Opening a restaurant: Costs

Opening a Restaurant: Costs, Planning, and Tips for a Successful Start

The opening of a restaurant is a dream for many people. However, this step requires not only passion but also precise financial planning. The costs for setting up a restaurant can quickly reach between 100,000 and 500,000 euros. From rental costs to kitchen equipment to staff and marketing: In this article, you will receive an overview of the most important cost items as well as a practical startup checklist.

Startup Checklist: The Key Items at a Glance

Premises (Rent or Purchase):

• Commercial rent or purchase price + deposit

• Renovations and alterations

• Utilities (electricity, water, gas, internet)

Kitchen Equipment and Utensils:

• Large appliances (refrigerator, stove, oven, fryer)

• Small inventory (plates, cutlery, glasses, table decorations)

Furniture and Decoration:

• Tables, chairs, lighting, bar stools

• Decorative elements for an appealing atmosphere

Licenses and Permits:

• Operating license

• Alcohol licensing

• Hygiene concepts and HACCP training

Staff:

• Wages and social security contributions

• Training and continuing education

Technology:

• Cash register systems, reservation software, payment terminals

• Sundae OS: With our software, you can keep track of all your income – including from various sources like multiple restaurants or delivery services like Wolt. 

Marketing:

• Website, social media channels

• Opening advertising and PR campaigns

Initial Stock Supplies:

• Supplies (food, beverages)

The Biggest Cost Factors When Opening a Restaurant

1. Premises

Rental or purchase costs depend heavily on the location. For example, a 150 m² space in Berlin costs around €2,850 rent per month, significantly less in smaller towns. Additionally, there are deposits (three to six months' rent), renovation costs, and utilities.

2. Kitchen Equipment

Professional kitchen appliances such as refrigerators, stoves, and fryers can cost several thousand euros. Even small items like cutlery or serving dishes add up quickly.

3. Furniture and Design

The interior decor of the dining area sets the first impression for your guests. For tables, chairs, lighting, and decoration, you should plan a budget of at least €10,000 to €30,000 depending on style and size.

4. Permits and Licenses

An operating license can cost between €500 and €3,000, and an alcohol license can be several hundred to thousands of euros. Additionally, fire safety regulations and hygiene standards must also be met.

5. Staff

In the gastronomy industry, labor costs are often one of the largest items. Keep in mind that you may not generate any significant profit for several months initially. Set aside reserves to cover salaries during this time.

6. Marketing

Without marketing efforts, your restaurant may remain empty. Plan a budget for a website, social media advertising, flyers, and opening promotions. To start, you should invest at least €3,000 to €10,000.

7. Technology

Modern restaurants benefit from digital tools such as cash register systems, reservation software, or inventory management apps. Besides the costs for acquiring the hardware (around €1,000), you should also factor in monthly software licenses (around €400).

Don't Forget Ongoing Costs

In addition to startup costs, ongoing expenses must also be considered. These include:

• Rent and utilities

• Staff costs

• Food procurement and inventory management

• Marketing efforts

• Maintenance of equipment and technology

A precise cost calculation is essential to remain profitable in the long term. Tools like Sundae OS can help you maintain financial oversight and run your restaurant efficiently.

Tips for Successful Restaurant Planning

• Budget Generously: Include at least 10-20% buffer for unforeseen costs.

• Focus on Quality: Don't skimp on kitchen equipment or ingredients – your guests will notice.

• Digitalise Early: Use technologies like Sundae OS to consolidate your income and simplify accounting.

• Invest in Marketing: Visibility and positive reviews are crucial to differentiate from the competition.

Conclusion

The costs associated with opening a restaurant can seem overwhelming, but with thoughtful planning and a clear overview of all expense items, success is attainable. Use the checklist provided above as a starting point, and prioritize quality, efficiency, and strategic marketing to turn your vision into reality. With modern tools like Sundae OS, you can not only optimize your financial processes but also significantly simplify communication with tax consultants or the tax office.