Sushi Chef Salary in St. Louis, MO
Sushi Chefs in St. Louis, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $19.50 per hour, which translates to about $780.00 per week, $3,380.00 per month, and $40,560.00 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in St. Louis is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting increasing popularity of Japanese cuisine and expanding dining options in the region.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in St. Louis, MO?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in St. Louis varies based on experience and expertise. Here is an overview of typical earnings at 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) | $19.50 | $780.00 | $3,380.00 | $40,560.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
Do Sushi Chefs in St. Louis Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs often earn tips in addition to their base salary. On average, Sushi Chefs can earn around $10 per hour in tips, which supplements their overall income significantly, especially in busy restaurants.
Sushi Chef Salary in St. Louis vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average hourly wage of $19.60, or about $40,768 per year.
In comparison, Sushi Chefs in St. Louis earn slightly below the national average at $19.50 per hour and $40,560 annually. The small difference suggests salaries are competitive but may reflect local cost of living variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near St. Louis for Sushi Chefs
Some neighborhoods near St. Louis offer higher pay rates for Sushi Chefs:
- Central West End: $25.00 per hour
- Downtown: $22.00 per hour
These areas tend to host upscale restaurants and vibrant dining scenes that reward skilled Sushi Chefs with higher salaries.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in St. Louis?
Several factors influence the salary range for Sushi Chefs in St. Louis:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Sushi Chefs with refined knife skills and sushi artistry command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at high-end or specialty Japanese restaurants often offers better pay than casual dining.
- Certification and Credentials: Food safety certifications and culinary training can impact salary positively.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Those covering busy shifts or weekends may receive shift differentials.
- Reputation and Customer Base: Sushi Chefs at popular locations with loyal clientele tend to earn more.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in St. Louis
Becoming a Sushi Chef in St. Louis involves developing specific skills and credentials:
- Take Sushi Making Classes: Programs like Cozymeal Sushi Making Classes offer hands-on training in traditional sushi techniques.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Certification is required for safe handling and preparation of food in Missouri.
- Gain Culinary Experience: Working in kitchens or as apprentices helps build essential skills and knowledge.
- Develop Knife and Presentation Skills: Mastery of precise knife work and attractive food presentation is crucial for Sushi Chefs.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in St. Louis
Some prominent employers seeking Sushi Chefs in St. Louis include:
- Midtownsushi
- Sushi and K Fusion
- Ritz-Carlton
- Sado
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in St. Louis Work At
Sushi Chefs typically find employment in various dining settings, including:
- Casual Restaurants: Often provide steady work but moderate pay scales.
- Fast Casual: Growing segment that may offer consistent hours with competitive pay.
- Upscale Dining and Hotels: Tend to offer the highest salaries and opportunities for career growth.
- Specialty Sushi Bars: Focused environments where chefs emphasize artistry and quality, often with better compensation.
Salary differences depend largely on the prestige and clientele of the establishment, with upscale venues generally providing higher compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in St. Louis for Sushi Chefs
If you are interested in similar roles within the hospitality sector, here are a few careers related to Sushi Chef:
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Chef de Cuisine roles, which share culinary expertise and leadership responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in St. Louis
Sushi Chefs should be aware of labor laws and tax obligations relevant to their employment in Missouri.
- For Missouri state labor laws and employment resources, visit the Missouri Department of Labor.
- For federal labor laws and employment information, refer to the U.S. Department of Labor.