Restaurants Where Prep Cooks Make the Most Money at in Ann Arbor, MI: Key Takeaways
- The average hourly wage for Prep Cooks in Ann Arbor ranges from $16 to $22 per hour.
- Annual salaries at some establishments like First Watch and Schulte Hospitality Group approximate $40,000 to $41,739 per year.
- Tip earnings for Prep Cooks in this region are typically minimal or included in overall pay due to their back-of-house role.
The role of Prep Cook in Ann Arbor offers competitive wages tailored to different kitchen settings, both casual and institutional.
This article details the highest-paying restaurants and dining services for Prep Cooks, providing insight into pay structures.
For employers interested in improving their hiring process, see our guide on how to hire a cook to attract the best kitchen talent.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Prep Cooks in Ann Arbor, MI
Sava's Restaurant
Sava's Restaurant is renowned locally for its creative American cuisine in a cozy setting, blending contemporary and comfort food styles.
Prep Cooks here can earn between $18 and $21 per hour, reflecting the restaurant's commitment to rewarding skilled kitchen staff.
University of Michigan Dining Services
The University of Michigan Dining Services provides meals across campus with a large, fast-paced operation.
Prep Cooks here earn approximately $16 to $22 per hour, with potential for advancement in this institutional environment.
Learn more about the prep cook role and interview tips to better prepare your candidates and hiring process.
Zingerman's Roadhouse
Zingerman's Roadhouse is a celebrated eatery offering Michigan-inspired dishes with a focus on quality and local ingredients.
Prep Cooks typically earn between $18 and $20 per hour, due to the emphasis on quality prep work and established reputation.
First Watch
First Watch is a national daytime café chain specializing in breakfast and brunch fare, popular for its fresh ingredients.
Annual salaries for Prep Cooks here average around $41,739 per year, showcasing the corporate structure's competitive pay.
Restaurant owners looking to improve staff retention should check out our strategies to reduce restaurant employee turnover.
Schulte Hospitality Group
Schulte Hospitality Group manages various dining venues in Ann Arbor, focusing on consistent quality and guest satisfaction.
Prep Cooks are paid roughly $40,000 per year, highlighting stable income prospects within a broad hospitality company.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Prep Cook Earnings in Ann Arbor, MI
Prep Cook salaries vary based on the type of establishment and the scope of their duties.
High-end restaurants and well-funded hospitality groups tend to offer higher base wages to attract and retain skilled kitchen staff.
Conversely, casual dining or institutional kitchens may rely more on hourly pay with less tipping opportunity for back-of-house roles.
- Upscale venues: Base wage with occasional bonuses; limited tips for Prep Cooks.
- Institutional dining: Steady wage with benefits but minimal tipping.
- Experience and certifications: Completing food safety courses may increase wage prospects.
Offering clear career paths from prep cook to advanced kitchen roles can motivate your team. Learn about building a restaurant career for your employees.
How To Find a High Paying Prep Cook Job in Ann Arbor, MI
Craft a Strong Resume and Cover Letter
Highlight relevant kitchen experience and certifications like ServSafe to improve your chances.
Employers can benefit from tips on creating effective restaurant job descriptions to attract qualified prep cooks.
Leverage Local Networking and Job Boards
Connect with hospitality groups and use online platforms to discover openings.
Acquire Food Safety Certifications and Training
Certifications demonstrate professionalism and can result in higher pay.
Gain Customer Service Skills
Some kitchens value cooks who understand front-of-house interaction for smoother operations.
What’s the Outlook for Prep Cook Jobs in Ann Arbor, MI in 2025 and Beyond?
The demand for Prep Cooks in Ann Arbor is expected to stay steady or mildly grow as the local food and hospitality scene expands.
University expansions and new eateries contribute to job availability, making this a viable position for entry-level workers seeking a foothold in the industry.
Growth opportunities exist for experienced cooks willing to upskill into higher culinary roles.
If you are hiring, understanding restaurant staff hiring best practices can help streamline your recruitment process.
Is a Prep Cook’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Ann Arbor, MI?
Prep Cooks earn roughly between $33,000 and $43,000 annually when accounting for wages from the top restaurants.
Living expenses include:
- Average rent (1-bedroom apartment): approx. $1,200 per month
- Utilities and internet: around $150 monthly
- Groceries and dining: $300-$400 per month
With disciplined budgeting, a Prep Cook's salary in Ann Arbor can support a modest yet comfortable lifestyle.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Ann Arbor, MI Prep Cook Jobs
We selected these restaurants based on fair wages, consistent pay practices, and benefit availability.
The establishments are also known for maintaining stable work environments and offering growth potential to kitchen employees.
Additionally, our choices reflect venues with good reputations in the Ann Arbor hospitality scene and positive employee reviews.
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