Where opening a restaurant begins
Opening a restaurant from scratch is an ambitious project that requires a systematic approach. It means creating a business that has to work like a well-oiled mechanism from day one.
Based on the experience of 100+ delivered projects, we identify the key stages without which opening a restaurant turns into a chaotic process with an unpredictable result.
Stage 1: Concept and business plan
It all starts with an idea, but an idea without a financial model is just a dream. The first step is in-depth research of the market and competitors in your location.
A restaurant business plan must include:
- An analysis of the target audience and the competitive environment
- A detailed financial model with a revenue forecast
- A calculation of investments and ROI & Payback Period
- An operating model: staffing schedule, shifts, processes
- A launch marketing strategy
A professional restaurant business plan is developed in 7-10 days and is suitable both for banks and investors and for internal planning.
Stage 2: Premises and design
Choosing the premises is one of the most critical success factors. Consider foot traffic, parking availability, the competitive environment, and the fit with your concept.
The technological design of the kitchen and dining room determines the venue's operational efficiency for years to come. Poor space planning leads to service delays and the loss of customers.
Stage 3: Equipment and suppliers
Purchasing equipment is a significant part of the budget (30-40%). It is important to strike a balance between quality and price. We recommend assembling a pool of proven suppliers in advance.
Stage 4: Team and training
Staff training is a mandatory part of preparing for the opening. The program includes:
- Service and hospitality standards
- Knowledge of the menu and wine list
- Active selling techniques (upselling)
- Teamwork and communication
- Crisis situations and handling complaints
Training takes 3-5 days before opening, plus support during the first 2 weeks of operation.
Stage 5: Documents and legal registration
To open a restaurant legally, a certain set of documents is required:
- Registration as a sole proprietor (FOP) or LLC (we recommend an LLC for scaling)
- A premises lease agreement
- Fire service approval (SES/DSNS)
- A conclusion from the sanitary service (Derzhprodspozhyvsluzhba)
- An alcohol license (if required)
- Registration of a cash register (PRRO)
Legal registration can take from 2 to 4 weeks. Start this process in parallel with the renovation.
Stage 6: Marketing and launch
Marketing when opening a restaurant is a key component of a successful first month. Without proper PR and promotion, even the best venue can be left without guests.
An effective launch strategy includes a soft opening for press and bloggers, an SMM campaign, targeted advertising, and work with local media.
How long an opening takes
With professional support, the entire process from ready premises to launch takes 30-45 days. For example, BAO Lviv was opened in 35 days. The time depends on the complexity of the concept, the scope of the renovation, and the readiness of the documentation.
