What Restaurants Do Sushi Chefs Make the Most Money at in Tempe, AZ?

Restaurants Where Sushi Chefs Make the Most Money at in Tempe, AZ: Key Takeaways

• The average hourly wage for Sushi Chefs in Tempe, AZ is approximately $19.41 per hour.
• Sushi Chefs in Tempe can earn additional income through tips and bonuses, which may range from $5 to $15 per hour depending on the restaurant's clientele and ambiance.
• Blue Sushi Sake Grill and Kabuki Japanese Restaurant are among the notable sushi places in Tempe where Sushi Chefs have potential to earn higher wages.

The position of Sushi Chef in Tempe, Arizona, offers a competitive pay scale with variation based on the restaurant's style and location. Tips and bonuses can significantly boost take-home pay in this role.

For insights on how to advance your sushi chef career, see our career journey for sous chefs, which shares tips on moving up in kitchen management roles.

This article provides a detailed breakdown of where Sushi Chefs earn the most in Tempe, complete with salary insights and restaurant highlights.

Top-Paying Restaurants for Sushi Chefs in Tempe

Tempe offers a variety of sushi establishments where skilled Sushi Chefs can earn competitive wages and grow their culinary expertise.

Here are some notable sushi restaurants in Tempe known for quality and compensation:

Blue Sushi Sake Grill

A contemporary sushi restaurant recognized for its diverse menu combining traditional and innovative sushi dishes with a modern, stylish ambiance.

Employers interested in recruiting talented sushi chefs may find value in our guide to hiring a restaurant consultant who can help source and select top culinary talent.

Sushi 101

This popular local eatery offers a broad selection of classic sushi rolls and authentic Japanese dishes cherished by Tempe residents.

RA Sushi Bar Restaurant

Part of a vibrant chain, RA Sushi provides Sushi Chefs with the opportunity to create inventive rolls in a lively, upbeat environment.

Kabuki Japanese Restaurant

Known for its extensive Japanese cuisine menu, Kabuki offers a casual setting where Sushi Chefs can refine their skills and enjoy steady customer demand.

The Impact of Restaurant Type on Sushi Chef Earnings in Tempe

The type of restaurant greatly affects how much Sushi Chefs can earn in Tempe.

Upscale sushi bars and contemporary fusion restaurants typically offer higher hourly wages and better tipping opportunities due to affluent clientele and ambiance.

Conversely, casual and chain restaurants may offer lower base pay but provide more consistent work hours.

• Location: Venues in bustling areas like Tempe Marketplace often yield higher earnings.
• Skill Level and Certifications: Advanced knife skills and food safety certifications can boost pay.
• Tips: In casual settings, tips may add $5-$10 per hour, while upscale places can see Sushi Chefs earning $10-$15 or more per hour in tips.

For prospective sushi chefs, it's helpful to review the sushi chef job description and typical interview questions to prepare for job applications and interviews.

How To Find a High Paying Sushi Chef Job in Tempe

• Craft a Strong Resume and Cover Letter: Highlight sushi preparation skills, certifications, and relevant experience.
• Network in the Local Culinary Scene: Attend food events and join professional groups to connect with hiring managers.
• Obtain Certification: Pursue ServSafe or other culinary certifications to increase your marketability.
• Target Upscale Sushi Restaurants: Apply to renowned places known for competitive pay and potentially higher tips.
• Prepare for Interviews: Practice typical questions and be ready to discuss your sushi techniques and experience.

If you're an employer looking to attract skilled sushi chefs, consider reading our restaurant staff hiring strategies to streamline your recruitment process.

What’s the Outlook for Sushi Chef Jobs in Tempe in 2025 and Beyond?

The demand for Sushi Chefs in Tempe is expected to grow moderately as the city continues to expand its culinary offerings, including Asian cuisine.

As consumer interest in sushi and Japanese food rises, more restaurants are likely to open, creating new job opportunities.

Professional development, versatility in sushi styles, and experience will be key competitive advantages for Sushi Chefs seeking employment in the coming years.

Is a Sushi Chef’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Tempe?

With an average base wage of around $19.41 per hour plus tips, a full-time Sushi Chef in Tempe could earn approximately $40,000 to $50,000 annually.

Living expenses include:

• Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $1,200 per month
• Utilities and internet: $150 per month
• Groceries and dining: $300–$500 per month
• Transportation costs: Variable based on commuting method

Overall, Sushi Chefs in Tempe can maintain a comfortable lifestyle, especially if they secure positions at higher-paying, tip-friendly establishments.

Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Tempe Sushi Chef Jobs

We selected these restaurants based on their reputation for competitive wages, employee benefits, and favorable working environments.

• Location: Emphasis on central Tempe locations with high customer traffic ensures steady work.
• Restaurant Quality: Preference for well-reviewed and popular sushi venues indicates solid business footing.
• Employee Satisfaction: Reports of positive work culture and fair management practices increase job desirability.

These factors combine to present Sushi Chefs with excellent opportunities to advance their careers while earning well.

For a deeper understanding of the profession, check out the restaurant positions descriptions spotlight that outlines roles in culinary teams including sushi chefs and their responsibilities.