Kitchen Manager Salaries
How much does a Kitchen Manager make?
A Kitchen Manager plays a key role in the smooth operation of a restaurant. This role involves overseeing kitchen staff, managing inventory, and ensuring food quality. The average salary for a Kitchen Manager is around $46,393 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the type of restaurant.
Factors that can influence a Kitchen Manager's salary include:
- Experience: More experienced managers often earn higher salaries.
- Location: Urban areas and cities with a high cost of living typically offer higher wages.
- Type of Restaurant: Fine dining establishments may pay more than casual dining spots.
Aspiring Kitchen Managers can expect to see their salary grow with each year of experience and additional skills. This career path offers good earning potential and opportunities for advancement.
What are the highest paying cities for a Kitchen Manager?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $95,163
In Seattle, kitchen managers lead teams in a vibrant food scene. They work in upscale restaurants and popular chains. The city's diverse culinary culture offers many opportunities.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $82,453
Portland is known for its food trucks and farm-to-table dining. Kitchen managers here manage busy kitchens in trendy eateries. They enjoy the creative and innovative atmosphere.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $78,717
Modesto offers a more relaxed kitchen environment. Kitchen managers here focus on quality and efficiency. They work in family-owned restaurants and local cafes.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $61,936
Boston's rich culinary history provides a unique backdrop for kitchen managers. They work in historic restaurants and modern bistros. The city's food scene is both traditional and cutting-edge.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $60,943
Los Angeles is a hotspot for diverse cuisines. Kitchen managers here handle high-volume kitchens. They work in trendy restaurants and celebrity-owned spots.
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Columbia, SC
Average Salary: $60,678
Columbia offers a blend of Southern charm and modern dining. Kitchen managers here manage kitchens in a variety of settings. They enjoy the welcoming and family-oriented atmosphere.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $58,800
San Jose's tech-driven culture extends to its food scene. Kitchen managers here work in innovative restaurants. They enjoy the fast-paced and creative environment.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $57,672
Denver's outdoor lifestyle influences its food scene. Kitchen managers here manage kitchens in casual and upscale dining. They enjoy the city's vibrant and diverse culinary offerings.
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Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $56,983
Philadelphia's rich culinary heritage offers many opportunities. Kitchen managers here work in historic restaurants and modern eateries. They enjoy the city's unique food culture.
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Raleigh, NC
Average Salary: $56,925
Raleigh's growing food scene offers many opportunities for kitchen managers. They work in a mix of local and chain restaurants. The city's welcoming atmosphere makes it a great place to work.
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What are the best companies a Kitchen Manager can work for?

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Din Tai Fung
Average Salary: $122,383
Din Tai Fung is a renowned Asian restaurant chain known for its delicious soup dumplings. They offer Kitchen Manager jobs in various locations across the United States. Managers here focus on maintaining high standards of food quality and service.
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Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurants
Average Salary: $80,703
Cooper's Hawk Winery & Restaurants combines fine dining with a cozy atmosphere. They provide Kitchen Manager positions in multiple states. Managers work to ensure smooth kitchen operations and a memorable dining experience for guests.
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Uncle Julio's
Average Salary: $78,750
Uncle Julio's is a popular Tex-Mex restaurant chain. They offer Kitchen Manager roles in various locations. Managers here focus on creating a vibrant kitchen environment and serving delicious Mexican cuisine.
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CentraArchy Restaurants
Average Salary: $77,692
CentraArchy Restaurants operates several well-known chains. They provide Kitchen Manager jobs in various locations. Managers here are responsible for overseeing kitchen staff and ensuring top-notch food quality.
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SOL FOOD RESTAURANT
Average Salary: $75,000
SOL FOOD RESTAURANT is a family-owned business known for its authentic Latin American dishes. They offer Kitchen Manager positions in select locations. Managers here focus on creating a warm and welcoming dining experience.
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Tender Greens
Average Salary: $74,786
Tender Greens is a fast-casual restaurant chain that emphasizes healthy, organic meals. They offer Kitchen Manager jobs in various locations. Managers here focus on maintaining high standards of food quality and service.
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Goodwin Recruiting
Average Salary: $69,805
Goodwin Recruiting specializes in placing Kitchen Managers in top restaurants. They offer positions in various locations. Managers here work with multiple clients to ensure smooth kitchen operations.
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Snooze an AM Eatery
Average Salary: $69,517
Snooze an AM Eatery is a popular breakfast and brunch spot. They offer Kitchen Manager jobs in select locations. Managers here focus on creating a vibrant kitchen environment and serving delicious breakfast and brunch dishes.
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BJ'S Restaurant & Brewhouse
Average Salary: $68,718
BJ'S Restaurant & Brewhouse combines casual dining with a fun atmosphere. They offer Kitchen Manager positions in various locations. Managers here focus on ensuring smooth kitchen operations and a memorable dining experience.
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Walk-Ons Sports Bistreaux
Average Salary: $68,612
Walk-Ons Sports Bistreaux is a sports bar and restaurant chain. They offer Kitchen Manager jobs in various locations. Managers here focus on creating a lively kitchen environment and serving delicious American cuisine.
How to earn more as a Kitchen Manager?
A Kitchen Manager plays a key role in the smooth operation of a restaurant. This position requires a blend of leadership skills, culinary knowledge, and business acumen. To earn more in this role, consider these important factors that can boost your salary and career prospects.
First, gaining experience and expertise in the culinary field can lead to higher earnings. Managers with advanced certifications or specialized training in areas like pastry or nutrition often command higher salaries. Second, developing strong leadership and management skills can make a significant difference. Effective managers who can motivate their teams and maintain high standards of service and quality will be more valuable to employers. Third, improving communication skills can enhance job performance and open up higher-paying opportunities. Being able to clearly communicate with staff, suppliers, and customers is crucial. Fourth, expanding knowledge of restaurant operations and financial management can lead to better job performance and higher pay. Understanding budgeting, inventory management, and cost control can make a manager more effective and attractive to employers. Finally, networking within the industry can lead to better job opportunities. Attending industry events, joining professional organizations, and connecting with other professionals can help a manager find higher-paying positions.
By focusing on these factors, a Kitchen Manager can increase their earning potential and advance their career.
- Gain experience and certifications in culinary arts.
- Develop strong leadership and management skills.
- Improve communication skills with staff and customers.
- Expand knowledge of restaurant operations and financial management.
- Network within the industry to find better job opportunities.