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Diner Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

diner business plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their diners.

If you’re unfamiliar with creating a diner business plan, you may think creating one will be a time-consuming and frustrating process. For most entrepreneurs it is, but for you, it won’t be since we’re here to help. We have the experience, resources, and knowledge to help you create a great business plan.

In this article, you will learn some background information on why business planning is important. Then, you will learn how to write a diner business plan step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What Is a Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your diner as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategies for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan

If you’re looking to start a diner or grow your existing diner restaurant, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your diner to improve your chances of success. Your diner business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Diners

With regard to funding, the main sources of funding for a diner are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans, and angel investors. When it comes to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to ensure that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for diners.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

How to write a business plan for a diner business.

If you want to start a diner or expand your current diner, you need a business plan. The guide below details the necessary information for how to write each essential component of your diner business plan.

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your executive summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the kind of diner you are running and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a diner that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of diners?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan.

  • Give a brief overview of the diner industry.
  • Discuss the type of diner you are operating.
  • Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers.
  • Provide a snapshot of your marketing strategy. Identify the key members of your team.
  • Offer an overview of your financial plan.

Company Overview

In your company overview, you will detail the type of diner you are operating.

For example, you might specialize in one of the following types of diners:

  • Neighborhood diner: Serving a regional area with traditional breakfast, lunch and dinner, most neighborhood diners are comfortable, cozy and welcoming with a “hometown” environment. The target audience is individuals and families.
  • 24-Hour Diner: Especially popular in large city neighborhoods, a 24-hour diner specializes in familiar foods, such as All-American breakfast items and hamburgers with French fries. Typically small to mid-sized, 24-hour diners cater to the late night crowd.
  • Vegetarian or Vegan Diner: The number of specialty diners, such as vegetarian or vegan, has grown significantly in recent years due to the increase in the number of patrons who enjoy such lifestyles. Food is typically mainstream offerings, with slight alterations to suit these freestyle choices.
  • Mobile Diner: A mobile diner is often compared to a food truck; however, the difference is found in the small seating areas of a mobile diner and the menus offered, which are much like a traditional diner. Mobile diners will usually offer All-American meals and desserts, serving from a side platform patio or other temporary structure.

In addition to explaining the type of diner you will operate, the company overview needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to questions such as:

  • When and why did you start the business?
  • What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of customers served, the amount of revenue during the past six months, opening a second diner location, etc.
  • Your legal business structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry or market analysis, you need to provide an overview of the diner industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the diner industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your marketing strategy, particularly if your analysis identifies market trends.

The third reason is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your diner business plan:

  • How big is the diner industry (in dollars)?
  • Is the market declining or increasing?
  • Who are the key competitors in the market?
  • Who are the key suppliers in the market?
  • What trends are affecting the industry?
  • What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
  • What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential target market for your diner? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your diner business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: individuals, family and friend groups, small companies, and party groups.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of diner restaurant you operate. Clearly, individuals will respond to different marketing promotions than will small companies, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regard to demographics, including a discussion of the ages, genders, locations, and income levels of the potential customers you seek to serve.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can recognize and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other diners.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t directly competing with your product or service. This includes grocery stores, convenience stores, dinner-prep companies, and direct mail meals. You need to mention such competition, as well.

For each direct competitor, provide an overview of their business and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as

  • What types of customers do they serve?
  • What type of diner are they?
  • What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
  • What sets their business apart from others?
  • What are their weaknesses?

With regard to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And, don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

  • Will you provide options for small groups?
  • Will you offer meals or services that your competition doesn’t?
  • Will you provide better customer service?
  • Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a diner business plan, your marketing strategy should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of diner company that you documented in your company overview. Then, detail the specific products or services you will be offering. For example, will you provide “homestyle 50s” dinners directed to consumers ages 40+?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your plan, you are presenting the foods and/or services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the site of your diner company. Document where your company is situated and mention how the site will impact your success. For example, is your diner located in a busy retail district, a business district, or a standalone building? Discuss how your site might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your diner marketing plan is where you will document how you will drive potential customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

  • Advertise in local papers, radio stations and/or magazines
  • Reach out to websites
  • Distribute direct mail pieces to your target audience
  • Engage in email marketing
  • Advertise on social media platforms
  • Improve the SEO (search engine optimization) with target keywords on your website

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your diner, including answering calls, planning and stocking diner items, paying invoices, contacting customers, etc.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to sell your 1,000th dinner, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your diner to a second or third location.

Management Team

To demonstrate your diner’s potential to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally, you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing diners. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But, also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act as mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing a diner or successfully running a chain of diners regionally.

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statements.

Diner financial projections

Income Statement

An income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenue and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you serve 45 customers per day, and/or offer special diner meals on certain evenings? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality. 5 Year Annual Income Statement

Balance Sheets

Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your diner, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a lender writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time. 5 Year Annual Balance Sheet

Cash Flow Statement

Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and ensure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit, but run out of money and go bankrupt.

When creating your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a diner:

  • Cost of inventory and related equipment
  • Cost of furnishings or accessories
  • Payroll or salaries paid to staff
  • Business insurance
  • Other start-up expenses (if you’re a new business) like legal expenses, permits, computer software, office supplies and equipment

5 Year Annual Cash Flow Statement

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan, along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your diner location lease or a list of friends and associates who are already lined up to buy meals from your business.

Writing a business plan for your diner is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will understand the diner industry, your competition, and your customers. You will develop a marketing strategy and will understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful diner.

Diner Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my diner business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily write your diner business plan.

How Do You Start a Diner Business?

Starting a Diner business is easy with these 14 steps:

  • Choose the Name for Your Diner Business
  • Create Your Diner Business Plan
  • Choose the Legal Structure for Your Diner Business
  • Secure Startup Funding for Your Diner Business (If Needed)
  • Secure a Location for Your Business
  • Register Your Diner Business with the IRS
  • Open a Business Bank Account
  • Get a Business Credit Card
  • Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
  • Get Business Insurance for Your Diner Business
  • Buy or Lease the Right Diner Business Equipment
  • Develop Your Diner Business Marketing Materials
  • Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Diner Business
  • Open for Business

Learn more about how to open your own diner . 

Where Can I Download a Free Business Plan Template PDF?

Click here to download the pdf version of our basic business plan template.

Our free business plan template pdf allows you to see the key sections to complete in your plan and the key questions that each must answer. The business plan pdf will definitely get you started in the right direction.

We do offer a premium version of our business plan template. Click here to learn more about it. The premium version includes numerous features allowing you to quickly and easily create a professional business plan. Its most touted feature is its financial projections template which allows you to simply enter your estimated sales and growth rates, and it automatically calculates your complete five-year financial projections including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. Here’s the link to our Ultimate Business Plan Template.

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

OR, Let Us Develop Your Plan For You

Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies who have gone on to achieve tremendous success.   Click here to learn about Growthink’s business plan writing services .

Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

Restaurant Business Plan Template

How to Start a Diner

Diners are general watering holes for locals, so they have the potential to become mainstays in any given town. Restaurant owners can distinguish themselves by a variety of factors: speed, quality of service, price, restaurant theme and menu items. Successful diners are known for giving fast, friendly service.

Learn how to start your own Diner and whether it is the right fit for you.

Ready to form your LLC? Check out the Top LLC Formation Services .

Diner Image

Start a diner by following these 10 steps:

  • Plan your Diner
  • Form your Diner into a Legal Entity
  • Register your Diner for Taxes
  • Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
  • Set up Accounting for your Diner
  • Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Diner
  • Get Diner Insurance
  • Define your Diner Brand
  • Create your Diner Website
  • Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your diner. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas .

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What will you name your business?

  • What are the startup and ongoing costs?
  • Who is your target market?

How much can you charge customers?

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our Diner Name Generator

If you operate a sole proprietorship , you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.

When registering a business name , we recommend researching your business name by checking:

  • Your state's business records
  • Federal and state trademark records
  • Social media platforms
  • Web domain availability .

It's very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.

Want some help naming your diner?

Business name generator, what are the costs involved in opening a diner.

Average start-up costs to open up a restaurant are around $275,000 if you rent, and $425,000 if you buy the building. These fees should include everything, such as kitchen appliances and technology for the building.For further context (when you need to replace items), an industrial fryer will cost around $700, and an average table and chair set will run around $250.  

You or the landlord of the building will also need to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy, which states the building is up to code. Your employees and customers will need protection against injury, as slips and burns are common in restaurants. You’ll need OSHA compliant workers’ compensation for employees and safety signage for customers.

If you choose to open up a franchise, such as a 5 and Diner (a 50s themed diner), you’ll need $250,000 in liquid assets and $750,000 net worth (e.g., real estate holdings).

What are the ongoing expenses for a diner?

Any diner will have a variety of ongoing expenses:

  • Server salaries
  • Equipment maintenance and replacement
  • Cost of food
  • Administrative items (e.g., computers, office supplies)

Who is the target market?

An ideal customer is someone who lives in the area, and one who is likely to establish a good rapport with the serving staff. Once a person has positive associations with the diner, they are more likely to bring their friends and to return again and again. Casual eateries are generally profitable only when they’re able to establish a good foundation of ‘regulars.’

How does a diner make money?

Diners make money by charging people for food with a profit margin. The cost of the food items must cover rent, equipment, staff salaries, and restaurant fixtures. Restaurants have some of the highest overhead of any business, so diners may operate at a deficit for many months before starting to see profit.

The standard formula for restaurants is to total the cost of the raw ingredients, and then multiply that by at least 3 to determine the listed menu price. However, each business will be influenced on where they are and who their clientele is. You will need to determine a profitable margin based on your rent price, staff wages, and equipment costs. However, you may also want to check out your competitors’ prices in the area before setting the final dollar amount.

How much profit can a diner make?

Profits are dependent on the amount of sales they make in any given day. The profit margins are typically only about 5 to 6% though, so there needs to be a high volume before restaurant owners start seeing major profit. If your restaurant does $500,000 in sales in a year, then your profit would be $27,500.

How can you make your business more profitable?

The best thing an owner can do is determine what people are willing to pay a premium for, whether that’s healthy but delicious food or a trendy new flavor that everyone’s talking about. Even diners can get a little fancy to keep their customers. There’s also the possibility of branching out into merchandising (e.g., T-shirts, hats) or by setting up stands and selling prepared foods at farmer’s markets for further promotion.

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

The most common business structure types are the sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC) , and corporation .

Establishing a legal business entity such as an LLC or corporation protects you from being held personally liable if your diner is sued.

Form Your LLC

Read our Guide to Form Your Own LLC

Have a Professional Service Form your LLC for You

Two such reliable services:

You can form an LLC yourself and pay only the minimal state LLC costs or hire one of the Best LLC Services for a small, additional fee.

Recommended: You will need to elect a registered agent for your LLC. LLC formation packages usually include a free year of registered agent services . You can choose to hire a registered agent or act as your own.

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website . If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

  • Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
  • Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

  • Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
  • Build your company's credit history , which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

Federal Business Licensing Requirements

There are federal regulations regarding what can and cannot be added to, sold as, and processed with food. Attached is a resource from the Food and Drug Administration detailing the process of starting a food business: How to Start a Food Business .

State & Local Business Licensing Requirements

Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate a diner. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits .

Since you plan to sell food at your diner, you will need licensing from a local health department. All establishments serving food are required to pass a health inspection. Tips for faring well on a health inspection can be found here.

Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses .

Certificate of Occupancy

A diner is generally run out of a storefront. Businesses operating out of a physical location typically require a Certificate of Occupancy (CO).  A CO confirms that all building codes, zoning laws and government regulations have been met.

  • If you plan to lease a location :
  • It is generally the landlord’s responsibility to obtain a CO.
  • Before leasing, confirm that your landlord has or can obtain a valid CO that is applicable to a diner business.
  • After a major renovation, a new CO often needs to be issued. If your place of business will be renovated before opening, it is recommended to include language in your lease agreement stating that lease payments will not commence until a valid CO is issued.
  • If you plan to purchase or build a location :
  • You will be responsible for obtaining a valid CO from a local government authority.
  • Review all building codes and zoning requirements for your business’ location to ensure your diner will be in compliance and able to obtain a CO.

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance . If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

FInd out what types of insurance your Diner needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for Diner.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners , we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended : Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker .

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator . Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a diner

Word of mouth is a great way to promote your business, so review sites will be important. You can hold a grand opening with free food to get people interested, or give out free samples to passerbys.

There are more traditional forms of advertisement as well: door flyers, print ads, and even billboards or television. If your diner delivers, door flyers advertising a small discount are highly recommended. You may also want to distinguish and advertise your diner with a given theme, so it stands out to patrons. For example, a 50s diner where waiters dance on counters.

How to keep customers coming back

Attracting and retaining customers will be a matter of perseverance. When up to 60% of restaurants fail in three years, it can make customers hesitant to give new places a fair chance. You must also be ready to adapt to different tastes. Customers in your area may want new and different, or they may want the classics with a twist, They may demand more vegetarian options, or organic ingredients. Regardless of what’s on the menu though, all food needs to be cooked with a certain amount of expertise (even if it’s just bacon and eggs).

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business .

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

  • All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
  • Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
  • Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended : Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders .

Other popular website builders are: WordPress , WIX , Weebly , Squarespace , and Shopify .

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

Is this Business Right For You?

Owners should have some experience in the food industry. The more positions a person has held in the restaurant world, the more likely it is they will be able to oversee, delegate and perform the many tasks on a to-do list. Owners may not perform a lot of customer service — they may leave the bulk of this to their staff. However, they will need people skills when handling their employees and for any interactions they may have with customers.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a diner?

Owners may find a general day consisting of the following tasks:

  • Hiring and managing employees
  • Overseeing the cooking process
  • Designating and coordinating shifts for all staff
  • Ordering inventory and food supplies
  • Performing inspections to ensure quality and cleanliness
  • Preparing budgets
  • Building and equipment maintenance
  • Testing and experimenting with new menu items

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful diner?

The best skills an owner can have is being a good multi-tasker. Most tasks on a to-do list may seem simple, but put all of it together and it’s a time-management puzzle that not everyone can solve. You should also be good at reading people and understanding what they want. When diners have legitimate complaints, listening and negotiating skills will become critical to staying in business.

What is the growth potential for a diner?

Diners aren’t generally known for being large restaurants, though there are exceptions to this rule. A diner may expand in terms of physical space (e.g., buying the building next door and expanding the seating area), or they may become a franchise. Should your diner become extremely popular, with long wait times and enthusiastic prospective customers, then it’s recommended you open another location to accommodate the demand.

You may also wish to start a franchise. For example, popular chains like Denny’s or Ruby’s allow owners to use their name and menu to establish a business. The name recognition and built-in advertising can give owners a leg-up when it comes to getting their first customers.

TRUiC's YouTube Channel

For fun informative videos about starting a business visit the TRUiC YouTube Channel or subscribe to view later.

Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor.

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a diner?

More than anything else, a diner needs to be consistent if it hopes for success. While no business is perfect, uneven service, food quality, or restaurant cleanliness will quickly turn customers off. If people see Yelp reviews that are sometimes good and sometimes bad, they may feel uncomfortable taking a chance. An owner cannot survive in the competitive restaurant world without watching every detail.

You also need to be smart about spending. Look for deals and sales whenever you can. Restaurants that have gone out of business are a good way to pick up perfectly functional equipment at a deep discount. Many owners will overspend before even opening the doors on everything from Facebook ads to redecorating, only to find their sales don’t support the initial enthusiasm.

How and when to build a team

The best time to build a team is at the very beginning, before the diner opens. Once the diner becomes popular, it will be difficult to hire and fire simply due to time constraints. Staff turnover often has a more significant impact on profits than owners think. Between trying to fill in the absent person’s shifts and training new people, there’s a lot of potential for major mistakes. While a certain amount of this is unavoidable in a business like a diner, you should really be looking for people who are willing to stick with the organization to make it a success.

Useful Links

Industry opportunities.

  • 5 & Diner Franchise Opportunity
  • Franchise part of a National Diner Chain

Real World Examples

  • The Fleetwood Diner - Ann Arbor, MI
  • Diner With a Unique Eating Experience
  • Denny's, One of America’s Largest Diner Chains

Further Reading

  • Tips for Starting a Small Restaurant from People Who Have Done It
  • Find more  Business Ideas  perfect for Small Towns!

Have a Question? Leave a Comment!

How to write the business plan for a diner

Business plan diner

Do the words 'all-day breakfast', 'bottomless coffee' and 'burgers and milkshakes' ring like music in your ears? If so, (and if you have a head for business), then you may have decided to launch your very own diner.

Before stocking up on retro, red leather-lined dining chairs and hiring waiting staff, however, it's important to think carefully about your business plan - because the success of your venture depends on it.

If you're not sure how to go about drafting up a business plan, then you've come to the right place. Simply read our guide below to make your diner business plan come to life.

Why a diner business plan is essential

The number one objective of a diner business plan is to ensure the financial viability of your venture. Before investing any money into your diner, you need to make sure that it will be profitable.

A diner business plan also enables you to examine your business in detail, evaluate the amount of funding needed to get it up and running, and assess its expected profitability.

A diner business plan will also be specifically requested by any bank or investor you decide to approach, so drafting one up is a mandatory step when it comes to securing financing.

Finally, a diner business plan serves as a roadmap for your diner's first three years of operation. As your diner moves through its first stages of operation, you can use the business plan to track whether it's flourishing as it should, by comparing the figures estimated in your initial forecasts.

What information should a diner business plan contain?

Market research is an essential prerequisite for the creation of any business plan.

It will not only enable you to understand the dynamics of the market you've chosen to enter, but it will also help you understand the expectations of your customers to ensure your offering the type of food and drink they're looking for.

Writing a diner business plan also enables you to keep track of the staff and equipment requirements of launching and operating a diner, as well as how much each investment will cost.

It's also within your diner business plan that you'll add up the costs associated with the stock, insurance, legal and accountancy fees, as well as your utility bills and rent.

To obtain the best rates and ensure you estimate these expenses as accurately as possible, get in touch with several professionals and ask them for quotes.

The financial forecast of a diner business plan

Now let's look at the financial part of your diner business plan. The financial forecast is composed of four tables, all of which have a specific function that we delve into below.

The projected profit and loss account

With this table, you'll have an overview of the expected turnover, growth, and profitability of your diner over the first 3 to 5 years of operation. This essential chart helps you identify potential opportunities to reduce costs and enables you to ensure the profitability of your diner.

profit and loss forecast diner

The projected balance sheet

The projected balance sheet shows the value of the company's assets at a given time, and, in particular, the value of the assets (what the company owns) and liabilities (what the company owes to suppliers, lenders, etc).

projected balance sheet diner

The projected cash flow statement

With the help of a projected cash flow statement, you will see how much cash is generated in your diner business plan, where it comes from, and how it is used, whether it's to repay its loans or purchase a new fridge.

projected cash flow statement diner

You'll also be able to see if you have enough cash to fulfil these obligations, or even if you might soon have enough money to expand your business by opening a few more diners.

The start-up capital

This section of your diner's financial forecast gives your bank or investor a quick overview of the resources needed to launch your business and their costs - as well as ways in which they'll be financed, including via equity contribution, shareholder loans and bank loans.

start up capital diner

How does the editorial part of a diner business plan look?

Once the financial forecast of your diner has been set up, you have the opportunity to put these figures and estimations into context by tackling the written part of your diner business plan.

The editorial section of your diner business plan is just as important as the financial forecast because it presents each aspect of the business in detail and proves to investors that you've carefully considered the risks associated with it.

It can be broken down into 8 sections, which we've summarised below:

The executive summary

Think of this section as the equivalent of a cover letter for your diner business plan. The aim here is to introduce your project to investors in as engaging and concise a manner as possible, encouraging them to read on and learn more about your exciting venture.

Company description

In this part, you place a spotlight on the business's partners and their roles, as well as the distribution of the company's capital and the location of your diner.

The products and services offered by your diner

This section explains the products being sold by your diner.

Market research

It's within this section of the diner business plan that you'll present the results of the market research we mentioned at the beginning of this article. The objective here is to demonstrate that there is indeed a viable business opportunity for your diner to flourish.

Your business strategy

In this part, you'll reveal three key plans:

  • Your sales strategy - the prices you'll set
  • Your marketing strategy - the actions you'll take to attract customers and build customer loyalty
  • Your risk management strategy - how you'll minimise the risks related to your business

From your employees to your relationship with suppliers, you'll detail the operational organisation of your business.

The financial plan of your diner

The financial plan of your diner business plan puts your numbers into tables that you'll be able to present to potential investors so they get a better idea as to your expected profitability and how much funding you need.

Our advice for creating a realistic diner business plan

The business plan for your diner will be your pillar throughout the preparation and launch of your business. It's an essential document that must not only anticipate all the questions that a potential investor might ask you during your meeting but also enable you to know the strengths of your business (as well as the risks associated with it) inside out.

We've listed several key areas of consideration below for you to pay special attention to when creating your diner business plan:

  • The fluctuation of stock prices: the cost of ingredients (especially dairy products) change all the time, so it's important to monitor their prices and to anticipate any price fluctuations that are likely to have a considerable impact on your profit margin.
  • Recruitment issues: in the hospitality business, the task of recruiting qualified and motivated members of staff can be particularly tricky, due to its high turnover rate. When creating your recruitment plan, take time to detail the exact skills and level of expertise you're looking for in each member of staff.
  • Knowledge of the field: the launch of a diner should be based on excellent knowledge of the diner market and its customers. So don't just do a quick survey of the competition and the area, take the time to conduct thorough market research on industry trends and consumer habits.
  • Double-check your information! Conducting market research means referring to several resources to inform yourself of sales figures within the diner market and emerging trends. You can turn to a wide range of professional bodies for this information, including the Office for National Statistics (UK), Eurostat (EU), or the Census Bureau (US), and the resources listed on UKHospitality . Whichever sources you use for data, double-check to ensure they can be trusted.

What tool should I use to write my business plan for a diner?

If you're not used to writing business plans, an excellent solution is to use online business plan software .

There are several advantages to using specialized software:

  • You are guided through the writing process by detailed instructions and examples for each part of the plan.
  • You can be inspired by already written business plan templates
  • You can easily make your financial forecast by letting the software take care of the financial calculations for you.
  • You get a professional document, formatted and ready to be sent to your bank.

If you are interested in this type of solution, you can try our software for free by clicking here .

That's it for now, we hope this article has helped you better understand how to write a diner business plan. If you have any questions related to setting up your business, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Also on The Business Plan Shop

  • How to open a diner
  • How to open a diner with no money
  • Structure of a business plan

Know someone who needs a business plan for their diner and might be interested in this guide? Share it with just one click!

Guillaume Le Brouster

Founder & CEO at The Business Plan Shop Ltd

Guillaume Le Brouster is a seasoned entrepreneur and financier.

Guillaume has been an entrepreneur for more than a decade and has first-hand experience of starting, running, and growing a successful business.

Prior to being a business owner, Guillaume worked in investment banking and private equity, where he spent most of his time creating complex financial forecasts, writing business plans, and analysing financial statements to make financing and investment decisions.

Guillaume holds a Master's Degree in Finance from ESCP Business School and a Bachelor of Science in Business & Management from Paris Dauphine University.

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How to write a restaurant business plan

opening a diner 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. No matter how much thought you’ve put into your concept or how many trusted colleagues have assured you of its greatness, you must write a restaurant business plan. It will prove the viability of your concept to potential investors and provide them with a clear and engaging answer to the question: “Why does the world need this restaurant?”

“The point of a business plan is to show that you’ve done your homework,” says Charles Bililies, owner of Souvla , a fine casual Greek restaurant in San Francisco that has received national acclaim since opening in the spring of 2014.

“You have to show any potential investor that you have an actual plan, you know what you’re talking about, it looks professional, and you’re not just screwing around.”

Quick links Branded cover Table of contents Concept Sample menu Service Management team Design Target market Location Market overview Marketing and publicity Specialists and consultants Business structure Financials

1. Branded cover

Include your logo (even if it’s not finalized), the date, and your name.

2. Table of contents

A table of contents in a restaurant business plan provides an organized overview of the document’s structure and content. It typically appears at the beginning of the plan and lists the major sections and subsections with their corresponding page numbers.

The table of contents is important for several reasons. Firstly, it allows readers to quickly navigate through the plan, enabling easy access to specific sections of interest. Secondly, it helps in presenting a professional and well-structured document, showing that you have carefully organized your thoughts and ideas. It also improves readability and comprehension, as readers can easily locate and refer back to relevant information

Image depicts a restaurant worker in a new restaurant.

3. Restaurant concept

Describe your restaurant concept and get the reader excited about your idea. Specify whether the restaurant will be fine dining or more casual. Include an executive summary and go into detail about the food you’ll be serving, inspiration behind your concept, and an overview of service style.

Define clearly what will be unique about your restaurant and include your mission statement. This section should include a market analysis that shows how your restaurant will be similar and different from competing restaurants.

4. Sample menu

The menu is the most important touchpoint of any restaurant’s brand, so this should be more than just a simple list of items. Incorporate your logo and mock up a formatted menu design (tap a designer for help if needed).

Your sample menu should also include prices that are based on a detailed cost analysis. This will:

  • Give investors a clear understanding of your targeted price point
  • Provide the info needed to estimate check averages
  • Show the numbers used create financial projections for starting costs
  • Show investors that you’ve done the homework
  • Prove you can stay within a budget

This section is most relevant for:

  • Fine-dining concepts
  • Concepts that have a unique service style
  • Owners who have particularly strong feelings about what role service will play in their restaurant.

It can be a powerful way of conveying your approach to hospitality to investors by explaining the details of the guest’s service experience.

Will your restaurant have counter service and restaurant hostess software designed to get guests on their way as quickly as possible, or will it look more like a theater, with captains putting plates in front of guests simultaneously?

If an extensive wine program is an integral part of what you’re doing, will you have a sommelier? If you don’t feel that service is a noteworthy component of your operation, address it briefly in the concept section.

Image depicts two restaurant workers discussing finances.

6. Management team

Write a brief overview of yourself and the team you have established so far. You want to show that your experience has provided you with the necessary skills to run a successful restaurant and act as a restaurant business owner.

Ideally, once you have described the strong suit of every member of your team, you’ll be presenting a full pitch deck. Most independent restaurant investors are in this for more than just money, so giving some indication of what you value and who you are outside of work may also be helpful.

Incorporate some visuals. Create a mood board that shows images related to the design and feeling of your restaurant.

Whether you’re planning to cook in a wood-burning oven or are designing an eclectic front-of-house, be sure to include those ideas. Photos of materials and snippets of other restaurants that you love that are similar to the brand you’re building are also helpful.

8. Target market

Who is going to eat at your restaurant? What do they do for a living, how old are they, and what’s their average income? Once you’ve described them in detail, reiterate why your specific concept will appeal to them.

Image depicts two restaurant workers having a discussion.

9. Location

There should be a natural and very clear connection between the information you present in the “Target Market” section and this one. You probably won’t have a specific site identified at this point in the process, but you should talk about viable neighborhoods.

Don’t assume that potential investors will be familiar with the areas you’re discussing and who works or lives there—make the connections clear. You want readers to be confident that your restaurant’s “ideal” diner intersects with the neighborhood(s) you’re proposing as often as possible.

If you don’t have a site , this is a good place to discuss what you’re looking for in terms of square footage, foot traffic, parking, freeway accessibility, outdoor seating , and other important details.

10. Market overview

Address the micro and macro market conditions in your area and how they relate to licenses and permits. At a macro level, what are the local and regional economic conditions?

If restaurants are doing poorly, explain why yours won’t; if restaurants are doing well, explain how you’ll be able to compete in an already booming restaurant climate. At a micro level, discuss who your direct competitors are. Talk about what types of restaurants share your target market and how you’ll differentiate yourself.

11. Marketing and publicity

The restaurant landscape is only getting more competitive. Discuss your pre- and post-opening marketing plans to show investors how you plan to gain traction leading up to opening day, as well as how you’ll keep the momentum going.

If you’re going to retain a PR/marketing company, introduce them and explain why you’ve chosen them over other companies (including some of their best-known clients helps). If not, convey that you have a solid plan in place to generate attention on your own through social media, your website , and media connections.

Image depicts two restaurant workers having a discussion over a tablet.

12. Specialists and consultants

List any outside contractors you plan to retain, such as:

  • General contractor
  • PR and marketing

Briefly explain the services they’ll be providing for you, why you chose them, and any notable accomplishments.

13. Business structure

This section should be short and sweet. What type of business structure have you set up and why did you make that specific decision? You will need to work with an attorney to help you determine what business structure is best for you.

“Step one: write a business plan. Step two: hire a good attorney. In addition to helping me build a smart, sustainable business structure, my attorney was also a great resource for reviewing my business plan because she’s read thousands of them. She was a very helpful, experienced outside perspective for more than just legal matters,” says Charles Bililies.

14. Financial projections

Let your accountant guide you through this portion of your business plan. It is crucial that whoever you hire to help you with your finances has a wealth of restaurant experience (not just one or two places). They should be familiar with the financial specifics of starting a restaurant and know what questions to ask you.

Before creating realistic financial projections, your accountant will want to know:

  • How many seats the restaurant will have
  • What your average check will be
  • How many covers per day you plan to do

Being conservative in these estimations is key. These three data points will be used as the basis for figuring out whether your concept is financially feasible.

Lou Guerrero, Principal at Kross, Baumgarten, Kniss & Guerrero, emphasizes, “You’ll get a lot of accountants that tell you that they’ve done a couple of restaurants, but you have to choose someone that has a deep expertise in what you’re doing. There’s nothing to gain from going with someone that doesn’t have a very restaurant-centric practice.”

A well-vetted accountant with restaurant experience will know exactly what you’ll need to have prepared to show investors.

The key projections you can expect to work on are:

  • Pro forma profit and loss statement for the first three to five years of operation
  • Break even analysis
  • Capital requirements budget

Writing a comprehensive restaurant business plan is a crucial step towards opening a successful establishment. By seeking inspiration from examples, demonstrating your expertise, and addressing all the essential components, you can prove the viability of your concept to potential investors.

Remember, a well-prepared business plan demonstrates professionalism and a clear understanding of your goals, increasing your chances of achieving long-term success in the competitive restaurant industry.

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Last Updated on: December 17, 2023 by Joseph Muriithi

Introduction

Starting a diner business can be an exciting and rewarding venture. With the right planning and preparation, you can create a thriving eatery that becomes a beloved part of the community. In this blog post, we will discuss the essential steps you need to take to start your own diner business and make it a success.

Need a business plan for starting a diner business? Get in touch here!

Finding the Perfect Location

One of the key factors in starting a successful diner business is finding the perfect location. Look for a spot that has high foot traffic, ample parking, and is easily accessible to your target market. Consider the demographics of the area and ensure that it aligns with your ideal customer base. Additionally, check for any zoning restrictions or regulations that may impact your diner business.

Research the local market to identify areas that are underserved by dining establishments, as this can present an opportunity for your diner to fill a gap in the market. Consider the proximity to other businesses and attractions that can potentially attract customers to your diner. It is essential to choose a location that is visible and easily identifiable, as this can help drive foot traffic and increase brand visibility.

You might also want to consider the overall ambiance of the location. Does it have a cozy, neighborhood feel? Is it close to parks or other recreational areas that can attract families and individuals looking for a place to relax and enjoy a meal? By carefully selecting the perfect location, you can set the foundation for a successful diner business.

Creating a Unique Menu

To stand out in the competitive food industry, it is crucial to create a unique and enticing menu for your diner. Conduct thorough market research to identify popular food trends and preferences in your area. Visit other diners, cafes, and restaurants to gain inspiration and insights into what works well and what can be improved.

Consider offering a mix of classic comfort foods and innovative dishes to cater to a wide range of tastes. Incorporate locally sourced ingredients and seasonal specials to add a touch of freshness and uniqueness to your menu. Ensure that your menu items are of high quality, flavorful, and reasonably priced. Offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options can also attract a larger customer base and cater to different dietary preferences.

Remember to regularly update and refresh your menu to keep your offerings exciting and relevant. Seek feedback from customers and pay attention to their preferences and suggestions. By continuously evolving your menu, you can keep customers engaged and encourage them to return for new culinary experiences.

Consider partnering with local farmers and suppliers to source fresh and high-quality ingredients. This not only supports local businesses but also adds a unique selling point to your diner. Promote the use of local ingredients on your menu and highlight the community connections that your diner fosters.

Building a Strong Team

A successful diner business relies on a dedicated and skilled team. Hire experienced chefs and kitchen staff who are passionate about food and customer service. Look for individuals who not only have the technical expertise but also share your vision and values for providing excellent dining experiences.

Additionally, consider hiring friendly and efficient waitstaff to create a welcoming atmosphere for your customers. Your waitstaff should possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to ensure that guests feel valued and well taken care of. Train your staff to provide prompt and attentive service, prioritize cleanliness and hygiene, and handle customer feedback and complaints professionally.

Foster a positive work environment by promoting teamwork, open communication, and continuous learning. Encourage your team members to contribute their ideas and suggestions for improving operations and customer satisfaction. Recognize and reward outstanding performance to boost morale and create a motivated and loyal team.

Invest in ongoing training and development programs for your staff. This not only enhances their skills but also shows your commitment to providing exceptional service. By investing in your team, you create a culture of excellence that will translate into a memorable dining experience for your customers.

Marketing and Promotion

To attract customers to your diner, it is essential to invest in effective marketing and promotion strategies. Develop a strong brand identity that reflects the unique qualities and offerings of your diner. Create a visually appealing logo, signage, and menu design that resonate with your target audience.

Utilize social media platforms to showcase your menu items, share updates, and engage with your customers. Encourage customers to leave reviews and testimonials on platforms like Yelp, Google, and TripAdvisor to build credibility and attract new customers.

Partner with local businesses and organizations to cross-promote each other’s offerings. This can include offering discounts or special promotions to their customers or participating in joint marketing campaigns. By leveraging these partnerships, you can reach a wider audience and increase brand awareness.

Consider hosting special events and themed nights to create a buzz and attract a wider audience. For example, you could host a “Pancake Day” event where customers can enjoy a variety of delicious pancakes. Collaborate with local musicians or artists to create a unique ambiance and offer memorable experiences to your customers.

Don’t underestimate the power of traditional marketing methods as well. Distribute flyers, advertise in local newspapers, and consider sponsoring community events to increase your diner’s visibility. Participate in local food festivals or fairs to showcase your menu and interact with potential customers face-to-face.

Managing Finances and Operations

Managing the finances and operations of your diner business is crucial to its success. Develop a detailed business plan that outlines your financial projections, startup costs, and revenue streams. Consider seeking financial assistance from banks or investors to secure the necessary capital for your diner’s launch and initial operations.

Implement efficient inventory management systems to ensure that you have enough ingredients and supplies on hand while minimizing waste and controlling costs. Regularly review and analyze your financial statements to track expenses, monitor profitability, and make informed decisions about pricing and menu offerings.

Invest in modern technology and software solutions that can streamline operations, such as point-of-sale systems, online ordering platforms, and reservation management tools. These tools can help enhance efficiency, improve customer service, and provide valuable data for business analysis.

Required Skills and Talents

To successfully run a diner business, there are certain skills and talents that you should possess or acquire:

  • Culinary skills: A strong understanding of cooking techniques, food preparation, and flavor combinations is essential. You should be able to create delicious and visually appealing dishes that will impress your customers.
  • Management skills: As a diner owner, you will need to oversee various aspects of the business, including staff management, inventory control, and financial management. Strong leadership and organizational skills are crucial for effectively running the diner.
  • Customer service skills: Providing exceptional customer service is key to building a loyal customer base. You should have excellent communication skills, the ability to handle customer feedback and complaints professionally, and the willingness to go above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction.
  • Creativity: Developing a unique menu and creating a memorable dining experience requires a creative mindset. You should be able to innovate and come up with new ideas to keep your diner fresh and appealing to customers.

Required Permits and Licenses

Before starting your diner business, you will need to obtain the necessary permits and licenses. The specific requirements may vary depending on your location, but some common permits and licenses include:

  • Food service license: This license is required to legally operate a food establishment and ensures that you meet the health and safety regulations set by your local government.
  • Business license: You will need a general business license to operate any type of business legally. This license is typically obtained from your local government office or city hall.
  • Liquor license: If you plan to serve alcoholic beverages in your diner, you will need to apply for a liquor license. The requirements for obtaining a liquor license can vary significantly, so it is important to research and comply with the regulations in your area.
  • Signage permit: If you plan to install outdoor signs or banners for your diner, you may need to obtain a signage permit. This permit ensures that your signage meets local regulations regarding size, placement, and aesthetics.

It is important to research and understand the specific permits and licenses required in your area. Contact your local government offices or consult with a business attorney to ensure that you are in compliance with all regulations.

Required Equipment

To run a diner business, you will need a variety of equipment to support your operations. Some essential equipment includes:

  • Cooking equipment: This includes stoves, ovens, grills, fryers, and other appliances necessary for food preparation.
  • Refrigeration and storage equipment: You will need refrigerators, freezers, and storage shelves to store ingredients and keep them fresh.
  • Food preparation equipment: This includes cutting boards, knives, mixing bowls, and other tools needed for food preparation.
  • Dishwashing equipment: You will need a dishwasher or a three-compartment sink to ensure proper cleaning and sanitation of dishes, utensils, and cookware.
  • Seating and dining area equipment: This includes tables, chairs, booths, and other furniture to create a comfortable dining area for your customers.
  • POS system: A point-of-sale system is essential for processing customer orders, tracking sales, and managing inventory.
  • Cash register: If you prefer a more traditional approach, a cash register can be used to handle cash transactions.
  • Utensils and serveware: You will need a variety of utensils, plates, bowls, glasses, and other serveware to serve your customers.
  • Coffee machines and beverage dispensers: If you plan to offer coffee or other beverages, you will need appropriate machines and dispensers.
  • Cleaning and sanitation supplies: This includes cleaning solutions, sanitizers, mops, brooms, and other supplies to maintain cleanliness and hygiene in your diner.

It is important to research and invest in high-quality equipment that meets industry standards and regulations. Consider the size of your diner and the expected customer volume to determine the appropriate capacity and quantity of equipment needed.

Average Required Start-up Costs

Starting a diner business involves various expenses. The following table provides an overview of the average start-up costs you may incur:

Please note that these estimates are approximate and can vary depending on factors such as location, size, and scope of your diner business. It is important to conduct a thorough financial analysis and create a detailed budget to accurately determine your start-up costs.

Starting a diner business requires careful planning, dedication, and hard work. By finding the perfect location, creating a unique menu, building a strong team, implementing effective marketing strategies, managing finances and operations efficiently, and providing exceptional customer service, you can increase your chances of success in the competitive food industry.

Remember to constantly adapt and innovate to meet the changing needs and preferences of your customers. Regularly assess your diner’s performance, gather feedback, and make necessary adjustments to improve the overall dining experience.

With the right strategy, commitment, and a passion for providing exceptional food and service, your diner business can flourish and become a favorite dining destination in your community.

Fill this form and we will be in touch to discuss your needs. Our team is comprised of experienced business planners bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise enabling them to meticulously analyze business models, competitive landscape, product positioning, and target market to develop a compelling Business Plan that resonates with your target audience, investors/ funders and stakeholders.

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How To Open A Diner

Opening a diner can be a rewarding venture for the right kind of entrepreneur. A diner is a unique business that offers customers a relaxed, inviting atmosphere in which to enjoy good food and conversation.

In this guide, we'll look at what makes a restaurant a diner, the steps involved in opening a diner, and how much it costs to open one. We'll also explore whether owning a diner is a profitable venture and offer some tips for success when opening a diner.

What makes a restaurant a diner?

A diner is typically defined as an informal eating establishment with counter service, and it is a classic American restaurant serving traditional, hearty comfort food such as cheeseburgers, fries, and milkshakes. Diners usually have a casual atmosphere that encourages patrons to linger for conversation over coffee and dessert.

Diners may also have retro-style decor with jukeboxes or rock 'n' roll music playing in the background. The atmosphere of diners encourages patrons to linger and enjoy casual conversation. A diner experience typically includes friendly waitstaff who may also be cooking in the line behind the counter.

Breakfast items like omelets, pancakes, and French toast are served all day at many diners. In addition to old-fashioned favorites like liver and onions or open-faced hot turkey sandwiches. Modern diners often offer updated versions of classic dishes as well as vegetarian options.

Diners are often open 24 hours and offer affordable meals for those who may be on a budget. No matter the time of day, diners have been providing delicious, classic meals to hungry patrons since their inception in 1872.

What are the steps to opening a Diner?

1. create a business plan.

Before you can open your diner, you need to create a comprehensive business plan. This plan should outline your financial goals, target market, and operating procedures. It will also help you secure financing for the venture.

2. Find Financing

Finding financing for your diner is key to its success. You’ll need to consider both traditional bank loans as well as non-traditional funding options like crowdfunding or angel investors. 

3. Secure Permits & Licenses

Depending on where you’re located, you may need permits and licenses from local government agencies to operate legally in your area. Make sure you’re aware of all the requirements and have them in place before opening your diner.

4. Find A Location

Your location can have a big impact on your success as a diner owner. You want to find an area that has enough foot traffic to attract hungry customers but is not already saturated with competing restaurants.

5. Purchase Supplies & Equipment

Once you’ve secured financing, you’ll need to purchase all the supplies and equipment necessary for running your restaurant including kitchen appliances, furniture, utensils, and more.

6. Hire Staff

You’ll also need to hire staff including waiters, cooks, and dishwashers who are friendly and knowledgeable about food.

7. Market Your Business

Finally, you’ll want to consider advertising your diner through local print and digital channels such as newspapers, radio stations, social media outlets, and websites. This will help you reach a wider audience and promote your business.

How much does it cost to open a Diner?

The exact cost of opening a diner can vary widely depending on several factors including the size of the restaurant, the location, supplies, and equipment needed, staffing costs, and more. The costs generally break down from $3,000 to $4,000 per seat, with startup costs for a small diner ranging from $50,000-$100,000 and larger restaurants requiring up to $500,000 or more in start-up funds.

Is owning a Diner profitable?

Owning and operating a diner can be a very profitable business, with profit margins ranging from  3-7%, and owners can take home up to 15% of sales in net profits. That being said, certain risks come with starting any business and you should be aware of the potential. The key is to create an appealing atmosphere that attracts customers and offers high-quality food at reasonable prices. With the right strategy, your diner can generate steady profits over time.

What are some tips for success when opening a Diner?

1. focus on quality.

Make sure you serve fresh ingredients and offer great customer service to ensure both repeat customers and positive reviews.

2. Invest in Promotion

Promote your restaurant through local print, radio or digital channels to reach potential customers.

3. Keep Your Menu Fresh

Don’t be afraid to add new items or update existing dishes to keep your menu interesting.

4. Maintain a Positive Reputation

Make sure you respond quickly and appropriately to any customer complaints or issues to maintain a positive reputation.

5. Invest in Your Staff

Train and motivate your staff to ensure they’re providing great service for your customers.

6. Pay Attention To Details

Make sure the restaurant is clean, the food is presented well and all safety regulations are followed. 

7. Offer Promotions & Specials

Consider offering specials or discounts on certain days of the week to encourage repeat business. 

8. Utilize Technology

Use technology like online ordering systems and POS systems to streamline operations and improve efficiency in the restaurant.

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A Step-by-Step Guide to Opening a Restaurant

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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 .

If you love food and want to start your own small business, you've possibly done some research into how to open a restaurant. After all launching a restaurant is one of the most common routes to entrepreneurship in the United States. According to the National Restaurant Association , restaurant workers make up 10% of the United States workforce. What's more, projected sales in the restaurant industry are projected to reach $863 billion in 2019.

But starting a restaurant means entering a highly competitive space. There are over 1 million restaurant locations in the United States, and 60% of restaurants fail within the first year. So how do you stand out, and build something that will last?

In this guide, we'll show you how to open a restaurant and avoid the common mistakes that plague most new restaurateurs.

opening a diner business plan

A step-by-step guide to starting a restaurant

Whatever background or level of experience you come from, nothing can totally prepare you for starting your first restaurant, or really starting any business. Even more, no matter how much you read or what research you do, there are certain things about being a restaurateur that you can truly only learn from experience. But the steps below can help you avoid some of the most common pitfalls.

Step 1. Pick a niche

There are a wide variety of eateries out there in the world, and it takes lots of different skills to keep them running smoothly.

As you look around your own little corner of the universe, what cuisine, service, or convenience do you see as missing? What foodie need is still left to be filled? Would your market be best served by opening a pizza shop, starting a food truck, or opening a cafe?

If this isn’t narrowing down your options well enough, consider some of these top trends .

Step 2. Write your business plan

In the same way that recipes give you a roadmap to create an excellent dish, your restaurant business plan is the recipe you’ll follow to make your business a success.

Ultimately, writing a business plan is about thinking through and answering questions about your future restaurant that force you to contemplate the market you serve, the viability of your overall plan, and challenges you might not have otherwise have thought of.

When done right, this process will help you refine define the next steps involved in opening your restaurant, giving you the highest possible shot at success.

Take a look at the 12 biggest questions you should be answering as part of the business planning process for your future restaurant:

What kind of restaurant do you want to run? This is known as your “elevator pitch,” and it’s something you’ll repeat over and over and over to friends, family, customers, lenders, investors, and just about everyone else.

Who is your restaurant for? This is called your target market—the group of people whom your restaurant is meant to serve.

Who are your competitors? It helps to understand who you are competing against in your market and how their restaurants are similar and different than yours.

Where will your restaurant be located ? Having an expensive steak house in the middle of a low-income neighborhood probably won't work out.

What is your value proposition? What makes your restaurant different from the competition?

How will customers find your restaurant? Will you market your business through word-of-mouth, paid advertising, social media, or another method? We recommend leveraging popular review apps like Yelp, OpenTable, and Resy to allow customers to find and review your restaurant or even book a reservation online.

What resources will your restaurant need? Take the time now to list out all the one-time and recurring expenses you’re likely to incur as part of your cost of doing business—leaving no stone unturned.

How will your restaurant make money? Your business model determines how your restaurant will generate revenue, cover expenses, and eventually make more money than it spends.

How long will it take for your restaurant to turn a profit? Use a revenue forecast to determine how long it will take to recuperate your initial investment, break even, and run a profitable business.

What are you not willing to compromise on? What values are most important to you, both personally and as a business? What are your non-negotiables? This will help you make critical business decisions down the road.

What is your staffing plan? Your head chef, friends, and family will be the place to start looking for stand-up, smart, reliable people. But even when you find the right staff, you'll have to train them.

What's your endgame? Are you building a restaurant that you hope to eventually sell, or are you working towards a long-term, sustainable business? Knowing where you want to end up, and when, will help to inform many of your business decisions along the way.

How much do you need?

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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.

Step 3. Choose your restaurant's name and legal structure

If you plan to use a unique name for your restaurant, go ahead and file your “doing business as” (DBA) name with your state’s agency, as this will keep you from losing your name idea to another business.

Once you have your DBA figured out, you'll need to select a business entity type for your restaurant. The structure you choose will impact how you file state and federal business taxes, the roles of different team members, and how you can be held liable in the event that someone files a legal claim against your business.

Because of the long-term and potentially weighty impact of your chosen business structure, it’s a good idea to consult a business attorney to help you make this choice. Here are the most common entity types for restauranteurs:

Sole proprietorship

This is the most basic form of business structure, in which you alone own the company and are responsible for any liabilities associated with it.

If you plan to have a food truck, pop-up, or any very small operation and won’t be taking on fixed assets or hiring any employees, a sole proprietorship might be the perfect structure for you. And the best part is you don’t have to take any formal action to form a sole proprietorship.

If you’ll be operating under your own name, you can just jump right into business. And if you have a clever idea for a business name, your “doing business as” filing (from above) will be all you need.

Partnership

This structure defines a single business in which there are two or more individuals are owners.

There are a few different partnership structures you can choose from, including a general partnership, limited partnership, or a joint venture.

Most experienced entrepreneurs don’t recommend partnerships as a business structure because they don’t offer much protection from liability.

If you do go with a partnership, make sure you choose a business partner is someone you can work well with for the long haul, and put clear terms and expectations in writing from the beginning detailing the roles and responsibilities of each party.

C-Corporation

A C-corporation is a more complex business structure usually reserved for larger companies, or those in particularly high-liability industries looking for a little extra insulation.

Most attorneys tend to put restaurants in this high-liability category, so a C-corporation structure is most likely to be recommended. That said, keep in mind that establishing a C-corporation requires having a board of directors as well as officers, and has more complicated tax filing requirements.

So consult your attorney, but also be prepared that the process might be a bit complex.

S-Corporation

Structured very similarly to a regular C-corporation, S-Corporations stand out because they’re taxed at the individual business owner level, rather than being taxed corporately.

If you think you may need the structure of a corporation but don’t want to mess with complicated dividend filings, an S-Corp might be a great middle ground for you.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

Offering the liability protections of a corporation along with the flexibility and tax simplicity of a sole proprietorship or partnership, the limited liability company (LLC) is a “best of both worlds” business structure that has grown significantly in popularity over recent years.

Entrepreneurs who opt for an LLC structure can choose between a single-officer LLC, a partnership LLC, or a limited-liability corporation.

Step 4. Get a tax identification number for your restaurant

Also known as your employer identification number (EIN for short), this number helps the IRS keep track of your business for tax purposes.

Think of it like a social security number for your business.

If you plan to retain employees (think wait staff, hosts and hostesses, cooking staff and even dishwashers)—and especially if your business is established as a corporation or partnership—you’ll need this number to keep things on the up and up.

To obtain an employer identification number, apply online at the IRS website.

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Step 5. Register your restaurant for state and local taxes

In addition to federal business taxes, most U.S. states and territories will require you to pay income and employment taxes for your business. Certain states have additional fiscal requirements, like state-mandated workers’ compensation and unemployment insurance.

Registration, requirements, and filing procedures vary widely from state to state, so check out the business tax information specific to where you live.

Step 6. Secure permits, licenses, and insurance for your restaurant

The FDA updates the Food Code every four years, but the details of what is required, strongly encouraged, and just optional will vary from state to state, and even between counties.

You could read the 600+ pages published by the FDA , but we would recommend starting by finding your state's food service code regulation department . Here you'll find some of the highlights you should expect to encounter to get up to code in your area. This resource is useful, but not comprehensive, so be sure to check in with your local health department to make sure all of your bases are covered.

It’s a good idea to keep a master calendar with reminders for all of your renewal and payment due dates.

Food licenses

The most important part of remaining complaint is acquiring food and health code licenses. These licenses certify that you are safely handling, storing, and serving food. And don’t think that having a food cart or even a booth at a festival gets you out of this: they thought of those, too.

Included in this, but with its own special set of permits and rules will be serving alcohol. This covers not only safely serving alcohol but also includes training for dealing with customers that have perhaps overindulged. Read our complete guide for getting a liquor license in every state.

Health department permits

The health department has a lot to say about what is safe for the places you want to store, prepare, and serve your food. Your establishment will need to be inspected for operational safety, as well as edible safety.

Think maximum occupancy, fire hazards, ventilation, food surface types, sink placement, restroom regulations, and so on.

Restaurant insurance

Even with all the necessary licenses and permits, you still need to have some extra safety nets in place. You'll need to look into the specific business insurance requirements for restaurants.

Requirements vary depending on where you live and how you’re funded, but at the very least, you’ll want to consider these:

Property insurance

General insurance

Liquor liability

Auto liability

Workers compensation insurance

Unemployment insurance

Life insurance

Fire insurance

Loss of business

Food contamination

Americans with Disabilities Act compliance

In 1992, the Department of Justice passed the Americans with Disabilities Act so that consumers and employees with disabilities could avoid discrimination from places of public accommodation.

The complete details of the ADA are pretty detailed, but you can use this U.S. Small Business Administration guide to understand what is expected.

When you get past all the angles, measurements, and legalese, it boils down to having accommodations in place so that people with disabilities can safely park, travel into your restaurant, order food, and eat at a table.

Step 7. Set up accounting documents

Running a restaurant involves a lot of paperwork. You’ll need accounting documents to file your taxes, apply for business financing, and for internal tracking of your revenue, expenses, and profitability.

At a minimum, every restaurant owner should regularly maintain these three basic accounting documents:

Balance sheet

The balance sheet is essentially a snapshot of your restaurant’s financial standing at a given moment. It lists the assets, liabilities, and equity your company holds at a given time and is used to calculate the net worth of your business. Maintaining a “balanced” balance sheet—one in which total assets equals liabilities plus equity—is the foundational tenet of basic bookkeeping.

Income statement

Sometimes called a profit and loss statement, your income statement summarizes your business revenues and expenses over the course of a year, letting you calculate your net profit or loss for that year. Maintaining an accurate income statement is critical to measuring profitability over time.

Cash flow statement

Having enough cash on hand to cover expenses can make or break a restaurant’s financial health. In fact, this issue is so important, there is an accounting document dedicated to the tracking of cash flow.

Your cash flow statement reflects the inflow of revenue and outflow of expenses resulting from all your restaurant activities during a specific time period—usually a month or a financial quarter. Inflow will come from serving food and drink to your paying customers, while outflow represents things like purchasing ingredients, payroll, and paying rent and other overhead expenses.

Consider hiring a bookkeeper or accountant

If you feel a bit overwhelmed by these accounting protocols, we recommend asking around for a certified public accountant. It’s important to choose someone whose personality fits with yours, who will be available to answer questions as needed, and who can handle financial areas where you have less experience. Having a CPA experienced in the restaurant industry will help you understand your local laws to avoid problems when it comes servers minimum wage, tips as income, and over time for your staff.

Step 8. Invest in the right tools for your restaurant

Especially with all the moving parts involved in a working restaurant, managing the accounting documents above by hand can get overwhelming fast.

Not to mention employee schedules, timesheets, payment processing, payroll processing, and all the other logistics that go into keeping your restaurant afloat!

Thankfully, there are great restaurant accounting software options and other useful tools available that will take the guesswork out of your bookkeeping and generate these accounting documents automatically.

Restaurant POS system

One of the things entrepreneurs often overlook when researching how to open a restaurant is a restaurant POS system. A restaurant POS system is a combination of hardware and software that allows you to perform many important functions, including payment processing, front-of-house management, order coursing, and tip reconciliation. Most POS systems also produce helpful reports that allow you to more efficiently run your business.

Here are some of our favorite POS systems, based on the type of restaurant you own:

Square for Restaurants: Best POS system for new restaurants.

Clover POS: Best POS system for quick-service restaurants.

Lightspeed Restaurant POS: Best POS system for small and medium-sized restaurants.

TouchBistro POS: Best POS system for full-service restaurants.

Toast POS: Best overall restaurant POS system.

Loyverse POS: Best free restaurant POS software.

Step 9. Keep up with your restaurant's tax obligations

Along with getting your books in order, understanding and fulfilling tax requirements should be a first priority in the financial management of your restaurant. The consequences for failing to file your state and federal business taxes are severe—as in you could lose your business and even face criminal charges.

So even though dealing with the IRS can be intimidating, this isn’t something you can ignore.

Let’s break down the main business tax obligations you’ll need to keep track of:

All businesses must file annual income tax returns and make payments based on revenue received.

The exact tax form you use to make income tax payments depends on the structure of your business: sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, S-corporation, or limited liability company (LLC).

Self-employment tax

Individuals who work for themselves (including small business owners) must pay social security and Medicare taxes via a self-employment tax. This tax is similar to the taxes withheld from the pay of most wage earners.

Estimated tax

Income and self-employment taxes both qualify as “pay as you go” taxes. You’ll need to file quarterly documents estimating the taxes you owe in these categories and make payments accordingly.

Click here for forms and more information about how to make quarterly estimated tax payments.

Employment taxes

Since you'll probably have employees working in your restaurant, you'll face additional tax obligations related to those employees, including social security and Medicare taxes, federal income tax withholdings, and the federal unemployment tax.

Learn about the specific IRS information about filing employment taxes for your business.

Step 10. Fund your newly opened restaurant

Unless you happen to be independently wealthy, you’ll likely need some funding from somewhere for starting a restaurant.

Entrepreneurs choose to finance their businesses in any variety of ways, but the most common approach is to take out a business loan . The growth of the alternative lending industry has brought about a wide variety of loan products to meet the needs of entrepreneurs, each with different costs, payment structures, and application processes.

Let's review the business loan options available to restaurateurs.

Probably the first thing you think of when you imagine business lending, term loans offer a set repayment time, set number of payments, and have a fixed or variable interest rate.

Depending on your business needs, credit rating, and other factors, there are a wide variety of term loans available to many small business owners—both from traditional banks and from non-bank alternative lenders—and with terms ranging from one year with daily payments up to five-year terms with monthly payments, and everything in between.

Because of the risky nature of small business lending, many commercial lenders have in the past been hesitant to lend money to small business owners, especially new restaurant ventures.

As a solution, the Small Business Administration began guaranteeing as much as 80% of the loan principal for term loans through participating lending institutions. This could be a viable option if you are already experienced in the food industry. (Otherwise, you probably won’t be considered.)

The SBA offers a variety of loan programs, including for restaurateurs. If you plan to use an SBA loan as your main source of funding to start your restaurant, you will need to go into this process with your ducks in a row. Write a stellar business plan that highlights the uniqueness of your idea, and be prepared to have 20%-30% of your loan amount in cash—or to take out a mortgage on your home.

Keep in mind, though, that while the SBA’s stamp of approval may make some lenders more willing to consider applicants who don’t fall within their strict loan criteria, applying for an SBA loan still involves lengthy paperwork, and the process can take several months.

Equipment financing

If you specifically need cash to make a big equipment purchase (like point of sale technology, commercial kitchen appliances, flatware, or furniture) for your new establishment, restaurant equipment financing might be the right choice for you.

This financing product works very similarly to a car loan, with the amount you can borrow depending on the price and type of equipment you’re buying.

And because the equipment itself serves as collateral, you likely won’t be asked to put up additional collateral for the loan.

Equipment financing terms typically work at a fixed interest rate—usually between 8% and 30%—with a fixed term length so your payments will be the same from month to month.

Short-term loans

For businesses with smaller and immediate financing needs, short-term loans can be a lifesaver. These loans work similarly to traditional term loans but cover amounts in the $2,500 to $250,000 range with terms of between three and 18 months.

With interest rates as low as 14%, short-term loan providers can often get you cash in hand in as few as two days, letting you make rent, cover payroll, pay food vendors, or meet other immediate overhead expenses—even when cash is tight.

Line of credit

Perhaps the most flexible form of business financing available, a business line of credit gives you capital to draw upon to meet a variety of business needs.

Once established, you can draw on your line of credit as you would a personal credit card, to get more working capital, buy inventory, handle seasonal cash flows, pay off other debts, or address almost any other business need.

If you do plan to apply for a small business loan at any point in the future, make sure that you are regularly reviewing your personal and business credit reports, as well as doing what you can improve your credit score.

Along with your annual revenue, time in business, and average bank balance, your personal and business credit scores are the single most important factor that will determine your ability to qualify for a small business loan.

How much does it cost to open a restaurant?

Now that you know your financing options, you're probably wondering exactly how much financing you'll need.

Obviously, the cost to open a restaurant varies widely depending on the type of restaurant you want to open, service style, decor, location, menu, and more. However, a recent survey by RestaurantOwner.com provided some insight into what entrepreneurs might have to pay.

According to a survey of 350 restauranteurs, a small restaurant can cost as much as $175,500 in total startup costs. A medium sized restaurant costs up to $375,500, and a large restaurant costs up to $750,500. You can view the full results of the survey here :

starting-a-restaurant-costs

Step 11. Market your restaurant

The last step in how to open a restaurant? Tell the world about it!

There are a variety of methods for marketing your restaurant to your target audience. Here are a few ideas to get you going:

Use social media marketing to share photos of your dishes, answer customer inquiries, and communicate the merits of your brand.

Make a professional looking website to show the world that you are a legitimate and trustworthy business.

Get your business aforementioned customer review websites like Yelp, OpenTable, and Resy.

Offer promotions such as discounts for first-time customers or a customer referral program.

Have a grand opening that stirs up interest in your restaurant and attracts media attention.

The bottom line

Being a restaurateur is truly not for the faint of heart, as owning your own restaurant is a never-ending, 24/7 adventure. The challenges and questions that come up for each restaurant owner will vary as widely as the different eateries and states they operate in. But if food is your passion and owning a restaurant is your dream, the steps above can offer a good start toward making that dream a reality.

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

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How to Start a Diner Business

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How to Start a Bar & Grill

What do you need to open a deli store business, how to open a burrito restaurant.

  • How to Start a Waffle Business
  • How to Set Up a Pizza Shop

Diners are a specific type of restaurant that typically have a cozy, unpretentious atmosphere. Though there are several types of diners around the country, the one thing they usually have in common is offering comfort foods, such as rustic pies, macaroni and cheese, hearty soups and home-style dishes. Diners are seen by many as nostalgic and fun to eat at, since the food is often affordable, the portions generous and the atmosphere welcoming. If you're considering opening a diner, you will need more than delicious recipes to be successful.

Target a niche for your diner, which will be the type of cuisine you specialize in, and develop a suitable menu. For instance, you can offer soul food, open a breakfast and lunch-only diner, '50s-style diner, serve only vegetarian or vegan comfort food, or serve your region's comfort food specialties.

Contact your state's department of public health to see what type of food business licenses you need to open a diner. Depending on where you live, this may include a food enterprise license, food manager certification or food handler permit.

Obtain the permits needed in your city to operate a retail business, which is essentially what a diner is, as the food you sell will be treated as a product rather than a service. You may need a fictitious name certificate, state tax identification number, sales and use tax permit or Employer Identification Number.

Lease a building for your diner that meets your state's requirements for a food business. A diner doesn't have to be large, but you should have enough room to comfortably seat customers and allow servers to move around.

Use local food vendors for your ingredients to save money on shipping costs and connect your business with the local community. Contact the farmers markets in your area for a list of their vendors, as well as growers associations in your city.

Brand your diner. If possible, provide customers the story behind your recipes -- you can put them on your menu, posters in the diner or a website. Also use distinctive decor and serve your food in eclectic or unique ways. Doing so will differentiate your business from other diners in the area.

Hire staff for your diner. It is highly unlikely that you will be able to service customers, cook food and handle the diner's business operations by yourself. At minimum, you will need at least one cook and one or two servers for each shift. The longer your operating hours, the more staff you will need.

Promote your diner. Launch a promotional website, set up social networking accounts, send news releases to local media outlets or place fliers around your local colleges and universities.

  • Entrepreneur: How to Start a Restaurant
  • Newsweek: You Can Go Home Again; Tom Manning; 2008

Melinda Gaines has been a freelance writer since 2006, with work appearing online for YellowPages and other websites. Her areas of expertise include business, beauty, fashion and sports. Gaines attended the University of Houston where she earned a Bachelor of Science in sport administration.

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How to start a restaurant business

opening a diner business plan

Written and reviewed by:

Robyn Summers-Emler Grow Online Editor

Our independent reviews are funded in part by affiliate commissions, at no extra cost to our readers.

Whether you’re an experienced chef that’s always dreamt of a place to call your own, or a savvy entrepreneur that’s spotted a gap in the market, opening and running a restaurant is a dream for many across the UK.

Still, it's been a rough few years for the sector . Between rising business energy bills, supply chain issues, and a shortage of readily available staff post-Brexit, opening a restaurant is a venture that should be approached cautiously by would-be restaurateurs.

Thankfully, things are looking eggs sunny-side up. The food service industry workforce was projected to grow by 500,000 jobs by the end of 2023. Still, a lot of careful planning and hard work is required to reach the dizzy heights of success stories like Flat Iron and Mowgli.

Thankfully our guide is full of expert insight from seasoned restaurateurs and will give you plenty of inside knowledge on market research, costs, budgeting, regulations, and branding.  Read on to find out everything you need to cook up an enticing restaurant business plan .

At Startups.co.uk, we're here to help small UK businesses to get started, grow and succeed. We have helpful resources for helping new businesses get off the ground – you can use the tool below to get started today.

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This article will cover:

How to open a restaurant: step-by-step, 1. restaurant startup costs: how much is it to open a restaurant, 2. how to budget when starting a restaurant, 3. how to manage restaurant payments, 4. writing a restaurant business plan, 5. restaurant market research, 6. buying/renting restaurant premises, 7. branding and designing your restaurant, 8. stocking your restaurant: supplies and catering equipment, 9. restaurant recruitment: how to hire top talent, final thoughts.

There's a lot of planning that needs to go into launching a successful restaurant. Thankfully, one area which needn't cause undue stress is creating a website to promote your business. Thanks to modern templates like the one below , you can create one of your own in under an hour.

restaurant website template

At Startups.co.uk, we test and rate website builder tools, and we've identified Wix as one of the best you can choose for creating a restaurant site. Wix even has a selection of custom website templates designed specifically for restaurants – you simply drop your own restaurant's information, wording, menu and preferred imagery into your chosen template. It can even create an online booking system for you . Better still, it's completely free to try  for yourself.

We’ll cover these in more detail below, but first here’s an at-a-glance guide to some of the steps you’ll take when you start a restaurant.

  • How much is it to open a restaurant?
  • How to budget when starting a restaurant
  • How to manage restaurant payments
  • Write a restaurant business plan
  • Restaurant market research
  • Buying/renting restaurant premises
  • Branding and designing your restaurant
  • Stock your restaurant
  • How to hire top talent

So, let’s really dive into each step, starting with costs:

It’s almost impossible to give a definitive answer on restaurant startup costs – you could spend a few thousand pounds getting a popup going in an inexpensive area or a few million creating a high-end dining destination in central London. But, as a very rough guide, expect to spend at least £100,000–£200,000 getting a decent-sized restaurant off the ground .

Here are some of the bigger costs you’ll need to consider:

  • Premises – Whether you’re renting or buying, securing your restaurant premises will always be a major expense.
  • Staffing – You’ll almost certainly need to hire at least a few staff, and their wages should be a key part of your costs plan.
  • Supplies and equipment – Depending on how ambitious and experimental you want to be, you can spend a lot of money on catering equipment and ingredients. If you do, make sure you mark up your dishes accordingly.
  • Energy bills – Restaurants need a lot of power, so it’s crucial to shop around and find the best deal.

To make money running a restaurant, it’s absolutely essential to budget effectively.

You need to work out your costs (like the ones discussed above) and give a reasonable estimate of what your sales might be. Your total sales minus your total costs is your profit (or loss), the most important number for any small business.

It can be hard to keep track of where your money’s going when you’re running your restaurant, so it’s a great idea to invest in some good accounting software once you’re up and running.

Top accounting software like QuickBooks costs around £20 a month and not only automatically track the money coming in and out of your business account, but also let you work out when your most profitable periods are and easily handle tax time.

To learn more, take a look at our rundown of the best accounting software for small businesses .

When you’re starting a restaurant, getting a good POS system is essential.

You’ll need it to take payments and, while you might be able to get away with an iPad-driven POS system like Zettle to start with, advanced POS systems offer so much more than payments.

Lightspeed POS is our pick as the best restaurant POS system, and gives a good idea of the extra features you can expect from a high-end restaurant POS such as:

  • A customisable menu that lets you easily add or remove items to account for seasonality or food trends, and also add photos and descriptions to help your servers
  • The ability to take orders from anywhere and send them directly to the kitchen, making the whole process much more efficient
  • Inventory tools that make it easy to stay on top of your supply levels

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Tell us what you're looking for and compare leading POS providers

For more insight, check out our guide to the best POS systems for restaurants .

For the purposes of this guideline, we’re going to use a fictional establishment – let’s call it The Goodfare Restaurant* – to show you exactly how a restaurant business plan should work in practice.

You can find a more comprehensive breakdown of what to include in our general business plan template .

* Any resemblance to a real restaurant is entirely coincidental!

Executive summary

This is a brief snapshot of the key information the reader needs to know about The Goodfare Restaurant.

  • The restaurant – The Goodfare Restaurant is a 100-seat family eatery in North London, serving moderately-priced comfort food classics
  • Your mission statement – The Goodfare Restaurant exists to bring hearty, reasonably-priced grub to the masses
  • Objective(s) – to be the most popular moderately-priced eatery in North London
  • Values – the customer is almost always right

The company

This section should go into detail about the management team, the legal structure of the business, and operations.

  • Founders/management team – Founders Stelmo and Philip Blimp are brothers with a combined 25 years’ experience working in some of the UK’s most successful restaurants
  • Ownership structure – The Goodfare Restaurant will be 100% owned by the Blimp brothers (unless equity is given away as part of an investment deal)
  • Legal and insurance – The restaurant will abide by all UK health and safety laws, as well as food hygiene legislation etc.
  • Startup costs – We estimate initial startup costs for The Goodfare Restaurant will total £150,000, self-funded by the Blimps
  • Property – The 2,000 square foot property has space for 100 covers. It comes fitted with a functioning kitchen and bathrooms, but will require some minor renovation
  • Location – The restaurant is located on the high street in an area of high footfall
  • Opening hours – Monday to Friday – 11am to 11pm
  • Responsibilities – Stelmo will be responsible for stock management and finances, while Philip will be in charge of managing staff and payroll
  • Suppliers – Thanks to their years of experience in the industry, the Blimps have excellent relationships with a number of quality local suppliers

Market analysis

This section is where you prove the viability of your proposition with thorough market research.

  • The industry – over the last two years, London’s restaurant industry has seen the highest level of closures in decades, as well as very high staff turnover. Chains and high-end establishments have been hit particularly hard, with consumers hankering for more authentic independents like The Goodfare Restaurant
  • The target market – The local population of around 260,000 people is comprised of young professionals and families, with a median annual income of £40,000
  • Competitors – There are three direct competitors within a five-mile radius, including:

The Goodfare Restaurant will position itself as the number one mid-range family restaurant in North London.

We will incorporate traditional and digital marketing elements in our strategy. Primarily, we will:

  • Develop relationships with local businesses by offering lunchtime deals
  • Implement a loyalty scheme
  • Encourage repeat visits through our email database

Restaurant finance

Below is a rough breakdown of the expected costs of starting and running The Goodfare Restaurant, and the revenue generated assuming an average table turnover rate (i.e. the number of daily sittings at each table) of 2.5.

A good rule of thumb is that you want to be turning over your tables every 45 to 90 minutes during busy periods.

Here are some other restaurant metrics you could track:

Startup costs – The Blimp brothers will provide the estimated £150,000 startup costs

Important assumptions – For the purposes of this business plan, we will assume the following:

  • Average customer spend of £20
  • Average 250 covers served per day
  • Average meal cost of £3.50
  • 10 waiting and bar staff on average salary of £18,000*
  • 10 kitchen staff on average annual salary of £24,000
  • Two managers and one head chef on average annual salary of £30,000
  • Two cleaners on average salary of £17,000
  • Sales forecast – Based on assumed daily covers and average spend, we estimate an annual revenue of £1,825,000 in the first year

Staff salary cost: £544,000

Average variable meal cost: £319,375

Annual rent: £365,000

Other running and maintenance costs: £91,250**

Total annual expenses for year one = £1,319,625

  • Startup costs = £1,469,625

Estimated year one profit of: £505,375

*Salaries based on data from Glassdoor

**The average restaurant budgets 1-3% of revenue for maintenance, according to restaurantequipmentrepair.org  

This is a very basic (and perhaps generous) breakdown of the estimated revenue and running costs of a restaurant in London.

You may have to provide a more granular account of your monthly expenditure and revenue sources in order to convince investors that your financials are sound.

Your market research should focus on your local area, but it’s also worth noting the trends likely to impact the restaurant industry over the next few years, including:

Growing popularity of vegetarianism, veganism, and flexitarianism

Driven by factors like personal beliefs and a developing awareness of the impact of food production on climate change, lots of people are wanting to either eat less meat or no meat.

Indeed, a Statista survey in 2021 of 2,000 UK consumers found that 7% of respondents followed a vegetarian diet and a further 3% followed a vegan diet.

Increasing adoption of tech

Research company EHL Insights recently identified several digital tools whose use is rapidly growing in UK restaurants , including EPOS systems, digital menu boards for kitchen staff, online table reservation systems, QR code menus , online ordering, and inventory management software.

Not all of these will suit your business, but it’s worth considering which could really make it easier to run your restaurant.

Transparency, sustainability, and trust

Consumers are becoming much more concerned about the social and environmental impact of the restaurants they eat at, spurring developments like the iconic Michelin guide introducing a Michelin Green Star to highlight restaurants leading the way in terms of environmental sustainability.

Finding the right restaurant premises is a hugely important part of starting a restaurant. There’s a lot to consider, from location and transport links to lease lengths and business rates.

To learn more, we spoke to Thibault Bouquet de Jolinière and Youri Michel – two of the co-founders of The Initiative Group , a French team that has launched and managed an eclectic range of hospitality outlets all over the world.

In short, they know their stuff.

Expert Insight – Thibault Bouquet de Jolinière and Youri Michel, The Initiative Group

Bouquet de Jolinière and Michel had the following advice for budding restaurateurs:

Location is king

“Location is always the most important factor in choosing your premises. You should be aware of both good and bad competition around you. Not having much competition will increase the time needed to become profitable, whereas if there are already a few successful restaurants nearby, then people will already be travelling to and from the area to eat and you may be able to benefit from this.”

Link your location and concept

“Don’t bring a concept to a location – instead, build a concept around the location you have chosen. You might be able to adapt your original concept, but you should always do proper market research to find out what else is in the area, and how it will affect your original plans.”

Things to ask

“We would always ask for both the rent and business rates, and we would also request to see the current licence on the property. We would recommend never buying an existing company, as often there is the risk you will end up finding hidden debts. And by taking over an existing company, you will also be taking over the staff – a cost and a risk you don’t want to inherit.”

Buying restaurant premises

Although the easiest way to obtain premises for your restaurant is to take over a pre-existing establishment (and you might even find one with a fully kitted-out kitchen and bar), this can be a major commitment.

Think about whether the size and location of the establishment really suits your plans and level of experience, and try to find out how the previous business fared and the reasons for the sale.

Bouquet de Jolinière and Michel advise that you should ask how long the lease on the property is for, and request the previous restaurant’s profit and loss statement.

If you do want to go down this route, BusinessForSale.com has a dedicated section for restaurants, which lists the asking price and sometimes the current turnover and net profit (otherwise you’ll have to request these).

Rightmove also lists restaurants for sale , where you can just buy the premises or commercial unit.

It may be the most important part, but having great food is only one aspect of running a successful restaurant.

You'll also have to think about branding and design – your name, logo, menu and interior should all clearly convey your concept, and a striking website should show it all off.

Here are some pointers:

Restaurant name and logo

The name and logo of your restaurant should:

  • Leave a lasting impression
  • Be easy to pronounce and/or spell
  • Reflect your concept

Generally speaking, less is more. Aim for a single word or two that sums up your concept and create a logo that’s simple and doesn’t distract with too many colours.

Your market research should inform this process. Look closely at what your competitors are doing and think about how effectively their names and logos convey their concepts.

Finally, avoid well-known existing names – even if your family name is McDonald, calling your restaurant McDonald’s is only going to confuse people and maybe even get you sued.

Creating a restaurant menu

It’s easy to underestimate the importance of menu design, but it’s one of the main things that potential customers will base their dining decisions on.

A good menu should be descriptive, easy to read, and uncluttered, and complement your theme.

You should also break your dishes down into clearly identified sections, highlight special or popular dishes, eloquently and accurately explain your dishes, and include allergy and dietary information.

You should avoid clip art (use free image databases like Shutterstock instead), too much technical jargon your customers won’t understand, too many disclaimers, difficult-to-read “artistic” fonts, and overly long dish descriptions. You should also avoid laminating your menu.

Restaurant interiors

To get some expert guidance on restaurant design and layout, we spoke to Lauren Woodhouse from West Yorkshire-based LW Interior Design, who specialises in restaurant, bar, and hotel interiors.

Expert Insight – Lauren Woodhouse, LW Interior Design

Woodhouse shared the following golden rules for restaurant interiors:

The bar or feature kitchen should be the focal point

“The bar should always be the focal point of the room. It should be well lit and attractive, and you should be able to see it from all corners of the room. However, if you plan to have a feature kitchen where your diners can see the food being prepared, then this should be the focal point and the chefs should take centre stage.”

Hide the kitchen and toilets as much as you can

“Unless you have a feature kitchen, the kitchen should be situated at the back or at the side of the room. Similarly, the toilets should be situated towards the back of the restaurant, or downstairs and, where possible, have a good lobby/entrance vestibule so that the toilet door doesn’t open onto the restaurant and diners can’t see into the toilets when the door is open.

“Additionally, any stairs in a restaurant should be towards one of the outer walls, so that if anyone is going up/down, they don’t have to walk through other diners to get to them.”

The senses are key for interiors

“Ambience plays a key part in a customer’s feelings towards a restaurant. It’s good to play on the five main senses: sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell all play a huge part in helping someone to decide whether they love or hate your restaurant.”

And she picks out some key trends.

“Deep, luxurious velvets are huge at the moment – they look and feel stunning, and can take a restaurant from fast food to fine dining easily! Nature is a huge trend as well. Greenery, whether faux or real, can create a sense of the outside within, and can be used to section off areas of the restaurant without a wall. Rattan style furniture and earthy tones are used to similar effect, and can make diners feel more relaxed.”

Your branding should also be a key part of your restaurant marketing campaign. Head to our restaurant marketing guide to learn how to launch with a bang and keep customers coming back again and again.

And, if you're keen to make a splash with your restaurant Instagram page, then make sure you take a look at our how to use Instagram for business guide for some top tips on creating impactful Insta posts.

Restaurant website design

Wix restaurant template

One of Wix’s restaurant website templates

Once you’ve got a great name, striking logo, expertly crafted menu, and atmospheric interior, then you need a great website to show it all off.

Thankfully, setting this up is much easier than it used to be. Top web builders like Wix have loads of restaurant-specific templates that can be easily customised to reflect your design concept.

Or, just use Wix’s ADI (Artificial Design Intelligence) to create a restaurant website in minutes by making a few key design choices.

To learn more, head to our dedicated restaurant website design guide.

This is not exactly the glamorous side of the restaurant business, but you can’t have a restaurant if your chefs have nothing to cook and nothing to cook with.

That brings us to supplies and equipment.

Supplies and ingredients

When you put together your menu, you should have at least half an eye on your ingredient costs. If you can, try to avoid buying too many specialty ingredients that are only used in one dish and try to base much of your menu around common, affordable ingredients.

And remember, using an elite restaurant POS system like Lightspeed can make it so much easier to stay on top of your ingredient inventory – its counts update automatically as supplies come in and dishes are sold, leaving you one less thing to worry about.

Choosing a supplier

It’s really important to choose your food supplier carefully. You’re not just running the risk of late deliveries – unhygienic packing and transportation of perishable food products could pose a real health risk to you and your customers.

With that in mind, make sure to look into the following when considering suppliers:

  • Are they registered with the local authority?
  • Do they have any certification or quality assurance?
  • Are they recommended by other local restaurants?
  • Do they store, transport and pack their products in a hygienic way?

It’s also a good idea to carry out your own spot checks on temperature and quality to make sure produce is suitable.

You are legally required to keep a record of all food products you’ve bought, where you bought them from, how much you bought, and the date of purchase. Keep this information safe in case it ever needs to be presented to an inspector or enforcement officer.

There’s no two ways about it, restaurants need a lot of equipment.

The following list should give you a good idea of the things you’ll need to invest in:

Cleaning and hygiene

  • Cleaning equipment (eco-friendly if possible)
  • Toilet hygiene
  • Pest control
  • Safety signs
  • Table linen
  • Service trays

Consumables

  • Disposables (paper napkins, paper straws etc.)
  • Food labels and wrapping

Clothing and uniform

  • Chef uniform
  • Staff uniform

Kitchen appliances

  • Deep fat fryer
  • Stainless steel tables
  • Dishwashers and glasswashers

Catering equipment

  • Chopping boards
  • Food processor
  • Pasta maker

Of course, not every restaurant will need all these things, and the dishes you serve are always going to impact the equipment that you need.

Finally, you really should carefully consider how you’ll manage the considerable energy costs generated by restaurants. Shopping around is crucial and our guide to the best small business electricity rates and suppliers for 2024  is full of top tips.

Hiring the right people is crucial to the success of your business, whether that’s front of house staff like greeters and waiters, or back of house personnel like chefs.

However, as our how to recruit in a hiring crisis piece discussed, this is not an easy time to hire people, with Brexit and “the great resignation” meaning there’s a shortage of high-calibre candidates.

A lot of the advice in that guide also applies to restaurants: ensuring that your establishment has a positive workplace culture that rewards its employees, making the story of your business a key part of your pitch, devoting enough time to hiring, and offering some form of flexible working.

When it comes to recruitment, The Initiative Group’s Thibault Bouquet de Jolinière and Youri Michel advise hiring a mix of experienced professionals that can mentor and bring consistency and younger employees that are cheaper and eager to learn.

It’s also important to offer incentives to keep your staff motivated, as well as career development paths that encourage them to stay with your restaurant for longer (such as a pay increase after a set period of time).

As you can see, there’s a lot that goes into running a successful restaurant – you’ll need to tackle everything from recruitment to interior design.

But, if you’ve got the skills and a real passion for food, then this is a business that you can really stamp your personality on. Food may be the starting point, but successful restaurants are about identity and atmosphere combining to create memorable dining experiences.

While we’ve covered a lot in this guide, it really is just a starting point. There are loads of resources out there giving detailed advice on all the aspects of running a successful restaurant, so make sure you take advantage of them.

As long as you focus on creating a positive atmosphere for your staff and your customers, then you shouldn’t go too far wrong.

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  • How much does it cost to open a restaurant? As a very rough guide, expect to spend at least £100,000–£200,000 getting a decent-sized restaurant off the ground.
  • How do I start a restaurant in the UK? This comprehensive guide includes expert insight on all the key parts of starting a restaurant business – covering everything from writing a restaurant business plan and choosing a premises to deciding on an interior style and hiring staff.
  • How much does a food license cost UK? According to Gov.uk, it's free to register, and your registration cannot be refused. You should register at least 28 days before opening.
  • Do I need permission to open a restaurant? No, you do not need permission to open a restaurant in the UK, however you do need to ensure you have a food licence.

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Diner Business Plan Template

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AI-Powered Business Plans starting from $10

Location and Site Selection

Choosing the right location for your diner is a crucial factor in its success. You should consider several factors, such as accessibility, visibility, foot traffic, and parking availability. A location in a busy area, such as a commercial or tourist district, may attract more customers, but it may also come with higher rent costs. Alternatively, a location near residential areas or schools may provide a more stable customer base. Conduct thorough research on potential locations, including demographics, traffic patterns, and competition in the area, to make an informed decision on the best location for your diner.

Menu Planning and Pricing Strategies

Developing a menu that appeals to your target market while also being financially viable is essential. Consider using local and seasonal ingredients, unique flavors, and creative dishes to set your diner apart from competitors. Pricing your menu items correctly is also crucial to your success. Use a cost-based pricing strategy, where you factor in the cost of ingredients and labor, and consider your competition's pricing. Ensure that your prices are affordable for your target market while also being profitable for your business.

Equipment and Supplies

The equipment and supplies you need for your diner will depend on the size and style of your establishment. Basic equipment includes refrigerators, ovens, stoves, dishwashers, and other kitchen appliances. You will also need furniture, such as tables, chairs, and booths, as well as utensils, dishes, and glassware. Consider purchasing energy-efficient equipment to save on utility costs. Ensure that your equipment and supplies are of high quality and meet safety standards.

Staffing and Management

Hiring and managing the right staff is crucial to the success of your diner. Consider hiring experienced professionals, such as chefs and managers, and offering training to ensure that all staff members provide excellent customer service. Establish clear job descriptions, set expectations, and provide ongoing feedback to ensure that your staff understands their roles and responsibilities. Implement effective management strategies, such as scheduling, performance evaluations, and employee incentives, to ensure that your staff is motivated and productive.

Marketing and Promotion

Developing a strong marketing and promotion strategy is essential to attract and retain customers for your diner. Consider developing a brand image that represents your business's unique qualities and values. Use social media, email marketing, and online advertising to reach your target audience. Consider offering specials, discounts, or loyalty programs to encourage repeat business. Host events or partner with local organizations to build community connections.

Financial Projections and Funding Options

Developing realistic financial projections is critical to securing funding for your diner business. You should estimate startup costs, such as equipment, supplies, and rent, as well as ongoing expenses, such as salaries, utilities, and insurance. Develop a cash flow projection to estimate your business's revenue and expenses over time. Consider your funding options, such as loans, grants, or investments, and develop a solid business plan to present to potential investors or lenders.

Legal and Regulatory Requirements

Starting a diner business requires compliance with various legal and regulatory requirements. Obtain the necessary permits and licenses, such as a food service permit, a business license, and a health inspection certificate. Ensure that your business follows all food safety and sanitation regulations. Consider obtaining insurance to protect your business from liability issues. Consult with a lawyer to ensure that your business complies with all legal requirements and to develop appropriate legal agreements, such as contracts with suppliers or lease agreements.

opening a diner business plan

Why write a business plan?

  • Business Plans can help to articulate and flesh out the business’s goals and objectives. This can be beneficial not only for the business owner, but also for potential investors or partners
  • Business Plans can serve as a roadmap for the business, helping to keep it on track and on target. This is especially important for businesses that are growing and evolving, as it can be easy to get sidetracked without a clear plan in place.
  • Business plans can be a valuable tool for communicating the business’s vision to employees, customers, and other key stakeholders.
  • Business plans are one of the most affordable and straightforward ways of ensuring your business is successful.
  • Business plans allow you to understand your competition better to critically analyze your unique business proposition and differentiate yourself from the market.
  • Business Plans allow you to better understand your customer. Conducting a customer analysis is essential to create better products and services and market more effectively.
  • Business Plans allow you to determine the financial needs of the business leading to a better understanding of how much capital is needed to start the business and how much fundraising is needed.
  • Business Plans allow you to put your business model in words and analyze it further to improve revenues or fill the holes in your strategy.
  • Business plans allow you to attract investors and partners into the business as they can read an explanation about the business.
  • Business plans allow you to position your brand by understanding your company’s role in the marketplace.
  • Business Plans allow you to uncover new opportunities by undergoing the process of brainstorming while drafting your business plan which allows you to see your business in a new light. This allows you to come up with new ideas for products/services, business and marketing strategies.
  • Business Plans allow you to access the growth and success of your business by comparing actual operational results versus the forecasts and assumptions in your business plan. This allows you to update your business plan to a business growth plan and ensure the long-term success and survival of your business.

Business Plan Content

  • Executive Summary
  • Company Overview
  • Industry Analysis
  • Consumer Analysis
  • Competitor Analysis & Advantages
  • Marketing Strategies & Plan
  • Plan of Action
  • Management Team

The financial forecast template is an extensive Microsoft Excel sheet with Sheets on Required Start-up Capital, Salary & Wage Plans, 5-year Income Statement, 5-year Cash-Flow Statement, 5-Year Balance Sheet, 5-Year Financial Highlights and other accounting statements that would cost in excess of £1000 if obtained by an accountant.

The financial forecast has been excluded from the business plan template. If you’d like to receive the financial forecast template for your start-up, please contact us at [email protected] . Our consultants will be happy to discuss your business plan and provide you with the financial forecast template to accompany your business plan.

Instructions for the Business Plan Template

To complete your perfect diner business plan, fill out the form below and download our diner business plan template. The template is a word document that can be edited to include information about your diner business. The document contains instructions to complete the business plan and will go over all sections of the plan. Instructions are given in the document in red font and some tips are also included in blue font. The free template includes all sections excluding the financial forecast. If you need any additional help with drafting your business plan from our business plan template, please set up a complimentary 30-minute consultation with one of our consultants.

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Diner Business Plan Template FAQs

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MOBI Business Plan Template

The primary value of your business plan is to create a written resource that evaluates most aspects of your new business including a description of your target customers and markets, profitability, organization, operations and more. The very process of writing your business plan helps you put your ideas on paper so you can evaluate what resources you have and what you need to be successful.

Your business plan is your blueprint for starting your business, your script to tell the story of your business to others, and your comprehensive analysis of the opportunity for your business. Business plans help you plan your roadmap, state your goals, share your vision, and analyze your strategy. A business plan is an important and valuable tool for new as well as existing businesses.

This MOBI Business Plan Template consists of sections that relate to the content included in the MOBI Starting a Business course . You can also use this template as a guide independently. We have created this template with the input of key stakeholders such as economic development agencies, lenders, mentors and successful entrepreneurs. You can complete sections of the business plan as you go through the course, to apply what you are learning along the way, or you can wait until you have completed the course. This business plan template is a universal model suitable for most types of business, which you can customize to fit your circumstances. MOBI provides leading topics, questions, and suggestions in each section to guide you. Here are some instructions to help you get started:

  • On the cover page replace the MOBI spark with your own logo and provide your business name, personal name, contact information, and date.
  • Complete each section leaving the main title, such as “Executive Summary,” and using the subtitles and questions as a guideline. Replace those subtitles and questions with the needed and relevant information. If some of the subtitles work with your format, you can keep them. You can type directly over the provided content or delete it as you complete it.
  • You might want to start each section on a new page, which can also be helpful if you decide to include a Table of Contents.

Once you complete your business plan, be sure that key stakeholders review it. Business plans are not static; they will change as your business and the business environment change around you. It’s important to continually review and update your business plan to adjust for these changes.

BUSINESS PLAN

Enter Your Business Name

Enter Your Name

 Enter Date

Contact Information

Executive Summary Provide a summary of your business by addressing these key areas.

Name and Description of Business State the name of your business and describe your product or service.

Targeted Market and Customers Describe your target markets and customers and why they want or need your product or service.    

Trends in this Industry What are the current trends in the industry that make this a good time for your product or service? For example, is the market for your product growing, and why? Have others failed to address a particular need that your product or service will address?  

Value Proposition Provide a brief statement of the unique benefits and value your business will deliver to your customers. Describe the unique qualities of your product or service that will enable you to be profitable.

The Vision  Describe the vision of your business and why you are committed to pursuing this vision and making it successful. 

Founder Background: Work/life experience related to the intended business Describe your work/life experience, educational credentials, and how they are related to the business you plan to start. Include a list of your skills and knowledge, which will be required in your business. 

Your Team If you plan to hire full- or part-time employees or seek business partners, describe your plan for engaging with these other members of your team. If you already have employees or partners, describe key personnel and their roles here. 

Goals for business: Outline your key goals for your business. (Explain your plans for growing the business and what you can realistically accomplish in a defined period of time.)

Financing and Financial Projections ( Many business owners require the assistance of a bookkeeper or accountant when completing this section.)

Startup Capital Provide a table or spreadsheet showing the sources of your startup capital including what you or other investors will contribute and what you intend to borrow.  Create a list of what the startup capital will be used for and how much will be left over for working capital ( SCORE Startup Expenses Template ).

Accounting Statements Prepare your starting balance sheet and projected profit and loss (income) statements for the first three years. (By month for the first year and then by year for years two and three.) Forecast your month-to-month cash flow requirements for the first year.  

Analysis of Costs List and explain the key costs and profit margins that are important for your business.  Classify your costs as fixed, variable, product, delivery, etc. 

Break-Even Analysis Based on your costs and pricing strategy, prepare a break-even analysis.

Internal Controls Explain your internal and cash controls. For instance, check signing policy, strategy for controlling shrinkage, and control of incoming merchandise or supplies.

Business Organization

Business Organization Explain the form of business organization you intend to use and why it is best for your business (sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, etc.).

Professional Consultants List the names of your key advisors: bookkeeper/accountant, consultants, lawyer, insurance agent, and any other professionals.   

Business Location

If you need a physical location other than your home to operate your business, identify your business space needs considering all phases of your workflow (production, storage, shipping, potential employees, customer meetings, and future requirements). Explain why the location you picked meets your workflow needs.

Marketing and Sales

Market Research: Your Customers and Competition Describe your ideal customer (who will be purchasing your product/service, key characteristics).

  • Include any research that has helped you identify and characterize your target customer.

Describe your position in the market, your strongest competitors, and how you intend to compete. 

  

Marketing Strategy and Tools Describe your overall marketing strategy, how you will find, engage, and build customers, including:

  • Traditional marketing tools (signage, storefront, collateral, advertising, promotion, uniforms,  mail, etc.).
  • Online marketing (website, social media, email marketing, text marketing, others).
  • Ecommerce (if applicable).
  • Describe in detail how you plan to sell your products or services online.
  • Describe how your best competitors utilize ecommerce and your strategy to improve on their practices.
  • Research and identify the different channels where you will sell your product or services. What is your expectation of sales?
  • Detail how will you take orders, process payments, and fulfill requests? 
  • Provide a detailed breakdown of the costs involved in creating, operating, and maintaining your ecommerce activities.

Sales Strategy Describe your sales process, activities you will conduct, obstacles you expect, how you will overcome them, and any customer service strategies to retain and expand your customer base.

Include k ey details about how you will operate your business.

  • Outline the workflow of your business and the processes and procedures you will put into place.
  • If applicable, provide details about how you will procure supplies, manufacture your product, and deliver your product or service to your customer. Include any equipment and facilities that you need.
  • Describe how you will measure the success of your operations for quality, efficiency, cost control, or other measures of performance. Include any testing.
  • Order fulfillment: describe your order fulfillment process, software to be used, and quality control methods.
  • Supply chain: describe products/materials you need to purchase in order to make your product, include primary and secondary sources for these. products/materials, lead times, purchasing methods, and tools.
  • Staffing: skill requirements, training program, supervision, outsourced functions, and hiring timeline.

Addendum: Licenses and Permits   *Addendums can include but are not limited to License and Permits*

Make a comprehensive list of all licenses and permits you will need to do business in your area.   

Your list should include the following: (For US-based businesses; requirements differ by country and region.)

  • Name under which you intend to do business
  • Permissions and/or limitations on the use of your property or facilities
  • Federal, state, and local licenses (city/county), permits, and certifications needed to do business in your area (e.g. business tax license, seller's permit, safety certifications, employer identification number, etc.)
  • Industry licenses needed for your particular area of business (contractor, electrician, daycare, beauty, etc.)
  • International and national intellectual property protection through trademarks, copyright, and patents.

Download:  MOBI Business Plan Template

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San Francisco’s best-kept secret is a diner everyone thinks is closed

A person stands behind a diner counter with stools, walls adorned with pictures, and checkered floors.

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A historic San Francisco diner is fading in the shadows of the city’s more trendy restaurants as it struggles to bring in even some of its longtime customers—partly because many people think it’s closed.

On most weekend mornings, a line of customers dressed in trendy streetwear ropes around the block in front of Al’s Good Food, also known as Al's Super Cafe, near the border of the Mission and Bernal Heights neighborhoods at 3286 Mission St. But the fashionable crowd isn’t in line for Al’s. These young restaurant-goers are instead waiting for a table at Four Chairs, the TikTok-famous brunch restaurant next door.

Meanwhile, the tables inside Al’s are usually empty, with just the charismatic co-owner, Larry Shih, and a single chef behind the counter.

A retro diner with checkered floors, red tables, and nostalgic wall decor.

The meals are reasonably priced at just $7 for two eggs, hashbrowns and your choice of toast. Tack on an additional $3 to add sausage, ham or bacon, or go with the chicken fried steak for $11 total. 

The walls, which welcomed their first customers in 1942, are decorated with classic movie memorabilia, the mimosas are strong and it isn’t hard to imagine the diner filled with customers in years past. 

A plate with eggs, hash browns, fried chicken, gravy, toast, and a jelly packet.

“We are an old traditional diner,” Shih said. “We don’t buy processed food. Even the hamburger, we make our own hamburger.” 

Shih said when he and his wife bought the diner 12 years ago, it was a bustling enterprise with six or seven servers at a time tending to the packed house. 

Jackie Ampie, a San Francisco native who was eating at Al’s with her son Tyson on Friday, said she remembers the diner's glory days from when she was a teenager. Ampie raved about the food, saying she was confused as to why the restaurant is no longer popular.

“The crowds that are coming around here, I think it’s more of the gentrification going on,” Ampie said. “Maybe they think it looks old without even knowing that this is really good food.” 

Ampie said it saddens her to see the restaurant lose business, even as crowds of people line up for food just next door. She admitted she thought the restaurant had closed until recently because of its early closing time—3 p.m.

“I only thought it was closed briefly,” Ampie said. “But then I pulled up and saw, ‘Oh, they’re just closed at 3.’”

Two breakfast plates on a red table: one with an omelette, bacon, toast; another with eggs, gravy-covered biscuit, hash browns, and coffee.

Since the closure of a similarly named restaurant AL’s Place, just down the street, Shih said many faithful customers haven’t returned. 

“A lot of people tell me, ‘I thought you guys were closed,’” Shih said. “No, we’re not closed. … We’re open.” 

Shih said he’s been keeping the lights on by focusing on deliveries made through apps such as DoorDash and Grubhub. Still, he said he misses the camaraderie that once filled his life—and the restaurant—with joy. 

“We are a family-community type of restaurant,” he said. “Let's put it this way: A lot of older people like our place.”

Correction: A previous version of this article stated Al's was in the Outer Mission. It is, in fact, on the edge of the Mission District and Bernal Heights neighborhoods.

David Sjostedt can be reached at [email protected]

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Mike's Diner

Hours updated 2 weeks ago

Photo of Mike's Diner - Waterloo, IA, US. An order of home fries, toasted sourdough bread and a bagel with cream cheese @ Mike's Diner in Waterloo, IA.

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3280 University Ave

Waterloo, IA 50701

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Photo of Edward L.

I walked into Mike's Diner in Waterloo Iowa not quite knowing what to expect. This used to be a Perkins restaurant, they went out of business around COVID time like almost everyone else that did. I really missed that restaurant, and going out late to grab a bite when I was in the mood. Walked in and was pleasantly surprised to find it looking very similar to what Perkins looked like. The only thing they were missing were the tables in the middle section. My waitress told me that they plan on putting some in sometime this week. I sat down and scanned over the menu, the usual suspects were there. Eggs, bacon, sausage, toast, pancakes... they also offer a dinner type menu, but they didn't have a link just yet to the menu online. I went with a Ranchero breakfast skillet which had avocado, chorizo and peppers and other stuff. It was pretty good. I asked for toasted sourdough and American fries for the sides. At first the toast came out pretty much just like sourdough bread untoasted, and the potatoes came out diced instead of sliced and were completely raw and had no seasoning. BUT... unlike some places that are unwilling to listen or change anything, I explained that the toast should be toasted more so it actually has a little brown on it and maybe some butter on the side and the American fries were supposed to be sliced, but these were diced just fine for home fries... they just needed to be cooked more. A lot more. They took the stuff back and retoasted the sourdough to perfection, with a little butter on each side and everything, it was great. And the potatoes tasted much better once they were cooked and they threw a little bit of onions in there for me too and some spices. I was quite happy. My waitress was very attentive and very patient. It was only her second day, but she handled it like a pro. This place just opened yesterday, but I really want it to succeed. The only other 24-hour food place in the area, besides gas stations, is a McDonald's on Main Street that once took 45 minutes at night to serve me when they only had two cars in front of me. But that's for another review...

opening a diner business plan

Guess I'm spoiled being a Jersey diner guy, where all menu items are made in house, including bakery items with breakfast, lunch and dinner served. Typical diner Menu's have 4 or 5 pages with choices beyond belief. Was very excited to see that Mike's Diner was opening, obviously I have great expectations based on my 70 years of diner experience. I've been coming to Waterloo for 22 years since I own a business here. Well, went for an early dinner today and although the staff was very pleasant I was really disappointed in the food items, none of which were made in house. I suspect probably brought in frozen and microwaved, when ordered. One of my favorite dinner choices is chicken fried steak and was quite disappointed, way too salty and the available sides didn't even include a vegetable choice other than green bean casserole which was a bowl of mush. Operating a successful restaurant is a difficult enterprise but it is based on caring about the quality and choice of food served. Frozen food items is not what a real diner customer wants. With all due respect to MIke, he should take a tour of other Dinners around the USA, so he can really see first hand what a true to the name diner serves and what a customer expects when eating a meal at an establishment called a "Diner". I hope he survives but would certainly suggest he dramatically improves on the menu, including real homemade comfort food choices like meatloaf with baked potato and veggies. How about home made soups? How about a daily fresh pasta choice? Food choices and eating habits are changing, around the world and there are vegans and vegetarians who also enjoy a delicious home cooked meal, at a diner. Good start that you have organic catsup, how about some real healthier fresh food menu items? I'll be listening to friends' comments, just wish this was a real style diner with the home cooked meals and I'd be a customer for life.

Photo of Terrie S.

Welcome to the neighborhood Mike! We needed you! I read the reviews before we went. All I can say is lets give them a chance! I would like to see some fresh vegetables on the menu as stated in another review. They want to please from the management to our server Chloe. The little glitch we did have was rectified right away and happily. We will be back! Terrie and Annie!

Photo of K R.

This place makes me sad for two reasons - for one reason a VERY GOOD restaurant (Mersims) closed as a result of this one opening; second reason is that the food here was not good. Obviously what we ordered (breakfast and a burger) was pre-frozen and probably microwaved by the taste Hope it improves before we have to use our other Mersims gift certificate here - ugh.

Photo of Jaylen B.

The worst. Do not come. Do not come. The waitress was nice kind of.....I didn't think I was ever going to get my food and it came out cold and I could snap my pancakes in half. Not sure how long this place is gonna stay open lol.

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Biden Suggests a Bigger Federal Role to Reduce Housing Costs

A new report focuses on the prolonged struggle to build affordable housing across America and suggests federal incentives to help.

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President Biden speaking on a stage with red signs reading “President Joe Biden: Lowering Housing Costs.”

By Jim Tankersley and Conor Dougherty

Jim Tankersley covers White House economic policy. Conor Dougherty has covered housing policy for more than a decade.

Economists in the Biden administration are calling for more aggressive federal action to drive down costs for home buyers and renters, taking aim at one of the biggest economic challenges facing President Biden as he runs for re-election.

The policy proposals in a White House report being released on Thursday include what could be an aggressive federal intervention in local politics, which often dictates where homes are built and who can occupy them. The administration is backing a plan to pressure cities and other localities to relax zoning restrictions that in many cases hinder affordable housing construction.

That recommendation is part of a new administration deep dive into a housing crisis, decades in the making, that is hindering the president’s chances for a second term. The proposals, included in the annual Economic Report of the President, could serve as a blueprint for a major housing push if Mr. Biden wins a second term.

The report includes a suite of moves meant to reduce the cost of renting or buying a home, while encouraging local governments to change zoning laws to allow development of more affordable housing.

“It’s really hard to make a difference in this space, in this affordable housing space, without tackling land use regulations,” Jared Bernstein, the chairman of the White House Council of Economic Advisers, said in an interview.

Mr. Bernstein added that administration officials believed many local leaders were encouraging a bigger federal role in zoning reform — which can help override objections from local groups that oppose development. “I feel like we’re kicking through more of an open door now than we ever have before,” he said.

The report is full of statistics illustrating why housing has become an acute source of stress for American families and an electoral liability for Mr. Biden.

The administration has acknowledged that it has limited power over local zoning rules, which tend to dictate the design and density of homes in particular neighborhoods. Most of the president’s recommendations for expanding supply involve using the federal budget as a carrot to encourage local governments to allow more building — including adding low-income housing and smaller starter homes.

Such policies are unlikely to be put into law this year, with an election ahead and Republicans in control of the House.

But the focus on housing, and the endorsement of a comprehensive set of policies to increase its supply and affordability, could serve as a blueprint for a potentially bipartisan effort on the issue if Mr. Biden wins re-election. It could also add momentum to a housing reform movement that is well underway in state legislatures around the country.

The report documents how, over the past decade, home prices have significantly outpaced wage growth for American families. That has pushed ownership out of reach for middle-income home shoppers and left lower-income renters on the brink of poverty.

A quarter of tenants — about 12 million households — now spend more than half their income on rent. Prices are so high that if a minimum-wage employee worked 45 hours a week for a month, a median rent would consume every dollar he or she made.

Behind all this, the report said, is a longstanding housing shortage. The lack of housing has become a rare point of agreement among Democratic and Republican lawmakers.

The shortage is the product of decades of failing to build enough homes, a trend that worsened after the 2008 financial crisis. It has been exacerbated by the rising cost of construction along with the many local zoning and land use rules that make housing harder and more expensive to build. These rules also limit what kinds of units can go where, for instance by making it illegal to build apartments in single-family neighborhoods.

The lack of affordable housing particularly hurts lower-income families and couples starting out. Millions of lower-cost apartments have essentially disappeared over the past decade, either through rising rents or by falling into disrepair. At the same time, smaller and lower-cost “ starter homes ” are a shrinking share of the market.

Over the past several years, a bipartisan group of legislators in both red and blue states have pushed dozens of state laws to limit cities’ control over development. The report cheered them and noted the administration’s efforts to encourage such reforms, including the Housing Supply Action Plan , which was released two years ago.

Mr. Biden has focused heavily on housing in recent weeks, in part to show voters he is fighting to lower one of their major monthly costs. Privately, his aides have expressed hope that Federal Reserve interest rate cuts this year will drive down mortgage rates and possibly home prices, if a new supply of homes hits the market in response.

Publicly, Mr. Biden has seized on the initiative, calling on lawmakers to pass big federal investments in housing supply and tax credits for people buying homes.

“If inflation keeps coming down — and it’s predicted to do that — mortgage rates are going to come down as well, but I’m not going to wait,” Mr. Biden said on Tuesday in Las Vegas. “I’m not going to wait.”

Jim Tankersley writes about economic policy at the White House and how it affects the country and the world. He has covered the topic for more than a dozen years in Washington, with a focus on the middle class. More about Jim Tankersley

Conor Dougherty covers housing and development, focusing on the rising costs of homeownership. He is based in Los Angeles. More about Conor Dougherty

Time, money, lost business are part of hefty price tag to rebuild critical Baltimore bridge

opening a diner business plan

The Francis Scott Key Bridge - and more importantly its capability to support traffic of 33,000 vehicles a day - could take years to rebuild after a cargo ship slammed into it and sent the 1.6 mile roadway tumbling into the Patapsco River .

While state officials have not released timelines on bridge repairs, experts say it could take several months or even up to four years until the bridge can make a comeback.

When the bridge opened in 1977, it cost $60.3 million , which is equivalent to $316 million today. The bridge took five years to complete, but experts say reopening it could take less time depending on several factors, including the condition of the bridge's foundational pieces underwater, design plans, and funding. President Joe Biden has said he expects the federal government to cover all rebuilding costs.

The Army Corps of Engineers has activated its emergency operations center following the collapse, authorizing more than 1,100 personnel to support recovery efforts and clear the busy shipping channel of debris, the Army announced Tuesday. The Corps, supporting local, state and federal agencies, is providing an underwater drone, structural engineers, urban search and rescue specialists, and the Reynolds, a vessel that collects debris that could pose hazardous to navigation.

In the meantime, experts warn the downed bridge could have major implications for East Coast shipping as companies scramble to find other ports and residents are diverted to detours. About 12.4 million vehicles crossed the bridge in 2023.

Assessing the damage

Illinois Institute of Technology engineering professor Gongkang Fu said the first step to rebuilding will be to assess the foundational pieces of the bridge underwater. 

“The pieces we don't see...are more expensive than the pieces we see, normally,” Fu said.

Building the underwater part can account for as much as half of the construction time, Fu said, so the condition of those pieces will greatly determine how long rebuilding will take. 

How fast funds come in will also determine when the bridge can reopen, Fu said, noting that expediting construction raises costs.

The target bridge lifespan in current national guidelines is 75 years, Fu said.

Hota GangaRao, the director of the Constructed Facilities Center at West Virginia University’s Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, said several bridge piers could be damaged by the collapse. But engineers would need to assess the underwater structure to see the extent.

Based on the size of the bridge, GangaRao estimated rebuilding the structure will cost at least $350 million, and take two to four years to complete.

Sameh Badie, engineering professor at George Washington University, said the cost of rebuilding the bridge will also depend on the new design. More technologies are available now than when the bridge was originally built nearly five decades ago. Engineers may also take Tuesday’s collision into consideration when deciding on the new structure as more information is released.

David Turner, spokesperson for Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, told USA TODAY timelines and cost estimates on bridge repairs were not yet available but the process will be “long and expensive.”

Detours, other ports take Baltimore load

Moody’s Analytics senior economist Adam Kamins said the bridge collapse could have a significant impact on the Maryland economy, along with broader national and potentially global implications. Kamins noted the Port of Baltimore suspended some operations after the collapse, and an extended closure could strain car and truck prices as it is the nation’s busiest port for cars and light trucks in the nation.

Mitch Merriam, a longtime U.S. Customs and Border Protection leader, said some other ports are already accepting cargoes destined for Baltimore. Merriam, the former area port director at Los Angeles International Airport and now vice president of borders and maritime security at Maryland-based K2 Security Screening Group, said he's seen estimates that it may take three months to clear the bridge wreckage from the channel and reopen it to shipping.

"My guess is that initially you're going to see anything that was supposed to go to Baltimore will divert to Philadelphia or Norfolk, depending on the size of the vessel," he said. "Initially you're going to see ports helping one another out, taking in cargo destined for Baltimore. But they are going to have to look for longer-term solutions."

GangaRao said building a temporary bridge over the existing piers would be unlikely, as several of them may have suffered damage under the weight of the collapse.

The Interstate 35W bridge in Minneapolis, an eight-lane bridge across the Mississippi River, collapsed on Aug. 1, 2007. Congress approved $250 million to rebuild it and President George W. Bush signed it into law within a week.

The bridge reopened Sept. 18, 2008. But the Minneapolis bridge was about one-third of a mile long, much shorter than the 1.6-mile bridge in Baltimore. And experts said the Minneapolis bridge was a significantly different type of bridge and collapse.

“This is a unique circumstance. I do not know of a bridge that has been constructed to withstand a direct impact from a vessel of this size,” Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said. “Let me emphasize that was a very different circumstance with very different causes.”

Contributing: Bart Jansen, Trevor Hughes and Tom Vanden Brook, USA TODAY

A Bill Gates company is about to start building a nuclear power plant in Wyoming

  • TerraPower, which Bill Gates founded, plans to build its first nuclear power plant in the US.
  • CEO Chris Levesque told the Financial Times it wants to start work on a site in Wyoming in June.
  • TerraPower says its reactor design is cheaper because they're cooled by liquid sodium, not water.

Insider Today

A company cofounded by Bill Gates is about to start building next-generation nuclear power plants in the US.

Chris Levesque, CEO of TerraPower, told the Financial Times that his firm will start building at a site near a coal plant in Kemmerer, Wyoming in June, even if it hasn't received a construction permit from regulators by then.

The company plans to bring the nuclear plant online in 2030, he added.

TerraPower, which has raised $1 billion from backers, will use liquid sodium rather than water to cool its Natrium reactors, making them cheaper to run.

Most of the initial work at the Kemmerer site won't be related to nuclear activity, Levesque said.

Related stories

"When you use liquid sodium as a coolant instead of water it's a game changer," he told the FT.

"Natrium plants will cost half of what light water reactor plants cost … and we are moving our project along pretty aggressively."

Gates helped found TerraPower in 2006 and has been its chairman since then. The company has said its aim is to provide the world with a more affordable, secure, and environmentally friendly form of nuclear energy.

Its Natrium reactor is expected to cost $4 billion, with about half the cost being met by the Department of Energy. CRV and Khosla Ventures are among the company's VC backers, Reuters reported .

While Russian and Chinese state-controlled companies have already managed to launch smaller nuclear reactors, progress in developing similar tech in the US has stalled in recent years.

High interest rates have made it tougher for startups to draw in funding, while Russia's invasion of Ukraine and subsequent exclusion from financial markets has made it tougher for companies to get the uranium needed for their reactors.

In December 2022, TerraPower pushed back the launch of its flagship project by at least two years, which Levesque attributed to the war in Ukraine hitting supplies of high-assay, low-enriched uranium .

In October last year TerraPower missed out on making the shortlisted for the next round of the UK government's competition for small nuclear plants. Rolls-Royce is one of the leading contenders with its small modular reactor (SMR) designs and has already secured more than £200m of government funding in Britain.

Watch: Microsoft CEO unravels ChatGPT, ethical AI, and going bust

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  1. Diner Business Plan Template [Updated 2024]

    Diner Business Plan Template. Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 1,000 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their diners. If you're unfamiliar with creating a diner business plan, you may think creating one will be a time-consuming and frustrating process. For most entrepreneurs it is, but for ...

  2. Practical guide on how to open a diner

    The very first step in opening a diner is to carry out market research. Doing so will not only enable you to verify whether there's enough demand for you to successfully open your diner (and 'make bank'), but also help you develop the best strategy for attracting customers. Market research will not be complete without an in-depth analysis of ...

  3. How to Open a Diner With No Money (2024 Guide)

    Your diner marketing plan should tie in with your overall business plan and communicate to stakeholders how you plan to attract customers and turn them into lifelong regulars. An opening date/launch plan: As an addendum to your marketing plan, your launch plan will lay out the plan from pre-opening to opening day. Whether you have a series of ...

  4. How to Start a Diner

    Start a diner by following these 10 steps: Plan your Diner. Form your Diner into a Legal Entity. Register your Diner for Taxes. Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card. Set up Accounting for your Diner. Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Diner. Get Diner Insurance. Define your Diner Brand.

  5. How to write the business plan for a diner

    Your business strategy. In this part, you'll reveal three key plans: Your sales strategy - the prices you'll set. Your marketing strategy - the actions you'll take to attract customers and build customer loyalty. Your risk management strategy - how you'll minimise the risks related to your business.

  6. How to write a restaurant business plan

    6. Management team. Write a brief overview of yourself and the team you have established so far. You want to show that your experience has provided you with the necessary skills to run a successful restaurant and act as a restaurant business owner.

  7. How to Start a Diner

    Step 5: Create a Business Plan. Creating a business plan is an important step in starting a diner. A business plan should include a description of the business, the goals of the business, a marketing plan, a financial plan, and a management plan. The description of the business should include the type of diner, the location, the target customer ...

  8. How to Start a Diner Business

    Starting a diner business requires careful planning, dedication, and hard work. By finding the perfect location, creating a unique menu, building a strong team, implementing effective marketing strategies, managing finances and operations efficiently, and providing exceptional customer service, you can increase your chances of success in the ...

  9. How To Open A Diner

    Before you can open your diner, you need to create a comprehensive business plan. This plan should outline your financial goals, target market, and operating procedures. It will also help you secure financing for the venture. 2. Find Financing. Finding financing for your diner is key to its success.

  10. How to Start a Small Diner

    6. Fix up the chosen location by setting up a cozy interior environment, hiring at least three friendly local servers and a cook, and creating a menu. Prepare a menu by focusing on a niche or ...

  11. How to Open a Restaurant: A Step-by-Step Guide

    Step 3. Choose your restaurant's name and legal structure. If you plan to use a unique name for your restaurant, go ahead and file your "doing business as" (DBA) name with your state's ...

  12. How to Start a Diner Business

    8. Promote your diner. Launch a promotional website, set up social networking accounts, send news releases to local media outlets or place fliers around your local colleges and universities ...

  13. How to Start a Diner

    How to Start a Diner. Opening a diner is a rewarding experience but it's important to plan out the business in detail before you start. This article contains a few secrets that may be key to your ultimate success. Wondering how to start a diner? We take you step-by-step from start to success. Startup Diners: Modernizing a Traditional Business ...

  14. How to Open a Breakfast Restaurant: Six Keys to Success

    The investment range for a Scramblers franchise location is between $450,000 to $860,000. Franchise candidates are required to have a net worth of $500,000 along with $150,000 in liquid capital. Your investment in Scramblers guarantees you access to a proven business model - perfected over the last 30 years - along with direct lines of ...

  15. Diner Business Plan

    For example, you may decide that you want to be open for breakfast between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m. to accommodate morning commuters. Following the diner business plan will help you organize whether you're planning to be open 24/7, and the things you need to take into account such as a wider menu and enough staff to work different shifts.

  16. How to Open a Restaurant: 11 Steps to Success

    Click any of the tips below to skip to the restaurant startup tip that interests you: Choose a Restaurant Concept. Write a Restaurant Business Plan. Obtain Restaurant Funding. Create a Menu. Find a Commercial Space. Plan Your Restaurant's Layout. Acquire Restaurant Permits and Licenses.

  17. How to Start a Restaurant in 2024: Key Steps

    4. Writing a restaurant business plan. For the purposes of this guideline, we're going to use a fictional establishment - let's call it The Goodfare Restaurant* - to show you exactly how a restaurant business plan should work in practice. You can find a more comprehensive breakdown of what to include in our general business plan template.

  18. Diner Business Plan Template

    A diner business plan template is a great way to help you get started in the restaurant business. This template includes information on how to open a diner, how to market ... Here are some key financial components that should be included in a Diner business plan: 1. Start-up Costs: Provide an estimate of the initial investment required to ...

  19. Business Plan Template FREE

    A business plan is an important and valuable tool for new as well as existing businesses. This MOBI Business Plan Template consists of sections that relate to the content included in the MOBI Starting a Business course. You can also use this template as a guide independently. We have created this template with the input of key stakeholders such ...

  20. New County Ordinance Allows Food Entrepreneurs to Legally Operate Out

    SANTA CLARA COUNTY, Calif. - Under a new County ordinance approved and enacted on Tuesday, food industry entrepreneurs can apply for a permit that allows them to legally prepare, cook, and sell food out of a private home kitchen. The County of Santa Clara Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to permit such mini restaurant businesses - called Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operations, or ...

  21. San Francisco Diner Al's Good Food is NOT closed

    San Francisco's best-kept secret is a diner everyone thinks is closed. Larry Shih, who co-owns and manages Al's Good Food in the Outer Mission, said customers have stopped dining in his restaurant because they think it's closed. | David Sjostedt/The Standard. By David Sjostedt Published Mar. 23, 2024 • 7:00am.

  22. Tax Deduction A Business Owners Won't See From Their ...

    A cash balance plan could allow for contributions as significant as $3 million in 2024, depending on your income and how far you are from your desired retirement age. More commonly, business ...

  23. MIKE'S DINER

    5 reviews and 3 photos of Mike's Diner "I walked into Mike's Diner in Waterloo Iowa not quite knowing what to expect. This used to be a Perkins restaurant, they went out of business around COVID time like almost everyone else that did. I really missed that restaurant, and going out late to grab a bite when I was in the mood. Walked in and was pleasantly surprised to find it looking very ...

  24. Application New Food Facility

    1555 Berger Drive. Bldg #2, Suite #300. San Jose, CA 95112. Submittal Hours: 7:30 am - 4:15 pm. Monday through Friday. New Food Facility means any new construction, a tenant improvement of a non-food facility to become a food facility, and/or change in menu at an existing food facility whether or not the ownership has changed.

  25. Food Facility Evaluation

    Fees will cover application processing, file review and one site inspection. Please refer to the steps below to apply for your new permit to operate: 1. Complete and submit Food Facility Evaluation Packet. 2. Attach menu (if applicable) 3. Prepare for inspection (Refer to Facility Self-Inspection Checklist) 4.

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  29. Nissan Motor Plans to Sell More Than a Dozen New EV Models by 2026

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