Restaurants Where Prep Cooks Make the Most Money at in Gilbert, AZ: Key Takeaways
- The average hourly wage for Prep Cooks in Gilbert, AZ is about $18 to $19 per hour.
- Tips for Prep Cooks are generally minimal or nonexistent since they are back-of-house staff.
- North Italia and The Porch are among the highest paying restaurants for Prep Cooks in Gilbert at around $19 per hour.
Prep Cooks in Gilbert, AZ earn a decent hourly wage with top restaurants paying close to $19 per hour. Though tips are not generally part of the compensation, the overall pay remains competitive locally.
This article breaks down which Gilbert restaurants pay Prep Cooks the most, providing a valuable guide for those seeking lucrative kitchen work.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Prep Cooks in Gilbert, AZ
1. North Italia
North Italia is known for its modern Italian cuisine with fresh ingredients and a sophisticated yet approachable atmosphere.
Prep Cooks here benefit from competitive hourly wages around $19, reflecting the restaurant's commitment to quality and staff retention.
Employers looking to build their kitchen teams may find useful insights in our guide to hiring a cook to attract qualified candidates.
2. The Porch
The Porch is a popular spot for southern-style comfort food in a cozy, welcoming environment favored by locals.
Prep Cooks earn approximately $19 per hour, highlighting the restaurant’s reputation for valuing its kitchen team.
3. Snooze
Snooze delivers creative breakfast and brunch fare in a lively setting that attracts a broad customer base.
Pay for Prep Cooks typically hovers around $18 per hour, making it a solid choice for those starting in kitchen roles.
Job seekers can explore kitchen prep roles further through our Prep Cook interview questions to better prepare for interviews.
4. OHSO Brewery and Distillery
OHSO combines craft beers with a casual dining experience, offering a trendy workplace for culinary staff.
The establishment pays Prep Cooks about $17 per hour, reflecting its balance of casual style and quality.
5. Hash Kitchen
Hash Kitchen is famous for its unique brunch dishes and creative cocktail menu in a vibrant atmosphere.
Prep Cooks can expect roughly $17 per hour, consistent with similar casual dining venues in the area.
Those interested in advancing beyond prep roles might consider learning about the Line Cook job description to plan their career path.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Prep Cook Earnings in Gilbert, AZ
Prep Cook salaries in Gilbert vary significantly depending on restaurant style, size, and location.
Upscale and chain restaurants usually offer higher base pay to attract skilled labor, while casual and local diners provide steadier, albeit lower, wages.
Additional factors affecting earnings include certifications such as food safety training and prior culinary experience which can increase hourly rates.
- Upscale Restaurants: Tips are minimal but base pay is higher, typically $18 - $19/hr.
- Casual Dining: Base pay is closer to $16 - $17/hr, with little to no tips.
- Certification and Experience: Holding ServSafe or other certifications may improve pay.
For employers, understanding effective restaurant consultant hiring strategies can optimize staffing and increase kitchen efficiency.
How To Find a High Paying Prep Cook Job in Gilbert, AZ
- Create a strong resume and cover letter tailored to cooking and food prep roles.
- Gain certifications such as ServSafe to boost employability and pay.
- Network in the local food service community by attending events and joining relevant groups.
- Target higher-end restaurants and stay updated on job postings for kitchen roles.
Job seekers and employers can both benefit from resources on how to hire a kitchen manager to ensure quality oversight in the kitchen environment.
What’s the Outlook for Prep Cook Jobs in Gilbert, AZ in 2025 and Beyond?
The demand for Prep Cooks in Gilbert remains steady with slight growth expected as the local food service industry expands.
With continued population growth and new restaurants opening, prospective Prep Cooks have promising long-term job prospects.
According to industry forecasts, roles focused on food preparation will be stable with moderate annual growth through 2025 and beyond.
Is a Prep Cook’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Gilbert, AZ?
Prep Cooks making approximately $18 per hour in Gilbert can earn about $37,000 annually before taxes.
This income can cover basic living expenses, including average rent around $1,200/month, utilities, and groceries, though budgeting is essential.
Those working at top-paying restaurants or working overtime may have additional financial flexibility for savings or discretionary spending.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Gilbert, AZ Prep Cook Jobs
Competitive Pay
We prioritized restaurants offering higher-than-average hourly wages to ensure financial reward is maximized.
Work Environment
Venues known for positive work cultures and respectful treatment of kitchen staff were favored to promote job satisfaction.
Location and Accessibility
Easily accessible restaurants in and around Gilbert, AZ were selected to help candidates find convenient jobs.
This approach ensures you consider opportunities combining solid pay with supportive and manageable work settings.