Picking A Restaurant Venue: Location And Other Critical Factors
You’ve chosen your menu and settled on a concept you know will be a hit. The only element that’s missing is the venue — and this key factor could end up making or breaking you. The question of how to choose a location for a restaurant is paramount, and we’ve got some answers. Keep these factors in mind as you consider possible locations for your new restaurant.
The financial condition of the neighborhood — You can line up your financing and create a long-term business plan. But if your restaurant is in the wrong location, those careful preparations may not save it. You should have a good idea of whether your venue will be able to draw the clientele you need to thrive. That means considering the community’s potential to expand its revenue base. Are other restaurants popping up? What about new housing? Are the streets well maintained (indicating the community is financially able to invest)?
The competition — While a lively restaurant scene is indicative of financial health, you also want to be sure you can capture a share of the action. Scope out the competition. Take note of what’s working for them and what isn’t. And be sure you can distinguish your business enough that proximity to others won’t be an issue.
The accessibility of the restaurant venue — You’ve got to get guests in the door to hook them. However, restaurant accessibility issues may stop some of them in their tracks. Before signing a lease, take time to walk the property and consider it from the point of view of a patron who might be less mobile. Is the terrain uneven? How steep are the inclines? Will you need to install a ramp and, if so, how practical would it be? Then there’s the interior. Is there enough space to move around freely and safely? Taking this point of view into account can save you headaches later.
The parking situation — Depending on where you plan to locate, parking spaces could be an essential asset. If you’ll be relying on street parking, count the spaces available at peak business hours. You might need to look into valet parking — but have you budgeted for it? Up-and-coming neighborhoods present the added challenge of anticipating future parking needs. Restaurant parking availability represents one of the biggest challenges in choosing a hot location.
The visibility of the space — We’ve all discovered hidden gems. But that doesn’t mean you want to be one. You want your restaurant to be easily located, especially if you’re just starting out. Restaurant visibility can be a major selling point when it comes to choosing a venue. Look at businesses in the vicinity and decide whether their customers would make good patrons for your establishment. Then take a walk or a drive around the neighborhood and see whether that restaurant space you’re considering would pull them in.
How local regulations might affect your concept — You’re probably focused on restrictions related to alcohol sales and business hours. But if you want to expand your service to the outdoors — such as sidewalk dining — you’ll need to do your homework to ensure compliance. For example, many cities require seating that extends into pedestrian walkways to be adequately partitioned off with barriers or fencing. Check your local laws, and be sure you’ve got the resources to comply.
SelectSpace partitions helps new restaurants set up shop by taking some of the guesswork out of outdoor seating. Our selection of partitions and barriers gives you the means to comply with local laws while creating an attractive and inviting space for diners.
Contact us today to learn how quality partitions can benefit your restaurant.