What Restaurants Do Prep Cooks Make the Most Money at in Sioux Falls, SD?

Restaurants Where Prep Cooks Make the Most Money at in Sioux Falls, SD: Key Takeaways

• The average hourly wage for Prep Cooks in Sioux Falls ranges from $16 to $22 per hour.
• Tips for Prep Cooks in Sioux Falls are generally minimal or not applicable as they typically work behind the scenes.
• Sky Dine, Inc. and CRAVE American Kitchen & Sushi Bar offer some of the highest wages for Prep Cooks in the area.

The typical pay range for Prep Cooks in Sioux Falls is competitive for the region, with top restaurants offering up to $22 per hour.

If you're looking for detailed salary information and want to know which restaurants pay the best for Prep Cooks in Sioux Falls, this article has you covered.

We will examine top employers, pay breakdowns, and tips on landing higher-paying jobs in this role.

Top-Paying Restaurants for Prep Cooks in Sioux Falls, SD

Sioux Falls offers a variety of restaurants where Prep Cooks can earn solid wages, from casual venues to upscale dining and hotel kitchens.

Here are some of the top-paying employers in the area:

CRAVE American Kitchen & Sushi Bar

Known for its contemporary American cuisine and sushi selection, CRAVE American Kitchen & Sushi Bar is a popular dining destination offering competitive wages for Prep Cooks.

Sky Dine, Inc.

Sky Dine, Inc. provides a diverse food service experience and pays up to $20 per hour, making it one of the highest-paying spots for Prep Cooks in Sioux Falls.

Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews

This casual burger and brew spot is a local favorite, offering Prep Cooks wages between $16 and $18 per hour in a fun, laid-back atmosphere.

Holiday Inn

The Holiday Inn provides hotel dining services with hourly wages up to $16 for Prep Cooks, suitable for those seeking hospitality experience in a hotel setting.

Those interested in hotel management or hospitality careers may find useful insights in how to hire a hotel manager.

Hy-Vee, Inc.

Hy-Vee, Inc. is a well-known regional grocery chain with in-store dining options where Prep Cooks can earn around $17.94 per hour while gaining valuable food industry experience.

The Impact of Restaurant Type on Prep Cook Earnings in Sioux Falls, SD

Prep Cook salaries vary depending on the type of establishment and its clientele.

Upscale and specialty restaurants often pay more due to higher food quality standards, while casual dining and hotel kitchens may offer slightly lower base pay.

Additional considerations:

• Establishment type: Fine dining typically offers better wages and stability.
• Location: Central and busy areas tend to offer more competitive pay.
• Certifications and experience: Food safety certification and background can increase earnings potential.

Typically, tips are rare or nonexistent for Prep Cooks since they work mostly behind the scenes.

However, Prep Cooks in upscale kitchens may occasionally receive partial tip shares, adding a few extra dollars per hour.

In casual restaurants or hotel kitchens, tips are usually negligible.

For employers curious about improving staff retention and pay strategies, consider reading strategies to reduce restaurant employee turnover.

How To Find a High Paying Prep Cook Job in Sioux Falls, SD

• Develop relevant certifications: Obtain ServSafe or food handler certifications to boost employability.
• Apply to upscale restaurants: Target restaurants known for quality and better pay.
• Gain experience: Volunteer or intern at busy kitchens to build your skills and reputation.
• Network locally: Attend job fairs and connect with restaurant managers in Sioux Falls.
• Craft a strong resume and cover letter: Highlight your kitchen skills, efficiency, and reliability.

For help with preparing your resume, see our chef cover letter examples and templates which are useful for culinary professionals including prep cooks.

What’s the Outlook for Prep Cook Jobs in Sioux Falls, SD in 2025 and Beyond?

The demand for Prep Cooks in Sioux Falls is expected to maintain steady growth as the local hospitality and restaurant sectors expand.

With Sioux Falls' growing population and tourism, kitchen staff jobs like Prep Cook remain in demand.

According to employment data, roles in food preparation are projected to see consistent hiring to support new and existing restaurant operations.

This means opportunities for both entry-level workers and those with some experience are likely to remain strong over the next several years.

Employers looking to fill kitchen positions efficiently might benefit from tips found in how to hire a cook.

Is a Prep Cook’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Sioux Falls, SD?

Based on an average hourly wage around $18, a full-time Prep Cook can expect an annual pay of roughly $37,000 before taxes.

Sioux Falls has a relatively low cost of living, with average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment near $850, utilities costing about $150, and groceries averaging $300-$400 per month.

While a Prep Cook’s salary might be modest, it is generally sufficient for a comfortable living with careful budgeting in Sioux Falls.

For insights on overseeing restaurant operations and making the most of your labor budget, explore restaurant pay and immigration challenges and solutions.

Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Sioux Falls, SD Prep Cook Jobs

Our selections focus on restaurants known for competitive hourly wages and stable work environments.

We prioritize employers recognized for their commitment to staff, good benefits, and positive workplace culture.

Locations were chosen based on Sioux Falls' culinary diversity, ensuring a mix of casual, hotel-based, and upscale venues.

These criteria aim to guide Prep Cooks toward opportunities that maximize earning potential and job satisfaction in Sioux Falls.

For those interested in career advancement, the prep cook interview questions page offers guidance on interview prep to help secure these jobs.