Restaurants Where Line Cooks Make the Most Money at in Collingswood, NJ: Key Takeaways
- The average hourly wage for Line Cooks in Collingswood, NJ ranges from $17.32 to $18.38 at top local restaurants.
- Tips for Line Cooks are generally minimal but can add $2-$5 per hour depending on the establishment's tipping policies.
- Cafe Antonio's II offers the highest estimated pay for Line Cooks in the area at approximately $18.38 per hour.
The hourly wages for Line Cooks in Collingswood, NJ show competitive pay within the local culinary scene, but tips typically add only a modest boost compared to front-of-house roles.
This article breaks down the top-paying restaurants for Line Cooks in Collingswood and highlights how factors like restaurant type influence earnings.
For insights on the best strategies to build your restaurant kitchen career, see our guide to building a restaurant career.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Line Cooks in Collingswood, NJ
Collingswood offers a variety of dining establishments where skilled Line Cooks can find competitive wages and enriching work environments.
Whether it's Italian fare, contemporary American cuisine, or sushi, local restaurants provide diverse opportunities.
Kitchen Consigliere
Kitchen Consigliere is known for its vibrant pizzeria style and creative dishes that blend classic Italian with modern twists.
Line Cooks here enjoy a lively kitchen with steady pay around $17.32 per hour.
Employers can learn how to hire a line cook effectively to secure top talent for restaurants like Kitchen Consigliere.
Cafe Antonio's II
Cafe Antonio's II is celebrated for its authentic Italian menu and inviting atmosphere.
Offering the highest estimated hourly pay for Line Cooks in Collingswood at about $18.38, it's a preferred spot for culinary professionals.
Hearthside
Hearthside specializes in farm-to-table American cuisine with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients.
Estimated pay for Line Cooks is around $18.00 per hour, blending fair wages with quality ingredients.
Zeppoli
Zeppoli offers New American cuisine focused on fresh, local produce and bold flavors in a warm setting.
Line Cooks earn an estimated $18.00 per hour, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to quality dining.
Sagami
Sagami is a notable sushi restaurant blending traditional Japanese dishes with modern presentation styles.
Line Cooks here have an estimated pay of $18.00 per hour, in line with similar establishments in the region.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Line Cook Earnings in Collingswood, NJ
The type of restaurant heavily influences a Line Cook’s earnings, especially regarding base wages and tip opportunities.
Upscale and specialty restaurants tend to pay more, while casual venues may offer lower hourly pay but occasionally more consistent hours.
- Upscale Restaurants: Typically pay higher wages ($17-$20/hr) and may offer small tips or bonuses based on team-based tip pooling.
- Casual Dining and Pizzerias: Offer moderate pay ($15-$18/hr) with limited tips, mostly back-of-house.
- Certifications and Skills: Line Cooks with food safety certifications or specialized culinary skills may command slightly higher pay.
- Location: Collingswood's popular dining areas support competitive wages compared to more rural New Jersey towns.
If you're interested in a broader culinary role, consider exploring the career path to become a chef.
How To Find a High Paying Line Cook Job in Collingswood, NJ
Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter
Highlight relevant kitchen experience, certifications, and your ability to work efficiently under pressure to stand out.
For tips on resume and cover letters tailored to restaurant roles, see our how to write a cover letter guide.
Apply to Restaurants with Positive Reviews and Good Staff Retention
Target establishments known for treating their teams well, as they're more likely to offer competitive wages and perks.
Network with Local Chefs and Industry Professionals
Building relationships can reveal hidden opportunities and help you get referrals for better-paying positions.
Consider Furthering Your Culinary Education
Additional certifications such as ServSafe or culinary school credentials can improve your marketability and earning potential.
Learn about culinary education and career fairs to advance your skills and job prospects.
What’s the Outlook for Line Cook Jobs in Collingswood, NJ in 2025 and Beyond?
The demand for skilled Line Cooks in Collingswood is expected to remain steady with incremental growth as new restaurants open and existing ones expand.
Employment opportunities will continue to arise in casual dining as well as specialized cuisine venues, reflecting Collingswood’s diverse food scene.
Technological advancements and increased focus on food safety may require Line Cooks to adapt and pursue relevant training.
Is a Line Cook’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Collingswood, NJ?
With an average hourly wage around $18 and modest tips, a full-time Line Cook can expect an annual income near $40,000.
Living expenses include:
- Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Collingswood: about $1,300/month
- Utilities and internet averaging $150/month
- Groceries estimated at $300-$400/month
While the salary offers a modest lifestyle, budget management and supplementary income sources can provide additional comfort.
Employers aiming to reduce turnover and improve staff satisfaction can find effective strategies to reduce restaurant employee turnover.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Collingswood, NJ Line Cook Jobs
We selected these restaurants based on their competitive hourly pay rates and reputation within the community.
- Work Environment: Restaurants with positive staff reviews and reasonable working hours
- Location: Establishments located in accessible and vibrant Collingswood neighborhoods
- Benefits: Those offering additional perks or opportunities for advancement
These factors ensure we highlight jobs that not only pay well but also promote career satisfaction and growth potential.