Sous Chef Salaries

The role of a Sous Chef can be both rewarding and lucrative. On average, Sous Chefs earn about $59,158 each year. Salaries in this profession can vary widely based on experience, location, and the type of establishment. For example, if you are just starting in this field, you might earn around $30,600. As you gain more experience, your salary can increase significantly.

Many Sous Chefs with a few years of experience see salaries around $37,364 to $64,418. In high-end restaurants or busy urban areas, salaries may reach as high as $105,000. These factors show that dedicated and skilled Sous Chefs can achieve impressive earnings in their careers.

1. San Francisco, CA
   Average Salary: $76,268
   Working in San Francisco offers many opportunities for culinary professionals. The city is home to renowned restaurants like Tartine Bakery and Saison, where creativity in the kitchen thrives.
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2. Boston, MA
   Average Salary: $72,331
   Boston boasts a rich food culture with a variety of seafood and international cuisines. You can find exciting roles in established eateries like Legal Sea Foods and Flour Bakery, perfect for enhancing your culinary skills.
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3. San Jose, CA
   Average Salary: $71,881
   San Jose combines diverse culinary influences with its vibrant tech scene. Many upscale dining establishments, such as The Sea by Alexander's Steakhouse, welcome talented kitchen professionals seeking growth.
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4. Los Angeles, CA
   Average Salary: $71,312
   Los Angeles is a hot spot for innovative dining experiences. With restaurants like Bestia and n/naka leading the way, a career in the kitchen here promises endless opportunities for creativity and skill development.
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5. Seattle, WA
   Average Salary: $69,243
   Seattle’s culinary scene shines with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Join the teams at famous spots like Canlis or The Walrus and the Carpenter to elevate your culinary journey.
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6. Washington, DC
   Average Salary: $67,706
   The capital city offers a diverse food landscape, blending traditional and modern flavors. Work in notable places like Komi or Rose's Luxury, enhancing your skill in a fast-paced environment.
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7. Chicago, IL
   Average Salary: $65,991
   Chicago prides itself on strong culinary traditions and a thriving restaurant scene. Join the kitchen teams at Eli's Cheesecake and Alinea to take your culinary career to exciting heights.
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8. Santa Rosa, CA
   Average Salary: $65,033
   Santa Rosa’s close proximity to wine country enriches its culinary offerings. Local gems like John Ash & Co. provide a fantastic atmosphere for aspiring chefs seeking to learn and grow.
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9. Worcester, MA
   Average Salary: $64,979
   Worcester's growing food scene offers aspiring chefs unique opportunities. Experience hands-on work in various restaurants like The Boynton and Armsby Abbey as you develop your culinary expertise.
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10. Hartford, CT
    Average Salary: $64,622
    Hartford's culinary scene is on the rise, with new ventures and classic establishments thriving. Work in local favorites like Salute and Max Downtown to build a strong foundation for your culinary career.
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1. Kissaki
   Average Salary: $134,160
   At Kissaki, Sous Chefs play a vital role in crafting innovative dishes using the finest ingredients. The company focuses on high-quality sushi and operates in cities like New York and Tokyo, where culinary creativity thrives.
   




2. CyberCoders
   Average Salary: $131,364
   CyberCoders offers an exciting opportunity for Sous Chefs to innovate and lead in a fast-paced kitchen environment. They have locations across the U.S., focusing on modern culinary techniques and excellence.
   




3. Sushi Jin
   Average Salary: $112,344
   Sushi Jin seeks skilled Sous Chefs who are passionate about authentic sushi preparation. They have multiple locations, emphasizing a blend of traditional and modern cooking styles in a welcoming atmosphere.
   




4. gpac
   Average Salary: $106,250
   gpac is known for its commitment to culinary excellence. Sous Chefs here work within a diverse range of restaurants and hotels, focusing on teamwork and creativity in cities nationwide.
   




5. Founding Farmers
   Average Salary: $102,024
   Founding Farmers fosters a farm-to-table philosophy, employing Sous Chefs to create dishes using local ingredients. Locations in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia highlight their dedication to fresh food.
   




6. Walters Wedding Estates
   Average Salary: $100,191
   Walters Wedding Estates provides an inspiring environment for Sous Chefs who thrive in event catering. They operate in beautiful venues across various states, focusing on exceptional dining experiences.
   




7. COREcruitment
   Average Salary: $98,642
   COREcruitment connects talented Sous Chefs with leading restaurants and hotels. They operate internationally and focus on finding the perfect fit for chefs looking to advance their careers.
   




8. United Restaurant + Hospitality Group
   Average Salary: $96,362
   United Restaurant + Hospitality Group offers vibrant opportunities for Sous Chefs to jumpstart their careers. They operate multiple restaurants, emphasizing creativity and a strong team culture.
   




9. The Smith Restaurant
   Average Salary: $95,417
   At The Smith Restaurant, Sous Chefs work in a dynamic environment, focusing on American cuisine. Locations in New York and Washington D.C. provide a bustling atmosphere where culinary skills shine.
   




10. Accor
    Average Salary: $93,551
    Accor employs skilled Sous Chefs to enhance guest experiences at their hotels and restaurants globally. They emphasize quality and creativity in their culinary offerings, supporting professional growth.
    

As a Sous Chef, you have the chance to increase your earnings through a combination of skills, experience, and smart strategies. Focus on these five factors to boost your income:

• Gain Experience: More experience often leads to higher pay. Work in busy kitchens to build your skills and confidence.
• Specialize: Knowing a specific cuisine, like Italian or French, can make you stand out. Chefs with niche skills can often command higher salaries.
• Network: Build strong relationships in the culinary industry. Networking can open up job opportunities with better pay and benefits.
• Expand Your Skills: Learn skills like food safety, costing, and menu planning. These skills show you can handle more responsibility and help you move up the ladder.
• Work in High-End Establishments: Consider jobs in upscale restaurants or hotels. These places often pay more for experienced Sous Chefs.

By focusing on these factors, you can take your career to the next level and earn more as a Sous Chef.