Opening a restaurant has been the dream of professionally trained and self-taught chefs for generations. If you’re thinking about starting a restaurant, you’re in the right place.
Yes, getting started includes mastering some recipes and coming up with a concept. However, creating a menu and picking a niche is only the beginning.
Today, we’re going to share with you some of the key tips for getting started in the restaurant business.
Read on to learn everything you need to know in this quick, simple guide.
Create Your Business Plan
No successful business was started without a business plan. Your restaurant business plan will include:
- an executive summary of your intentions and goals, including the concept and name of your restaurant
- a thorough company description
- a menu
- a management and ownership structure
- marketing analysis and strategy
- competitive analysis
- financial projection
Not only will your business plan help you convince investors to get your restaurant going, but it will also keep you on track in the months and years to come.
Secure Funding and a Location
Next, you’ll need to find a source of investment funds and a location. Oftentimes, these steps happen concurrently because the amount of funding you secure will impact the property you can lease out.
These days, many restaurants open without traditional investors. You may want to bring on an investment firm, but you can also try crowdsourcing and fundraising.
Get Your Paperwork in Order
Once you’ve secured funding and a location, you’re in motion to start bringing your restaurant to life. That means that it’s time to get all of your paperwork in order, securing the right licenses and permits to legally operate.
This process can take quite a bit of time, so don’t put it off. You’ll need everything from a restaurant business license to a liquor license to, depending on where you live, a license to hang signs. There’s a lot of red tape to sift through, but it’s worth it to ensure that you’re in compliance with state and local laws.
Find Your Vendors and Staff
Next, it’s time to start making professional connections. Start with vendors who will provide your food and supplies. This should include kitchen items like stoves and quality knives, as well as front-of-house furniture such as commercial restaurant tables and comfortable chairs. When doing so, prioritize both price and quality.
Then, it’s time to start hiring your staff. As a new restaurant, you’ll want to hire people who have restaurant experience and can help you navigate the hiccups that will come along.
Start Marketing for Your Soft Opening
With your restaurant designed, stocked, and staffed, it’s time to start thinking about a soft opening. You’ll need a solid marketing plan for that.
Find creative ways to reach a local audience. Consider jingles for restaurant business radio and digital marketing, newspaper ads, social media pages, and more.
Make Your Dream of Opening a Restaurant Come True
If you’ve always dreamed of opening a restaurant, consider this your sign. This quick and simple guide will keep you on track in those early stages so that you can start doing what you love.
Looking for more business tips and news? Our business section has your back, so stick around for the information you need.
