The Business of Starting a New Restaurant

If you’ve ever looked into opening your own restaurant, you know that it can be a complicated process, involving far more than simply writing a menu and serving food to the masses. To help you maneuver through all the different aspects of opening a new restaurant, I’ve pulled together some of the best articles from About.com’s Small Business Channel. You’ll learn the basics of writing a complete business plan, how to incorporate your restaurant name, as well as the basics of buying a restaurant franchise. I also included some information for the ladies from the Women in Business site.

Why Do You Want to Open a Restaurant?
Before you go any further in your quest to open a new restaurant, first ask yourself why? Why do you want to own a restaurant? It is because you love to cook? Or because you want to be your own boss? Have you really thought your reasoning through? If you enjoy hosting dinner parties at home, that doesn’t necessarily mean you should open a restaurant. I suggest you check out Alyssa Gregory’s, About Guide to Small Business Information, article Five Questions to Ask Before Starting a Small Business. Alyssa asks tough questions, like have you thought about the financial implications of your small business fails? Alyssa also breaks down the different types of business structures from partnerships to S-corporations, to help you decide which model is best for your new restaurant.

Further Reading
Five Myths of Opening a New Restaurant
What It’s Like to be a Restaurant Owner

Do You Want to Buy a Restaurant Franchise?
If you are looking for a turn-key operation, a restaurant franchise may be the perfect solution. About Guide to Franchises, Don Daszkowski. has written a great article about the process of buying a franchise. He also has several reviews of popular restaurant franchises as well.

Further Reading
How to Buy a Restaurant Franchise
Is a Restaurant Franchise for You?

Register Your Business Name
Jean Murray, About Guide to US Business Law/ Taxes has written a fantastic article about selecting business names. Jean stresses the importance of making sure that the name you have in mind isn’t already taken and that its domain name is available as well. She also gives information on how to register your business name with your state- all vital steps before opening a new restaurant.

Further Reading
How to Choose a Restaurant Name
Famous Restaurant Names

Women and Small Business Resources
Lahle Wolfe, About Guide to Women in Business, is a great resource for women looking to open a new restaurant. There are many programs available for women stating a small business. Learn more about programs for which you may qualify.