PlanBuildr Logo

Restaurant Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Restaurant Business Plan

You’ve come to the right place to create your restaurant business plan.

We have helped over 100,000 entrepreneurs and business owners with how to write a restaurant business plan to help them start or grow their restaurants.

Below is a restaurant business plan template to help you create each section of your business plan.

Restaurant Business Plan Example

Executive summary, business overview.

Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse is a new restaurant and steakhouse located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The menu of Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse will include bistro-type dishes that are authentically created and crafted by acclaimed Chef Peter Logan. It will be located in the trendy part of town, known as the Plaza District. The restaurant will be surrounded by classy art galleries, live theater, high-end restaurants and bars, and expensive shopping.

Owned by emerging restaurant operators Chef Peter Logan and Anastasia Gillette, Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse’s mission is to become Oklahoma City’s best, new restaurant for patrons to celebrate their next big event, have a nice date night, or gather with friends or family for a fun evening while dining over finely crafted entrees, desserts, and cocktails.

Products Served

The following are the menu items to be offered by Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse:

  • Soups & Salads
  • Gourmet sides
  • Wine, Beer & Spirits

Customer Focus

Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse will target adult men and women between the ages of 21 – 65 with disposable income in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Within this demographic are millennials, young professionals, newlyweds, young families, more established families, and retirees. Because of the pricing structure of the menu, the patrons will likely be upper middle class to the wealthy population of Oklahoma City.

Management Team

Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse is owned and operated by fellow Oklahoma City natives and culinary enthusiasts, Chef Peter Logan and Anastasia Gillette. Both come with a unique skill set and complement each other perfectly. They formerly worked together at another OKC fine dining establishment and made a great team for serving guests delectable food and wine while ensuring the highest level of customer service.

Chef Peter will manage the kitchen operations of Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse, while Anastasia will oversee front of the house operations, maintain and ensure customer service, and manage all reservations.

Financial Highlights

Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse is seeking $300,000 in debt financing to open its start-up restaurant. The funding will be dedicated for the build-out and design of the restaurant, kitchen, bar and lounge, as well as cooking supplies and equipment, working capital, three months worth of payroll expenses and opening inventory. The breakout of the funding is below:

  • Restaurant Build-Out and Design – $100,000
  • Kitchen supplies and equipment – $100,000
  • Opening inventory – $25,000
  • Working capital (to include 3 months of overhead expenses) – $25,000
  • Marketing (advertising agency) – $25,000
  • Accounting firm (3 months worth and establishment/permitting of business) – $25,000

business plan about restaurant example

Company Overview

Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse is a new restaurant and steakhouse located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse will serve a wide variety of dishes and beverages and will cater to the upper middle class to wealthier population of Oklahoma City. The menu of Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse will include bistro-type dishes that are authentically created and crafted by acclaimed Chef Peter Logan. It will be located in the trendy part of town, known as the Plaza District. The Plaza District is one of Oklahoma’s trendy neighborhoods and is considered the “it” area for newlyweds, millennials, professionals, and young singles. The restaurant will be surrounded by classy art galleries, live theater, high-end restaurants and bars, and expensive shopping.

Owned by emerging restaurant operators Chef Peter Logan and Anastasia Gillette, the restaurant’s mission statement is to become the best new steak restaurant in OKC. The following are the types of menu items Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse will serve- shareables, steaks, soups, gourmet sides and salads.

Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse History

Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse is owned by two Oklahoma City natives, Chef Peter Logan and Anastasia Gillette. They have both worked around the country in fine dining establishments and have a combined twenty years in the restaurant industry. Upon working alongside each other at another fine dining establishment in Oklahoma City, the two of them became good friends and decided to venture into owning their own restaurant.

Chef Peter is the kitchen guru and critically acclaimed chef, while Anastasia manages the front of the house and is a certified Sommelier. Together, with both of their expertise and knowledge, Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse is destined to become Oklahoma City’s next big restaurant.

Industry Analysis

The Restaurant industry is expected to grow to over $220 billion in the next five years.

Consumer spending is projected to grow. The Consumer Confidence Index, a leading indicator of spending patterns, is expected to also grow strongly, which will boost restaurant industry growth over the next five years. The growth in consumer confidence also suggests that more consumers may opt to segment their disposable income to eating outside the home.

Additionally, an increase in the number of households earning more than $100,000 annually further contributes to the industry growth, supporting industry operators that offer more niche, higher-end products.  This group is expected to continue to grow in size over the next five years.

The urban population represents a large market for the industry. Specifically, time-strapped individuals living in urban areas will likely frequent industry establishments to save time on cooking. The urban population is expected to increase, representing a potential opportunity for the industry.

Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market, customer segmentation.

Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse will primarily target the following customer profile:

  • Upper middle class to wealthier population
  • Millennials
  • Young professionals
  • Households with an average income of at least $75k
  • Foodies and culture enthusiasts

Competitive Analysis

Direct and indirect competitors.

Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse will be competing with other restaurants in Oklahoma City. A profile of each competitor is below. The Press Located in the trendy area known as the Plaza District, The Press has reimagined our favorite foods of the surrounding regions through the lens of home.

The menu consists of appetizers, soups, burgers and sandwiches, bowls, main dishes, sides, desserts, and a large selection of alcoholic beverages. The Press serves craft beer, domestic beer, wine spritzers, house cocktails, wine, and mimosas. They also offer brunch. The menu of The Press is affordable with the most expensive dish being $16. The wine menu is also not pretentious as the wine is sold either by the glass or bottle, with the most expensive bottle being $52 for the Gruet Sparkling Brut Rose. Oak & Ore Oak & Ore is a craft beer and restaurant in OKC’s Plaza District. They have a 36-tap beer selection and offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free dining options. Oak & Ore offers a rotating, 36-tap selection of their favorite brews from Oklahoma and around the world. Each beer is thoughtfully paired with a craft beer-inspired dining experience.

The food menu of Oak & Ore offers starters, salads, wings, fried chicken, sandwiches, tacos, banh mi, and sides. They also have a selection of kids dishes so the whole family can enjoy comfort food while sampling one of their delectable beers.

The Mule OKC The Mule is a casual, hip restaurant offering a large beer and cocktail menu plus sandwiches and more. Located in the constantly growing and buzzing hub that is the Plaza District, The Mule takes the timeless favorite and contorts it into a whole menu of wild offerings.

There is also a fantastic assortment of soups offered and The Mule shakes up a seasonal list of cocktails designed by their bar staff. During the winter months, patrons can stave off the cold with their versions of hot toddies and buttered rum. For the beer drinkers, they always have a reliable line-up of fresh cold brews on draft, as well as a wide selection of can.

Competitive Advantage

Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse offers several advantages over its competition. Those advantages are:

  • Gourmet dishes elegantly prepared to the finest standard.
  • Selection of steaks sourced from local Oklahoma farms.
  • An exclusive and unique wine menu that includes a wine selection of all price points.
  • Highly sought after location: Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse will be located in the trendy and attractive neighborhood known as The Plaza District.
  • Trendy, welcoming, and energetic ambiance that will be perfect for a night out or a celebration.

Marketing Plan

Promotions strategy.

The marketing strategy for Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse is as follows: Location Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse’s location is a promotions strategy in itself. The Plaza District is a destination spot for locals, tourists, and anyone looking for the trendiest food fare in Oklahoma City. The Plaza District is home to OKC’s most popular bars and restaurants, art galleries, theaters, and boutique shopping. The millennials, young professionals, and foodies will frequent Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse for the location itself.

Social Media Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse will use social media to cater to the millennials and Oklahoma City residents. Chef Peter and Anastasia plan to hire an advertising agency to take professional photographs of the menu items and location to create appealing posts to reach a greater audience. The posts will include pictures of the menu items, as well as upcoming featured options. SEO Website Marketing Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse plans to invest funds into maintaining a strong SEO presence on search engines like Google and Bing. When a person types in “local fine dining restaurant” or “Oklahoma City restaurant”, Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse will appear in the top three choices. The website will include the full menu, location, hours, and lots of pictures of the food, drinks, and steaks. Third Party Delivery Sites Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse will maintain a presence on sites like GrubHub, Uber Eats, Doordash, and Postmates so that people looking for local food to be delivered will see Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse listed near the top.

Operations Plan

Operation functions:.

The company will hire the following:

  • 4 sous chefs
  • 2 bartenders
  • 2 hostesses
  • The company will hire an advertising agency and an accounting firm

Milestones:

Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse aims to open in the next 6 months. The following are the milestones needed in order to obtain this goal.

7/1/202X – Execute lease for prime location in the Plaza District.

7/2/202X – Begin construction of restaurant build-out.

7/10/202X – Finalize menu.

7/17/202X – Hire advertising company to begin developing marketing efforts.

8/15/202X – Start of marketing campaign

8/22/202X – Final walk-thru of completed restaurant build-out.

8/25/202X – Hire team of sous chefs, servers, and bussers.

9/1/202X – Decoration and set up of restaurant.

9/15/202X – Grand Opening of Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse

Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse will be owned and operated by Chef Peter Logan and Anastasia Gillette. Each will have a 50% ownership stake in the restaurant.

Chef Peter Logan, Co-Owner

Chef Peter Logan is an Oklahoma City native and has been in the restaurant industry for over ten years. He was trained in a prestigious Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Academy in San Francisco and has worked in some of the nation’s most prestigious fine dining restaurants. His tenure has took him from the west coast to the east coast, and now he’s back doing what he loves in his hometown of Oklahoma City.

Chef Peter will manage the kitchen operations of Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse. He will train and oversee the sous chefs, manage inventory, place food inventory orders, deal with the local food vendors, and ensure the highest customer satisfaction with the food.

Anastasia Gillette, Co-Owner

Anastasia Gillette was born and raised in Oklahoma City and has garnered over ten years in the restaurant industry as well. While in college, Anastasia worked as a hostess at one of the area’s most prestigious restaurant establishments. While there, she was eventually promoted to Front of the House Manager where she oversaw the hostesses, servers, bussers, bartenders, and reservations. Her passion always led to the beverage portion of the restaurant so she obtained her Sommelier certificate in 2019. With her wine education, Anastasia is able to cultivate an interesting and elegant wine selection for the restaurant.

Anastasia will oversee front of the house operations, maintain and ensure customer service, and manage all reservations. She will also be in charge of the bar and wine ordering, training of front of the house staff, and will manage the restaurant’s social media accounts once they are set up.

Financial Plan

Key revenue & costs.

The revenue drivers for Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse will come from the food and drink menu items being offered daily.

The cost drivers will be the ingredients and products needed to make the menu items as well as the cooking materials. A significant cost driver is the fine dining equipment, serving dishes, and beer and wine glasses. Other cost drivers will be the overhead expenses of payroll for the employees, accounting firm, and cost of the advertising agency.

Funding Requirements and Use of Funds

Bluehorn Restaurant & Steakhouse is seeking $300,000 in debt financing to open its start-up restaurant. The breakout of the funding is below:

Financial Projections

Income Statement

  Balance Sheet

  Cash Flow Statement

Restaurant Business Plan FAQs

What is a restaurant business plan.

A restaurant business plan is a plan to start and/or grow your restaurant business. Among other things, it outlines your business concept, identifies your target customers, presents your marketing plan and details your financial projections.

You can  easily complete your restaurant business plan using our Restaurant Business Plan Template here .

What Are the Main Types of Restaurants?

There are many types of restaurant businesses. Restaurants can range in type from fast food, fast casual, moderate casual, fine dining, and bar and restaurant types. Restaurants also come in a variety of different ethnic or themed categories, such as Mexican restaurants, Asian restaurants, American, etc.  Some restaurants also go mobile and have food trucks.

How Do You Get Funding for Your Restaurant Business Plan?

Restaurant businesses are most likely to receive funding from banks. Typically you will find a local bank and present your business plan to them. Another option for a restaurant business is to obtain a small business loan. SBA loans are a popular option as they offer longer loan terms with lower interest rates.

What are the Steps To Start a Restaurant Business?

1. Develop A Restaurant Business Plan - The first step in starting a business is to create a detailed restaurant business plan that outlines all aspects of the venture. This should include potential market size and target customers, the services or products you will offer, pricing strategies and a detailed financial forecast.  

2. Choose Your Legal Structure - It's important to select an appropriate legal entity for your restaurant business. This could be a limited liability company (LLC), corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks so it’s important to do research and choose wisely so that your restaurant business is in compliance with local laws.

3. Register Your Restaurant Business - Once you have chosen a legal structure, the next step is to register your restaurant business with the government or state where you’re operating from. This includes obtaining licenses and permits as required by federal, state, and local laws. 

4. Identify Financing Options - It’s likely that you’ll need some capital to start your restaurant business, so take some time to identify what financing options are available such as bank loans, investor funding, grants, or crowdfunding platforms. 

5. Choose a Location - Whether you plan on operating out of a physical location or not, you should always have an idea of where you’ll be based should it become necessary in the future as well as what kind of space would be suitable for your operations. 

6. Hire Employees - There are several ways to find qualified employees including job boards like LinkedIn or Indeed as well as hiring agencies if needed – depending on what type of employees you need it might also be more effective to reach out directly through networking events. 

7. Acquire Necessary Restaurant Equipment & Supplies - In order to start your restaurant business, you'll need to purchase all of the necessary equipment and supplies to run a successful operation. 

8. Market & Promote Your Business - Once you have all the necessary pieces in place, it’s time to start promoting and marketing your restaurant business. This includes creating a website, utilizing social media platforms like Facebook or Twitter, and having an effective Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategy. You should also consider traditional marketing techniques such as radio or print advertising. 

Learn more about how to start a successful restaurant business:

  • How to Start a Restaurant Business

Where Can I Get a Restaurant Business Plan PDF?

You can download our free restaurant business plan template PDF here . This is a sample restaurant business plan template you can use in PDF format.

Eat App for

How it works.

Request Demo

How to Write a Restaurant Business Plan in 2024 (Step by Step Guide with Templates)

bell

A restaurant business plan is a framework that guides you to plan and forecast every element of restaurant management and operations.

This includes anything from your restaurant's menu design , location, financials, employee training , and a lot more.

Creating a solid business plan is important, as it helps:

  • Transform your restaurant ideas into reality.
  • Boosts entrepreneurial success by 16% (Harvard Business Study) .
  • It equips you to navigate challenges before they arise.
  • Attracts potential investors.

Planning is key to restaurant success. Without a plan, you're more likely to join the 26% of restaurants that fail within a year.

Create a business plan to set yourself up for success.

Here's how to get started. 

business plan about restaurant example

What is a restaurant business plan? 

Before writing a business plan, it is important to understand its fundamentals.

It serves as a roadmap for starting and running your restaurant , making it easy for outside parties, such as investors, to understand your objectives, vision, and plan of action for your restaurant.

The length and level of detail of business plans vary, ranging from brief synopses to large papers. Investors can benefit from clear insights and additional information provided by beginning with a concise plan and working their way up to a detailed one.

In short, a thorough description of the resources allocated to the success of your restaurant should be included in your business plan.

Steps to include in your business plan 

Your restaurant and mission statement needs to reflect your brand and goals, but you don't have to start from scratch.

The Eat App Restaurant Business Plan template , created by industry professionals and packed with insider information, is your go-to manual for creating a profitable business plan.

Your finalized business plan should have 11 essential elements, no matter how you write it. Continue reading below. 

1. Executive summary

A restaurant business plan should always begin with an executive summary. Why?

  • 80% of venture capitalists say they read the executive summary first.
  • 62% of investors say they would not continue reading a business plan if the executive summary did not capture their interest.
  • A strong executive summary can increase the likelihood of securing funding by up to 40%.

An executive summary not only acts as the introduction to your restaurant business plan samples but also as a summary of the entire idea.

The main aim of an executive summary is to draw the reader (oftentimes an investor) into the rest of your business plan.

The executive summary also helps you envision the identity of your restaurant which essentially shapes the customer experience and sets you apart from competitors.

To establish a distinct identity, you need to focus on c ommon elements of an executive summary, including:

  • A mission statement  
  • Proposed concept development
  • Cuisine selection
  • The overall execution
  • The potential costs
  • Expected return on investments (ROI)

Let's take a more in-depth look at the concept development, cuisine selection, and mission statement.

Further reading

  • How to write a restaurant executive summary

Concept Development

Selecting the type of restaurant, service style, and atmosphere is the first step towards creating a unique dining experience. Whether you envision a sample menu for a:

  • cozy, intimate bistro
  • bustling quick-service deli
  • fast-casual restaurant
  • fine dining establishment

Your concept should reflect your passion and expertise in the industry.

Cuisine Selection

The cuisine you select for your restaurant can significantly influence its success.

Choosing the appropriate cuisine is vital for distinguishing your establishment from competitors and attracting your target market.

To make an informed decision, consider factors such as:

  • Market demand
  • Expertise and passion
  • Ingredient availability
  • Competition
  • Profitability
  • Cultural fit
  • Seasonality
  • Dietary restrictions and trends

In the highly competitive restaurant industry, keeping track of current and emerging cuisine trends can be a significant advantage.

Creating a mission statement

A well-constructed mission statement communicates the purpose, values, and goals of your restaurant to potential investors and customers alike.

A mission statement serves as a guiding light for decision-makers and employees, fueling their efforts to achieve your restaurant’s objectives.

To create an impactful mission statement, consider the following steps:

  • Identify the purpose of the restaurant.
  • Contemplate the brand’s image.
  • Account for the target audience.
  • Incorporate company values.
  • Ensure brevity and comprehensiveness.

Related content:  How to Write a Restaurant Mission Statement  

Remember, your mission statement should not only differentiate your restaurant from competitors but also resonate with your target market .

2. Company description

This is where you carefully introduce the company in the restaurant business plan. Include the name of the restaurant you are launching in this field along with its address, phone number, and other important information. Then, also include the owner's information as well as a synopsis or explanation of their background. The restaurant's legal position and its short- and long-term objectives should be outlined in the second section of the company description. To demonstrate your understanding of the changes in the local food business and the reasons why the most independent restaurant investors will be successful in this market, please submit a brief market research.

Here's an example of the page layout:  

Company Description

Restaurant Name: [Restaurant Name]

Location: [Restaurant Address]

Contact: [Restaurant Phone Number] | [Restaurant Email Address]

Owner: [Owner Name]

Experience: [Owner Name] has over [Number] years of experience in the restaurant industry. They have worked in various roles, including [List of Roles]. They are passionate about food and creating a memorable dining experience for their guests.

Legal Standing: [Restaurant Name] is a [Type of Legal Entity] registered in [State/Province].

3. Market analysis

The market analysis portion of the restaurant business plan is typically divided into three parts.

3.1 Industry analysis

What is your target market? What demographics will your restaurant cater to?

This section aims to explain your target market to investors and why you believe guests will choose your restaurant over others.

Comprehending your target market is key to customizing your restaurant offerings to their preferences and needs.

By diving into demographics, preferences, dining habits, and trends, you can fine-tune your concept and marketing strategy to reach and appeal to your target audience effectively.

An example of analyzing your target market

  Comprehending your target market is key to customizing your restaurant offerings to their preferences and needs.

Demographics and preferences

Identifying your primary target market involves considering factors such as:

For example, a neighborhood with a high concentration of families might prefer a family-friendly restaurant with a diverse menu catering to various age groups and dietary preferences.

Conversely, a trendy urban area with a predominantly young and affluent population may gravitate towards upscale dining experiences and innovative cuisine.

Cultural and ethnic backgrounds also have a significant impact on restaurant preferences, with people from different backgrounds having distinctive tastes and customs that influence their dining choices.

By thoroughly understanding the demographics and preferences of your target market, you’ll be better equipped to create a restaurant concept that resonates with them and ultimately drives success.

Dining habits and trends

As the restaurant industry continues to evolve, staying informed about dining habits and trends is crucial for adapting your offerings and attracting customers.

For example, the rise of online ordering and delivery services has significantly influenced dining habits, with many consumers seeking the convenience of having their meals delivered to their doorstep.

Health trends have also had an impact on dining habits, with an increasing number of individuals seeking healthier options when dining out.

  • How to find your restaurant's target market

3.2 Competition analysis

It's easy to assume that everyone will visit your new restaurant first, so it is important to research your competition to make this a reality.

What restaurants have already established a customer base in the area?

Take note of everything from their prices, hours, and service style to menu design to the restaurant interior.

Then explain to your investors how your restaurant will be different.

3.3 Marketing analysis

Your investors are going to want to know how you plan to market your restaurant. How will your marketing campaigns differ from what is already being done by others in the restaurant industry?

How do you plan on securing your target market? What kind of offers will you provide your guests? Make sure to list everything.

The menu is the most important part of a restaurant's debut. Your restaurant wouldn't be able to operate without it.

You most likely don't have a final draft at this time, but you should aim to create a mock-up for your restaurant business plan. You can choose a design that you can envision yourself using and add your logo to the mock-up.

  • Top Free Restaurant Menu Makers

There are several resources available online if you need assistance with menu design or don't want to hire a designer.

But the price should be the most important component of your sample menu. The cost research you've completed for investors ought to be reflected in your prices. They will have a clearer idea of your restaurant's intended price range as a result.  You'll quickly see how important menu engineering can be, even early on.

5. Employees

The company description section of the restaurant business plan briefly introduces the owners of the restaurant with some information about each. This section should fully flesh out the restaurant's business plan and management team.

The investors don’t expect you to have your entire team selected at this point, but you should at least have a couple of people on board. Use the talent you have chosen thus far to highlight the combined work experience everyone is bringing to the table.

Download our free restaurant business plan  It's the only one you'll ever need. Get template now

6. Restaurant design

The design portion of your restaurant business plan is where you can really show off your thoughts and ideas to the investors. If you don’t have professional mock-ups of your restaurant rendered, that’s fine.

Instead, put together a mood board to get your vision across. Find pictures of a similar aesthetic to what you are looking for in your restaurant.

The restaurant design extends beyond aesthetics alone and should include everything from restaurant software to kitchen equipment. 

7. Location

The location you settle on for your restaurant should be well aligned with your target market (making it easier to cater to your ideal customer) and with your business plans.

At this stage in the process, it's not uncommon to not have a specific location in mind - but you should at the very least have a few options to narrow down.

Pro Tip: When you approach your investors about potential locations, make sure to include as much information as possible about each venue and why it would be ideal for your brand. 

Example for choosing an ideal location

Choosing the ideal location for your restaurant is a pivotal decision that can greatly influence your success. 

To make the best choice, consider factors such as foot traffic, accessibility, and neighborhood demographics.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you’ll be better equipped to maximize visibility and attract your target market.

Foot traffic and accessibility

Foot traffic and accessibility are important factors in selecting a location that will attract customers and ensure convenience.

A high-traffic area with ample parking and public transportation options can greatly increase the likelihood of drawing in potential customers.

Additionally, making your restaurant accessible to individuals with disabilities can further broaden your customer base and promote inclusivity.

Neighborhood demographics

Analyzing neighborhood demographics can help you determine if your restaurant’s concept and cuisine will appeal to the local population.

Factors such as income levels, family structures, and cultural diversity can all influence dining preferences and habits.

By understanding the unique characteristics of the neighborhood, you can tailor your offerings and marketing efforts to resonate with the local community.

Conducting a market analysis can be a valuable step in this process.

To gather demographic data for a particular neighborhood, you can utilize resources such as the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey and reference maps.

Armed with this information, you can make informed decisions about your restaurant’s concept, menu, and pricing, ensuring that your establishment is well-positioned for success within the community.

Conducting market research will further strengthen your understanding of the local demographic.

8. Market overview

The market overview section is heavily related to the market research and analysis portion of the restaurant business plan. In this section, go into detail about both the micro and macro conditions in the area you want to set up your restaurant.

Discuss the current economic conditions that could make opening a restaurant difficult, and how you aim to counteract that. Mention all the other restaurants that could prove to be competition and what your strategy is to set yourself apart.

9. Marketing

With restaurants opening left and ride nowadays, investors are going to want to know how you will get word of your restaurant to the world.

The next marketing strategy and publicity section should go into detail on how you plan to market your restaurant before and after opening. As well as any plans you may have to bring a PR company on board to help spread the word.

Read more: How to write a restaurant marketing plan from scratch

10. External help

To make your restaurant a reality, you are going to need a lot of help. List any external companies or software you plan on hiring to get your restaurant up and running.

This includes everything from accountants and designers to suppliers that help your restaurant perform better, like POS systems and restaurant reservation systems .

Explain to your other potential investors about the importance of each and what they will be doing for your restaurant.

11. Financial analysis

The most important part of your restaurant business plan is the financial section . We would recommend hiring professional help for this given its importance.

Hiring a trained accountant will not only help you get your own financial projections and estimates in order but also give you a realistic insight into owning a restaurant.

You should have some information prepared to make this step easier for the accountant.

He/she will want to know how many seats your restaurant has, what the check average per table will be, and how many guests you plan on seating per day.

In addition to this, doing rough food cost calculations for various menu items can help estimate your profit margin per dish. This can be achieved easily with a free food cost calculator. 

  • Important restaurant metrics to track

A well-crafted restaurant business plan serves as a roadmap to success, guiding every aspect of the venture from menu design to employee training.

By carefully considering each component of the plan, aspiring restaurateurs can increase their chances of securing funding, attracting customers, and achieving their long-term goals.

Remember, a restaurant business plan is not just a document to satisfy investors; it is a living tool that should be revisited and updated regularly as the business grows and evolves.

By staying committed to the plan and adapting it as needed, restaurateurs can ensure that their culinary dreams have a solid foundation for success.

Share this article!

Saif Alnasur

Saif Alnasur used to work in his family restaurant, but now he is a food influencer and writes about the restaurant industry for Eat App.

author-linkedIn

How to Calculate Food Cost in:...

Whether you're putting together a menu for your...

business plan about restaurant example

The A to Z Guide to:...

86 that dish? Camper? Kill it? In the weeds?

business plan about restaurant example

OpenTable vs. Resy::...

When it comes to choosing an online restaurant...

Join restaurants in 70+ countries using Eat App

Get Started

Empowering restaurants, one table at a time Discover seamless dining with Eat App

  • Reservation system
  • Table management
  • CRM and guest profiles
  • Reports & trends
  • Integrations
  • Privacy policy
  • Terms of service
  • The 16 Best Reservation Systems
  • Guide to Restaurant Marketing
  • Guide to Customer Service
  • Guide to Making a Restaurant Website
  • All articles

"> "> Compare us

  • Seven Rooms
  • Compare All

© Eat App. All rights reserved.

+971 4 457 8200

Refer & earn.

 alt=

Home > Business Plan Templates > 10-Step Restaurant Business Plan Template With Examples

10-Step Restaurant Business Plan Template With Examples

Apr 14, 2024 | Business Plan Templates

Table of Contents

Summarising Our Restaurant Business Plan Template

This restaurant business plan template provides a comprehensive guide for those wanting to establish a restaurant business. It outlines ten crucial aspects – from executive summary, restaurant concept, business history and model, industry analysis, PR and marketing strategy, operations, and financial plan to appendices, offering a well-rounded view of your venture.

Each section comes with clear explanations and examples for clarity and easy understanding. The template assists you in presenting a concise and detailed blueprint that can impress investors, direct your team’s efforts, and fuel the steady growth of your restaurant.

1. Executive Summary

Introduction.

This section should introduce your restaurant. Details like your restaurant’s name, its theme or type, and cuisine should be included.

Example: Delicious Delights is a fine-dining restaurant specialising in contemporary American cuisine with a Southern twist.

Overview of the Business

Provide a summary of your restaurant. Discuss your speciality dishes, ambience, and dining experience. Also, share why your restaurant’s offerings are unique.

Example: Delicious Delights offers gastronomic delights derived from classic Southern dishes, revamped for the modern palette. Our customers enjoy these specialities in a chic and sophisticated setting for an ultimate dining experience.

Mission and Vision Statement

Write your restaurant’s mission and vision statements. These should communicate what you wish to achieve and where you plan to go in the future.

Example: Our mission is to provide our guests with a memorable dining experience through exceptional service, exquisite cuisine and a charming setting. Our vision is to become the city’s go-to destination for food lovers, known for its innovative and delectable American cuisine.

Location and Accessibility

Discuss where your restaurant is located. Talk about its accessibility and any prominent landmarks that could make it easier for customers to find you.

Example: Delicious Delights is conveniently located in the heart of downtown, just a few blocks from the popular city plaza.

Type of Service

Discuss in detail the type of service your restaurant provides, whether it offers sit-down, fine dining, fast-casual, take-out, or delivery service.

Example: Delicious Delights offers fine dining service while stressing each guest’s personal attention and comfort. We also provide customised catering services for special events and occasions.

Key Goals and Objectives

State your short and long-term goals. These should be SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time-bound).

Example: Our short-term goal is to establish ourselves as a popular food destination in town within a year, building a strong, loyal customer base. In the long run, we plan to open two more branches across the state and start franchise opportunities.

2. Restaurant Concept and Brand

Restaurant concept.

This section should describe, in detail, the type of restaurant you plan to establish and the theme that it will carry. Moreover, explain why this specific restaurant’s concept was chosen.

Example: Delicious Delights is a fine-dining restaurant that revolves around contemporary American cuisine with a Southern twist. We chose this concept because of the rising admiration for American foods and the unique, rich flavours of Southern cuisine, which we believe can create exciting culinary experiences.

Brand Identity

Discuss how you plan to brand your restaurant here. This can include your restaurant’s logo, colour scheme, tone of voice used in advertising, and, in general, what you desire your restaurant to be recognised for.

Example: Our brand identity is about sophistication, warmth, and exceptional culinary experiences. Our logo features a fusion of a chef’s hat and a fork, symbolising our commitment to culinary excellence. We’ve used rustic colours to represent Southern inspiration; our tone is always warm, inviting, and passionate about food. We strive to be recognised for innovative American cuisine, impeccable customer service policies, and lively ambience.

3. Business History & Ownership

Legal status & structure.

Specify your restaurant’s legal status, such as whether it’s a sole proprietorship, a partnership, or a Limited Liability Company (LLC).

Example: Delicious Delights operates as an LLC, providing business partners with the flexibility of a partnership while offering legal protection by limiting personal liability.

Business Ownership

Describe who owns the restaurant, what their roles are, and what their share percentages are if there are multiple owners.

Example: Delicious Delights is co-owned by John Roe and Jane Doe. John, who has extensive culinary experience, holds the executive chef position, and Jane, who has a background in hospitality and other company management, oversees the daily operations and management of the restaurant. They both have equal ownership in the business.

Key Milestones

Describe significant achievements or key moments in your restaurant’s history that illustrate its initial success, growth, or impact.

Example: Since its opening in 2019, Delicious Delights has grown steadily, doubling our dinner service within six months. In 2020, despite the challenges, we introduced a successful take-out menu and catering services, adding a revenue boost. Recently, our city’s lifestyle magazine nominated us under the ‘Best New Restaurants’ category.

4. Business Model

Main revenue sources.

Discuss your restaurant’s main revenue sources. These could include food and beverage sales, merchandise, special events, or catering services.

Example: Delicious Delights primarily generates revenue through food and beverage sales. We also host private parties and events and offer catering services to restaurant businesses, contributing significantly to our income. Additionally, we sell merchandise like branded mugs, t-shirts, and our signature spice blends.

Supply Chain

Discuss your supply chain, including where you source your ingredients from, your relationship with suppliers, and any unique or local products you use.

Example: We pride ourselves on using high-quality, fresh ingredients sourced locally wherever possible. Our meat and poultry come from sustainable, free-range farms within the state. Our vegetables are sourced from local organic farms. We have a good relationship with our suppliers, ensuring we get the best prices and priority delivery.

Special Events

If your restaurant plans to host special events or themed nights that could impact revenue, detail them here.

Example : We plan to host various special events and themed nights, including ‘Southern Nights,’ where we explore and celebrate different Southern cuisines on our menu once a month. We also host wine-tasting events featuring local vineyards and ‘Live Music Fridays,’ which draw a large crowd, boosting our revenue.

5. Industry Analysis

Current market trends.

Explore the prominent trends within the restaurant industry, noting how these trends may influence your restaurant.

Example: Current trends show an increasing demand for farm-to-table dining experiences and an appreciation for local cuisine. At Delicious Delights, we aim to tap into these trends, offering our guests meals prepared with locally sourced, fresh ingredients and serving dishes that are influenced by regional flavours.

Direct and Indirect Competition

Analyse the competitive landscape around your restaurant. Look at both direct competitors (other restaurants) and indirect competitors (like grocery stores or home meal kit delivery services).

Example: Our direct competitors include other fine dining establishments in the city. Indirect competitors include food delivery services and upscale supermarkets promoting ready-to-eat meals. Despite the competition, our unique blend of contemporary and Southern cuisine and our commitment to local sourcing give us a competitive edge.

Competitive Advantage

Discuss what sets your restaurant apart from the competition.

Example: What sets Delicious Delights apart is our menu, which offers a unique fusion of contemporary and Southern flavours, our commitment to local sourcing and fresh ingredients, and our ambience, which seamlessly blends sophistication and homeliness. We also offer a personalised dining experience, where our chefs interact with diners, explaining the story behind each dish.

Positioning and Strategy

Clarify your restaurant’s positioning and the strategy it will adopt to succeed.

Example: Delicious Delights is positioned as a leader in culinary innovation, presenting a modern take on Southern cuisine with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Our strategy is to constantly deliver delightful culinary experiences by experimenting with diverse South American flavours, maintaining superior service, and offering a pleasing environment for our patrons.

6. Public Relations and Marketing Strategy

Pr strategy.

Outline your public relations strategy, including how you plan to gain positive media attention and build a strong reputation within the community.

Example: Our PR strategy involves hosting media tasting events during new menu launches and sending out press releases around key milestones and special events. We plan to engage with bloggers and influencers to highlight our culinary adventures and invite them for exclusive tasting sessions.

Marketing Plan

Discuss your plan to attract and retain customers, whether it’s through social media advertising, a referral program, a loyalty program, or other marketing efforts.

Example: Our marketing plan revolves around digital marketing, primarily utilising social media platforms to engage potential and existing customers. We also plan to launch a loyalty program to provide returning customers exclusive perks. Traditional marketing methods like distributing flyers and local press ads will also be leveraged.

Website and Social Media

Describe plans for your organisation’s online presence, including your website and social media platforms.

Example: Our website features our complete menu, information about our chef, and upcoming events, and it allows direct reservations. We are active on several social media platforms where we showcase behind-the-scenes content, daily specials, food photos, and customer testimonials. It’s a great tool to engage with our audience and keep them updated with what’s new at Delicious Delights.

7. Operations

Staff hiring and roles.

Talk about your restaurant’s hiring practices, the roles needed, including front-of-house and kitchen staff, and any training you provide. Also, forecast future recruitment needs.

Example: We employ a full complement of restaurant staff, including chefs, line cooks, servers, bartenders, hosts, and managers. To ensure the highest level of service, all employees undergo rigorous training upon hiring, with ongoing training provided for customer service and safety standards. As we plan to extend our operating hours, we envisage hiring additional staff.

Daily Operations

Describe your daily operations, from the restaurant’s opening, the general seating procedure, and how orders are taken to closing tasks.

Example: Daily operations at Delicious Delights include pre-opening procedures such as cooking preparation, cleaning, and setup. Once we open, hosts greet and seat customers, servers take orders, and the kitchen staff prepare the meals. Post-service, staff clean the restaurant and prep for the next day. At the same time, the manager runs a daily sales report and restocks inventory as necessary.

Facility Needs (If Applicable)

Discuss the physical needs of your restaurant, such as your kitchen requirements, dining area layout, and any future needs for space expansion.

Example: Our facility includes a spacious kitchen equipped with state-of-the-art appliances, a comfortable dining area, a private dining room for special events, and a small outdoor patio. With our long-term plan of menu expansion, we anticipate requiring additional storage and potentially expanding our kitchen space.

8. Marketing and Communications Strategy

Marketing & outreach.

Describe how you plan to get the word out about your restaurant to the community and potential customers.

Example: We aim to promote Delicious Delights through a combination of digital marketing efforts, including managing an informative website, regular social media updates, and targeted email marketing. Additionally, we will use outdoor advertising, such as billboards in key locations and PR initiatives like food tasting events for local influencers and food critics.

Discuss your restaurant’s online presence, specifically your website and the social media platforms you’ll utilise.

Example: Our website provides detailed information about Delicious Delights including our menu, specials, location, operating hours, and the ability to make a reservation. We will also keep our audience engaged through regular posts and pictures on various social media platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

Community Engagement

Explain how you plan to build relationships with the local community beyond the immediate services you offer.

Example: Delicious Delights plans to actively participate in local events and festivals by hosting food stalls or sponsorships. We also contemplate organising free monthly cooking workshops where our chefs and patrons can meet, discuss, and bond over their love for food.

9. Financial Plan

Startup budget/ current annual budget.

List your restaurant’s current or projected financial status. Include information about present/anticipated income and expenses.

Example: Our projected annual budget for this year is $1.5 million, with income anticipated from food and beverage sales, event hosting, and merchandise sales. Major expenses include food costs, labour, rent, utilities, and marketing.

Proposed Financing

Review your financial strategy, including how to manage any income shortfalls. Discuss your plans for potential investments or loans, if any.

Example: We plan to finance our restaurant through a blend of owner’s equity and bank loans. In the case of revenue shortfalls, we have planned for a revolving credit facility, which we can access as needed.

Key Financial Assumptions and Justifications

Mention any assumptions you have made while planning your finances, with suitable justifications for each assumption.

Example: Based on our market survey and the growing food culture in our locality, we have an estimated revenue growth of 10% per annum. Food costs are anticipated to remain at about 30% of total revenue, as we plan to manage these costs diligently by carefully selecting vendors and regularly reviewing our food waste.

10. Appendices

Organisational chart.

Include a visual hierarchy of staff and management positions within your restaurant.

Example: Our organisational chart outlines our management structure, starting with the restaurant owner and followed by the restaurant manager, chef, kitchen staff, front-of-house manager, and servers, providing clarity on role responsibilities and interactions.

Resumes of Key Staff

A brief bio or resume of your key team members can help you better understand their expertise, skills, and experience.

Example: Attached are the resumes of our Head Chef and Restaurant Manager. Both have significant industry experience and a track record of success in their respective fields.

Detailed Budget

Have a detailed budget breakdown, including income and expenses, if you’ve referred to it in your financial plan.

Example: Enclosed is a detailed version of our annual budget, indicating how resources are allocated between food costs, labour, rent, utilities, and marketing, and how we have planned for our income.

Evidence of Market Demand

Include any results from market research or demand surveys that support the viability of your restaurant in the location where you plan to operate.

Example: Find attached excerpts from a local market survey we conducted, which shows substantial demand for restaurants offering local cuisine with a modern twist in our city, underlining the potential for success of Delicious Delights.

Recent Posts

  • Accounting (32)
  • Business and Leadership Skills (56)
  • Business Plan Templates (4)
  • Business Setup (46)
  • Business Software and Tools (59)
  • Business Success and Challenges (71)
  • Entrepreneurship (183)
  • Featured Posts (24)
  • Finance (60)
  • Free Zones (35)
  • Human Resources (48)
  • Living in Dubai (23)
  • Mainland (15)
  • UAE Company Setup (139)
  • Uncategorized (1)

Start your business today

Book your free 15 minute consultation.

Avoid expensive mistakes when setting up your business. Talk to one of our experts now.

Want to save on your business setup?

Starting a business? Check out our latest business setup offers now!

How much does it cost to start a company in Dubai?

Find out how much investment you’ll need to launch your own company in the UAE.

Get your FREE copy of our UAE Business Setup Guide

Discover the trade secrets to starting and growing a successful business in the UAE.

  • Credit cards
  • View all credit cards
  • Banking guide
  • Loans guide
  • Insurance guide
  • Personal finance
  • View all personal finance
  • Small business
  • Small business guide
  • View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

How to Write a Restaurant Business Plan

Sally Lauckner

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

When starting a business—no matter what type of business that may be—a business plan is essential to map out your intentions and direction. That’s the same for a restaurant business plan, which will help you figure out where you fit in the landscape, how you’re going to differ from other establishments around you, how you’ll market your business, and even what you’re going to serve. A business plan for your restaurant can also help you later if you choose to apply for a business loan .

While opening a restaurant isn’t as risky as you’ve likely heard, you still want to ensure that you’re putting thought and research into your business venture to set it up for success. And that’s where a restaurant business plan comes in.

We’ll go through how to create a business plan for a restaurant and a few reasons why it’s so important. After you review the categories and the restaurant business plan examples, you can use the categories to make a restaurant business plan template and start your journey.

business plan about restaurant example

Why you shouldn’t skip a restaurant business plan

First-time restaurateurs and industry veterans alike all need to create a business plan when opening a new restaurant . That’s because, even if you deeply understand your business and its nuances (say, seasonal menu planning or how to order correct quantities), a restaurant is more than its operations. There’s marketing, financing, the competitive landscape, and more—and each of these things is unique to each door you open.

That’s why it’s so crucial to understand how to create a business plan for a restaurant. All of these things and more will be addressed in the document—which should run about 20 or 30 pages—so you’ll not only have a go-to-market strategy, but you’ll also likely figure out some things about your business that you haven’t even thought of yet.

Additionally, if you’re planning to apply for business funding down the line, some loans—including the highly desirable SBA loan —actually require you to submit your business plan to gain approval. In other words: Don’t skip this step!

How much do you need?

with Fundera by NerdWallet

We’ll start with a brief questionnaire to better understand the unique needs of your business.

Once we uncover your personalized matches, our team will consult you on the process moving forward.

How to write a restaurant business plan: Step by step

There’s no absolute format for a restaurant business plan that you can’t stray from—some of these sections might be more important than others, for example, or you might find that there’s a logical order that makes more sense than the one in the restaurant business plan example below. However, this business plan outline will serve as a good foundation, and you can use it as a restaurant business plan template for when you write your own.

Executive summary

Your executive summary is one to two pages that kick off your business plan and explain your vision. Even though this might seem like an introduction that no one will read, that isn’t the case. In fact, some investors only ask for the executive summary. So, you’ll want to spend a lot of time perfecting it.

Your restaurant business plan executive summary should include information on:

Mission statement: Your goals and objectives

General company information: Include your founding date, team roles (i.e. executive chef, sous chefs, sommeliers), and locations

Category and offerings: What category your restaurant fits into, what you’re planning to serve (i.e. farm-to-table or Korean), and why

Context for success: Any past success you’ve had, or any current financial data that’ll support that you are on the path to success

Financial requests: If you’re searching for investment or financing, include your plans and goals here and any financing you’ve raised or borrowed thus far

Future plans: Your vision for where you’re going in the next year, three years, and five years

When you’re done with your executive summary, you should feel like you’ve provided a bird’s eye view of your entire business plan. In fact, even though this section is first, you will likely write it last so you can take the highlights from each of the subsequent sections.

And once you’re done, read it on its own: Does it give a comprehensive, high-level overview of your restaurant, its current state, and your vision for the future? Remember, this may be the only part of your business plan potential investors or partners will read, so it should be able to stand on its own and be interesting enough to make them want to read the rest of your plan.

Company overview

This is where you’ll dive into the specifics of your company, detailing the kind of restaurant you’re looking to create, who’s helping you do it, and how you’re prepared to accomplish it.

Your restaurant business plan company overview should include:

Purpose: The type of restaurant you’re opening (fine dining, fast-casual, pop-up, etc.), type of food you’re serving, goals you have, and the niche you hope to fill in the market

Area: Information on the area in which you’re opening

Customers: Whom you’re hoping to target, their demographic information

Legal structure: Your business entity (i.e. LLC, LLP, etc.) and how many owners you have

Similar to your executive summary, you won’t be going into major detail here as the sections below will get into the nitty-gritty. You’ll want to look at this as an extended tear sheet that gives someone a good grip on your restaurant or concept, where it fits into the market, and why you’re starting it.

Team and management

Barely anything is as important for a restaurant as the team that runs it. You’ll want to create a section dedicated to the members of your staff—even the ones that aren’t yet hired. This will provide a sense of who is taking care of what, and how you need to structure and build out the team to get your restaurant operating at full steam.

Your restaurant business plan team and management section should have:

Management overview: Who is running the restaurant, what their experience and qualifications are, and what duties they’ll be responsible for

Staff: Other employees you’ve brought on and their bios, as well as other spots you anticipate needing to hire for

Ownership percentage: Which individuals own what percentage of the restaurant, or if you are an employee-owned establishment

Be sure to update this section with more information as your business changes and you continue to share this business plan—especially because who is on your team will change both your business and the way people look at it.

Sample menu

You’ll also want to include a sample menu in your restaurant business plan so readers have a sense of what they can expect from your operations, as well as what your diners can expect from you when they sit down. This will also force you to consider exactly what you want to serve your diners and how your menu will stand out from similar restaurants in the area. Although a sample menu is in some ways self-explanatory, consider the following:

Service : If your brunch is as important as your dinner, provide both menus; you also might want to consider including both a-la-carte and prix fixe menus if you plan to offer them.

Beverage/wine service: If you’ll have an emphasis on specialty beverages or wine, a separate drinks list could be important.

Seasonality: If you’re a highly seasonal restaurant, you might want to consider providing menus for multiple seasons to demonstrate how your dishes (and subsequent purchasing) will change.

Market analysis

This is where you’ll begin to dive deeper. Although you’ve likely mentioned your market and the whitespace you hope to address, the market analysis section will enable you to prove your hypotheses.

Your restaurant business plan market analysis should include:

Industry information: Include a description of the restaurant industry, its size, growth trends, and other trends regarding things such as tastes, trends, demographics, structures, etc.

Target market: Zoom in on the area and neighborhood in which you’re opening your restaurant as well as the type of cuisine you’re serving.

Target market characteristics: Describe your customers and their needs, how/if their needs are currently being served, other important pieces about your specific location and customers.

Target market size and growth: Include a data-driven section on the size of your market, trends in its growth, how your target market fits into the industry as a whole, projected growth of your market, etc.

Market share potential: Share how much potential there is in the market, how much your presence will change the market, and how much your specific restaurant or restaurant locations can own of the open market; also touch on any barriers to growth or entry you might see.

Market pricing: Explain how you’ll be pricing your menu and where you’ll fall relative to your competitors or other restaurants in the market.

Competitive research: Include research on your closest competitors, how they are both succeeding and failing, how customers view them, etc.

If this section seems like it might be long, it should—it’s going to outline one of the most important parts of your strategy, and should feel comprehensive. Lack of demand is the number one reason why new businesses fail, so the goal of this section should be to prove that there is demand for your restaurant and show how you’ll capitalize on it.

Additionally, if market research isn’t your forte, don’t be shy to reach out to market research experts to help you compile the data, or at least read deeply on how to conduct effective research.

Marketing and sales

Your marketing and sales section should feel like a logical extension of your market analysis section, since all of the decisions you’ll make in this section should follow the data of the prior section.

The marketing and sales sections of your restaurant business plan should include:

Positioning: How you’ll describe your restaurant to potential customers, the brand identity and visuals you’ll use to do it, and how you’ll stand out in the market based on the brand you’re building

Promotion: The tools, tactics, and platforms you’ll use to market your business

Sales: How you’ll convert on certain items, and who/how you will facilitate any additional revenue streams (i.e. catering)

It’s likely that you’ll only have concepts for some of these elements, especially if you’re not yet open. Still, get to paper all of the ideas you have, and you can (and should) always update them later as your restaurant business becomes more fully formed.

Business operations

The business operations section should get to the heart of how you plan to run your business. It will highlight both internal factors as well as external forces that will dictate how you run the ship.

The business operations section should include:

Management team: Your management structure and hierarchy, and who is responsible for what

Hours: Your hours and days of operation

Location: What’s special about your location that will get people through the door

Relationships: Any advantageous relationships you have with fellow restaurateurs, places for sourcing and buying, business organizations, or consultants on your team

Add here anything you think could be helpful for illustrating how you’re going to do business and what will affect it.

Here, you’ll detail the current state of your business finances and project where you hope to be in a year, three years, and five years. You’ll want to detail what you’ve spent, what you will spend, where you’ll get the money, costs you might incur, and returns you’ll hope to see—including when you can expect to break even and turn a profit.

Financial statements: If you’ve been in business for any amount of time, include existing financial statements (i.e. profit and loss, balance sheet, cash flow, etc.)

Budget: Your current budget or a general startup budget

Projections: Include revenue, cash flow, projected profit and loss, and other costs

Debt: Include liabilities if the business has any outstanding debt or loans

Funding request: If you’re requesting a loan or an investment, lay out how much capital you’re looking for, your company’s valuation (if applicable), and the purpose of the funding

Above all, as you’re putting your financials together, be realistic—even conservative. You want to give any potential investors a realistic picture of your business.

Feel like there are other important components but they don't quite fit in any of the other categories (or make them run too long)? That’s what the restaurant business plan appendix section is for. And although in, say, a book, an appendix can feel like an afterthought, don’t ignore it—this is another opportunity for you to include crucial information that can give anyone reading your plan some context. You may include additional data, graphs, marketing collateral (like logo mockups), and more.

ZenBusiness

Start Your Dream Business

The bottom line

Whether you’re writing a restaurant business plan for investors, lenders, or simply for yourself and your team, the most important thing to do is make sure your document is comprehensive. A good business plan for a restaurant will take time—and maybe a little sweat—to complete fully and correctly.

One other crucial thing to remember: a business plan is not a document set in stone. You should often look to it to make sure you’re keeping your vision and mission on track, but you should also feel prepared to update its components as you learn more about your business and individual restaurant.

This article originally appeared on JustBusiness, a subsidiary of NerdWallet.

On a similar note...

One blue credit card on a flat surface with coins on both sides.

Sling is now Sling by Toast! Learn more

More Features

business plan about restaurant example

  • Restaurants
  • Get Started

Restaurant Business Plan

Restaurant Business Plan: What To Include, Plus 8 Examples

  • Business Growth & Management , Templates & Guides

Do you want to ensure the success of your new foodservice endeavor? Write a restaurant business plan.

In this article, the experts at Sling tell you why a business plan is vital for both new and existing businesses and give you tips on what to include.

Table Of Contents

What Is A Restaurant Business Plan?

Why is a restaurant business plan important, questions to ask first, what to include in an effective restaurant business plan, how to format a restaurant business plan, efficient workforce management is essential for success.

Man looking at charts on a wall for his restaurant business plan

At its most basic, a restaurant business plan is a written document that describes your restaurant’s goals and the steps you will take to make those goals a reality.

This business plan also describes the nature of the business itself, financial projections, background information, and organizational strategies  that govern the day-to-day activity of your restaurant.

Empty fine-dining restaurant

A restaurant business plan is vital for the success of your endeavor because, without one, it is very difficult — sometimes even impossible — to obtain funding from an investor or a bank.

Without that all-important starting or operational capital, you may not be able to keep your doors open for long, if at all.

Even if funding isn’t a primary concern, a business plan provides you — the business owner or manager — with clear direction on how to translate general strategies into actionable plans  for reaching your goals.

The plan can help solidify everything from the boots-on-the-ground functional strategy  to the mid-level business strategy  all the way up to the driving-force corporate strategy .

Think of this plan as a roadmap that guides your way when things are going smoothly and, more importantly, when they aren’t.

If you want to give your restaurant the best chance for success, start by writing a business plan.

Man on laptop writing a restaurant business plan

Sitting down to write a restaurant business plan can be a daunting task.

As you’ll see in the What To Include In An Effective Restaurant Business Plan section below, you’ll need a lot of information and detail to ensure that the final document is both complete and effective.

Instead of starting with word one, it is hugely beneficial to answer a number of general questions first.

These questions will help you narrow down the information to include in your plan so the composition process feels less difficult.

The questions are:

  • What problem does the business’s product or service solve?
  • What niche will the business fill?
  • What is the business’s solution to the problem?
  • Who are the business’s customers?
  • How will the business market and sell its products to them?
  • What is the size of the market for this solution?
  • What is the business model for the business?
  • How will the business make money?
  • Who are the competitors?
  • How will the business maintain a competitive advantage?
  • How does the business plan to manage growth?
  • Who will run the business?
  • What makes those individuals qualified to do so?
  • What are the risks and threats confronting the business?
  • What can you do to mitigate those risks and threats?
  • What are the business’s capital and resource requirements?
  • What are the business’s historical and projected financial statements?

Depending on your business, some of these questions may not apply or you may not have applicable answers.

Nevertheless, it helps to think about, and try to provide details for, the whole list so your finished restaurant business plan is as complete as possible.

Once you’ve answered the questions for your business, you can transfer a large portion of that information to the business plan itself.

We’ll discuss exactly what to include in the next section.

Man mapping out a restaurant business plan

In this section, we’ll show you what to include in an effective restaurant business plan and provide a brief example of each component.

1) Executive Summary

You should always start any business plan with an executive summary. This gives the reader a brief introduction into common elements, such as:

  • Mission statement
  • Overhead costs
  • Labor costs
  • Return on investment (ROI)

This portion of your plan should pique the reader’s interest and make them want to read more.

Fanty & Mingo’s is a 50-seat fine-dining restaurant that will focus on Sweruvian (Swedish/Peruvian) fusion fare.

We will keep overhead and labor costs low thanks to simple but elegant decor , highly skilled food-prep staff, and well-trained servers.

Because of the location and surrounding booming economy, we estimate ROI at 20 percent per annum.

2) Mission Statement

A mission statement is a short description of what your business does for its customers, employees, and owners.

This is in contrast to your business’s vision statement which is a declaration of objectives that guide internal decision-making.

While the two are closely related and can be hard to distinguish, it often helps to think in terms of who, what, why, and where.

The vision statement is the where of your business — where you want your business to be and where you want your customers and community to be as a result.

The mission statement is the who , what , and why of your business — it’s an action plan that makes the vision statement a reality

Here’s an example of a mission statement for our fictional company:

Fanty and Mingo’s takes pride in making the best Sweruvian food, providing fast, friendly, and accurate service. It is our goal to be the employer of choice and offer team members opportunities for growth, advancement, and a rewarding career in a fun and safe working environment.

3) Company Description

Taking notes on restaurant business plan

In this section of your restaurant business plan, you fully introduce your company to the reader. Every business’s company description will be different and include its own pertinent information.

Useful details to include are:

  • Owner’s details
  • Brief description of their experience
  • Legal standing
  • Short-term goals
  • Long-term goals
  • Brief market study
  • An understanding of the trends in your niche
  • Why your business will succeed in these market conditions

Again, you don’t have to include all of this information in your company description. Choose the ones that are most relevant to your business and make the most sense to communicate to your readers.

Fanty & Mingo’s will start out as an LLC, owned and operated by founders Malcolm Reynolds and Zoe Washburne. Mr. Reynolds will serve as managing partner and Ms. Washburne as general manager.

We will combine atmosphere, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and menu variety to create a unique experience for our diners and to reach our goal of high value in the fusion food niche.

Our gross margin is higher than industry average, but we plan to spend more on payroll to attract the best team.

We estimate moderate growth for the first two years while word-of-mouth about our restaurant spreads through the area.

4) Market Analysis

A market analysis is a combination of three different views of the niche you want to enter:

  • The industry  as a whole
  • The competition your restaurant will face
  • The marketing  you’ll execute to bring in customers

This section should be a brief introduction to these concepts. You can expand on them in other sections of your restaurant business plan.

The restaurant industry in our chosen location is wide open thanks in large part to the revitalization of the city’s center.

A few restaurants have already staked their claim there, but most are bars and non-family-friendly offerings.

Fanty & Mingo’s will focus on both tourist and local restaurant clientele. We want to bring in people that have a desire for delicious food and an exotic atmosphere.

We break down our market into five distinct categories:

  • High-end singles
  • Businessmen and businesswomen

We will target those markets to grow our restaurant  by up to 17 percent per year.

restaurant menu board

Every restaurant needs a good menu, and this is the section within your restaurant business plan that you describe the food you’ll serve in as much detail as possible.

You may not have your menu design complete, but you’ll likely have at least a handful of dishes that serve as the foundation of your offerings.

It’s also essential to discuss pricing and how it reflects your overall goals and operating model. This will give potential investors and partners a better understanding of your business’s target price point and profit strategy.

We don’t have room to describe a sample menu in this article, but for more information on menu engineering, menu pricing, and even a menu template, check out these helpful articles from the Sling blog:

  • Menu Engineering: What It Is And How It Can Increase Profits
  • Restaurant Menu Pricing: 7 Tips To Maximize Profitability
  • How To Design Your Menu | Free Restaurant Menu Template

6) Location

In this section, describe your potential location (or locations) so that you and your investors have a clear image of what the restaurant will look like.

Include plenty of information about the location — square footage, floor plan , design , demographics of the area, parking, etc. — to make it feel as real as possible.

We will locate Fanty & Mingo’s in the booming and rapidly expanding downtown sector of Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Ideally, we will secure at least 2,000 square feet of space with a large, open-plan dining room and rich color scheme near the newly built baseball stadium to capitalize on the pre- and post-game traffic and to appeal to the young urban professionals that live in the area.

Parking will be available along side streets and in the 1,000-vehicle parking garage two blocks away.

7) Marketing

Chef working in a restaurant

The marketing section of your restaurant business plan is where you should elaborate on the information you introduced in the Market Analysis section.

Go into detail about the plans you have to introduce your restaurant to the public and keep it at the top of their mind.

Fanty & Mingo’s will employ three distinct marketing tactics to increase and maintain customer awareness:

  • Word-of-mouth/in-restaurant marketing
  • Partnering with other local businesses
  • Media exposure

We will direct each tactic at a different segment of our potential clientele in order to maximize coverage.

In the process of marketing to our target audience, we will endeavor to harness the reach of direct mail and broadcast media, the exclusivity of the VIP party, and the elegance of a highly trained sommelier and wait staff.

8) Financials

Even though the Financials section is further down in your restaurant business plan, it is one of the most important components for securing investors and bank funding.

We recommend hiring a trained accountant  to help you prepare this section so that it will be as accurate and informative as possible.

Fanty & Mingo’s needs $250,000 of capital investment over the next year and a half for the following:

  • Renovations to leased space
  • Dining room furniture
  • Kitchen and food-prep equipment
  • Liquor license

Projected profit and loss won’t jump drastically in the first year, but, over time, Fanty & Mingo’s will develop its reputation and client base. This will lead to more rapid growth toward the third and fourth years of business.

working on restaurant business plan

Most entrepreneurs starting a new business find it valuable to have multiple formats of their business plan.

The information, data, and details remain the same, but the length and how you present them will change to fit a specific set of circumstances.

Below we discuss the four most common business plan formats to cover a multitude of potential situations.

Elevator Pitch

An elevator pitch is a short summary of your restaurant business plan’s executive summary.

Rather than being packed full of details, the elevator pitch is a quick teaser of sorts that you use on a short elevator ride (hence the name) to stimulate interest in potential customers, partners, and investors

As such, an effective elevator pitch is between 30 and 60 seconds and hits the high points of your restaurant business plan.

A pitch deck is a slide show and oral presentation that is designed to stimulate discussion and motivate interested parties to investigate deeper into your stakeholder plan (more on that below).

Most pitch decks are designed to cover the executive summary and include key graphs that illustrate market trends and benchmarks you used (and will use) to make decisions about your business.

Some entrepreneurs even include time and space in their pitch deck to demonstrate new products coming down the pipeline.

This won’t necessarily apply to a restaurant business plan, but, if logistics permit, you could distribute small samples of your current fare or tasting portions of new dishes you’re developing.

Stakeholder Plan (External)

A stakeholder plan is the standard written presentation that business owners use to describe the details of their business model to customers, partners, and potential investors.

The stakeholder plan can be as long as is necessary to communicate the current and future state of your business, but it must be well-written, well-formatted, and targeted at those looking at your business from the outside in.

Think of your stakeholder plan as a tool to convince others that they should get involved in making your business a reality. Write it in such a way that readers will want to partner with you to help your business grow.

Management Plan (Internal)

A management plan is a form of your restaurant business plan that describes the details that the owners and managers need to make the business run smoothly.

While the stakeholder plan is an external document, the management plan is an internal document.

Most of the details in the management plan will be of little or no interest to external stakeholders so you can write it with a higher degree of candor and informality.

Sling app for managing a restaurant business plan

After you’ve created your restaurant business plan, it’s time to take steps to make it a reality.

One of the biggest challenges in ensuring that your business runs smoothly and successfully is managing  and optimizing  your team. The Sling  app can help.

Sling not only includes powerful and intuitive artificial-intelligence-based scheduling tools but also many other features to help make your workforce management more efficient, including:

  • Time and attendance tracking
  • Built-in time clock
  • Labor cost  optimization
  • Data analysis and reporting
  • Messaging and communication
  • And much more…

Sling's scheduling feature

With Sling, you can schedule faster, communicate better, and organize and manage your work from a single, integrated platform. And when you use Sling for all of your scheduling  needs, you’ll have more time to focus on bringing your restaurant business plan to life.

For more free resources to help you manage your business better, organize and schedule your team, and track and calculate labor costs, visit GetSling.com  today.

See Here For Last Updated Dates: Link

This content is for informational purposes and is not intended as legal, tax, HR, or any other professional advice. Please contact an attorney or other professional for specific advice.

Find the article useful? Share with others:

New call-to-action

Related articles

Restaurant Mission Statement

How To Write Your Ideal Restaurant Mission Statement + 15 Inspiring Examples

Whether you run a one-person food cart, a small eatery with fewer than five empl...

typewriter with business goals

12 Examples of Small Business Goals, Plus How to Achieve Your Own

Want to improve the way your business operates? Learn some of the more common bu...

laptop displaying a restaurant website

55 Restaurant Marketing Tips To Win Your Market

Discover the best restaurant marketing tips and learn how you can harness onlin...

Get started today

Schedule faster, communicate better, get things done.

Upmetrics AI Assistant: Simplifying Business Planning through AI-Powered Insights. Learn How

Entrepreneurs & Small Business

Accelerators & Incubators

Business Consultants & Advisors

Educators & Business Schools

Students & Scholars

AI Business Plan Generator

Financial Forecasting

AI Assistance

Ai Pitch Deck Generator

Strategic Planning

See How Upmetrics Works  →

  • Sample Plans
  • WHY UPMETRICS?

Customers Success Stories

Business Plan Course

Small Business Tools

Strategic Canvas Templates

E-books, Guides & More

  • Sample Business Plans
  • Food, Beverage & Restaurant

How to Write a Restaurant Business Plan + Free Template

business plan about restaurant example

2. Company Overview

Company overview is a part where you fully introduce your restaurant business including legal business structure, location, and your restaurant’s proposed concept.

Here you have the liberty to be a little more creative in describing your restaurant in the whole business plan.

Here are some points to incorporate in the company overview:

  • Detailed vision and mission statement
  • Type of restaurant (fine dining, small restaurant, bistro, cafe, etc.)
  • Legal business structure
  • Service style
  • History and background of the restaurant (if existing)
  • Owners’ names and qualifications
  • Cusinies & menu highlights
  • Restaurant size and seating capacity
  • Operating hours & meal plans
  • Related service availability (delivery, catering, etc)

Mainly emphasize the chosen location because easily accessible locations with high foot traffic will attract more walk-in customers. And if you haven’t decided on a specific location yet, then mention the type of place you are looking for to give an idea about it to your readers.

Besides, mention the short-term and long-term goals of your restaurant business in the later part of the company description. Along with that mention regional industry trends and your USPs.

business plan about restaurant example

Need Assistance Writing a Restaurant Business Plan?

Get Upmetrics’ business plan template, import data directly into the editor, and start editing using Upmetrics AI Assistant.

Upmetrics AI assistance

Start Planning Now

3. Market analysis

The market analysis section provides you with a clearer picture of your target market, competitors, and industry trends.

Based on the above details, one can make informed decisions while creating strategies. Therefore, make this section precise and concise to understand.

Here are some steps to follow to write an engaging market analysis section of the restaurant business plan:

  • Define your customer base: Identify and describe whom you are going to serve. Make a consumer base after considering the demographics, location, and concept of your restaurant.
  • Competitive analysis: List out the names of other restaurants in your location and do the SWOT analysis. You can get the competitive advantage of your restaurant this way.
  • Market trends: Discuss any shift in consumer behavior like healthy choices, an increase in vegan food consumption, or technological breakthroughs that might affect your restaurant.

Consider conducting market research, TAM-SAM-SOM analysis , and SWOT analysis to get insights for this section.

Remember, this section helps your readers and potential investors understand your target market, restaurant market overview, market size, and growth potential, so make sure you play your cards right.

4. Sample Menu

The most vital step in launching your restaurant business is the menu. A well-curated menu design will sell itself for your restaurant. Even if you are a new restaurant, then present the sample menu with the name and logo of your restaurant on it.

The menu will showcase all the unique offerings your direct competitors might not provide. Not just the list of cuisines but the pricing is also crucial. This way potential investors and readers can understand your restaurant’s target price point.

Plus your menu should be in sync with target customers; for example, a restaurant near the university should contain more beverages and delicious food options for brunch as students prefer those things more.

Consider your menu as a part of branding, choose the same theme for the menu as for the restaurant.

5. Restaurant Design

Restaurant design is the part where you can show your restaurant concept to potential investors and readers practically. Moreover, create a mood board to explain things smoothly.

Utilize this section to show the uniqueness of your restaurant, and how it is different from competitors.

Explain how your design represents your restaurant’s branding and visual identity. Furthermore, mention how your target market will enjoy and appreciate the ambiance you plan to provide.

Note that restaurant design is one of the key elements to running a successful restaurant, so match the theme and cuisines accordingly.

In this section, you also have to provide a detailed description of how many seats are going to be there along with the floor plan of your restaurant.

6. Management Team

As the name suggests, the management team section of your restaurant’s business plan introduces restaurant owners, key executives, and the management team. It also incorporates the experience, qualification, and restaurant industry knowledge of every individual who is on the team.

A strong management team section can be essential to weigh authority and help potential investors be confident about your restaurant’s idea and vision.

You might consider including the following information in the management team section:

  • Business owner or founder’s information
  • Executive chef and culinary team
  • Front-of-house manager
  • Operations and back-of-house team
  • Advisors/consultants
  • The organizational structure of the team

Showcase how each member fits and what roles & responsibilities they will play.  You should include a resume-styled summary for each person in the restaurant’s management section.

7. Operations Plan

The operations plan section outlines the daily business processes and activities centered on achieving the restaurant dream and objectives described in the rest of the plan.

A detailed operations plan helps you and your team define your responsibilities, daily tasks, and short-term goals you need to achieve, keeping track of your long-term objective.

Here are a few key elements to include in your operations plan section:

  • Staffing and training
  • Operating hours
  • Operational process
  • Tools and equipment
  • Inventory control
  • Technology and software
  • Quality control measures
  • Customer service policies

Remember it should incorporate all important daily tasks. Also, an operations plan is a living document, you can change it often according to the change in the dynamics of the work.

Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Restaurant Operations Planning

8. Marketing Plan

Even with great food, prices, and ambiance, you won’t attract enough diners without marketing.

Thus, a well-crafted restaurant marketing plan is necessary to spread awareness and build a strong brand presence.

The marketing plan can help you streamline your marketing efforts and create impactful and effective marketing campaigns while keeping track of the projected budget and maximizing return on investment.

Hence, this is the section in which you give an idea to your potential investors about how you will acquire new customers and retain existing ones. This section should include:

  • Target market and their dining habits
  • Branding and positioning
  • Marketing strategies (website, social media accounts, etc.)
  • Marketing Calendar
  • USPs of your restaurant (unique ambiance, amiable staff, new cuisines in the local area)
  • Your marketing goals
  • Customer retention strategies (loyalty program, giving coupons or discounts on bulk orders or events)

Even if you are going to hire a PR agency for marketing, then mention it and the reason why you chose them.

After taking care of marketing, let us move further to finances.

Read More: Step-by-Step Guide to Restaurant Marketing Plan

9. Financial Plan

The financial plan is the most crucial and demanding section of any business plan. It is one of the deciding factors for potential investors, banks, or any financial institute to invest in your restaurant business.

This section of your plan details your restaurant’s financial information and how it will reach its financial goals or how much revenue potential it has.

Here are key components and statements that you should include in your financial plan section:

  • Pro forma profit and loss statement
  • Break-even analysis
  • Balance sheet
  • Sales forecast
  • Detailed cost analysis
  • Cash flow projections
  • Business ratios
  • Funding request
  • Tax considerations
  • Exit strategy

Before you create financial projections, know how many seats the restaurant will have and what services you plan to provide. This will help you in making realistic financial projections if you are going to start a new business.

Also, if you are asking for funding, then mention where you will utilize your funds.

We hope that this sample restaurant business plan will provide you with an idea for writing a successful plan.

Restaurant Industry Highlights 2024

  • Growth forecast : National Restaurant Association predicted US restaurant sales to reach $898 billion in 2022 which would further grow by 4% yearly to reach $1.2 trillion by 2030.
  • Technology is everywhere : Automation is helping staff maximize their efficiency by handling orders, deliveries, and communication effectively.
  • Sustainability & ethical sourcing : Eco-friendly practices such as minimizing food waste, avoiding single-use plastics, and ethical plus local sourcing are encouraged by customers.
  • Delivery is the new deal : People prefer deliveries over dining out as they are time-saving. So, there is an incline in the number of delivery apps and delivery services providing restaurants.
  • Kiosks are the preference : The number of people who prefer ordering and paying through kiosks is increasing due to the convenience.

How to Refine & Present a Restaurant Business Plan

Once you have written your entire business plan, it is time to read and re-read it and make it error-free. You have to be confident about every aspect of the plan before you present it in front of your audience.

Moreover, alter your plan to suit different audiences to enhance your communication. For instance, keep your plan professional and include all the growth potential, profitability, and ROI data when you present your restaurant business plan for seeking funding.

Also, when you present your restaurant business plan to potential partners or vendors, emphasize collaboration benefits and how it can help in their individual growth.

Apart from the above points, make sure your plan has various engaging visuals, interactive elements, and enhanced storytelling to present all the data interestingly. Thus, make a digital presentation of your plan to incorporate all the above things clutter-free.

Once you are confident, it is time to email your plan to the people already on your mind. And give a pat to yourself for finally taking that step.

Download a sample business plan for a restaurant

Ready to kick-start your business plan writing process? And not sure where to start? Here you go, download our free restaurant business plan pdf , and start writing.

This intuitive, modern, and investment-ready template is designed specifically for restaurants. It includes step-by-step instructions & examples to help in creating your own restaurant business plan.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

crossline

Related Restaurant Resources

  • Restaurant Marketing Plan
  • Restaurant Financial Plan
  • Restaurant Operations Plan
  • Restaurant Industry Trends

Discover how Upmetrics can help you write a business plan

With Upmetrics, you will receive step-by-step guidance, customizable templates, 400+ sample business plans , and AI assistance to streamline your business planning process.

In fact, if you are not adept with finances, the financial forecasting tool Upmetrics provides will help you create realistic financial forecasts for 3 or more years.

Whether you’re starting a new venture or looking to grow one, Upmetrics offers the resources and insights you need to develop a successful & professional business plan that aligns with your goals.

Related Posts

Fast Food Restaurant Business Plan

Fast Food Restaurant Business Plan

Seafood Restaurant Business Plan

Seafood Restaurant Business Plan

Tips for Business Plan Cover Pages

Tips for Business Plan Cover Pages

AI Tools for Writing Business Plan

AI Tools for Writing Business Plan

Frequently asked questions, why do you need a restaurant business plan.

A solid business plan is an essential tool for anyone looking to start or run a successful restaurant business. It helps to get clarity in your business, raise money, and identify potential challenges while starting and growing your business.

How to get funding for your restaurant business?

There are several ways to get funding for your restaurant business, but self-funding is one of the most efficient and speedy funding options. Other options for funding are:

  • Bank loan – You may apply for a loan in government or private banks.
  • Small Business Administration (SBA) loan – SBA loans and schemes are available at affordable interest rates, so check the eligibility criteria before applying for it.
  • Crowdfunding – The process of supporting a project or business by getting a lot of people to invest in your business, usually online.
  • Angel investors – Getting funds from angel investors is one of the most sought startup options.

What is the easiest way to write your restaurant business plan?

A lot of research is necessary for writing a business plan, but you can write your plan most efficiently with the help of restaurant business plan samples and edit it as per your needs. You can also quickly finish your plan in just a few hours or less with the help of our business plan software .

Can a good restaurant business plan help me secure funding?

Indeed. A well-crafted restaurant business plan will help your investors better understand your business domain, market trends, strategies, business financials, and growth potential—helping them make better financial decisions.

What's the importance of a marketing strategy in a restaurant business plan?

Marketing strategy is a key component of your restaurant business plan. Whether it is about achieving goals or helping your investors understand the return on investment—an impactful marketing strategy is the way to do it!

Here are a few pointers to help you understand the importance of having a marketing strategy:

  • It provides your business an edge over your competitors.
  • It helps investors better understand your business and growth potential.
  • It helps you develop products with the best profit potential.
  • It helps you set accurate pricing for your products or services.

About the Author

business plan about restaurant example

Vinay Kevadiya

Vinay Kevadiya is the founder and CEO of Upmetrics, the #1 business planning software. His ultimate goal with Upmetrics is to revolutionize how entrepreneurs create, manage, and execute their business plans. He enjoys sharing his insights on business planning and other relevant topics through his articles and blog posts. Read more

Plan your business in the shortest time possible

No Risk – Cancel at Any Time – 15 Day Money Back Guarantee

Popular Templates

bpb AI Feature Image

Create a great Business Plan with great price.

  • 400+ Business plan templates & examples
  • AI Assistance & step by step guidance
  • 4.8 Star rating on Trustpilot

Streamline your business planning process with Upmetrics .

Download How to Write a Restaurant Business Plan + Free Template

Restaurant Business Plan: Step-by-Step Guide + examples

Dreaming of opening a 🍴 restaurant? Passion, creativity, and delicious food are key. But for long-term success, a business plan is essential too.

Maja Jankowska's photo

Maja Jankowska

business plan about restaurant example

Are you dreaming of owning your own restaurant? Picture the sizzle of a hot skillet, the laughter of satisfied guests, and the fulfillment of sharing your culinary creations with the world. But before you dive into this flavorful adventure, there’s a crucial ingredient you can’t overlook: a winning restaurant business plan.

Restaurant business plan with step by step guide

What is a business plan for?

A business plan is a vital document for every restaurant owner. It provides a roadmap for success, helps secure funding, guides financial and operational decisions, mitigates risks, and facilitates effective communication. 

Just like any other business, a restaurant needs a well-crafted business plan to ensure its success and sustainability. Without a business plan, you risk operating in the dark, making decisions on a whim, and facing unexpected challenges that could have been avoided. 

Investing time and effort into creating a solid business plan sets your restaurant on the path to achieving your culinary dreams and exceeding customer expectations.

Create Restaurant’s Business Plan in these 9 steps:

✔️ 1. Start with an executive summary ✔️ 2. Describe your concept ✔️ 3. Conduct Market analysis ✔️ 4. Define your management and organization ✔️ 5. Give a sample “yummy”  Menu ✔️ 6. Create design and branding ✔️ 7. Provide a Location ✔️ 8. Establish Marketing plan ✔️ 9. Define Financial plan

1. Executive summary

The executive summary is like the appetizer of your restaurant business plan – it’s the first bite that leaves a lasting impression. Its purpose is to capture the essence of your entire plan and entice time-crunched reviewers, such as potential investors and lenders, to delve deeper into your vision. It’s worth noting that the executive summary should be the final section you write.

To craft a concise and captivating summary, it’s crucial to highlight key points, including your unique concept, target market, and financial projections. Additionally, bear in mind that the executive summary sets the tone for the rest of your plan, so it’s essential to make it irresistible and leave readers yearning for more.

When it comes to the executive summary of your restaurant business plan, brevity is key . You have only one page to capture the attention of readers, but don’t worry, it’s definitely doable. Here’s what your executive summary should include:

  • Restaurant concept : What does your business do?
  • Goals and vision : What does your business want to achieve?
  • Restaurant differentiation : What makes your menu/concept different, and what sets you apart?
  • Projected financial state : What revenue do you anticipate?
  • The team : Who is involved in the business?

2. Describe your concept

In the world of restaurant business plans, there’s a section that holds immense importance. It’s the one that answers two fundamental questions: Who are you, and what do you plan to do?

This is the section where you fully introduce your company, and it deserves special attention. Share all the important details that paint a vivid picture of your unique business. Include the restaurant’s name, location, and contact information. Additionally, provide relevant details such as the chef’s background and what makes your restaurant stand out in the market.

Curious about concept creation? Watch our short video featuring a summary of an example restaurant concept below! 👇

Now is your opportunity to showcase your vision and establish a unique identity for your restaurant. Utilize this section to highlight what sets you apart and capture the reader’s imagination.

3. Market analysis

Market analysis helps you understand your potential customers, competition, and overall restaurant market trends. It’s like having a crystal ball to shape your restaurant’s success.

Target audience 

When it comes to your potential market, you want to know how many people are hungry for what you’re serving. Sounds exciting, right? To estimate this, you’ll gather data on your target customers, like their age group or preferences, and combine it with industry trends. It’s like finding the perfect recipe to satisfy their cravings.

Competition

Now, let’s tackle the competition. Every restaurant has rivals, even if they’re serving a unique dish. It’s crucial to identify direct or indirect competitors and understand what makes you stand out. Are you offering affordable prices, a one-of-a-kind experience, or catering to a specific niche? Highlight your “secret sauce” that sets you apart from the rest.

Market analysis for restaurant’s business plan

Market analysis also involves a SWOT analysis. Don’t let the jargon scare you. It simply means evaluating your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Think of it as a superhero assessment for your restaurant. Identify what you excel at, areas for improvement, potential market opportunities, and external factors that could impact your success.

example of SWOT analysis for the restaurant

Example of SWOT analysis for a restaurant

Remember, market analysis is like a compass guiding your restaurant’s journey. It helps you make informed decisions, attract investors, and stay ahead of the game. So, embrace the power of market analysis, and let it shape the destiny of your delicious dining destination.

4. Management and organization

Effective management and organization are critical for success in the restaurant sector. This section of your business plan introduces the talented individuals who will lead your restaurant to new heights.

Outline your legal structure, whether it’s an S corporation, limited partnership, or sole proprietorship, providing key information for stakeholders.

Showcase your management team using an organizational chart to highlight their roles, responsibilities, and contributions. Their expertise and guidance are crucial for seamless operations and exceptional customer experiences.

With a strong management team in place, your restaurant is poised for success. They are the driving force behind your journey to greatness. Let’s meet the key players who will make it happen!

Streamline your operations and optimize your financial performance With resOs , you can efficiently manage reservations, track inventory, analyze sales data, and streamline your overall workflow. Get your FREE plan

5. Sample “yummy” Menu 

In the restaurant industry, your menu plays a main role as the core product. Include a section in your business plan that highlights key details about your menu offerings to engage readers.

If you offer a diverse range of dishes, provide a brief overview of each category. Alternatively, if your menu focuses on specific specialties or signature dishes, provide more detailed descriptions for each item.

You can also mention any upcoming menu additions or unique culinary creations that will enhance profitability and attract customers.

6. Design and branding 

When it comes to starting a restaurant, don’t underestimate the power of design and branding. They’re the secret ingredients that can make your establishment truly stand out. Think about it – when customers walk through your front door, what do they see? The right design and branding can instantly captivate their attention and make them feel right at home.

So, take some time to envision the overall aesthetic and mood you want to create.

Do you imagine a cozy and rustic setting or a sleek and modern vibe?

Let your creativity shine through! Include captivating photos of similar restaurants that inspire you and give potential investors a glimpse of your vision.

And don’t forget about your logo! If you’ve already designed one, proudly showcase it in your business plan. It’s the visual representation of your restaurant’s personality and will help establish brand recognition.

Custom design of your restaurant booking system with resOS

resOS’ customizable interface for your booking system

Stand out in the competitive restaurant industry with resOS’ customizable booking management system . Personalize every aspect of the interface to reflect your restaurant’s unique brand identity. Seamlessly integrate your logo, colors, and visual elements, creating a cohesive and immersive experience for your guests. With resOS, you have the power to revolutionize your restaurant’s image and leave a lasting impression.

Details matter too! Share your plans for specific design elements , from the choice of furniture to the color palette that will adorn your space. The more you paint a vivid picture, the more investors and customers will be enticed by your unique ambiance.

7. Location

For a restaurant, location can make or break the business. Occasionally, a restaurant concept is so good that people go out of their way to find it. But, more realistically, your location needs to be convenient for your target market. If it’s hard for your customers to get to you, hard for them to park, and not something they notice as they drive by, they’re unlikely to check your restaurant out.

In your business plan, make sure to discuss the potential locations that you hope to occupy, assuming you haven’t already secured the location. Explain why the location is ideal for your target market and how the location will help attract customers.

Unlock the potential of your restaurant’s location and streamline reservations with resOS. Our platform offers seamless integration with Reserve With Google , allowing customers to easily discover and book tables directly from Google search results and maps. By enabling this feature, you’ll maximize your restaurant’s visibility and attract more diners with just a few clicks. Experience the power of location-based reservations with resOS .

Be sure to explain the complete costs of your location and what kinds of renovations will be necessary to open your restaurant.

8. Marketing plan

In today’s competitive restaurant industry, it’s important to showcase your marketing strategy to investors. They want to know how you’ll create buzz and keep it going before and after your grand opening.

business plan about restaurant example

Create a winning business plan with a strong marketing focus. Our Restaurant Business Plan Steps Graphic (👆 see above) is your visual guide, including key marketing strategies. Download or save for later and plan your path to success.

Whether you’ve enlisted a top-notch Marketing company or have a solid ready-to-go marketing plan, highlight your chosen path. Discuss the unique strengths of your selected agency and why they stand out, including their notable clients. Alternatively, showcase your in-house plan, leveraging social media, your website, and valuable media connections.

A well-crafted marketing plan holds the key to differentiating your restaurant and attracting customers. Prepare to tantalize taste buds and offer an exceptional dining experience. Stay in tune with the latest restaurant industry trends, leverage effective marketing tools, and optimize your online presence. 

Lastly, integrate a robust restaurant booking system to streamline reservations and enhance the overall customer experience. With these strategic elements in place, success is within your reach.

9. Financial Plan

Financial analysis is a crucial part of your restaurant’s business plan. It helps investors assess the profitability of your concept and whether it’s a worthwhile investment. In this section, you’ll outline how you plan to allocate your funds in the first year and provide projections for costs and revenues.

Here are the 🔑 key components to include:

Investment Plan: Explain the initial investment costs, such as kitchen equipment, furniture, employee wages, legal fees, marketing expenses, and working capital. This shows how you’ll use your funds effectively.

Profit and Loss Projection: Estimate your restaurant’s costs and sales figures in the profit and loss statement. Consider factors like the size of your establishment, your target market, and the existing competition in your chosen location.

Break-Even Analysis: Show investors the monthly revenue you need to achieve to cover all your expenses and reach profitability. This analysis considers overhead costs, operational expenses, and factors that may affect revenue fluctuations throughout the year.

Claim your FREE plan on resOS today! Ready to revolutionize your business management? Join resos.com for FREE and take control of your operations. ✅ Seamless calendar integration ✅ Customizable booking forms ✅ Automated reminders ✅ Real-time availability updates Don’t miss out! Sign up now at resos.com and experience stress-free scheduling. Your time is valuable, so claim your FREE plan today!

Latest from the blog

What are robot waiters and how do they work?

What are robot waiters and how do they work?

Experience the future of dining with robot waiters: where innovation meets efficiency in every meal. Check out this article to see if such a solution might fit your business model.

10 types of customer loyalty programs for your restaurant (+examples!)

10 types of customer loyalty programs for your restaurant (+examples!)

Explore 10 creative loyalty programs to turn visitors into regulars at your restaurant. Make your restaurant the go-to spot with simple, effective loyalty strategies.

10 ways restaurants can use Instagram Stories

10 ways restaurants can use Instagram Stories

Explore 10 effective ways restaurants can utilize Instagram Stories to enhance visibility and attract more customers. From behind-the-scenes to daily specials, get the best start for your restaurant now!

Read more at our blog

How to Write a Restaurant Business Plan (with Samples)

Table of contents.

Jump to: 

What Should a Restaurant Business Plan Include?

Sample restaurant business plans.

  • Better Market Your Restaurant

If you’ve made the decision to start your own restaurant, congratulations! Running your own business is incredibly exciting, and can be rewarding as well. Yet having a great idea is just the first step in the process – you’ll need to put in a lot of work to make your dream a reality.

To start, you will need a concrete, detailed business plan. Not only will this plan serve as a blueprint for how you will run your restaurant, it is also necessary to secure funding. But, knowing that you need a solid restaurant business plan is different from actually writing one.

Below, we outline what you should cover in a business plan for your restaurant. This guide is meant to help you get started as you begin the process of opening up your own place. If you’re ready to move to the next level, reach out to Budget Branders for a quote on custom branded disposable products for your restaurant . Our custom printed disposables are the most cost-effective advertising your restaurant could invest in.

A business plan isn’t something that you should just slap together to check it off of your to-do list. A well-drafted business plan will demonstrate the viability of your concept to potential investors and show that you have done your homework. 

A strong business plan should contain a number of components to ensure that it covers most or all of the questions that investors may have.  It should also be professionally printed and bound, with a branded cover that includes your logo and/or slogan . The business plan should start with an executive summary, which should include a brief overview of what is contained in the entire document.

Read on to learn more about what should be contained in a restaurant business plan.

When you decided to open a restaurant, you probably did so on the basis of a great concept or idea.  Your concept is what makes your restaurant unique – and what will bring customers in the door. 

Spend some time fleshing out your concept, describing your inspiration, the type of food that you will be serving, and an overview of how your restaurant will be run.  Make sure that you explain what makes your concept unique.

For example, after a health scare, you decided to focus on a more plant-based diet. You noticed that few restaurants in the area offer vegetarian or vegan options, and decided to open a restaurant that offers a fresh take on healthy, mostly vegetarian foods. In your restaurant plan, you can describe why you decided to go this route, what type of food you plan to serve, and how this concept sets you apart from other restaurants in the region.

Sample Menu

The menu is one of the most important elements of any successful restaurant. After all, you can have the best concept and the most amazing location, but if your food is bland and uninspired, no one will want to patronize your establishment.  For this reason, a sample menu is a critical component of a restaurant business plan.

The sample menu shouldn’t just be a list of what you plan to serve. Instead, you should mock up a menu that looks like it could be handed out to diners. It should also include prices for each option that are based on a detailed cost analysis. Including these prices will demonstrate to potential investors that you have done the necessary work to make your business successful.

An attractive, pleasing design is critical to the success of any restaurant. Studies show that we use all five senses when eating, so that things such as the color of tableware can affect how a person feels about a meal. Having a good design concept can also help to lure in customers who want to take pictures – and share them on social media.

As part of your business plan, be sure to include elements of your proposed design. Include swatches of color, pictures of your inspiration, and anything else that may be relevant. For example, if you plan to cook food in a wood-burning oven, sending delicious, smoky scents wafting throughout the restaurant, describe that element in your business plan. If you want to include a wall of plants to attract Instagram Influencers, be sure to include that information as well. 

Although you may not have identified a specific location yet, it is important to include some details about where you plan to operate, as this will affect profitability. For example, if your goal is to provide to-go breakfast and lunch meals for workers, specify that you want to find a space near large office buildings or in a downtown area.

If you haven’t picked out a site for your restaurant, list the criteria that you will use to select a place. This may include information such as parking, square footage, availability of outdoor dining, accessibility to major highways, and foot traffic.

Market Overview

Before anyone can know that your restaurant is a good investment, they have to know about the market.  This section should include both micro and macro economic factors that influence profitability – everything from COVID-19 restrictions (macro) to direct competitors in your area. Describe each of these in detail, and address how you plan to overcome any challenges or differentiate yourself from other restaurants.

Target Market

In this section, you will describe who you think will eat at your restaurant. Will they be young or older? What is their average income? Talk in detail about who you think will patronize your restaurant – and why you think that your concept will appeal to them. For example, if you’re trying to appeal to a young crowd/ Gen Z , you may talk about how you plan to offer healthy choices, vegetarian options, and convenient delivery.

Service Style

We have moved beyond the basic restaurant service options of fast food and fine dining. There are a lot of different types of restaurant services now, from take-out only to fast casual to pop-ups. If there is anything unique about your planned service style, it should be included as part of your business plan. 

Management Team

One of the most critical elements of a successful business is the people who are running it. If you want investors to take a chance on your restaurant concept, you will need to show that you have the experience necessary to turn a profit. 

In this section of the business plan, introduce each member of the management team. Describe their work experience, both in the industry and in business generally. This will give potential investors a good idea of the likelihood of making money.

Business Structure

Before you open for business, you will need to establish some type of business structure – such as a partnership, an LLC, or even a corporation. Explain what business structure you have chosen and why you selected it.

Consultants

Behind every successful business owner is a team of specialists. No matter how good you may be at running a restaurant, you can’t go it alone. You will likely need a team of consultants – such as a lawyer, accountant, general contractor, or marketing agency – to truly succeed.

Investors want to know that you understand your limitations, and have planned accordingly. Listing your outside consultants shows that you have considered all of the various aspects of running a business. Be sure to explain the services that they will provide, why you selected them, and how much they charge for their services.

Marketing Plan

The success of any business is dependent in part on branding and marketing. You can have the most delicious food at the best prices around, and if people don’t know about your restaurant, they won’t patronize it. In this section, describe what you plan to do to market your business – such as developing a website, retaining a marketing company, establishing social media accounts, and even using branded paper bags for your takeout items.

Finally, it is time to get down to the nitty-gritty. How much is this going to cost? 

Most entrepreneurs will need the help of a financial professional to draft this section of the business plan. You will need to incorporate data points, such as labor cost percentages , average check amount, and how many meals you plan to serve each day, to determine whether your concept is financially viable.

An accountant can also help you make financial projections that should be included in your business plan. This may include a projected budget for capital, a break even analysis, and a pro forma profit and loss statement for the first 3 to 5 years of operation. 

Feeling overwhelmed? This may seem like a lot, but each of these elements is necessary if you want a solid business plan that will attract investors. Fortunately, there are a number of sample restaurant business plans available online for you to review:

  • Specialty restaurant and bakery business plans
  • Basic restaurant business plan template
  • Small restaurant business plan
  • Pizza shop business plan
  • Fast food business plan
  • Steak house business plan
  • Café business plan
  • Traditional restaurant business plan
  • Fast-casual restaurant business plan

These samples can help you get a good idea of what you should – and should not be  – including in your business plan. If you are concerned about your ability to draft this type of document, consider reaching out for help. There are many writers and business professionals who have significant experience making business plans. Hiring one as a consultant can help make the process easier and less stressful for you.

Market Your Restaurant with Budget Branders

Writing a restaurant business plan is hard work. Marketing your restaurant doesn’t have to be. One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to spread the word about your establishment is through custom branded disposable products.

Budget Branders offers high quality branded cups , bowls , bags , and more in quantities and at prices that make sense for small and medium sized businesses. As entrepreneurs ourselves, we understand the challenges that come from running a company – and we’re here to help.

If you’d like to learn more or to request a quote, contact us today by pressing the live chat button, or sending us a message online.

David Kranker

Contact our team.

Have questions? Interested in getting a FREE quote? Reach out to us via the form below and we’ll respond as soon as possible.

Your message (optional)

Our custom products

Custom Clear Plastic Cups

Custom Single Wall Paper Cups

Custom Double Wall Paper Cups

Custom Coffee Sleeves

Custom Paper Bags

Custom Dessert Cups

Custom Stadium Cups

Custom Ripple Cups

Custom Biodegradable Cups

Custom Soup Bowls

Custom Cup Sealing Film

Custom Wax Deli Paper

Custom Napkins

Custom Plastic Deli Containers

Custom Foil Sandwich Bags

Related Posts

Jack In The Box Full Menu & Prices

If you live on the West Coast, you’ve probably stopped at a Jack in the Box. The chain restaurant is based in California and is

KFC Full Menu & Prices

There is something so quintessentially American about Southern fried chicken.  For many people, this meal calls up memories of summer picnics, family dinners, and more. 

Types Of Fries: The Complete Guide

If you’re like most Americans, you have probably had french fries within the past few weeks. Whether you’re a fast food regular, a dedicated diner

Texas Roadhouse Full Menu & Prices

When you think of Texas, what comes to mind? For many people, it’s steak, cowboy boots, and armadillos. These items are part of the inspiration

GOOGLE REVIEWS

Vibe Coffee Co.

[email protected] 4070 Valley Vista Dr. #301 Hudsonville, MI 49426 Call 888-373-4880

Privacy Policy | Refund & Return Policy

Support Hours

Chat Hours: 10AM-8PM EST (Monday-Friday)

Phone Hours: 10AM-8PM EST (Monday-Friday)

From The Blog

© 2024. Budget Branders. All Rights Reserved

SharpSheets

Restaurant Business Plan PDF Example

Avatar photo

  • February 28, 2024
  • Business Plan

the business plan template for a restaurant

Creating a comprehensive business plan is crucial for launching and running a successful restaurant. This plan serves as your roadmap, detailing your vision, operational strategies, and financial plan. It helps establish your restaurant’s identity, navigate the competitive market, and secure funding for growth.

This article not only breaks down the critical components of a restaurant business plan, but also provides an example of a business plan to help you craft your own.

Whether you’re an experienced entrepreneur or new to the food and beverage industry, this guide, complete with a business plan example, lays the groundwork for turning your restaurant concept into reality. Let’s dive in!

Our restaurant business plan is structured to cover all essential aspects needed for a comprehensive strategy. It outlines the restaurant’s operations, marketing strategy , market environment, competitors, management team, and financial forecasts.

  • Executive Summary : Offers an overview of the restaurant’s business concept, market analysis , management, and financial strategy.
  • Restaurant & Location: Describes the restaurant’s prime location, size, seating capacity, and distinctive design, emphasizing its appeal to the target demographic.
  • Supply & Operations: Outlines the supply chain management, focusing on local sourcing and quality ingredients, and details the operational aspects, including kitchen layout, equipment, and front-of-house operations.
  • Key Stats: Shares industry size , growth trends, and relevant statistics for the full-service restaurant market.
  • Key Trends: Highlights recent trends affecting the restaurant sector, such as health-conscious dining, sustainability, and technology integration.
  • Key Competitors : Analyzes the main competitors in the vicinity, showcasing the restaurant’s unique selling proposition in comparison.
  • SWOT: Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats analysis.
  • Marketing Plan : Strategies for promoting the restaurant to maximize visibility and customer engagement.
  • Timeline : Key milestones and objectives from the initial setup through the launch and operational optimization.
  • Management: Information on who manages the restaurant and their roles.
  • Financial Plan: Projects the restaurant’s financial performance, including revenue, profits, and expected expenses, aiming for profitability and sustainable growth.

the business plan template for a restaurant

Restaurant Business Plan

Download an expert-built 30+ slides Powerpoint business plan template

Executive Summary

The Executive Summary introduces your restaurant’s business plan, offering a concise overview of your establishment and its offerings. It should detail your market positioning, the variety of cuisines and dining experiences you offer, its location, size, and an outline of day-to-day operations. 

This section should also explore how your restaurant will integrate into the local market, including the number of direct competitors within the area, identifying who they are, along with your restaurant’s unique selling points that differentiate it from these competitors. 

Furthermore, you should include information about the management and co-founding team, detailing their roles and contributions to the restaurant’s success. Additionally, a summary of your financial projections, including revenue and profits over the next five years, should be presented here to provide a clear picture of your restaurant’s financial plan.

Make sure to cover here _ Business Overview _ Market Overview _ Management Team _ Financial Plan

Restaurant Business Plan executive summary1

Dive deeper into Executive Summary

Business Overview

For a Restaurant, the Business Overview section can be concisely divided into 2 main slides:

Restaurant & Location

Briefly describe the restaurant’s physical environment, emphasizing its design, ambiance, and the overall dining experience it offers to guests. Mention the restaurant’s location, highlighting its accessibility and the convenience it offers to diners, such as proximity to entertainment venues or ease of parking. Explain why this location is advantageous in attracting your target clientele.

Supply & Operations

Detail the range of cuisines and dishes offered, from appetizers and main courses to desserts and specialty beverages. Outline your sourcing strategy, ensuring it reflects a commitment to quality and sustainability, and matches the market you’re targeting.

Highlight any unique culinary techniques, exclusive ingredients, or innovative kitchen technologies that set your restaurant apart. Discuss your operational strategies, including inventory management, supplier relationships, and kitchen workflow, to ensure efficiency and consistency in delivering exceptional dining experiences.

Make sure to cover here _ Restaurant & Location _ Supply & Operations

Business Plan_Pizzeria restaurant

Market Overview

Industry size & growth.

In the Market Overview of your restaurant business plan, start by examining the size of the restaurant industry and its growth potential. This analysis is crucial for understanding the market’s scope and identifying expansion opportunities.

Key market trends

Proceed to discuss recent market trends , such as the increasing consumer interest in farm-to-table dining, ethnic cuisines, and experiential dining experiences.

For example, highlight the demand for restaurants that offer unique cultural dishes, the growing popularity of health-conscious and dietary-specific menus, and the integration of technology in enhancing the dining experience.

Key competitors

Then, consider the competitive landscape, which includes a range of dining establishments from gourmet fine dining to fast-casual eateries, as well as the rise of food delivery services and meal kits.

For example, emphasize what makes your restaurant distinctive, whether it’s through a unique culinary approach, a niche market focus, or a strong commitment to sustainability and local sourcing.

Make sure to cover here _ Industry size & growth _ Key market trends _ Key competitors

Restaurant Business Plan market overvie1

Dive deeper into Key competitors

First, conduct a SWOT analysis for the restaurant , highlighting Strengths (such as a unique menu and exceptional customer service), Weaknesses (including potential high operational costs or strong competition in the area), Opportunities (for example, a growing interest in diverse cuisines and healthy eating), and Threats (such as economic downturns that may decrease consumer spending on dining out).

Marketing Plan

Next, develop a marketing strategy that outlines how to attract and retain customers through targeted advertising, promotional discounts, an engaging social media presence, food blogger outreach, and community involvement, such as local events or charity sponsorships.

Finally, create a detailed timeline that outlines critical milestones for the restaurant’s opening, marketing campaigns, customer base growth, and expansion objectives, ensuring the business moves forward with clear direction and purpose.

Make sure to cover here _ SWOT _ Marketing Plan _ Timeline

Restaurant Business Plan strategy

Dive deeper into SWOT

Dive deeper into Marketing Plan

The management section focuses on the restaurant’s management and their direct roles in daily operations and strategic direction. This part is crucial for understanding who is responsible for making key decisions and driving the restaurant towards its financial and operational goals.

For your restaurant business plan, list the core team members, their specific responsibilities, and how their expertise supports the business.

Restaurant Business Plan management1

Financial Plan

The Financial Plan section is a comprehensive analysis of your financial projections for revenue, expenses, and profitability. It lays out your restaurant’s approach to securing funding, managing cash flow, and achieving breakeven.

This section typically includes detailed forecasts for the first 5 years of operation, highlighting expected revenue, operating costs and capital expenditures.

For your restaurant business plan, provide a snapshot of your financial statement (profit and loss, balance sheet, cash flow statement), as well as your key assumptions (e.g. number of customers and prices, expenses, etc.).

Make sure to cover here _ Profit and Loss _ Cash Flow Statement _ Balance Sheet _ Use of Funds

Restaurant Business Plan financial plan1

Privacy Overview

Examples

Restaurant Business Plan

business plan about restaurant example

The National Restaurant Association (NRA) recently released its restaurant industry report. It revealed that the industry has grown by 4% since last year, reaching the market worth of USD 899 billion for this year. For entrepreneurs who aim to open up a restaurant , whether fast food, fine dining, family restaurant, or other types, now seems like a good time to do so. If you are among these businessmen, then guarantee your startup or small business’s success with a restaurant business plan. There’s no need for you to look for good examples of business plans elsewhere because we have a complete list ready for you below! What’s more? They cover all areas that must be considered in restaurant management. These areas include the target market, pricing strategy, SWOT analysis , market analysis , and financial agenda. To know more, read our article below!

What is a Restaurant Business Plan?

A restaurant business plan is a process document that highlights the operational and financial ambitions of a restaurant business idea, as well as the strategies on how to achieve them. Susan Ward, in her article entitled “Why You Should Write a Business Plan,” cited five reasons why a business plan is essential for entrepreneurs . First, it ascertains any business idea’s viability. Second, it increases the chances of new businesses to become successful. Third, it helps businessmen acquire capital. Fourth, it gives stakeholders more control over the planning phase. Lastly, it lures many investors. Whether these thoughts are true or not, we all know that having a plan on how to open up a restaurant is better than having none.

What is the Best Example of Restaurant Business Plan?

Here is an Example of a Restaurant Business Plan:

Best Examples of a Restaurant Business Plan:

An exemplary restaurant business plan should be comprehensive, well-structured, and tailored to the specific concept and market of the restaurant. Here’s a detailed explanation of what constitutes an ideal restaurant business plan:

Executive Summary

  • Concept Overview: For example, a farm-to-table restaurant focusing on organic, locally sourced ingredients.
  • Mission Statement: A clear, compelling statement, e.g., “To provide fresh, healthy, locally sourced meals in a sustainable and community-focused environment.”
  • Key Information: Location, ownership, unique selling propositions, and anticipated opening date.

Company Description

  • Restaurant’s Background: A story about the inspiration behind the restaurant, possibly inspired by local farming traditions.
  • Goals: Clear objectives, like becoming the leading organic eatery in the area within three years.
  • Target Market: A specific demographic, such as health-conscious families and environmentally-aware diners.

Market Analysis

  • Industry Insights: Current trends in the organic dining sector and how they apply to the local area.
  • Demographics: Detailed analysis of the local population, focusing on health trends and income levels.
  • Competitive Analysis: Assessment of local competitors, with strategies to offer something unique, like exclusive organic dishes.

Menu and Services

  • Menu Details: A draft menu showcasing organic, seasonal dishes with innovative recipes.
  • Additional Services: Details on catering, special events, and partnerships with local farms and businesses.

Marketing and Sales Strategy

  • Marketing Tactics: Strategies like community events, partnerships with local businesses, and a strong social media presence.
  • Sales Projections: Realistic goals based on market research, with strategies for both slow and peak periods.

Management and Staffing Plan

  • Management Team: Bios of key team members, highlighting experience in the organic food industry and local community engagement.
  • Staffing Details: Plans for hiring chefs, servers, and support staff, with a focus on experience in organic restaurants.

Operational Plan

  • Daily Operations: Outline of the sourcing, preparation, and service processes, emphasizing efficiency and sustainability.
  • Facility Requirements: Description of the ideal location, kitchen layout, and environmentally-friendly equipment.

Financial Analysis

  • Startup Expenses: Detailed budget for setting up the restaurant, including eco-friendly renovations and organic certification costs.
  • Revenue Forecast: Projected earnings based on market analysis, with various scenarios.
  • Expense Breakdown: Monthly operating costs, including sustainable packaging and fair wages.
  • Profit and Loss Projection: Estimated profitability over the first few years, considering seasonal variations.

Funding Requirements

  • Capital Needs: Total funding required, with a plan for its allocation.
  • Funding Sources: Potential investors, grants for sustainable businesses, and loan options.
  • Supplementary Materials: Market research data, sample menus, and marketing materials.

This example illustrates a business plan for a farm-to-table, organic restaurant. The key to an effective business plan lies in its specificity to the restaurant’s concept and its comprehensive nature, covering every aspect from the concept to operational and financial planning.

13+ Restaurant Business Plan Examples

1. restaurant business plan.

Restaurant Business Plan

  • Google Docs
  • Apple Pages

Size: A4 & US

2. Restaurant Business Plan Outline

Restaurant Business Plan Outline

3. Food Restaurant Business Plan

Food Restaurant Business Plan

4. Sample Restaurant Business Plan

Sample Restaurant Business Plan

5. Restaurant Business Plan for Investors

Restaurant Business Plan for Investors

6. Restaurant Business Plan To Get A Loan

Restaurant Business Plan To Get A Loan

7. Restaurant Business Plan Inventory

Restaurant Business Plan Inventory

8. Small Restaurant Business Plan Sample

Online Restaurant Business Plan

Size: 277 KB

9. Breakfast Restaurant Business Plan

Breakfast Restaurant Business Plan

Size: 605 KB

10.  Business Plan for Restaurant Example

Organic Restaurant Business Plan

Size: 628 KB

11. Restaurant Business Plan Example

Restaurant Business Plan Example

Size: 44 KB

12. Executive Summary for Restaurant Business Plan

Vegetarian Restaurant Business Plan

13. Restaurant Business Plan Sample

Simple Restaurant Business Plan

Size: 332 KB

14. Business Plan for Restaurant Example

Printable Restaurant Business Plan

How to Write a Business Plan for a Restaurant?

Writing a business plan for a restaurant involves detailed planning and clear articulation of your concept, market strategic plan , and financial projections. Follow these step-by-step guidelines to create a comprehensive and effective plan.

Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Executive Summary

  • Concept Description: Clearly define your restaurant’s concept, including the type of cuisine, ambiance, and unique selling propositions.
  • Mission Statement: Craft a mission statement that encapsulates the essence and goals of your restaurant.
  • Key Details: Provide basic information such as the proposed location, ownership details, and the expected date of operation commencement.

Step 2: Company Overview

  • Restaurant’s Background: Share the story or inspiration behind your restaurant.
  • Business Objectives: Outline specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals.
  • Target Market: Identify your primary customers – who they are and why they would choose your restaurant.

Step 3: Market Analysis

  • Industry Overview: Analyze the restaurant industry, particularly in your proposed location, including trends and forecasts.
  • Target Market Demographics: Detail the specific demographics of your target audience, like age, income level, dining preferences.
  • Competition Analysis: Assess direct and indirect competitors, their strengths and weaknesses, and how your restaurant will stand out.

Step 4: Menu Design and Service Offering

  • Draft Menu: Outline a preliminary menu. Include a range of offerings while maintaining focus on your unique concept.
  • Service Style: Describe the type of service (e.g., fast-casual, fine dining) and any additional services like catering or delivery.

Step 5: Marketing and Sales Strategy

  • Marketing Plan: Develop strategies for promoting your restaurant, including branding, advertising channels, and promotional activities.
  • Sales Strategy: Outline how you will generate and grow sales, including pricing strategy and customer loyalty programs.

Step 6: Operational Plan

  • Daily Operations: Describe the operational workflow of the restaurant, from supply chain management to customer service.
  • Facility Needs: Detail the physical requirements of your restaurant, including location, size, kitchen equipment, and dining area layout.

Step 7: Management and Organizational Structure

  • Management Team: Introduce your management team, highlighting relevant experience and skills.
  • Staffing Plan: Outline your staffing requirements, including kitchen staff, servers, and administrative personnel.

Step 8: Financial Projection and Analysis

  • Startup Costs: Provide a detailed breakdown of startup expenses, including kitchen equipment, renovation costs, and initial inventory.
  • Revenue Projections: Estimate your revenue for the first few years. Be realistic in your assumptions.
  • Expense Forecast: Include an itemized list of ongoing operational expenses.
  • Profit and Loss Projection: Showcase a projected profit and loss statement, highlighting when your restaurant is expected to break even.

Step 9: Funding Requirements

  • Capital Needs: Clearly state the total amount of capital required to start and sustain the restaurant until it becomes profitable.
  • Funding Plan: Identify potential sources of funding, such as loans, investors, or personal savings.

Step 10: Appendix

  • Supporting Documents: Attach any additional documents like detailed market research, sample menus, or architectural plans for the restaurant.

Creating a well-structured business plan is critical for the success of your restaurant. It serves as a blueprint for your business and is essential for securing funding and guiding your restaurant towards its goals.

Ghost Restaurants

Zombies, werewolves, and other creepy creatures are truly spine-chilling and, at the same time, fascinating. However, they have nothing to do with ghost restaurants. Ghost restaurants also go by the name virtual restaurants or cloud kitchens. They are food service industry players that only cater to to-go orders. Mostly, the main candidates in their respective  target market worksheets are the people who want to taste restaurant-made dishes but are too busy to visit one. For business-minded individuals, such a business idea is very convenient. Aside from a very low startup capital, its marketing is mainly done online. Speaking of online marketing, you can check out our Online Marketing Guide For Your Startup .

How To Organize a Restaurant Business Plan?

Creating a company business plan for your dream restaurant is surely complicated. Aside from making sure to follow the standardized document flow, you also have to write their corresponding details in a concise manner. To save you time from researching the document’s standard composition, we have provided you with an outline of the necessary steps below.

1. Present the Executive Summary:

The business plan executive summary is where you give out the main points of your process document . These points should be written briefly yet thoroughly. In addition, this part is the very first section of all business plans. However, many of the technical writers prefer writing them last.

2. Propose Business Opportunity:

After presenting the executive summary , you can advance your idea of a profitable restaurant. This section should answer what market needs will the business be providing to the consumers. Furthermore, the complete target market analysis , SWOT analysis , competitive analysis , and their results should also be included in this section.

3. Layout Implementation Procedures:

Once you have successfully proposed the details of your restaurant idea, lay out the full specifications of how to achieve the business’s sustainability and profitability. To do this, you have to create a marketing and sales plan that comes with restaurant sales and marketing strategies.

4. Mention Stakeholders:

Restaurants, just like other businesses, are composed of many stakeholders, such as sales manager, marketing manager , financial manager, and many more. To completely know who to include, you should check out our stakeholders analysis and questionnaire examples.

5. Advance Financial Draft:

In this last step, you have to know what finance essentials for a small business are. Moreover, it is in this part where you have to project plan your restaurant’s annual budget . Additionally, this part is very useful when you are trying to convince a prospective investor. By giving them an overview of your business idea’s estimated cash flow, they can better decide whether to invest in your proposal or not.

How Do You Define a Restaurant’s Concept in a Business Plan?

Define a restaurant’s concept by detailing its cuisine type, service style, unique selling propositions, and overall customer experience vision.

What Should Be Included in a Restaurant Market Analysis?

Include industry trends, target market demographics, competitor analysis, and customer preferences in a restaurant’s market analysis.

How to Create a Marketing Strategy for a Restaurant?

Create a marketing strategy focusing on brand positioning, advertising channels, promotional tactics, and customer engagement plans.

What Financial Projections are Needed in a Restaurant Business Plan?

Financial projections should include startup costs, revenue forecasts, cash flow estimates, and profit and loss projections.

How Do You Determine the Staffing Needs of a Restaurant?

Determine staffing needs based on restaurant size, service style, and operational requirements, including kitchen and front-of-house personnel.

What are the Key Components of a Restaurant Operational Plan?

Key components include daily operations, supply chain management, facility layout, equipment needs, and health and safety protocols.

How to Identify Funding Requirements for a Restaurant?

Identify funding requirements by calculating total startup costs, operating expenses, and cushion funds for unforeseen expenses.

What Makes a Restaurant Business Plan Successful?

A successful restaurant business plan is realistic, detailed, adaptable, and customer-focused, with clear financial and operational strategies.

Why is a Business Plan Important for a Restaurant?

A business plan is vital for a restaurant to define its direction, secure funding, manage operations effectively, and strategize for growth and profitability.

How much does it cost to open a new restaurant?

In the Restaurant Owner’s survey, it was found out that small-scale restaurants can be achieved with only USD 175,000. On the contrary, large-scales will need an approximate amount of USD 750,500. These give us the average start-up cost of USD 375,500.

How to Create a Financial Plan for a Restaurant?

To create a financial plan, estimate startup costs, project revenues and expenses, and forecast profit and loss to ensure financial feasibility and sustainability.

What to Include in a Restaurant Marketing Plan?

Include branding strategy, target market analysis, promotional tactics, social media plans, and customer retention strategies in a restaurant marketing plan.

Which city in the United States is the best place to open a new restaurant?

By far, Cedar Park, Austin is the best place in the United States to start a restaurant. History has it that the restaurants’ growth from 2002 to 2007 marked 107.89%. This is because of the continuous growth in the residential population. Today, the growth of the two groups still continues.

Conclusion:

Planning is very essential for a business. Abraham Lincoln even uttered the saying, “Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.” Business planning is deemed very important for various reasons. Based on what was mentioned above, such preparation makes the creation of a business and its management more convenient. Moreover, its product, the business plan, is very important in obtaining the necessary financial means to support business ideas. When it comes to organizing such a document, it was established that it won’t be easy. But by following the standard format, making one won’t be much of a hassle.  In conclusion, providing a business plan , especially for your restaurant, comes with challenges. And, it takes the right article to overcome such challenges through examples and insightful guidelines.

Twitter

Text prompt

  • Instructive
  • Professional

Create a study plan for final exams in high school

Develop a project timeline for a middle school science fair.

Growthink logo white

Sample Restaurant Business Plans For a New Business Owner

examples of a restaurant business plan

Writing a business plan is an essential part of starting a restaurant. Not only does it provide a roadmap for the future but it also helps to create funding opportunities and attract potential investors. For new business owners, having access to sample restaurant business plans can be especially helpful in providing direction and insights into how to write a restaurant business plan on their own.

Download our Ultimate Restaurant Business Plan Template

Having a comprehensive business plan in place is vital for any successful restaurant venture. It will serve as the foundation for your operations, setting out the goals and objectives that will help guide your decisions and actions. A well-written business plan will help you understand your restaurant’s startup costs and can also give you clarity on realistic financial projections and help you secure financing from investors and/or get a loan to start a restaurant. Examples of restaurant business plans are great resources to draw upon when creating your own plan to ensure that all the key elements are included in your document.

Below is an example restaurant business plan to help you see what one should look like. It is not however nearly as comprehensive and successful in raising capital for your restaurant as Growthink’s Ultimate Restaurant Business Plan Template , but it can help you write a business plan for your restaurant.

Restaurant Business Plan Example #1 – Black Pearl Seafood Restaurant

Table of contents.

Executive Summary

Company Overview

Industry analysis, customer analysis, competitive analysis, marketing plan, operations plan, management team, financial plan.

The Black Pearl Seafood Restaurant is a high-end seafood restaurant located in the heart of the historic district in New Orleans, LA. The restaurant will serve fresh seafood dishes with a modern twist and provide an unforgettable culinary experience for its guests.

The Black Pearl Seafood Restaurant is seeking to raise $200,000 in startup capital from a group of private investors. The funds will be used to cover the costs of building out the restaurant’s specific location, purchasing equipment and supplies, and hiring staff.

The Black Pearl Seafood Restaurant has a projected annual revenue of $1,200,000 and is expected to be profitable within its first year of operation. The restaurant’s target market is affluent diners who are looking for an exquisite seafood dining experience.

The Black Pearl Seafood Restaurant offers a unique and innovative menu that features fresh seafood dishes with a modern twist. The restaurant’s menu includes items such as:

  • Blackened salmon with shrimp and grits
  • Fried catfish po’ boy with remoulade sauce
  • Grilled Louisiana shrimp skewers
  • Crawfish etouffee
  • Shrimp gumbo

The Black Pearl Seafood Restaurant also offers a wide selection of wine and beer to complement its menu.

Company Description

The Black Pearl Seafood Restaurant is owned and operated by John Doe. Mr. Doe has over 10 years of experience in the food and beverage industry. He has worked as a chef at several renowned restaurants in New Orleans and has also owned and operated his own catering business.

The Black Pearl Seafood Restaurant will be located at 123 Main Street in New Orleans, LA. The restaurant will occupy a 3,000-square-foot space that was formerly occupied by a pizzeria. The location is in close proximity to several hotels and tourist attractions, which will generate significant foot traffic for the business. It is also located within walking distance of the Central Business District attracting local office workers and residents.

The Black Pearl Seafood Restaurant will have a seating capacity of 60 guests. The restaurant will also have a full-service bar that will serve beer, wine, and cocktails.

The seafood restaurant industry is one of the fastest-growing segments of the food service industry. Over the past five years, the industry has experienced strong growth due to an increase in the popularity of seafood as a healthy dietary choice.

The seafood restaurant industry is expected to continue to grow over the next five years as consumers’ preference for healthy and delicious food continues to rise. In addition, the industry will benefit from an increase in per capita disposable income, which will allow consumers to spend more on dining out.

Other Industry Analysis Points

  • The seafood restaurant industry is regulated by the FDA
  • Changes in government policies could impact the industry
  • The seafood restaurant industry is sensitive to changes in the economy
  • An economic downturn could lead to a decline in revenue and profit margins
  • The seafood restaurant industry is influenced by consumer trends and preferences
  • Health-conscious consumers are increasingly seeking out seafood as a healthy dietary choice

Technological:

  • The seafood restaurant industry is impacted by advances in food technology
  • New cooking techniques and equipment can help to improve the quality of dishes served
  • The seafood restaurant industry is subject to food safety and sanitation regulations
  • Changes in the law could impact the way that restaurants operate

Environmental:

  • The seafood restaurant industry is impacted by changes in the environment
  • The quality of seafood dishes can be impacted by pollution and other environmental factors

The Black Pearl Seafood Restaurant will target two primary customer market segments: tourists and local residents.

The tourist market segment consists of individuals who are visiting New Orleans for leisure or business purposes. This market segment is significant for the business as it represents a large portion of the city’s population. New Orleans is a major tourist destination, with over 16 million visitors per year.

The local resident market segment consists of individuals who live and work in New Orleans. This market segment is significant for the business as it represents a stable source of income. Local residents are more likely to visit the restaurant on a regular basis and recommend it to friends and family.

Competitor Analysis

The Black Pearl Seafood Restaurant will compete in the seafood restaurant industry. Through our competitive research, the restaurant’s closest direct competitors will be Red Fish Grill, Bourbon House, and GW Fins.

The Black Pearl Seafood Restaurant will compete in the seafood restaurant industry. The restaurant’s closest competitors will be Red Fish Grill, Bourbon House, and GW Fins.

Red Fish Grill is a seafood restaurant located in the French Quarter of New Orleans. The restaurant offers a casual dining experience with a menu that features fresh seafood dishes.

Bourbon House is a seafood restaurant located in the French Quarter of New Orleans. The restaurant offers a more upscale dining experience with a menu that features fresh seafood and steak dishes.

GW Fins is a seafood restaurant located in the Warehouse District of New Orleans. The restaurant offers an upscale dining experience with a menu that features fresh seafood dishes.

The Black Pearl Seafood Restaurant will differentiate itself from its competitors by offering a more innovative and modern menu with fresh seafood dishes that are prepared using unique cooking techniques. In addition, the restaurant will provide a superior level of customer service and create an unforgettable dining experience for its guests.

Our competitive advantages include:

  • Unique menu with fresh seafood dishes that are prepared using unique cooking techniques
  • Superior level of customer service

Products : The Black Pearl Seafood Restaurant will serve a variety of fresh seafood dishes that are prepared using unique cooking techniques.

Price : The price of menu items will be competitive with other seafood restaurants in the area.

Promotion : The Black Pearl Seafood Restaurant will use a combination of marketing strategies to promote the business and attract customers.

  • Develop a website and create social media accounts to reach a wider audience
  • Develop a promotional video to generate interest in the restaurant
  • Participate in local food festivals and events to generate awareness
  • Launch a targeted advertising campaign in local publications and on radio and television
  • Develop relationships with local tour operators to promote the restaurant to visitors
  • Offer discounts and special promotions to generate repeat business

Place : The Black Pearl Seafood Restaurant will be located in the French Quarter of New Orleans.

The Black Pearl Seafood Restaurant will be open for lunch and dinner seven days a week. The restaurant will be closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

The Black Pearl Seafood Restaurant will source seafood from local suppliers and growers to ensure the freshest ingredients are used in dishes.

The restaurant will use a point-of-sale system to manage inventory and track sales.

The restaurant will seat up to 100 guests at a time. Reservations will be accepted for parties of eight or more. Walk-in guests will be accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis.

The Black Pearl Seafood Restaurant will have a staff of 20 employees, including a head chef, sous chefs, kitchen staff, servers, and hostesses.

The Black Pearl Seafood Restaurant will be owned and operated by John and Jane Doe.

John Doe has over 10 years of experience in the restaurant industry. He has worked as a chef, manager, and consultant for a variety of restaurants.

Jane Doe has over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry. She has worked as a hotel manager, event planner, and marketing consultant.

The Black Pearl Seafood Restaurant will have start-up costs of $500,000. The majority of the start-up costs will be for leasing and outfitting the restaurant space. Other start-up costs include purchasing kitchen equipment, hiring staff, and marketing the business.

The Black Pearl Seafood Restaurant is projected to generate $1.5 million in sales in the first year of operation. The restaurant is expected to have net profits of $250,000 in the first year.

Sample Menu

Appetizers:

  • Jumbo shrimp cocktail
  • Oysters Rockefeller

Soups and salads:

  • Seafood bisque
  • Caesar salad with grilled shrimp
  • House salad with tuna steak
  • Spinach salad with scallops
  • Shrimp scampi
  • Surf and turf (filet mignon and lobster tail)
  • Grilled salmon with roasted vegetables
  • Blackened redfish
  • Bread pudding with rum sauce
  • Bananas Foster
  • Cheesecake with berry sauce
  • Key lime pie
  • Soda, coffee, tea, milk
  • Beer, wine, cocktails

Financial Projections

Balance sheet.

[insert financial statement]

Income Statement

Cash flow statement, restaurant business plan example #2 – la cocina de el paso: home of authentic mexican cuisine.

La Cocina de El Paso is a restaurant that specializes in serving authentic Mexican cuisine. The owners, John and Jane Doe, have over 30 years of combined experience in the hospitality and restaurant industry. This wealth of experience will ensure the success and longevity of the business.

Located in the heart of El Paso, La Cocina de El Paso will offer a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Guests can expect to be served freshly made dishes, prepared with only the freshest ingredients. The restaurant will also serve a selection of beer, wine, and cocktails.

La Cocina de El Paso will cater to both locals and tourists alike. To promote the business, the owners plan to launch an aggressive marketing campaign that will include print ads, radio spots, and social media. In addition, the restaurant will partner with local businesses to offer discounts and promotional offers.

The owners have estimated start-up costs of $500,000. The majority of this amount will be used to lease and outfit the restaurant space. Income is projected to reach $1.75 million within the first year of operations, with net profits of $350,000.

La Cocina de El Paso is an upcoming restaurant that will offer authentic Mexican cuisine. The restaurant will be located in downtown El Paso, Texas, and will feature a relaxed atmosphere with seating for up to 150 guests.

The restaurant will utilize only the freshest ingredients in its dishes and offer a selection of beer, wine, and cocktails. The menu will feature appetizers, soups and salads, entrees, desserts, and drinks.

The restaurant industry is highly competitive. In particular, Mexican cuisine has gained popularity in recent years. To succeed, La Cocina de El Paso must differentiate itself from other restaurants in the area.

The restaurant will focus on offering fresh and authentic Mexican cuisine with a welcoming atmosphere. The owners plan to partner with local businesses and offer discounts and promotional offers. In addition, the owners plan to launch an aggressive marketing campaign that will include print ads, radio spots, and social media.

The target market for La Cocina de El Paso will be both locals and tourists. The restaurant is located in a tourist area and is close to several attractions. As such, it will be well-positioned to attract customers from out of town as well as local residents.

The restaurant will serve a variety of customers, including young adults and families. To appeal to this demographic, the restaurant will offer an inviting atmosphere with comfortable seating and a selection of entertainment options. Additionally, the menu will feature authentic Mexican dishes that are sure to please all tastes.

Ideal Customer Demographics:

  • Young adults: ages 18-34
  • Local residents

Psychographics:

  • Adventurous eaters
  • Value conscious
  • Seeking authentic experiences

There are several other restaurants in El Paso that specialize in Mexican cuisine. Main competitors include El Paso’s Best, El Taco Loco, and Casa Azul.

El Paso’s Best is the area’s premier Mexican restaurant. The food is of high quality and the atmosphere is casual yet upscale. Prices are slightly higher than La Cocina de El Paso, but the quality of the food makes it worth the price.

El Taco Loco is a fast-food Mexican restaurant. The food is inexpensive, but the quality is not as high as La Cocina de El Paso.

Casa Azul is a family-style Mexican restaurant with more of a casual atmosphere. Prices are slightly lower than La Cocina de El Paso and the menu features traditional Mexican dishes.

To differentiate itself, La Cocina de El Paso will focus on fresh ingredients and authentic Mexican dishes. The restaurant will also offer a selection of beer, wine, and cocktails, as well as discounts and promotional offers. Finally, the owners plan to launch an aggressive marketing campaign that will help spread the word about La Cocina de El Paso.

To attract customers, La Cocina de El Paso will focus on marketing its fresh and authentic Mexican cuisine.

Below is a sample menu for La Cocina de El Paso, featuring traditional Mexican dishes and a selection of beer, wine, and cocktails.

  • Quesadillas
  • Guacamole and Chips
  • Stuffed Jalapenos
  • Queso fundido, taquitos

Soups & Salads:

  • Chicken Tortilla Soup
  • Caldo de Res (Beef Soup)
  • Taco Salad with Ground Beef or Grilled Chicken
  • Ensalada de la Casa (House Salad)
  • Ensalada Fresca (Fresh Salad)
  • Tacos al Carbon (Grilled Steak Tacos)
  • Fajitas (Steak, Chicken, or Vegetarian)
  • Chiles Rellenos (Stuffed Peppers)
  • Carne Asada con Papas
  • Camarones a la Diabla
  • Enchiladas Verdes
  • Churros con Chocolate
  • Tres Leches Cake
  • Flan Napolitano
  • Beer & Wine

Promotions:

The restaurant will offer promotional discounts and specials. For example, customers who purchase two entrees may receive a complimentary appetizer or dessert. The owners plan to partner with local businesses to offer additional discounts and promotional offers.

La Cocina de El Paso will offer competitive pricing. Prices will be slightly lower than El Paso’s Best, but higher than El Taco Loco and Casa Azul.

The restaurant will be located in downtown El Paso, close to several attractions and tourist sites. The owners hope that the convenient location will help bring in both tourists and local residents.

Marketing Mix

To reach its target customers, La Cocina de El Paso will use a combination of traditional marketing strategies such as print ads, radio spots, and TV commercials, as well as digital marketing tactics such as content marketing, social media campaigns, email newsletters, and online advertising.

  • Print Advertising : The owners plan to run print ads in local newspapers and magazines that target young adults and families.
  • Radio & TV Spots : The restaurant will also air radio spots and TV commercials that feature its menu items and promotional offers.
  • Content Marketing : La Cocina de El Paso will create content that highlights the freshness of its ingredients and the authenticity of its Mexican dishes. The content will be shared on social media, in email newsletters, and on the restaurant’s website.
  • Social Media Campaigns : The restaurant will run campaigns on Facebook and Instagram that feature customer reviews, contests, and giveaways.
  • Online Advertising : The owners plan to use Google Ads and other online platforms to reach potential customers.

The owners of La Cocina de El Paso are confident that their marketing strategy will help the restaurant stand out from its competitors and attract customers. With its fresh and authentic Mexican cuisine, competitive prices, convenient location, and aggressive marketing campaigns, La Cocina de El Paso is sure to be a success.

Collaborative Promotion: The owners of La Cocina de El Paso plan to partner with local businesses in order to create mutually beneficial promotional offers. For example, the restaurant may offer discounts to customers who use services from one of its partners. The owners believe that this type of collaborative promotion will help draw in more customers and generate additional revenue for the business.

Events: La Cocina de El Paso plans to host events such as cooking classes and live music performances in order to build relationships with customers and increase brand awareness. The restaurant will also use these events to showcase the freshness of its ingredients, its Mexican cuisine, and the quality of its drinks (margaritas, beer & wine, cocktails).

These strategies are designed to help La Cocina de El Paso build a strong customer base and become a popular destination in downtown El Paso. The owners are confident that these tactics will help the restaurant stand out and create a positive impact on the local community.

La Cocina de El Paso will have a skilled team of servers, cooks, and bartenders who are knowledgeable about the restaurant’s Mexican cuisine. The owners plan to focus on delivering high-quality customer service in order to ensure customers have a great experience. The owners also plan to invest in modern kitchen equipment that can help streamline the cooking process.

The restaurant will be open from 11 am to 10 pm on weekdays and from 11 am to 11 pm on weekends. The owners plan to hire additional staff during peak hours in order to handle the influx of customers. The owners also plan to use advanced reservation systems and delivery services to accommodate customers who would prefer not to wait in line.

The owners of La Cocina de El Paso have extensive experience in the restaurant industry. They plan to hire a team of experienced managers who can handle day-to-day operations and ensure that the restaurant runs smoothly. The management team will also be responsible for developing marketing strategies, overseeing staff training programs, and creating promotional offers.

The job description for the management team includes:

  • Overseeing day-to-day operations
  • Developing marketing strategies and managing promotional campaigns
  • Creating training programs for staff members
  • Handling customer inquiries and complaints
  • Ensuring that food safety standards are met
  • Analyzing data to identify areas for improvement.

The total start-up cost of La Cocina de El Paso is estimated at $500,000.

This includes:

  • $100,000 for lease deposits and renovations costs;
  • $200,000 for furniture and fixtures;
  • $50,000 for marketing and advertising;
  • $50,000 for kitchen equipment;
  • $100,000 for the salary of the management team.

The owners plan to finance the start-up costs through a combination of their personal savings and bank loans. They also plan to generate additional revenue by offering catering services and hosting special events at the restaurant.

The financial forecast for La Cocina de El Paso is optimistic. The owners expect to break even in the first year of operations and reach profitability within five years.

Free Restaurant Business Plan Example PDF

Download our restaurant business plan pdf here. This is a free restaurant business plan example to help you get started on your own restaurant plan.

How to Finish Your Restaurant Business Plan in 1 Day!

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your restaurant business plan?

With Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template you can finish your plan in just 8 hours or less!

Growthink logo white

  • Canada (EN)
  • Canada (FR)
  • Deutschland
  • Netherlands
  • United Arab Emirates
  • United Kingdom
  • United States
  • View all solutions
  • Restaurant reservation software
  • Digital marketing solutions
  • Restaurant table management
  • Online ordering for restaurants
  • Experiences
  • Reputation and reviews
  • Relationship management
  • OpenTable integrations
  • For restaurants
  • For restaurant groups
  • For bars and wineries
  • For hotels and casinos
  • Robust reporting and insights
  • The largest diner network
  • The best customer service
  • View all industry insights
  • Restaurant stories
  • Industry expertise
  • Hospitality
  • Current industry data
  • Get Started

The complete guide to restaurant marketing strategies

business plan about restaurant example

Restaurant marketing attracts new customers, keeps regulars coming back, and sets one restaurant apart from the crowd. It’s more important than ever to make savvy marketing central to your business. In this complete guide to restaurant marketing, we’ll cover everything you need to know to take your restaurant to a new level of success.

Quick links What is restaurant marketing? Why is restaurant marketing so important? How to develop a restaurant marketing plan What is the right restaurant marketing budget? How to use social media for restaurant marketing How to use paid advertising for restaurant marketing How to use email marketing

What is restaurant marketing?

Nobody got into this business for the love of marketing, so restaurateurs can be forgiven if they lack expertise and interest in this part of the work.

Let’s start with the absolute basics: Restaurant marketing refers to the strategies and tactics that restaurant owners use to promote their business and attract customers.

In the competitive landscape of 2023, effective marketing is a key driver of growth for restaurants and all other businesses. Ignore it at your peril.

There are tons of types of restaurant marketing these days. You’ve got the old ways: traditional advertising methods such as signs and billboards as well as print and radio ads. Then there are the newer ways: digital marketing tools like social media , email marketing , and search engine optimization (SEO). And the quest to land media coverage on TV, in print, and online, also known as “ earned media ,” is eternal.

The good news is that you don’t have to do every kind of marketing under the sun. The secret sauce of successful restaurant marketing is to pick the strategies that work best for your specific restaurant, guests, and goals.

Image depicts a restaurant worker photographing food.

Why is restaurant marketing so important?

Today, restaurant marketing is essential for success. This is just as true for independent mom-and-pop restaurants as it is for large chains. The restaurant industry has been evolving at warp speed and so have the wants and needs of guests.

It’s vital to have a thoughtfully planned and expertly executed marketing strategy to magnetize the right people. Regularly brainstorming restaurant marketing ideas should be built into your workflow.

Not only does marketing put butts in seats directly, it also builds your brand identity and reputation as you continually get the message about your restaurant out there over time. Through marketing, people can get to know you, your menu, the kinds of events you host, and even your team before they ever step foot in the restaurant.

Social media platforms, an OpenTable profile page, email marketing, and paid advertising can all be used to entice potential guests through the door and drive traffic to the restaurant’s online presence.

But even when guests aren’t dining with you, marketing helps you stay top of mind between visits, driving repeat visits and creating loyal customers. By staying in touch with guests in their inboxes, through social media posts, and elsewhere online, restaurants nurture relationships that keep their brand relevant.

How has restaurant marketing changed over the years?

Pre-Internet, old-fashioned marketing methods such as print ads, radio ads, direct mail, and billboards were the best ways for restaurants to promote themselves. The rise of social media has completely remade this marketing landscape.

Today, there’s a staggering variety of digital marketing tools at your disposal: Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, email, Google ads, Boost campaigns , and Bonus Points campaigns to name a few. These tools let restaurants target guests in amazingly specific and effective ways.

All this tech has also made it easier for restaurants to collect data about guest preferences and behavior, allowing them to create highly personalized marketing campaigns and tailor their offers to the needs and wants of specific groups.

In a way, digital marketing has leveled the playing field in the industry and given small and independent restaurants a chance at competing with larger chains. It’s clear that those who prioritize digital restaurant marketing strategies and stay up-to-date on the latest trends are more likely to see sustainable success in the years ahead.

Image depicts a restaurant worker using a computer

How to develop a restaurant marketing plan

The first step to uplevel your restaurant marketing is to create a marketing plan. In a nutshell, a marketing plan is a blueprint that outlines your marketing efforts for a specific time period.

It spells out your marketing objectives and actions as well as the results you want to achieve. It takes some effort to put a plan like this together, but it will save time in the long run.

A simple but strategic marketing plan can help you identify your ideal guests, set concrete goals, allocate resources wisely, and create campaigns that get results.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create your marketing plan:

Do some market research Start with a clear-eyed look at your competition. This will help you identify your target audience, understand their wants, and create marketing messages that resonate authentically with them.
Set clear goals Describe your desired outcome in specific terms. These might include target sales numbers and guest loyalty benchmarks.
Set your budget Allocate a realistic and specific amount of money for your marketing plans. This will help you prioritize your marketing efforts and ensure you get the best ROI .
Choose your channels Determine which marketing channels are the most effective for reaching your desired guests, such as organic social media, email marketing, or paid advertising.
Sketch out a content calendar Plan out your marketing activities for the month or the quarter and decide when you’ll do them.

Image depicts a restaurant worker photographing food.

Who is your ideal guest avatar and how to create one?

The ideal guest avatar can be like a decoder ring for your whole marketing strategy. Simply put, an ideal guest avatar is a fictional representation of your restaurant’s ideal regular. It’s a profile that includes demographic information, interests, behaviors, and pain points.

By creating an ideal guest avatar, you can better understand your guests and send marketing messages that feel like you’re talking personally to them.

4 steps to creating your ideal guest avatar

  • Gather and review information about your guests. Use tools like surveys, customer feedback, guest notes, and social media analytics to learn more about their preferences and behaviors.
  • Create a profile that includes details such as average age, gender, income, occupation, hobbies, and preferred dining occasions for some imaginary person who would be your dream regular.
  • Give your ideal guest avatar a name and a backstory. This will help you imagine them as a real person with specific needs and motivations. Think about the challenges they face when dining out. Consider how your restaurant can solve these problems and provide a special dining experience that exceeds their expectations.
  • Use your ideal guest avatar to guide your marketing efforts. Create content and creative promotions that speak directly to their interests. Customize your messaging and advertising to appeal to your ideal guest avatar and use social media platforms they frequent.

By creating a strong connection with your ideal guest avatar, you can build a loyal customer base and increase your restaurant’s revenue. It’s counterintuitive that marketing to a single imaginary guest can help you draw a lot of new people to your restaurant, but it’s a time-tested marketing strategy that gets results.

What is the right restaurant marketing budget?

Finding the sweet spot in terms of how much to spend on marketing is notoriously tricky. You want to get as much out of those dollars as possible. Overspending and underspending are both real risks.

The first step to determining the right marketing spend for your restaurant is to set a budget that feels comfortably within your means. Determine how much you can really afford to spend on marketing each month or quarter, and stick to that budget.

Next, decide on your channels, such as social media, email, paid search, etc. These options all come with different price tags and varying bang for the buck. Once you’ve chosen your channels, decide what you want to spend on each. Think through the potential reach and effectiveness of each channel.

Over time, you’ll be able to get granular about the ROI for various types of marketing and that will shape your plan and budget as you move forward.

If one particular marketing channel is performing very well, it’s time to increase the budget there. At the same time, keep your eyes peeled for underperforming channels so you can move that money into marketing that works.

Image depicts a restaurant worker using a tablet and smiling.

How to build a strong restaurant brand

Branding can be an overlooked form of marketing because it’s less quantifiable than other strategies. Building a beloved restaurant brand requires showing up with clear and consistent messaging over time. It takes strong visuals, memorable dining experiences, and media savvy.

Following these tips to build a brand that wins fans:

Define your brand by your values

Start by laying out the restaurant’s values. This will help you create a clear and consistent message that resonates with your target guests. Many restaurants have core values of community, fun, or social justice.

If things like sustainability and community service matter to you, shout it out. Many customers are drawn to restaurants that prioritize values they share. Highlight your efforts in these areas to build a strong brand that resonates with people.

Hone a visual identity

Your visual identity includes everything from your logo and color choices to the look of your menu and website. Make sure all visual elements are consistent and reflect your chosen vibe.

Focus on the guest experience

The experience your guests have at your restaurant makes or breaks a brand. Make sure your service is friendly and welcoming, your food is high-quality and consistent, and your atmosphere is warm, memorable, and preferably Instagrammable.

Engage on social

Social media marketing is a powerful tool for building your brand and engaging with guests when they aren’t in the dining room. Show off your food, people, and events—anything that brings your restaurant’s personality to life. If you come across a negative review online, respond and try to make it right if possible.

How to optimize your website for SEO

As more and more customers are turning to online sources to pick restaurants and make reservations, you’ve got to have a strong online presence. You want your restaurant’s website to be optimized for search engines (SEO) .

It doesn’t have to be complicated. Use words on your website that you think potential guests will search for. Place these keywords throughout your website, especially on your menu items description and about page.

A website’s structure and navigation also play a role in SEO. Make sure it’s easy for visitors to find the information they’re looking for , such as the menu, hours of operation, and contact information. Also, check that the website is mobile-friendly. Most people will be looking at it on their phones.

Overall, optimizing your restaurant’s website for SEO can boost online visibility and drive more guests through your doors.

Image depicts two restaurant workers recording a video.

How to use social media for restaurant marketing

Social media has become an essential tool for marketing in all industries. With billions of active users, it’s a powerful way to engage guests and potential guests.

If you aren’t already active on social media, start with one platform where you know your guests spend time. Post the best photos and videos you can. Don’t forget to keep the “social” in social media by actually having conversations with followers. When people comment on a post, reply. Pose questions, ask for suggestions, and repost things your guests share about you.

Using social media for restaurant marketing can help increase brand awareness, drive traffic to your website, and ultimately boost sales, both on-premise and through online ordering . Remember to track your results to refine your approach over time.

How to use paid advertising for restaurant marketing

Paid advertising, also known as paid media , can be a powerful tool for restaurant owners looking to build brand awareness and attract new guests. On the flip side, the world of paid advertising can be confusing and expensive.

If you’re going to invest in paid ads, spend some time investigating which are the right advertising channels for your restaurant. Google ads and Meta (Facebook and Instagram) ads are popular choices, but they’re far from the only ones. Research the different options and choose the channels that best fit your restaurant’s goals.

When investing in ads, you want to make sure you have the most effective ad copy and visuals as possible. It may be worth the money to enlist a professional to create the kind of polished ads most likely to get results.

Setting and sticking to a budget is also crucial for successful paid advertising. Start with a smaller budget and test different strategies to find what works best for your restaurant. And always track your metrics and know your ROI. That way you can adjust your strategy to maximize the benefits and minimize the risk of wasting money.

How to use email marketing

In the digital age, email marketing is an essential tool for any business to reach customers.

For restaurant owners, email marketing can be especially beneficial. Here are just a few reasons why your restaurant should be using email marketing:

Drive repeat visits

Send personalized messages to your guests that invite them to come back to your restaurant, especially when you haven’t seen them in a while. This can be in the form of special offers (such as buy one get one free), loyalty rewards, or even just a friendly reminder that you’re open. Repeat customers, aka regulars, can make or break a restaurant.

Compared to most other marketing channels, email marketing is relatively cheap. It allows you to reach a large number of people at a low cost. Email can provide a significant return on investment.

Track results

Email marketing campaigns can be easily tracked, allowing you to see how effective your campaigns are and make changes accordingly.

Effective restaurant marketing drives growth and sets your restaurant up for success. By developing a strategic marketing plan and making the most of select channels you can win a steady stream of new guests and foster loyalty in your customer base.

Explore more articles

business plan about restaurant example

  • Private dining
  • Data & security
  • Online waitlist
  • Benchmark reporting
  • Direct messaging
  • About OpenTable
  • New on OpenTable

Need help deciding which option is best for you? Give us a call at

(866) 951-7154

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Do Not Sell My Info (California)

Get the latest resources to help power up your hospitality.

Email Address * Restaurant Country * Please select United States United Kingdom Canada Netherlands Australia France Germany Mexico Spain Japan Italy -------------- Afghanistan Åland Islands Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Bouvet Island Brazil Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Colombia Comoros Congo Congo, The Dem. Republic Of Cook Islands Costa Rica Côte d'Ivoire Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Falkland Islands Faroe Islands Fiji Finland French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Terr. Gabon Gambia Georgia Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Heard/McDonald Isls. Honduras Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Jamaica Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Korea (North) Korea (South) Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macau Macedonia Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar N. Mariana Isls. Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands Antilles New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Reunion Romania Russian Federation Rwanda Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Sint Maarten (Dutch part) Saint Martin (French part) Samoa San Marino Sao Tome/Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia and Montenegro Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Slovak Republic Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa Sri Lanka St. Helena St. Pierre and Miquelon St. Vincent and Grenadines Sudan Suriname Svalbard/Jan Mayen Isls. Swaziland Sweden Switzerland Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Turks/Caicos Isls. Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates US Minor Outlying Is. Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela Vietnam Virgin Islands (British) Virgin Islands (U.S.) Wallis/Futuna Isls. Western Sahara Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe Submit

By signing up, you agree to our privacy policy . You also agree to receive marketing communications from OpenTable about news, events and promotions. You can unsubscribe from OpenTable emails at any time.

Don't bother with copy and paste.

Get this complete sample business plan as a free text document.

Steak Restaurant Business Plan

Start your own steak restaurant business plan

Fire Fountain Grille

Executive summary executive summary is a brief introduction to your business plan. it describes your business, the problem that it solves, your target market, and financial highlights.">.

The following plan is based on years of experience, is highly focused and promises to follow a path of prosperity for its investors, owners, managers and staff. It is based on conservative sales figures, and actual sales may be higher. The projections contained herein are authentic and will be used as the budget for the business. The Fire Fountain Grille ® will show a profit immediately, and will increase sales and profits each year thereafter.

The Fire Fountain Grille is a comfortable, inviting restaurant designed to make our customers feel as if they are enjoying VIP services in a world all to themselves. The decor and theme is based on an exterior fountain located at the main entrance that has a cascading water fountain combined with flame throwing torches. The show kitchen will also feature a custom made “Fire Fountain”, a unique show kitchen grill that also has a cascading water fountain combined with flame throwing torches. This spectacular marvel will be visible from the dining room side, and will be a functioning 48″ gas powered steak grill on the kitchen side. The energy and atmosphere of the restaurant is high, and draws some of its power from the dazzling “Fire Fountain”. By offering an exciting, tantalizing and rewarding experience for its customers, the Fire Fountain Grille and its service oriented approach will be immediately embraced by those that love dining out!

Steak restaurant business plan, executive summary chart image

1.1 Objectives

  • Sales for the first full calendar year will be $2.3 million, with Net Profit/Sales in excess of 19%.
  • A second unit will be opened in the first quarter of year three.
  • A third unit will be opened in the first quarter of year four.

1.2 Mission

  • Fire Fountain Grille is a commercial enterprise, and as such, exists for the purpose of generating sales and profits for its investors, owners, managers and staff.  Because Fire Fountain Grille is a service business, it also exists to serve its customers. These two reasons for its existence are inextricable.  If one aspect does not exist, the other will cease to exist.
  • Fire Fountain Grille will offer mouth-watering meals and beverages in a soothing environment.
  • Our staff will be cheerful, courteous, and focused on pleasing our customers.
  • Our customers will always be treated with importance and warmth. When it comes time for our customers to decide where to spend their entertainment dollars, we will strive to become their first destination of choice.
  • Our staff will be offered a workplace where they can prosper and grow in a dignified, fun and rewarding manner.
  • Our investors will see a lucrative return on their dollars, and will have opportunity for future growth and prosperity with our company.
  • Our vendors will be treated with loyalty, and they will find their future with us to be fruitful.
  • We will be a good neighbor to the businesses in our area, and we will be a contributing and supportive member of our community

1.3 Keys to Success

  • Our policy of having a manager pass by every table in the dining room every night to greet, visit with, or at least make eye contact with (with a smile) our customers.
  • Our policy of having a manager visit any and every table that has a question, or if the customer has positive or negative feedback. The manager is required to use every means possible to satisfy our customers.
  • Our commitment to the success and happiness of our staff.
  • Our commitment to providing excellent quality food and beverages at all times.

Company Summary company overview ) is an overview of the most important points about your company—your history, management team, location, mission statement and legal structure.">

The Fire Fountain Grille is a steakhouse concept. It offers a comfortable, upscale ambience, replete with its signature fountains of flames and water. The menu features original variations of American favorites with a tantalizing array of seasoned steaks, prime rib, roasted caramel chicken, hot gourmet sandwiches and hearty salads. Beverages include an impressive wine list, microbrew beers, and festive cocktails. Fire Fountain Grille, Unit One, will be located in a newer free standing building. This location is an extremely high visibility spot on one of the most popular commercial corridors in the region. It has excellent parking, excellent ingress and egress from an eight lane thoroughfare.

2.1 Company Ownership

Fire Fountain Grille – Unit One LP, is projected as a Limited Partnership, but may switch the preferred structure to a stock “C” Corporation or Limited Liability Corporation “LLC”, for purposes of investment structuring (see section 6.1.1 “Investment Summary”). The number of investors could vary, based on various interpretations under SEC “Regulation D”.

OPERATING PARTNERS

  • General Managing Partner, with 31% ownership.
  • Vice Managing Partner for Dining Room and Human Resource Operations, with 9% ownership.
  • Vice Managing Partner for Beverage and Entertainment, with 9% ownership.
  • Vice Managing Partner for Kitchen and Catering Operations, with 9% ownership.

INVESTMENT PARTNERS

  • Limited Partner Group One, with 14% ownership.
  • Limited  Partner Group Two, with 14% ownership.
  • Limited Partner Group Three, with 14% ownership.

2.2 Start-up Summary

Fire Fountain Grille, Unit One, is a project that will take advantage of a newer, existing structure. Start-up costs will cover a number of details to convert the structure to suit our concept both visually, and functionally. Included in start-up costs are all necessary expenditures to cover the pre-opening hiring and training of our staff, adding and revising equipment needs, supplying smallwares and servicewares, inventory and other essentials.

Steak restaurant business plan, company summary chart image

2.3 Company Locations and Facilities

The Fire Fountain Grille is locate in a large stand-alone building with plenty of parking next to the Acres & Acres Mall, in Electrumburg, a fast growing suburb of Starburstville.

Products and Services

The Fire Fountain Grille is a comfortable, inviting restaurant designed to make our customers feel as if they are enjoying VIP services in a world all to themselves. The decor and theme is centered around the custom made “Fire Fountain”, a unique show kitchen grill that has a cascading water fountain combined with flame throwing torches on the dining room side, and is a sizzling 48″ gas powered steak grill on the kitchen side. The energy and atmosphere of the restaurant is high, and draws some of its power from the dazzling “Fire Fountain”.

Brought to you by

LivePlan Logo

Create a professional business plan

Using ai and step-by-step instructions.

Secure funding

Validate ideas

Build a strategy

We are a dinner-house, but we do offer lunch on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. We have a “late-night seating” 10:00 pm-1:00 am Friday and Saturday. The lights come way down, and customers enjoy light jazz music, and a discount on certain food and beverage items. Gift Certificates always available. We have private dining facilities for group events, and we offer full catering services for events at any location! We offer “take-out” food for those on the run! Visitors to our website will find upcoming events, specials, and catering and gift certificate information.

The restaurant hours are: Monday-Thursday 3:00 pm-10:00 pm; Friday and Saturday 11:00 am-1:00 am; Sunday 11:00 am-9:00 pm.

3.1 Competitive Comparison

PF Chang’s®, Houston’s® and TGI Friday’s® are chains that offer fun atmospheres for comparison purposes. Our most competitive edge is our managers, and their ability and willingness to create goodwill among our customers, and to overcome any perceived difficulty, and indeed, turn it around into a positive experience.

The Fire Fountain Grille offers steaks and other foods that are prepared with an irresistible combination of flavors and spices. No one else in the industry serves steaks as delicious as ours.

3.2 Product and Service Description

Our menu consists of juicy, thick steaks that are coated with a secret combination of  flavorings and zesty spices. These steaks are grilled to perfection. We offer mouth watering prime rib, available “Fire Fountain Style”, in four portion sizes. The menu also consists of butter-roasted and seasoned chicken dishes, fresh grilled seafoods, imaginative salads, cold melon chowders, a variety of huge burgers and grilled sandwiches, tender pork chops, soups, appetizers with berry barbecue sauces, refreshing fountain drinks, and flaming desserts.

From the bar patrons can order a wide range of American wines, as well as dozens of beers including the most popular microbrews. The bar also offers festive martinis, margaritas, specialty frozen drinks, and hundreds of cocktails.

Fire Fountain Grille Menu

We have a “late-night seating” 10:00 pm-1:00 am Friday and Saturday, with a discount on food items printed in red…

Fire Fountain Specialties… These meals come with your choice of baked tater or sweet tater or red beans n’ rice or veggies or fries. Also, you get fresh baked rolls, butter, and a salad! All steaks are seasoned USDA Prime Cuts! You can also order anything on this menu without seasonings!

RIBEYE – Perhaps the tastiest of all steaks! Hand cut daily, choose from big (16 ounce) $16.95 or huge (22 ounces) $22.95!!

FIRE FOUNTAIN FILET –  Tender 9 ounce filet, lightly seasoned and sizzle-grilled $14.95

METROPOLITAN STRIP STEAK – 14 ounce Strip steak, with Bay Shrimp and Citrus-Bearnaise Sauce $17.95

NEW YORK STRIP – Classic Strip Cut, seasoned and grilled $13.95

TOP SIRLOIN – Prime delicate cut, seasoned and grilled to order. America’s#1 steak! $11.95

PRIME RIB – Hand carved cuts, slow roasted, and served with au jus and whipped horseradish sauce: 20 ounce – $19.95; 16 ounce – $16.95; 12 ounce – $13.95; 8 ounce – $10.95

Also, try our Fire Fountain Style of Prime Rib! Ask your server!

Seafood…

HONEY/CHILI GLAZED SALMON – Fire-Grilled Salmon, brushed with honey-chili glaze and topped with black bean salsa $13.95

GRILLED SALMON –  With your choice of side dish $12.95

JAMAICAN SNAPPER – Pan charred, topped with a sweet coconut-tomato glaze $11.95

ROASTED PRAWNS – 12 Grilled Jumbo Shrimp over rice $13.95

CHICKEN ASTORIA – Breast of chicken, topped with Bay Shrimp and asparagus spears, finished with Citrus-Bearnaise sauce $11.95

FIRE-SMOKE CHICKEN – Robust, entirely dark meat, quarter of a chicken, smoke-roasted, served with Three Berry Barbecue Sauce $12.95

CARAMEL FLAMED CHICKEN – Tender Chicken breast, buttered and basted with sweet caramel glaze, then charred over an open flame $10.95

Burgers ‘n such……they come with fries..

THE BACON SPECTACULAR – Broiled 1/3 pound burger with bacon, Cheddar cheese, lettuce, dill pickle and tomato. $5.95

BURGER BURGER – Juicy ½ pounder served on a toasted onion bun with pickle, onion, lettuce and tomato $4.95… add cheese $.50

THE HIGHWAYMAN – Colossal. Char-broiled. One entire pound of juicy ground beef with Canadian bacon, Swiss cheese, lettuce, grilled onions, barbecue sauce and tomato on a giant bun $7.95

SLOPPY JOE – Sweet ‘n zesty, a mouth-watering favorite! $4.95

SHAVED PRIME RIB SANDWICH – With smoked bacon-horseradish sauce and smothered with melted Monterey Jack cheese $4.95

BARBECUE-BEEF – Huge pile of beef, slathered with barbecue sauce and melted Cheddar cheese- served open-faced $4.95

CHICKEN RANCH SANDWICH – Golden deep-fried chicken, served on a kaiser roll with Ranch sauce, lettuce and tomato $4.95

Appetizers…

GRILLED CHICKEN STRIPS – Served with Three Berry Barbecue Sauce $4.95

GRILLED STEAK SKEWERS with Ginger Red Sauce $4.95

FIRE STICKS – Fried Pepper-Jack cheese with cool Ranch Dip $3.95

CHILLED MELON CHOWDER – Bowl $2.95 Cup $1.95

BEER BATTERED SHRIMP with Pineapple Salsa $5.95

CHICKEN STRIPS with Honey-Dijon Sauce $4.95

From The Fountain…

Coffee $1.25, Decaf $1.25; Coke, Root Beer, 7-UP, Diet Coke, Iced Tea $1.50; Milk, Large$1.50 Small $1.25;

Draft Beers…Pint $2.75, Glass $1.50; Microbrews…Pint $3.00, Glass $1.95

Wines…House Glass $3.95, House Carafe $12.00. Please ask your server for a wine list.

Desserts…

Flaming Fruit Kebabs with ice cream $5.95; Cherries Jubilee $5.95; Key Lime Pie $3.95

Milk Shakes $2.95; Banana Split $5.25; Ice Cream Sundae $2.50; Carrot Cake $3.95

Completely Fat-Free Dessert: Chewy Brownies with Frozen Yogurt $2.95

JUST FOR KIDS…Yaaay!!

Kids meals come with fries..

Little Burger $3.95; Chicken Toes $3.95; Little Steak $5.95; Cheesaroni $2.95; Corny Dog $3.95; Hot Doggy $3.95…kids soda pop is free!!!

Salads…

SMOKED CHICKEN SALAD – with caramelized Hazel nuts and Ginger-Orange dressing $7.95

Grilled Sirloin Caesar $7.95; Grilled Chicken Caesar $7.95; Grilled Shrimp Caesar $7.95; Traditional Caesar $2.95; Fresh Garden Salad $2.95; – with these dressing choices: Ranch, Bleu Cheese, Catalina, Honey-Mustard, Low-Fat Italian

Chilled Melon Chowder – Bowl $2.95, Cup $1.95; Side of Fries $1.95; Sides of Red Beans ‘n’ Rice or Baked Tater, Sweet Taters, Mashed Taters, or Veggies are $1.95; Grilled Onions $1.95; Daily Soup -Bowl $2.95, Cup $1.95

Remember! We offer “to-go” food for those on the run! 

Please visit our Website!

Market Analysis Summary how to do a market analysis for your business plan.">

Electrumburg is a dynamic city located in the rapidly growing Southeast part of the Starburstville metropolitan area. The city is known for its excellent medical and educational institutions, beautiful neighborhoods, easy access to freeways and a diversified economic base. From a residential perspective, Electrumburg features master-planned communities, luxury executive homes, older residences in tree-lined neighborhoods and affordable starter housing. A robust economy, attractive residential developments, exciting commercial and business growth, dynamic neighborhoods and abundant civic pride combined with outstanding city services – Electrumburg has all of the amenities necessary for ensuring a quality lifestyle.

Electrumburg has been one of the fastest-growing cities in one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the United States over the past three decades. The city’s population grew 48 percent during the 1990s. Today, Electrumburg has a population of more than 225,000. Electrumburg is adjacent to Starburstville (pop. 500,000), within the Valley with 1.6 million residents.

4.1 Market Segmentation

Fire Fountain Grille, Unit One, is located in Electrumburg. According to the Electrumburg Chamber of Commerce and the US Census Bureau, the population within a five mile radius of this address is nearly 125,000, with over 59,000 households, and over 400 businesses. Income within one mile is over $81,000, $72,000 within three miles and $60,000 within five miles. Per capita retail spending in this area exceeds $13,000, with total retail spending exceeding $2.8 billion!

The first tier target segment for Fire Fountain Grille concentrates on the 30-44 year old age range, with income in the $40,000 – $80,000 range, located within a five mile radius. Second tier is the 45-59 year old range, with income in the $55,000 – $90,000 range, located within a five mile radius. Third tier is the 21-29 group, with income at $36,000 – $60,000, located within a five mile radius. Fourth tier is a combination of the age and income ranges mentioned in tiers 1-3, but extends the geographic radius to seven miles. Fifth tier is age ranges 60+, within five miles, and income of $65,000+. Sixth, and final tier is a composite of age ranges 60+, 10-20, and under 10, with a radius of five – seven miles, and a mixture of incomes.

Steak restaurant business plan, market analysis summary chart image

4.2 Target Market Segment Strategy

Strategically, targeting the 30-44 year old age range in upper middle class areas close to our restaurant helps serve the needs and requirements of our customers, and ties in logically with our marketing plan (see Marketing Plan) and style of restaurant. Typically, the upper middle class in the 30-44 range are raising families whose children range from toddlers to teens, yet tend to continue to have “disposable” dollars available for a quality diversion (such as Fire Fountain Grille) to get them away from home and work. These customers have regimented schedules in their lives, and find value in exceptional service, timely service, and mouth watering, delightful food. If a couple chooses to leave the kids home, they’ll find value in the form of satisfaction and fun together, in their diversionary time. If they bring the kids, they will appreciate a value based kids menu. This first tier of our market segment, is also the primary focus of our marketing plan (see Marketing Plan), which has a deep commitment to focusing on kids, at their schools and in their community. These kids are primarily the children of our 30-44 tier-one group. Industry research (Nation’s Restaurant News®) has shown that the 30-44 age group appreciates steaks, chops, chicken and seafood dishes prepared with lightly seasoned recipes, which is a perfect fit for Fire Fountain Grille.

Our SECOND-TIER market group (45-59 / $55,000 – $ 80,000), will also find value in great service, and delicious food, and will appreciate a restaurant with a much better wine list than what is normally available in the upscale casual dining niche. Fire Fountain Grille will also be considered a refreshing escape from restaurants that sing and clap for birthdays.

Our THIRD-TIER group, the 21-29 year olds will find that the menu contains many favorites available to them that are considered essential: tantalizing appetizers, spicy steaks, and hundreds of cocktails and specialty beers. The Fire Fountain turns down the lights for late hour business on the weekends, and offers jazz and food and beverage specials, offering our customers a chance for some socializing and conversation.

FOURTH-TIER simply extends the market radius out to a five mile area, with the same demographics included in tiers 1-3.

FIFTH-TIER (60+ / $65,000+), represents a market that has abundant disposable income, and truly reveres attentive, efficient service. Fire Fountain Grille serves all of its meals with the option of cooking with little or no spices. This customization is much more appreciated by this group, who often prefer meals prepared to their own specifications. Because Fire Fountain Grille has only one purpose in mind when it comes to our customers – All Customers Must Leave Happy, customizing a meal to our treasured customers will always be a pleasure!

The SIXTH-TIER group will benefit from all of the quality approaches that are marketed to the previous five tiers, and will gain exposure to us primarily through our community involvement and word-of-mouth.

4.2.1 Market Trends

The trends in the Starburstville Metro market rely heavily on visual appeal, and locations. Most restaurants overlook targeting kids as a way to market to the parents. The Fire Fountain Grille does not seek to market to kids to get them to eat at our restaurant, but rather as a way to get their parents to eat there.

4.2.2 Market Growth

Steak restaurants comprise less than 5% of the total restaurant market. Service oriented steak houses have room to grow. Meat and potatoes is still what Americans want, and they want it with good service.

4.2.3 Market Needs

The market suffers from a lack of service oriented restaurants. The market needs a restaurant that values the customer as its number one priority.

4.3 Service Business Analysis

All restaurants combined, from fast food to fine dining, show an average bottom line profit of 3-10%. Margins are much better in full service restaurants with good management, good staff, good concepts, good menus and wine lists, good location and good financial controls. A full service steakhouse with all of these factors should show a bottom line profit of 13% – 25%.

4.3.1 Competition and Buying Patterns

The general nature of competition in this business, and how the customers seem to choose one provider over another can be measured by customer loyalty and positive word of mouth. Customer loyalty and brand preference come from developing a trust between the customer and the business. To be successful in the hospitality business, one must truly believe in, and always apply, the fundamental meaning of hospitality, which simply stated is, one must always be hospitable, and the customer must truly be made to feel welcome and cared for. The trust that a customer feels, is based upon the business’ ability to recognize what it takes to please a customer, and then is built upon by continuously delivering to that customer at, or above, the level of expectation that the customer expects. Fire Fountain Grille has carefully selected a management team that has been specially trained in the high art of exceptional customer service. The screening, hiring and training standards for front-of-the house staff are the highest in the industry.

The Fire Fountain Grille is conveniently located on a highly visible ingress near a successful mall. The restaurant has a huge, secure parking lot, excellent ingress and egress, and a beautiful and highly noticeable exterior. This area has other restaurants, which is a definite plus for us. This allows us to capitalize on a positive “clustering” effect, and works well with our marketing strategy.

4.3.2 Main Competitors

Competition comes from major chains and from various independents.

4.3.3 Business Participants

The general category is eating and drinking places. Typically, this can be broken down as follows:

  • Fine dining  (white tablecloths, expensive wines).
  • Private Clubs and Country Clubs
  • Upscale casual  (good prices, fun) 
  • Boiler plate casual
  • Neighborhood  places
  • Breakfast/lunch/dinner chains

The Fire Fountain Grille will participate in the upscale casual category.

Strategy and Implementation Summary

Build a relationship-oriented business Build long-term relationships with customers, not single-visit deals. Become their restaurant and destination of choice. Make them understand the value of the relationship.

Focus on target markets We need to focus our offerings on specific population groups as the key market segment we should own. We do not want to compete for the buyers who go to fast food or “microwave frozen foods” types of “restaurants. We definitely want to be able to sell to smart, quality conscious customers.

5.1 Competitive Edge

Clearly, our competitive edge is the customer service experience and approach that our management team will bring to the table. Our smiling, unassuming and good natured approach to all of our customers is evident, and highly appreciated. Our recipes are delicious, and the portions are large. The foods are fresh and satisfying, and the drinks are fulfilling and refreshing.

5.2 Marketing Strategy

An overview of the marketing plan includes:

• Kids Tours • Gift Certificate Program • In-store comp cards • Direct mail • Free surprise dinners for radio station DJ’s. • Charity events for senior citizens, high schools, grade schools, churches and community centers. • Trade shows • Vintner and Chef Dinners • Eye-catching exterior and interior neons, fountains and torches. • High profile interaction between our managers, and the customers. • Excellent service and high food quality every single day in the restaurant.

5.2.1 Positioning Statement

The Fire Fountain Grille. Sizzling, Refreshing, Exciting!  For A Dinner To Remember…

5.2.2 Pricing Strategy

Prices are fit to attract the consumer who prefers a quality steak for a reasonable price. The prices are above those of operators such as Sizzler®, El Paso BBQ® and Black Angus®, are below Ruth’s Chris® and Morton’s®.

5.2.3 Promotion Strategy

The Fire Fountain Grille uses a mix of various promotions and media to spread news about ourselves. This includes:

  • Direct mail, generated from in-store “Event Cards” and customer’s business cards. Event cards are forms that the customers fill out so as to receive notices of our upcoming events.
  • Young people’s tours, to generate enthusiasm among the kids in our area, who in turn spread it to their folks.
  • Eye-catching exterior neons and torches.
  • In-store comp cards for appetizers and desserts.
  • Free surprise dinners for radio station DJ’s.
  • Charity events for senior citizens, high schools, grade schools, churches and community centers.
  • Trade shows, to promote private dining, banquets and catering.
  • “Vintner and Chef Dinners” bringing together the wine making and culinary fields at showcase events, to be held at the Fire Fountain Grille.
  • High profile interaction between our managers, and the customers.
  • Excellent service and high food quality every single day in the restaurant.

5.2.4 Marketing Programs

Children’s tours will be an ongoing program that has proven to work over and over again. The kids are brought to the restaurant by teachers or parents, in groups of no more than 25, and are greeted at the door by our manager. They all go inside and are seated near the Fire Fountain where they are told a cool short story. They then are taken on a tour of the store and kitchen and get to go inside of a giant refrigerator, and see some cool cooks doing their thing. Then everyone is seated for a free lunch of  “Chicken Toes” or “Hot Doggies” and soda pop. Everybody talks a little about restaurants and other neat stuff. When its time to say goodbye, we take pictures and everybody gets an appetizer or dessert card, and some promotional menus. When the kids come back with their parents, we address the kids by their first names and treat them special.

5.3 Sales Strategy

We require our servers to have a thorough and comprehensive understanding of the menus, ingredients and methods of preparation of all of our foods and beverages. We train our staff to always describe and recommend items, even to regular customers, and to always upsell. The key to a server’s success in upselling is the realization that it almost always brings in better tips because the checks are higher.

GIFT CERTIFICATES The Fire Fountain Grille will aggressively sell gift certificates. The strategy behind gift certificate sales is simple and proven. Most GC sales occur during the holidays. Most GC’s are then redeemed in the post holiday months of January and February, helping drive sales in those traditionally slower months.

5.3.1 Sales Forecast

The first month sales will open strongly, because of the advance buzz created by our pre-opening marketing, and our Grand Opening Festivities. Sales will drop off slightly as we begin to sort out our operational patterns. September is a slower month for restaurants. October and November see sales begin to build as we continue with our marketing, and relentless quality. December sees a sharp spike upward as the Holidays are in full swing. A typical week for the first six months will look like this ( conservative estimate ):

Years 2005 – 2008 will see an 8% annual increase. Costs will be higher during the start-up months.

Steak restaurant business plan, strategy and implementation summary chart image

5.4 Strategic Alliances

The Fire Fountain Grille will align with hotels, movie theatres, live theatres, cab companies, banks and retail stores in an informational brochure exchange. Each business will have a chance to promote the other businesses at their place of business. Additionally, our respective businesses will barter with each other, using gift certificates and comps.

5.5 Milestones

The milestone table is set up as a flow-chart. We opted to exclude budgeted dollars in the milestone category because we detailed these dollars in the start-up table. The milestone table is specific in detail, allowing for the smooth flow of functions that are necessary to set up the restaurant on schedule for the Grand Opening. Each function is timed to coincide with the proper execution and time needed to complete each task. Each Managing Partner has specific duties assigned specifically to his area of expertise. The end of the milestone table also shows the beginning of the 2004 marketing plan.

Web Plan Summary

Our website, is an opportunity to offer current information on special events, menu offerings, public service announcements and comp specials.

6.1 Website Marketing Strategy

Our website will be promoted on all of our menus, and promo pieces. We will link to CitySearch.com® and many other hospitality oriented websites and portals.

6.2 Development Requirements

The Fire Fountain Grille website will be initially developed with few technical resources. VeriSign® will host the site and provide the technical back end. We will maintain a simple, classy, yet Internet focused site. The website logos, and graphics will be the same artwork found on our hard-copy menus, and in various spots in the business plan. Our managers will maintain the website. As the website rolls out future development such as restaurant delivery options, newsletters and downloadable market research reports, a technical resource may need to be contracted to build the trackable download and the newsletter capabilities. We will also look into pre-packaged solutions through VeriSign® and other Web hosting resources.

Management Summary management summary will include information about who's on your team and why they're the right people for the job, as well as your future hiring plans.">

We will open with a team of four manager/owners, one bookkeeper, and fifty-three staff members. Each member of the management team has specific industry experience that will apply to their assignment. Each Vice Managing Partner will also cross train for one year in preparation for their promotions to their own Fire Fountain Grille units. This is an extremely experienced and well balanced team. There are no gaps in its structure.

7.1 Personnel Plan

The personnel table (labor pro-forma) shows the number, and structure of the “back-of-the-house” (BOH),  “front-of-the-house” (FOH), and management staffs. June 2004 has a higher labor cost, as is usual in a restaurant start-up. Labor costs come down as the operation begins to flow more smoothly. The service staff is large, and is necessary to provide the level of service that the Fire Fountain Grille needs to set it apart from the competition.

Financial Plan investor-ready personnel plan .">

Our main concerns will be aggressive time management, so that our labor costs stay under control, and proper purchasing, prep and food handling to keep food costs down, as well as managing the higher costs of meats and seafoods. Secondarily, hiring the best grill and broiler cooks, training them properly and retaining them will be a critical component to good meat and seafood costs. A good grill cook does not waste steaks by burning them, nor does he anger customers by undercooking them. He must also be accurate time after time in how he carves his prime rib.

Growth will be sustained through a contribution to an expansion fund, and potential investment from current investors in a “roll-over” plan, and from potential future investors or bank capital.

8.1 Start-up Funding

We are seeking $900,000 (see section 2.2 “Start-up Summary”), and will seek it from one, two, or three investment groups, or under an SEC “Regulation D” equity offering (where the company sells partial ownership in the company – via the sale of stock or a membership unit, to raise capital). We prefer this approach as an early stage company because there is no set repayment schedule or debt service payments – the investors profit when the company profits. Initially, the company is projected as a Limited Partnership, but may switch the preferred structure to a stock “C” Corporation or Limited Liability Corporation “LLC”. The preparation of the investment documents will be handled in a cooperative effort by the legal firms representing each party individually. These documents will include, but are not limited to:

Private Placement Memorandum The Private Placement Memorandum, or “PPM”, is the document that discloses all pertinent information to the investors about the company, proposed company operations, the transaction structure (whether we are selling equity ownership or raising debt financing from the investors), the terms of the investment (share price, note amounts, maturity dates, etc.), risks the investors may face, etc.

Form D SEC Filing It notifies the SEC that we are using the Regulation D program and provides them basic information on the company and the offering. It is not an approval document or registration – it is merely a filing that notifies the SEC that we have a Regulation D Offering in place. Raising capital from investors without filing this document with the Federal government could place a company in violation of securities laws.

Subscription Agreement The Subscription Agreement sets forth the terms and conditions of the investment. It is the “sales contract” for purchasing the securities.

Promissory Note For a debt offering (if necessary), outlining the terms of any loan arrangement with the investors. The note is the actual “loan document” between the company and the investor.

8.2 Break-even Analysis

Break-even based on fixed costs including rent, insurance, maintenance, investor note, and pre-opening amortization. Additionally, controllables such as service labor, kitchen labor, management labor, payroll taxes, property taxes, excess rent, advertising and legal/professional fees are included.

Steak restaurant business plan, financial plan chart image

8.3 Projected Profit and Loss

2004 is not a full year on the yearly P&L. Highlights include a bottom line of better than 18% for every year. The numbers reflect realism in the start up and continuing operations of the restaurant. We begin contributing aggressively to an expansion fund in 2005. We begin accruing for vacations immediately, and we are budgeting money from the insurance line for health benefits, all as an early commitment to the future prosperity of our staff. These numbers are an excellent indication that our investors, owners, partners and staff will all prosper and grow with the Fire Fountain Grille!

Steak restaurant business plan, financial plan chart image

8.4 Projected Cash Flow

The cash flow depends on assumptions for good daily operational management, good traffic counts in the restaurant, inventory turnover, payment days, and accounts receivable management. We will need no new financing until we open our second unit.

Initial projections are a sales-to-investment ratio in excess of 2-to-1, return on investment in excess of 30 percent and return on equity of 20 percent-plus.

Steak restaurant business plan, financial plan chart image

8.5 Projected Balance Sheet

The balance sheet is quite solid. We do not project any real trouble meeting our debt obligations–as long as we can achieve our specific objectives.

8.6 Business Ratios

The table follows with our main business ratios. We do intend to improve gross margin, collection days, sales and labor controls.  Our ratios are compared to industry ratios for Steak Restaurants – SIC code 5812.0802.

8.7 Long-term Plan

Our long term plan is to continue to maintain a cash flow of 19-20% while increasing sales annually, thereby increasing actual dollars earned by our investors, principals and staff.

Garrett's Bike Shop

The quickest way to turn a business idea into a business plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

No thanks, I prefer writing 40-page documents.

LivePlan pitch example

Discover the world’s #1 plan building software

business plan about restaurant example

IMAGES

  1. 5+ Free Restaurant Business Plan Templates

    business plan about restaurant example

  2. Restaurant Business Plan Templates

    business plan about restaurant example

  3. Business plan of fast food restaurant

    business plan about restaurant example

  4. How to Write a Restaurant Business Plan (Step-by-Step Guide + Free

    business plan about restaurant example

  5. 5+ Free Restaurant Business Plan Templates

    business plan about restaurant example

  6. 21+ Free 32+ Free Restaurant Business Plan Templates

    business plan about restaurant example

VIDEO

  1. How to Create a Winning Business Plan for Your Restaurant?

  2. enjoy and visit narowal zfc

  3. Restaurant Business Plan

  4. Why BUSINESS PLAN is a MUST for your RESTAURANT?

  5. restaurant business profit margin

  6. Restaurant business plan example

COMMENTS

  1. Restaurant Business Plan Template & Example

    The funding will be dedicated for the build-out and design of the restaurant, kitchen, bar and lounge, as well as cooking supplies and equipment, working capital, three months worth of payroll expenses and opening inventory. The breakout of the funding is below: Restaurant Build-Out and Design - $100,000. Kitchen supplies and equipment ...

  2. How to Write a Restaurant Business Plan in 2024 (Step by Step Guide

    6. Restaurant design. The design portion of your restaurant business plan is where you can really show off your thoughts and ideas to the investors. If you don't have professional mock-ups of your restaurant rendered, that's fine. Instead, put together a mood board to get your vision across.

  3. 10-Step Restaurant Business Plan Template With Examples

    Example: Our short-term goal is to establish ourselves as a popular food destination in town within a year, building a strong, loyal customer base. In the long run, we plan to open two more branches across the state and start franchise opportunities. 2. Restaurant Concept and Brand.

  4. How to Write a Restaurant Business Plan

    Your restaurant business plan company overview should include: Purpose: The type of restaurant you're opening (fine dining, fast-casual, pop-up, etc.), type of food you're serving, goals you ...

  5. Restaurant Business Plan: What To Include, Plus 8 Examples

    5) Menu. Every restaurant needs a good menu, and this is the section within your restaurant business plan that you describe the food you'll serve in as much detail as possible. You may not have your menu design complete, but you'll likely have at least a handful of dishes that serve as the foundation of your offerings.

  6. How to Write a Restaurant Business Plan + Free Template

    Here you go, download our free restaurant business plan pdf, and start writing. This intuitive, modern, and investment-ready template is designed specifically for restaurants. It includes step-by-step instructions & examples to help in creating your own restaurant business plan.

  7. How to write a restaurant business plan

    A small restaurant business plan is the roadmap you use to open a successful spot. As a first step to creating yours, ask your friends and colleagues to share restaurant business plan examples. Their restaurant business plan samples can inspire yours. Once you've studied those examples, it's time to start writing your own.

  8. How to Write a Small Restaurant Business Plan

    Download your free small restaurant business plan template. If you're ready to start a restaurant, you can download our free small restaurant business plan template from our library of over 550 sample business plans. Get started today, and discover why businesses that plan grow 30% faster than those that don't. More restaurant business plan ...

  9. How to Write a Restaurant Business Plan [with Sample]

    A restaurant business plan is a document that outlines the various aspects of your restaurant business. It can be used to secure funding from investors or keep track of your progress as you develop your business. A business plan should include information on your target market, competition, business model, marketing strategy, and financial ...

  10. Restaurant Business Plan: Step-by-Step Guide + examples

    5. Sample "yummy" Menu. In the restaurant industry, your menu plays a main role as the core product. Include a section in your business plan that highlights key details about your menu offerings to engage readers. If you offer a diverse range of dishes, provide a brief overview of each category.

  11. How to Write a Restaurant Business Plan: Complete Guide

    Use this template to create a complete, clear and solid business plan that get you funded. Let's dive in! 1. Restaurant Executive Summary. The executive summary of a business plan gives a sneak peek of the information about your business plan to lenders and/or investors. If the information you provide here is not concise, informative, and ...

  12. How to Write a Restaurant Business Plan (Step-by-Step Guide

    Step 3: Create a restaurant business plan using the ready-made template (pattern) described below. Step 4: Review the business plan regularly, every month in the first months of running the restaurant, and at least once a year in subsequent years. A business plan is a living document that will help your restaurant grow.

  13. Restaurant Business Plan Template [Updated 2024]

    This section of your restaurant business plan should have two key elements as follows: Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your restaurant such as serving customers, procuring supplies, keeping the restaurant clean, etc. Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve.

  14. How to Write a Restaurant Business Plan (with Samples)

    Include swatches of color, pictures of your inspiration, and anything else that may be relevant. For example, if you plan to cook food in a wood-burning oven, sending delicious, smoky scents wafting throughout the restaurant, describe that element in your business plan. If you want to include a wall of plants to attract Instagram Influencers ...

  15. Restaurant Business Plan PDF Example

    February 28, 2024. Business Plan. Creating a comprehensive business plan is crucial for launching and running a successful restaurant. This plan serves as your roadmap, detailing your vision, operational strategies, and financial plan. It helps establish your restaurant's identity, navigate the competitive market, and secure funding for growth.

  16. How to Write a Restaurant Business Plan

    The Key Elements of a Restaurant Business Plan. Create a Branded Cover Page. Incorporate your branding with a cover page that features your logo, your brand fonts, and all of the relevant contact information. Write an Executive Summary. The executive summary is the first section to write in any business plan.

  17. Free printable restaurant business plan templates

    With Canva's free restaurant business plan templates, you can quickly and easily create a professional-looking document that'll get you closer to your goals. Impress investors with a well-crafted proposal. Canva's ready-made business plan templates for restaurants are free and easy to edit.

  18. Restaurant Business Plan

    Here is an Example of a Restaurant Business Plan: Best Examples of a Restaurant Business Plan: An exemplary restaurant business plan should be comprehensive, well-structured, and tailored to the specific concept and market of the restaurant. Here's a detailed explanation of what constitutes an ideal restaurant business plan:

  19. How to Write a Restaurant Business Plan

    Restaurant Business Plan Sample Breakdown. Below is an in-depth look at each section of a restaurant business plan, what information you should include, and how to write them. 1. Executive Summary. The executive summary is a brief overview of all the information contained in your restaurant business plan. A strong executive summary is essential ...

  20. Restaurant Business Plan Examples

    Small Restaurant Business Plan. Bistro Locale offers an intimate and authentic dining experience by serving fresh, seasonal dishes inspired by local flavors and ingredients. With its warm, inviting atmosphere and exceptional customer service, it provides a unique destination for food lovers seeking a local, high-quality dining experience.

  21. Business Plan Template: Restaurant

    Tool. A restaurant business plan provides the foundation for your business. Not only is a detailed business plan the key to your restaurant's success, but it also outlines your vision by detailing how your business will take shape and operate. Highly customizable - Easily add your concept, ideas and information into the editable template.

  22. Sample Restaurant Business Plans For a New Business Owner

    To promote the business, the owners plan to launch an aggressive marketing campaign that will include print ads, radio spots, and social media. In addition, the restaurant will partner with local businesses to offer discounts and promotional offers. The owners have estimated start-up costs of $500,000.

  23. Food, Beverage, and Restaurant Business Plan Examples

    2. Write a business plan. Create a business plan that thoroughly explains your business model, operations, pricing strategy, and financial projections. 3. Handle health, safety, hygiene and legal compliance. Food and beverage is a highly regulated industry with additional legal, health, and safety requirements.

  24. The complete guide to restaurant marketing strategies

    How to develop a restaurant marketing plan. The first step to uplevel your restaurant marketing is to create a marketing plan. In a nutshell, a marketing plan is a blueprint that outlines your marketing efforts for a specific time period. It spells out your marketing objectives and actions as well as the results you want to achieve.

  25. Steak Restaurant Business Plan Example

    ROASTED PRAWNS - 12 Grilled Jumbo Shrimp over rice $13.95. CHICKEN ASTORIA - Breast of chicken, topped with Bay Shrimp and asparagus spears, finished with Citrus-Bearnaise sauce $11.95. FIRE-SMOKE CHICKEN - Robust, entirely dark meat, quarter of a chicken, smoke-roasted, served with Three Berry Barbecue Sauce $12.95.

  26. Glenmont Plaza would add grocery store under new plan

    Apr 17, 2024. Listen to this article 3 min. The owner of Glenmont Plaza wants to make changes to the shopping center to build a grocery store and a restaurant. Benderson Development Co. LLC of ...