Sushi Chef Salary in St. Petersburg, FL
Sushi Chefs in St. Petersburg, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $19.85 per hour, which translates to about $794.00 per week, $3,440.67 per month, and $41,288.00 per year.
The demand for Sushi Chefs in St. Petersburg is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook driven by increasing popularity of Japanese cuisine in the area.
How Much Does a Sushi Chef Make in St. Petersburg, FL?
The salary of a Sushi Chef in St. Petersburg can vary depending on experience and employer. Below is a breakdown of hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly pay across different experience levels based on current data.
| 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) | $19.85 | $794.00 | $3,435.17 | $41,288.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $27.73 | $1,109.20 | $4,799.73 | $57,718.40 |
Do Sushi Chefs in St. Petersburg Earn Tips?
Sushi Chefs often earn tips in many dining establishments, especially those with customer interaction or sushi bars. Tips can add an extra $5 to $10 per hour depending on the venue and customer generosity, supplementing their base salary significantly.
Sushi Chef Salary in St. Petersburg vs. National Average
Nationally, Sushi Chefs earn an average of around $19.90 per hour and about $41,392 per year.
Compared to these figures, Sushi Chefs in St. Petersburg earn slightly below the national average hourly rate at $19.85, and annual pay is roughly comparable at $41,288.
This difference may reflect local market conditions and cost of living variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near St. Petersburg for Sushi Chefs
Nearby areas offering higher pay for Sushi Chefs include:
- Downtown St. Petersburg: $20.50 per hour
- Old Northeast: $21.00 per hour
Sushi Chefs working in these neighborhoods may find slightly elevated wages due to local demand and upscale dining options.
What Influences a Sushi Chef’s Salary in St. Petersburg?
Several key factors affect the salary of a Sushi Chef in St. Petersburg:
- Experience and Skill Level: Advanced knife skills, fish filleting, and presentation expertise can drive higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end or specialty Japanese restaurants typically offer better compensation than casual eateries.
- Certifications and Training: Formal culinary education or sushi-specific certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Working late or weekend shifts might include pay differentials or higher tipping opportunities.
- Reputation and Clientele: Sushi Chefs known for quality and artistry may command premium wages.
How To Become a Sushi Chef in St. Petersburg
Becoming a Sushi Chef involves acquiring both skill and education. Consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary Training: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Pinellas Technical College offer comprehensive culinary and sushi preparation training.
- Specialize in Sushi Preparation: Attending focused courses like those at the Sushi Chef Institute can sharpen authentic skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required by employers for compliance and safety standards.
- Earn Professional Credentials: Certifications like Certified Sushi Chef (CSC) demonstrate recognized expertise in sushi making.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start in entry-level kitchen roles and apprentice under experienced Sushi Chefs to build proficiency.
Top Employers Hiring Sushi Chefs in St. Petersburg
Some of the top establishments seeking skilled Sushi Chefs in St. Petersburg include:
- Ai Mei Thai
- Rollbotto Sushi
- Courtside Grille
Establishments That Sushi Chefs in St. Petersburg Work At
Sushi Chefs commonly find work in various types of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer moderate pay but may provide steady hours and tips.
- Fast Casual and Sushi Bars: Often tip-based and can offer opportunities for higher income through customer interaction.
- High-End Japanese Restaurants: Typically pay the highest wages due to quality expectations and specialized skills.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer stable salaries and benefits but vary by location.
The type of venue impacts both salary and tip opportunities, with upscale locations usually providing the best total compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in St. Petersburg for Sushi Chefs
Those interested in related hospitality roles might also consider similar careers that share skills and work environment aspects.
These include Head Chef, Chef, and Chef de Partie positions, which require culinary expertise and offer varied salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Sushi Chefs in St. Petersburg
Sushi Chefs should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax obligations to protect their rights and manage their finances properly.
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive guidance.
- For state-specific laws applicable to Florida, consult Florida's official website.