Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

Hi everyone, I would like to start a casual eatery in Boston.  I am currently not in the food business, but feel I have a unique concept and have started working on my business plan.  Therefore, does anyone have any thoughts on how and where to begin, as well as what are some typical challenges?  Also, if I want a place to seat around 20 people , how much square footage should I look for?  Any idea on the rents in Boston, fees, equipment, etc.  any help is greatly appreciated!

I want to point you to a couple of resources that may be very helpful to you. The first is http://www.restaurantowner.com/. They also publish a magazine, Restaurant Startup & Growth that you may qualify for a free subscription. Their site has a lot of great information for the first-time restaurant owner.

Another resource are the commercial real estate agents in your local area. They can help you locate a ready-to-use restaurant space that fits your needs. If you are honest with them during this planning stage, they will be very helpful as well as ready to assist you when you are ready to move on a lease.

Finally, we have put together some information on our website linking you to the state business resources you will need for starting a business in Massachusetts.

Best regards,

Molly Donaldson

thanks for the great advice!!

Hello Omaat,

Check out this web link it should help in calculating seating requirements for your future restaurant.

Good Luck

http://www.restaurantlayout.com/