Restaurants Where Prep Cooks Make the Most Money at in Oak Park, IL: Key Takeaways
- The average wage for Prep Cooks in Oak Park is approximately $17.89 per hour, with tips being less common compared to front-of-house positions.
- Nearby Chicago's pay rate is slightly higher, averaging $18.76 per hour, which may influence Oak Park's compensation.
- Tips for Prep Cooks are generally minimal, but working in upscale kitchens or with specific skills may increase total earnings.
Prep Cooks in Oak Park, IL, can expect competitive wages near $18 per hour, influenced by proximity to Chicago’s robust food scene.
This article details which local restaurants offer the best pay and breaks down earnings for this essential kitchen role.
To better understand the role, see our detailed prep cook interview questions to help prepare for job interviews in this field.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Prep Cooks in Oak Park, IL
1. Hemmingway's Bistro
Hemmingway's Bistro is a French-inspired establishment renowned for its classic dishes prepared with finesse in an elegant setting.
2. Maya Del Sol
A Latin American restaurant with a vibrant atmosphere, Maya Del Sol offers diverse menu options that celebrate regional flavors.
If you're interested in working at higher-end establishments or want insights into chef retention, check out our guide on retaining a chef.
3. The Little Gem Cafe
This charming café specializes in European-inspired cuisine focused on fresh, seasonal ingredients and a welcoming ambiance.
4. Poor Phil's Bar & Grill
Known for its casual vibe, Poor Phil's is popular for seafood, burgers, and a wide selection of beers, providing a relaxed work environment.
For those aiming to progress beyond prep cook roles, exploring the line cook interview questions can provide valuable insight.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Prep Cook Earnings in Oak Park, IL
The type and prestige of a restaurant significantly affect Prep Cook wages and earning opportunities.
Upscale, fine dining establishments often offer higher base wages and potential bonus opportunities, reflecting their more complex kitchen operations.
- Casual restaurants and bars usually have lower base pay but higher staff turnover.
- Upscale restaurants may require specialized skills or certifications, boosting compensation.
- Location plays a role; places closer to downtown Chicago tend to offer more competitive salaries.
Tips for Prep Cooks may be limited but can vary from $0 to a few dollars per hour depending on the restaurant’s tipping policies.
Understanding the various restaurant position descriptions can clarify how prep cooks fit into the broader kitchen hierarchy.
How To Find a High Paying Prep Cook Job in Oak Park, IL
Create a Strong Resume and Cover Letter
Highlight relevant kitchen experience, food safety certifications, and any culinary training to make a strong impression on employers.
Learn how to write an effective cover letter for kitchen jobs to boost your application success.
Network with Local Restaurants and Chefs
Personal connections within Oak Park’s restaurant community can open doors to unadvertised positions.
Seek Certifications and Advanced Training
Certifications such as ServSafe and specialized culinary courses enhance employability and salary potential.
Explore certified courses and training through resources like our free online culinary and bartending courses.
Prepare for Interviews by Practicing Common Questions
Be ready to discuss your kitchen skills, ability to work under pressure, and teamwork experience.
Prep Cook candidates will benefit from reviewing cook interview questions to prepare comprehensively.
What’s the Outlook for Prep Cook Jobs in Oak Park, IL in 2025 and Beyond?
Employment for Prep Cooks is expected to grow steadily near Oak Park, benefiting from ongoing demand for food service workers in the Chicago metro area.
Growth of casual and specialty dining establishments supports new job opportunities for Prep Cooks, especially those with updated certifications and experience.
The hospitality industry is adapting to post-pandemic trends that emphasize quality and safety, increasing the need for skilled kitchen staff.
For insight into industry-wide trends, see our spotlight on hospitality job trends in 2025.
Is a Prep Cook’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Oak Park, IL?
With an average hourly wage around $17.89, a full-time Prep Cook can expect to earn approximately $37,000 annually.
Cost of living considerations in Oak Park include:
- Average one-bedroom rent: $1,200–$1,500 per month
- Utilities and internet: Around $150 per month
- Groceries and dining: Estimated monthly cost of $300–$500
While savings might be modest, many Prep Cooks supplement income with overtime or moving into higher paying kitchen roles to increase their earning potential.
Kitchen professionals looking to advance might want to research roles like how to become a sous chef for career progression.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Oak Park, IL Prep Cook Jobs
We selected these restaurants based on their reputation for offering competitive wages and consistent employment opportunities in Oak Park.
- Location: Central locations with accessibility and steady customer bases.
- Restaurant Type: Varied cuisine types reflecting diversity in job roles and potential for skill building.
- Work Environment: Emphasis on positive team atmospheres and potential for growth.
These factors combine to highlight where Prep Cooks can maximize both earnings and career development in Oak Park, IL.
Employers can find tips on how to hire a cook effectively to build strong kitchen teams.
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