Opening Your Own Mediterranean Restaurant

A Mediterranean restaurant brings up images of pristine countryside and beaches in the regions lining the Mediterranean Sea. This area has long been a favorite travel destination for travelers the world over. Opening a restaurant that caters to this theme can be done by working with patterns, color schemes and decorative items native to the area. The cuisine is just, if not more important, as a qualified chef will always keep customers satisfied and coming back time and time again. Just as with any business, you will need to execute quality business practices and the proper planning to ensure your venture’s success.

Step 1 – Start out by jotting down a business plan to base the foundation of your idea, using the plan as a course of action to follow as you move forward with your venture. If financing is required from a financial institution, you will need to provide them with a plan to help them evaluate whether or not your business is worth the risks. This plan should include a basic description of your business, target customer information, the location where you wish to start your business, the type of food and the prices associated with various dishes, operational cost specifics and the total amount needed to get your venture up and running. Be sure to set aside funding for advertising, such as coupons and local publication spots to help bring in local residents.

Step 2 – Begin with enough start up capitol to get your idea off the ground. Costs will add up quickly, so it’s important to budget accordingly. Whether you happen to have enough available funds on hand or require financing, it’s important to have an accurate estimate of the amount it will take you to stay in business for the first year. Involving investors and partners will help to keep your personal expenses down while improving the overall results of the initial campaign.

Step 3 – Find yourself a spot that will catch the eye of local customers. Look for hot spots and trendy areas with other nearby restaurants and interesting areas. You may even want to consider hiring a commercial real estate agent to help you in your search. Be sure and take the time to look around. Though you might fall for the first location you find, it may not be the right place for you in the long run.

Step 4 – Obtain liquor and business licenses if you are interested in selling alcohol to your patrons. Make certain that you abide by any and all local, state and federal regulations when filing forms and establishing your venture. Have your location inspected by the proper authorities to ensure that it means all necessary safety regulations.

Step 5 – Give your space a little something extra, keeping the Mediterranean flair at the forefront of your design.

Step 6 – Choose a chef who knows your cuisine-type inside and out. Be sure to hire staff that is also familiar with specialty dishes and are able to aid customers in their order decisions.