Opening a restaurant is a thrilling yet complex venture. If you’re researching how to start a restaurant, having a detailed checklist can make all the difference. Whether you’re launching a cozy cafe, a trendy bistro, or a full-scale fine dining experience, careful planning is crucial to your success. Below is a comprehensive list of things you should do before opening your restaurant doors to the public.
1. Define Your Restaurant Concept
- Decide on your cuisine and service style (fast-casual, fine dining, food truck, etc.)
- Create a unique value proposition (UVP)
- Choose a name that aligns with your brand
2. Conduct Market Research
- Identify your target audience
- Analyze competitors in your area
- Study dining trends and local preferences
3. Write a Restaurant Business Plan
A strong business plan will guide your launch and attract investors.
- Executive summary
- Concept and mission
- Market analysis
- Financial projections
- Marketing strategy
Learn more in our guide to writing a restaurant business plan.
4. Secure Financing
- Estimate startup and operating costs
- Choose funding methods: personal savings, loans, investors, crowdfunding
- Consider applying for an SBA loan or restaurant-specific financing
5. Choose the Right Location
- Research foot traffic, parking, and nearby competition
- Evaluate rent and lease terms
- Negotiate build-out periods and tenant improvements
6. Legal Requirements and Licensing
- Register your business and get an EIN
- Apply for a food service license
- Obtain building, signage, and fire permits
- Secure a liquor license if needed
Visit SBA.gov for business registration resources.
7. Design the Restaurant Layout
- Focus on kitchen workflow and customer comfort
- Work with interior designers or architects
- Ensure accessibility and fire safety compliance
8. Purchase Equipment and Furniture
- Kitchen appliances (ovens, fridges, grills)
- Dining furniture (tables, chairs, booths)
- POS systems and security cameras
9. Develop Your Menu
- Offer a mix of core items and seasonal specials
- Consider dietary preferences and cost per plate
- Test recipes and calculate food cost percentages
Check out our guide on how to build a restaurant menu.
10. Hire and Train Staff
- Hire chefs, servers, hosts, dishwashers, and managers
- Provide training manuals and conduct soft openings
- Create an employee handbook with policies
11. Set Up Supplier Relationships
- Partner with food distributors and local farms
- Arrange regular delivery schedules
- Negotiate contracts and quality guarantees
12. Implement a Marketing Strategy
- Build a website and set up SEO
- Create social media profiles
- Launch teaser campaigns and soft opening invites
13. Prepare for a Health Inspection
- Ensure your kitchen meets local health codes
- Train staff on food safety standards
- Schedule a pre-opening inspection
External link: Read the FDA Food Code for food safety standards.
14. Install Technology Systems
- Set up your POS system and mobile ordering
- Connect online reservations and delivery platforms
- Install accounting and scheduling software
15. Host a Soft Opening
- Invite friends, family, and community members
- Use the event to test workflows and get feedback
- Refine menu and service based on observations
Final Thoughts
Starting a restaurant requires a detailed approach and diligent preparation. This list of things to do before opening a restaurant is a foundational step in learning how to start a restaurant. From licensing to layout, every detail matters. Take the time to execute each step thoughtfully, and you’ll be much more likely to succeed.
Ready for the next step? Read our full guide on how to start a restaurant.
👉 Thinking of Starting a Restaurant? Here’s Your Complete Step-by-Step Guide for 2025
In addition, if you’re wondering about the general process, this essential guide on how to open a restaurant will help you understand all the basic steps involved — no matter the type of restaurant you have in mind.
For those who want to begin with a smaller setup, we’ve also prepared a dedicated article on how to start a small restaurant. It focuses on budget-friendly strategies and practical steps to get your dream off the ground.
Looking for more inspiration? Take a look at this real-world example of launching a small eatery successfully to learn from others who’ve done it before.
Finally, don’t forget to bookmark our restaurant startup checklist — a free tool to help you stay organized from day one.