Restaurants Where Pastry Chefs Make the Most Money at in Bloomington, IN: Key Takeaways
- The average pay for Pastry Chefs in Bloomington is around $33 per hour at top-paying restaurants.
- More casual bakeries like Soma Coffeehouse & Bakery pay substantially lower wages, around $13.50 per hour.
- Pastry Chefs typically don’t earn tips, but some bakeries may include bonuses or profit sharing.
Pastry Chefs in Bloomington, Indiana, can earn competitive wages depending on the restaurant’s prestige and size.
This article breaks down where Pastry Chefs earn the most in Bloomington and explores how restaurant type affects earnings.
For those looking to refine their hiring strategy, our guide to hiring a baker offers practical advice on selecting top talent in pastry and baking roles.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Pastry Chefs in Bloomington, IN
1. Upland Brewing Company
Upland Brewing Company is a renowned local brewery offering a variety of craft beers and a growing food menu where pastry chefs contribute to innovative dessert options.
Restaurants like this often require chefs with a diverse skill set, and our article on essential sous chef skills provides insight relevant for culinary professionals eyeing growth opportunities in similar establishments.
2. The Village Deli
A staple in Bloomington’s community, The Village Deli blends classic deli fare with homemade baked goods, providing pastry chefs the chance to work in a beloved neighborhood spot.
3. The Baked Bear Bloomington
This creative dessert place specializes in customizable ice cream sandwiches and baked goods, making it a favorite among locals and offering interesting pastry roles.
If you are interested in career progression and job details for pastry roles, visit the pastry chef job description page to learn about the responsibilities and qualifications.
4. Soma Coffeehouse & Bakery
Soma Coffeehouse & Bakery is well known for its cozy atmosphere and fresh pastries, where pastry chefs often earn entry-level wages while building their skills.
5. Baked! of Bloomington
Baked! of Bloomington is a popular bakery known for its artistic cakes and pastries offering pastry chefs a creative and rewarding workplace.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Pastry Chef Earnings
The type of restaurant greatly influences a Pastry Chef’s salary and potential bonuses.
Upscale bakeries and large brewpubs, like Upland Brewing Company and Baked! of Bloomington, typically pay higher hourly wages, reflecting the complexity and quality standards expected.
More casual bakeries and coffeehouses, such as Soma Coffeehouse & Bakery, generally offer lower wages but may provide valuable experience for those starting out.
- Location: Central and popular areas of Bloomington command higher wages due to higher customer demand.
- Experience and Skills: Specialized techniques, like cake decoration and chocolate work, can increase earning potential.
- Certifications: Pastry Chefs with food safety and baking certifications tend to secure better-paying roles.
Employers wanting to gain an edge on retention should see our tips on retaining a chef which include useful strategies relevant also for pastry chefs.
How To Find a High Paying Pastry Chef Job in Bloomington, IN
Here are some practical steps to increase your chances of landing a well-paid Pastry Chef position.
Craft a Standout Resume and Cover Letter
Highlight your baking skills, certifications, and relevant experience tailored to the bakery or restaurant you are applying to.
Check out our chef cover letter examples and templates for inspiration on creating a compelling application.
Network and Connect with Local Establishments
Attend local food events and visit bakeries to make personal connections that could lead to job opportunities.
Continue Building Your Pastry Skills
Take advanced baking courses and stay updated on pastry trends to enhance your professional profile.
Practice for Interviews
Prepare to discuss your favorite baking techniques and how you work under pressure during busy service hours.
For detailed interview preparation, the pastry chef interview questions page can help candidates get ready to impress potential employers.
What’s the Outlook for Pastry Chef Jobs in Bloomington, IN in 2025 and Beyond?
The demand for Pastry Chefs in Bloomington is expected to grow moderately through 2025 due to the city’s expanding food and hospitality scene.
Local bakeries and craft breweries continue to open or expand, creating new opportunities, especially for skilled and certified chefs.
Pastry Chefs with versatility and a passion for innovative desserts will be best positioned to benefit from these trends.
Is a Pastry Chef’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Bloomington, IN?
With an average pay of approximately $33 per hour, Pastry Chefs working full time can expect an annual salary near $68,000, excluding taxes and overtime.
Compared to Bloomington’s relatively affordable cost of living, this wage allows for a comfortable lifestyle.
- Average rent: around $850 per month for a one-bedroom apartment
- Utilities and internet: about $150 monthly
- Groceries and dining: $300–$400 per month
Pastry Chefs earning near the average wage are generally able to cover living expenses and enjoy savings, especially with steady work in high-paying establishments.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Bloomington, IN Pastry Chef Jobs
We selected these restaurants and bakeries based on factors such as competitive pay, consistent job availability, and positive employee reviews regarding work environment and growth.
- Reputation: Established institutions with strong customer base and positive workplace culture.
- Compensation: Wages at or above the local Pastry Chef average.
- Location: Accessible venues within Bloomington that attract regular clientele.
Choosing opportunities meeting these criteria helps Pastry Chefs maximize earnings and advance their careers.
Employers looking for guidance on hiring top culinary talent can benefit from this guide on hiring top chefs for your kitchen.
.png)
.png)
.jpg)