How much does a Cook make in Dana Point, CA?
In Dana Point, CA, the role of a cook offers a range of earnings that can vary based on experience and setting. Cooks can expect to earn from around $34,000 to about $57,000 annually. Most cooks tend to fall in the middle of this range, with an average yearly salary of $44,421. This makes cooking a steady career choice for those in the area.
Factors influencing a cook's salary include the type of kitchen they work in, their experience level, and additional skills. Cooks in high-end restaurants or hotels often earn higher salaries than those in schools or smaller eateries. Gaining experience and earning certifications can also lead to higher pay. Cooks who can prepare specialized cuisines or have strong organizational skills may find more opportunities for advancement and higher wages.
What are the highest paying cities for a Cook near Dana Point, CA?

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Newport Beach, CA
Average Salary: $47,040
In Newport Beach, culinary arts meet a vibrant coastal lifestyle. With top-notch resorts and restaurants, there are ample chances to work in a lively atmosphere. Being part of renowned establishments like the Balboa Bay Resort adds prestige to your resume.
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Santa Monica, CA
Average Salary: $45,820
Santa Monica offers a dynamic culinary scene, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. You will find yourself working in trendy eateries and upscale dining spots. Well-known companies like Catch LA present excellent growth opportunities.
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Laguna Beach, CA
Average Salary: $45,273
In Laguna Beach, being a cook means crafting meals that reflect the area’s artistic and surf culture. Popular spots like The Tides frequently need skilled cooks to enhance their menu offerings.
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Capistrano Beach, CA
Average Salary: $45,200
Capistrano Beach offers a serene environment where creativity in the kitchen is highly valued. Working in local beachside restaurants, you’ll enjoy a laid-back atmosphere while serving up delicious meals.
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Irvine, CA
Average Salary: $42,642
Irvine presents a diverse culinary landscape, from family-owned diners to modern eateries. Employment in places like The Cheesecake Factory can provide valuable experience and career advancement.
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Laguna Niguel, CA
Average Salary: $42,359
Laguna Niguel’s culinary scene combines elegance with a relaxed beach town vibe. Cooks here often work in beautiful settings, preparing gourmet dishes for discerning guests.
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San Juan Capistrano, CA
Average Salary: $42,017
In San Juan Capistrano, being a cook means blending tradition with innovation. You will find yourself in charming spots where your skills can shine, whether preparing classic dishes or modern creations.
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Costa Mesa, CA
Average Salary: $41,970
Costa Mesa’s culinary world is rich and diverse. From small, family-run businesses to larger establishments, there are plenty of opportunities to grow. Working at places like The Boathouse Restaurant can offer both challenge and reward.
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Mission Viejo, CA
Average Salary: $41,612
Mission Viejo offers a range of culinary experiences, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. Being part of a well-known company like Del Mar Bakery can provide stability and a chance to learn from the best.
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Fullerton, CA
Average Salary: $41,455
Fullerton’s culinary scene is vibrant and varied. Cooks here often work in family-owned restaurants and larger establishments alike. Working in places like The Old Fashioned can offer a mix of tradition and modern flair.
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What are the best paying companies for a Cook in Dana Point, CA?

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Marriott International
Average Salary: $52,803
Marriott International offers a range of career opportunities for Cooks in Dana Point, CA. They are known for their hospitality excellence and provide benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans. They have multiple locations in the area.
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Hilton
Average Salary: $45,244
Hilton offers competitive salaries for Cook positions in Dana Point, CA. They emphasize teamwork and career growth opportunities. Hilton operates several hotels in the area, providing various positions for Cooks.
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Denny's
Average Salary: $42,528
Denny's offers a welcoming environment for Cooks in Dana Point, CA. They provide training programs and opportunities for career advancement. Denny's is well-known for its family-friendly atmosphere and has multiple locations in the region.
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Contract Services Group, Inc.
Average Salary: $41,625
Contract Services Group, Inc. offers Cook positions with a solid reputation in Dana Point, CA. They focus on quality and customer service. The company has various contracts with local businesses, providing stable employment opportunities for Cooks.
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Oakmont Senior Living
Average Salary: $39,333
Oakmont Senior Living provides a caring environment for Cooks in Dana Point, CA. They offer benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans. Their facilities are known for their resident-focused approach, providing a supportive work environment.
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Troon
Average Salary: $36,000
Troon offers a unique opportunity for Cooks in Dana Point, CA. They focus on luxury and quality service, providing a unique work experience. Troon's golf courses are popular destinations, and they offer a supportive and professional work environment.
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Luna Grill
Average Salary: $34,167
Luna Grill provides a vibrant atmosphere for Cooks in Dana Point, CA. They emphasize creativity and teamwork, offering various opportunities for professional development. Luna Grill is known for its casual dining experience and has a strong presence in the local community.
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Aimbridge Hospitality
Average Salary: $31,993
Aimbridge Hospitality offers a variety of Cook positions in Dana Point, CA. They focus on hospitality and customer service excellence. Aimbridge Hospitality manages multiple properties in the area, providing stable and diverse employment opportunities.
What are the best paying Cook related jobs in Dana Point, CA?

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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $91,113
Restaurant managers lead the kitchen and the dining area. They hire staff, manage budgets, and ensure that the restaurant runs smoothly. In this role, you can work for various dining establishments in the city.
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Sous Chef
Average Salary: $71,676
A sous chef helps the head chef in running the kitchen. They assist with menu planning, oversee food preparation, and manage kitchen staff. Many fine dining restaurants and hotel chains in the area offer sous chef positions.
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Fast Food Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $64,480
Fast food restaurant managers handle daily operations. They oversee food preparation, manage staff schedules, and ensure customer satisfaction. These roles can be found in popular chains throughout the city.
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Catering Manager
Average Salary: $62,112
Catering managers organize events and manage catering staff. They work closely with clients to create menus and ensure timely delivery. Many event planning companies and hotels look for skilled catering managers.
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Restaurant Supervisor
Average Salary: $56,393
Restaurant supervisors ensure everything runs smoothly in the kitchen. They oversee daily operations, manage staff, and ensure food quality. This position is available in various dining establishments.
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Pastry Chef
Average Salary: $51,748
Pastry chefs create delicious baked goods and desserts. They work in commercial kitchens and need a keen eye for detail. Many high-end restaurants and bakeries offer pastry chef roles.
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Kitchen Manager
Average Salary: $45,500
Kitchen managers handle daily kitchen operations. They oversee food preparation, manage kitchen staff, and ensure safety standards. This role is found in many restaurants and catering companies.
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Pastry Cook
Average Salary: $44,655
Pastry cooks focus on baking cakes, pastries, and desserts. They work under the direction of a pastry chef. Many bakeries and fine dining restaurants hire pastry cooks.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $43,718
Line cooks prepare food quickly in a commercial kitchen. They work under pressure and need to follow recipes. Many restaurants and cafes offer line cook positions.
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Baker
Average Salary: $41,333
Bakers prepare bread, pastries, and other baked goods. They work in commercial kitchens and need to follow specific recipes. Many bakeries and restaurants hire bakers.
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