Restaurants Where Line Cooks Make the Most Money at in Arlington, VA: Key Takeaways
- The average hourly wage for Line Cooks in Arlington, VA, is approximately $17.72 per hour.
- Line Cooks at CARLYLE earn slightly less at about $15.95 per hour, while other popular restaurants pay the average rate.
- Unlike front-of-house staff, Line Cooks generally do not earn tips, but their steady wages compensate for this.
Line Cooks in Arlington, VA, can expect hourly pay ranging from about $15.95 to $17.72, depending on the restaurant's size and prestige.
If you want to know which restaurants pay Line Cooks the most in Arlington, VA, this article breaks down key salary info and top employers.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Line Cooks in Arlington, VA
Arlington offers a range of restaurants where Line Cooks can earn competitive wages, from casual dining spots to more upscale establishments.
We list five notable restaurants where pay rates are among the highest in the area.
CARLYLE
CARLYLE is a modern American restaurant known for its chic atmosphere and seasonal menu. Line Cooks here earn around $15.95 per hour, slightly below the area average but within a reputable dining location.
The Salt Line
The Salt Line is a seafood-focused eatery acclaimed for its fresh local ingredients and lively setting. Line Cooks here are estimated to earn about $17.72 per hour, matching the Arlington average for Cooks.
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ offers an interactive dining experience featuring tabletop grills and specialty Japanese dishes. Line Cooks at this venue can expect competitive pay near $17.72 per hour, reflecting its casual yet trendy environment.
Legal Sea Foods
Legal Sea Foods is a well-known chain serving fresh seafood in an upscale setting. Line Cooks receive estimated wages of around $17.72 per hour, supporting a solid livelihood in Arlington.
Ted's Montana Grill
Ted's Montana Grill features hearty American fare in a rustic atmosphere. The restaurant compensates Line Cooks with the market rate near $17.72 hourly, providing good stability and growth opportunity.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Line Cook Earnings in Arlington, VA
Earnings for Line Cooks vary depending on the restaurant’s style, size, and location.
Generally, upscale or specialty restaurants tend to offer higher base pay, though casual restaurants can compensate with consistent scheduling and tips if applicable.
Key factors include:
- Restaurant Type: upscale establishments usually have higher wages but more demanding responsibilities.
- Location: restaurants in busy commercial areas or tourist hubs often pay more.
- Certifications and Experience: Line Cooks with food safety certifications and relevant experience may negotiate better pay.
Tips are not typical for Line Cooks but may be part of shared tip pools in some venues, often ranging from $0 to $5 per hour in casual settings.
In upscale Arlington restaurants, Line Cooks might earn additional benefits or bonuses, enhancing overall compensation.
How To Find a High Paying Line Cook Job in Arlington, VA
Craft a Strong Cover Letter
Clearly highlight your culinary experience, skills and any relevant certifications to stand out among other applicants.
For tips on crafting your application, visit our restaurant job description guide to understand employer expectations.
Prepare for Interviews
Practice common culinary and situational questions to demonstrate your knowledge and poise under pressure.
Review common culinary interview questions in our detailed cook interview guide to boost your confidence.
Highlight Relevant Certifications
Certifications like ServSafe or culinary training can improve your credibility and bargaining power.
Learn how to advance your culinary career and become a certified chef by exploring our chef career overview.
Network in the Hospitality Community
Attend local food industry events and join online Arlington hospitality groups to connect with hiring managers and insiders.
Networking effectively is crucial; find strategies to find the best staff and network in the restaurant business.
What’s the Outlook for Line Cook Jobs in Arlington, VA in 2025 and Beyond?
The demand for Line Cooks in Arlington is projected to remain steady with moderate growth due to the city’s thriving dining scene.
As new restaurants open and competition increases, experienced and certified Line Cooks will be well-positioned to secure jobs.
Economic stability and tourism in Arlington support consistent opportunities for culinary workers, including entry-level and specialized positions.
Is a Line Cook’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Arlington, VA?
With an average hourly wage of approximately $17.72, a full-time Line Cook can expect to earn around $36,800 annually, before taxes.
Housing costs in Arlington are relatively high, with average rent for a one-bedroom apartment around $1,800 per month.
Other living expenses such as utilities, groceries, and transportation add to monthly costs, but prudent budgeting can make living financially feasible.
Additional income through side work or working extra shifts can further improve financial comfort for Line Cooks.
Understanding wage and cost of living trends for hospitality professionals can help plan better; see our insights on hospitality wages trends in 2025.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Arlington, VA Line Cook Jobs
Our list centers on restaurants that provide competitive wages and positive work environments. These venues are recognized in Arlington’s culinary community for consistent patronage and staff support.
- Pay Rate: we selected restaurants paying at or above the average hourly wage for Line Cooks in Arlington.
- Location: easily accessible and located in areas with frequent dining traffic.
- Reputation and Stability: establishments with strong customer reviews and stable operations.
We also factored in opportunities for advancement and the presence of training or certification support for kitchen staff.
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