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October 3, 2025

How much does a chef earn in Spain?

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The salary of a chef in Spain depends on multiple factors such as experience, academic training, type of restaurant, and geographic location. Although there is no single figure, the average ranges between €1,500 and €2,500 gross per month, and can be higher in prestigious restaurants or top-tier hotels.

Average chef salary in hospitality

In the hospitality sector, a chef’s salary can vary widely. In traditional restaurants, pay is usually around €1,500 per month, while in fine-dining establishments it can exceed €3,000. Chefs with extensive track records or specializations typically negotiate better terms.

Monthly salary of a chef in Spain

On average, the monthly salary of a chef in Spain translates to between €18,000 and €30,000 gross per year, based on hospitality agreements and the professional’s experience.

Hourly wage of a professional cook

When calculated by the hour, a chef may earn between €10 and €15, though this varies if overtime or specific allowances for night shifts or holidays are included.

Salary differences between a chef and an executive chef

The executive chef is the highest-ranking figure in a professional kitchen, and their salary is typically higher than that of a station chef or line cook.

Executive chef responsibilities

Beyond cooking, the executive chef manages the kitchen team, negotiates with suppliers, controls costs, and designs menus. These additional functions justify a higher salary.

Executive chef salary in hotels and restaurants

An executive chef’s salary can range from €2,500 to €4,000 per month in high-end restaurants, and exceed those amounts in luxury hotels or Michelin-starred kitchens.

Factors that influence a chef’s salary

Several elements make the difference between a basic salary and a higher one within the profession.

Experience and professional training

A chef with solid experience and advanced studies can negotiate a higher salary. Investing in strong training in gastronomy or even master’s degrees in cuisine is key to accessing better roles and conditions.

Type of restaurant and culinary prestige

Working in a casual eatery is not the same as working in a fine-dining restaurant. Brand prestige and culinary recognition significantly increase pay.

Hospitality agreements and geographic location

Each autonomous community has a hospitality agreement that sets minimum wages. In addition, cities with strong tourism or capitals like Madrid and Barcelona tend to pay more than smaller towns.

Salary trends for chefs in hospitality

Chef salaries have evolved in recent years due to the rise of gastronomy as a cultural and tourism driver in Spain. More and more restaurants are betting on culinary innovation, boosting demand for highly qualified professionals. This has generated progressive salary growth, especially for chefs with specialized training and international experience.

Today, the chef profession is not only more recognized but also offers better financial conditions for those who prepare and stand out in an increasingly competitive market.

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