Kitchen Manager Salaries

A Kitchen Manager plays a crucial role in any restaurant or food service business. They not only oversee the kitchen staff but also manage inventory, ensure food quality, and maintain hygiene standards. Because of their important responsibilities, Kitchen Managers earn a competitive salary.

The average yearly salary for a Kitchen Manager is around $46,972. However, salaries can vary based on experience and location. For instance, starting salaries can be as low as $28,500, while more experienced Kitchen Managers can earn up to $87,500. Many positions fall within a range, with common salaries around $33,864 to $66,045. This shows a clear opportunity for growth in this profession.

1. Seattle, WA
   Average Salary: $92,791
   In Seattle, managing a kitchen means working in a vibrant food scene that values fresh, local ingredients. With companies like Tom Douglas Restaurants and Canlis, opportunities abound to create unique culinary experiences.
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2. Modesto, CA
   Average Salary: $80,229
   Modesto offers a tight-knit community where leading a kitchen allows you to showcase local produce and flavors. You'll find opportunities in family-owned restaurants and regional chains, making a delicious impact on your community.
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3. Portland, OR
   Average Salary: $79,430
   Portland's rich food culture provides exciting opportunities for kitchen leadership. With a focus on farm-to-table dining, you can work with well-known establishments like Le Pigeon and Pok Pok to craft innovative dishes.
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4. Louisville, KY
   Average Salary: $64,034
   In Louisville, overseeing a kitchen means embracing its dynamic culinary heritage, from Southern comfort foods to innovative dishes. The city is home to renowned spots like Jack Fry's and Proof on Main, offering a platform to elevate local cuisine.
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5. Boston, MA
   Average Salary: $62,272
   Boston boasts a thriving culinary landscape, where a kitchen leader can develop their skills in prestigious restaurants like Legal Sea Foods and No. 9 Park. The city's blend of tradition and innovation makes it an exciting place to work.
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6. Los Angeles, CA
   Average Salary: $59,496
   Los Angeles thrives on diversity, and managing a kitchen here means blending global flavors. With restaurants like Bestia and Guelaguetza, you can explore various cuisines while leading a passionate team.
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7. San Jose, CA
   Average Salary: $58,625
   San Jose’s diverse community encourages creativity in the kitchen. Leading a kitchen in this tech hub means collaborating with innovative chefs and contributing to growing restaurants such as The Mountain Winery.
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8. Denver, CO
   Average Salary: $57,123
   Denver is known for its artisanal food movement, where a kitchen leader can enjoy the thrill of creating bold flavors. Opportunities with popular places like Root Down and Denver Beer Co. allow you to embrace local ingredients.
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9. Raleigh, NC
   Average Salary: $56,396
   In Raleigh, the food scene is expanding rapidly, and managing a kitchen means being part of a community that values fresh ingredients. You can find exciting roles in restaurants like Poole's Diner and Brewery Bhavana.
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10. Columbia, SC
    Average Salary: $56,263
    Columbia's culinary offerings reflect Southern charm, making it a great place for kitchen leadership. With restaurants like Motor Supply Co. Bistro, you can create dishes that celebrate the rich flavors of the South.
    Find Kitchen Manager jobs in Columbia, SC
    

1. Din Tai Fung
   Average Salary: $126,935
   Din Tai Fung offers competitive salaries for Kitchen Managers. They focus on authentic Taiwanese cuisine and have locations in major cities across the U.S., including Los Angeles and Seattle. Kitchen Managers at Din Tai Fung ensure quality food preparation and maintain high service standards.
   




2. Uncle Julio's
   Average Salary: $78,095
   Uncle Julio's values skilled Kitchen Managers who oversee kitchen operations and uphold food quality. With restaurants primarily located in Texas and the surrounding areas, Kitchen Managers work in a vibrant atmosphere serving Mexican food and creating memorable dining experiences.
   




3. Hacienda Colorado
   Average Salary: $77,500
   Hacienda Colorado is known for its lively atmosphere and authentic Southwestern cuisine. Kitchen Managers play a vital role in managing kitchen staff and ensuring food quality. The company operates in Colorado, providing a unique workplace for culinary leaders.
   




4. CentraArchy Restaurants
   Average Salary: $75,000
   CentraArchy Restaurants offers various dining concepts across the U.S. Kitchen Managers lead teams and maintain high standards of food quality and safety. This company provides a strong career path for culinary professionals seeking growth in the restaurant industry.
   




5. Tender Greens
   Average Salary: $73,340
   Tender Greens focuses on fresh, sustainable ingredients and offers Kitchen Managers a meaningful role in the kitchen. With locations on the West Coast and beyond, Kitchen Managers enjoy a collaborative work environment while preparing delicious, farm-to-table meals.
   




6. Goodwin Recruiting
   Average Salary: $70,843
   Goodwin Recruiting specializes in connecting top talent with leading restaurants. Kitchen Managers seeking new opportunities often find suitable roles through this recruiting firm. They work with various culinary establishments across the U.S. to match their talents with the right companies.
   




7. BJ'S Restaurant & Brewhouse
   Average Salary: $68,184
   BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse offers a casual dining experience with an emphasis on quality. Kitchen Managers at BJ's oversee kitchen operations in a fast-paced environment, maintaining consistency across its multiple locations nationwide.
   




8. Snooze an AM Eatery
   Average Salary: $68,100
   Snooze an AM Eatery delivers unique breakfast and brunch experiences. Kitchen Managers manage food prep and staff to create an inviting atmosphere. The company operates in multiple states, making it a fun place for culinary professionals to thrive.
   




9. Walk-Ons Sports Bistreaux
   Average Salary: $66,814
   Walk-Ons Sports Bistreaux provides a restaurant experience centered around sports. Kitchen Managers manage kitchen operations, ensuring high food quality and quick service. Locations primarily span the Southern U.S., attracting those who enjoy a lively work environment.
   




10. Puttshack
    Average Salary: $66,198
    Puttshack combines mini-golf with dining. Kitchen Managers lead the kitchen team in preparing fun, shareable dishes that enhance the entertainment experience. The company operates in several major cities, making it a distinctive place for culinary professionals.
    

As a Kitchen Manager, you can increase your earnings through various strategies. Focusing on key areas will help you achieve financial growth in your career. Here are five effective factors to consider:

• Enhance Your Skills: Continuously improve your cooking and management skills. Attend workshops or courses to learn new techniques and trends. This knowledge makes you more valuable to your employer.
• Seek Additional Responsibilities: Volunteer for extra duties, such as inventory management or staff training. Taking on more responsibilities can lead to promotions and raises.
• Network with Industry Professionals: Build connections with other kitchen managers and chefs. Attend industry events and join professional organizations to meet people who can open doors to better-paying opportunities.
• Focus on Customer Satisfaction: Happy customers boost business. Learn how to improve service and product quality. When the kitchen excels, it can lead to greater profits and, potentially, bonuses or pay increases.
• Consider Location: Work in areas with higher demand or cost-of-living adjustments. Cities often pay more than rural areas. Moving to a new location may offer better salary options.