Some of the top establishments in Savannah looking for Sushi Chefs include:
- Sakura Japanese Restaurant
- Sushi Hana
- Ta Ca Sushi & Japanese Fusion
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in Savannah Work At
Sushi Chefs typically find employment at a variety of venues:
- Casual Sushi Bars: These offer regular work but may have lower pay compared to higher-end venues.
- Fine Dining Japanese Restaurants: Usually provide better salaries and opportunities for tips.
- Hotel and Resort Restaurants: Often offer stable employment with benefits, sometimes with competitive wages.
- Fast Casual Asian Fusion Places: May pay less but can offer flexible schedules and valuable experience.
The type of establishment can greatly affect both the base salary and potential tip income.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Savannah for Sushi Chefs
If you're interested in hospitality roles related to being a Sushi Chef, consider these similar careers:
These include Commis Chef, Chef, and Line Cook, all roles related to the culinary field with varying responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in Savannah
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements is crucial for Sushi Chefs working in Savannah:
- For federal labor laws and wage standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.
- For state-specific employment regulations and workforce resources, see the Georgia Department of Labor.
- Information on local business permits, regulations, and community resources can be found at the City of Savannah official website.