Line Cook salary by region
| Region | Typical annual pay |
|---|---|
| United StatesNational range; SF/NYC skew higher. | $32,000 – $48,000 |
| United KingdomNational range; London skews higher. | £24,000 – £36,000 |
| European UnionVaries widely by country. | €28,000 – €42,000 |
Ranges are directional benchmarks for budgeting, not offers. Actual pay depends on location, company stage, and the candidate’s track record.
What moves a Line Cook’s salary
Seniority is the biggest lever (junior–mid is the common band for this role), followed by the depth of these skills:
- 3+ years working a hot or cold line in a restaurant kitchen
- Proficiency with standard chef knives, cooking equipment (ranges, grills, fryers), and basic butchery
- Working knowledge of food safety regulations (ServSafe or local equivalent)
- Ability to stand for 6–8 hours and lift 25 lbs regularly
- Clean, legible communication under pressure during 100+ cover services
- Experience with at least one cuisine style (French, Italian, Asian, etc.) or cooking method (grilling, sauce-work, pastry)
Why companies pay for a Line Cook
Small restaurants need reliable cooks who can execute consistent dishes during service without constant oversight, freeing the head chef to manage the kitchen strategically.
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