So, you’re ready to open a restaurant! You’ve got the concept, the drive, and maybe even the perfect space—congratulations! But before the doors open, or the investors sign on, you need a business plan that clearly spells out your vision, operations, and financial strategy.
A restaurant business plan doesn’t have to be intimidating. Think of it as a roadmap: it helps you get clear on your goals, shows others what you’re building, and gives you a solid foundation to return to as your business grows.
To help you get started, we’ve created a plug-and-play restaurant business plan template designed specifically for those looking to launch the next best eatery. From your mission and menu to your marketing and numbers, this outline includes all the key elements you’ll need—plus guidance on what to include in each section.
Ready to bring your restaurant idea to life? Let’s get started.
Restaurant Business Plan Template
Use this simple, customizable template to outline your restaurant concept, operations, marketing, and financial plan. Each section includes prompts to help you stay focused and write with clarity.
Executive Summary
Briefly describe your restaurant concept and vision. Include what type of food you’ll serve, your target audience, location, and what makes your business unique. Think of this as your restaurant’s elevator pitch. Tip: Save this section for last, details will be hashed out as you work through the rest of the plan.
Example prompts:
- What kind of restaurant are you opening? Is it a taco stand? A wine bar? A seafood spot?
- Where will it be located?
- What sets it apart from other similar concepts?
- What are your short- and long-term goals?
Business Description
Go deeper into the story behind your restaurant. Share your mission, values, and what inspired you to start this business. Include your business model (full service, fast-casual, food truck, etc.) and an overview of your offerings.
Example prompts:
- What’s your mission statement?
- What’s your business model?
- Who’s on your team?
- Will you offer takeout, catering, or events?
Market Analysis
Provide insight into your local market and how your restaurant fits in. Discuss your ideal customer, market trends, and any competitive analysis you’ve done.
Example prompts:
- Who is your target audience?
- What dining trends are influencing your market?
- Who are your local competitors?
- What’s your niche?
Menu Overview
Highlight your main menu categories and dishes. Focus on your style of cuisine, dietary considerations, and any signature items or seasonal rotations.
Example prompts:
- What kind of food will you serve?
- Are you focusing on local, organic, or specialty ingredients?
- Will the menu rotate by season?
Operations Plan
Explain how your restaurant will run on a daily basis. Cover your hours of operation, staff structure, service model, and key roles.
Example prompts:
- What are your hours?
- How many employees will you need?
- What’s your staffing plan (back of house, front of house, management)?
- Will you offer dine-in, takeout, delivery?
Marketing Strategy
Outline how you’ll attract and retain customers. Include launch plans, social media, PR, partnerships, and loyalty or email programs. Here are some marketing ideas for restaurants to help get you started.
Example prompts:
- How will you market your grand opening?
- What social platforms will you focus on?
- Will you collaborate with local influencers or businesses?
- How will you keep customers coming back?
Financial Plan
Provide key numbers and financial projections. This includes startup costs, revenue expectations, pricing strategy, and break-even analysis.
Example prompts:
- What are your estimated startup costs?
- What are your monthly operating expenses?
- What’s your pricing strategy?
- When do you expect to break even?
Sustainability and Community Impact (Optional)
If your restaurant is mission-driven or sustainability-focused, use this section to share how you’ll support the environment or your community. Some cities and towns have enacted strict regulations on single-use plastics and Styrofoam. Make sure you have a plan for this, and outline it here.
Example prompts:
- Will you use compostable packaging?
- How do you plan to reduce food waste?
- Will you source ingredients locally?
- Will you donate to local causes or host community events?
Appendices (Optional)
Include any supplemental documents like your full menu, mock-ups of the space, branding, investor pitch decks, resumes, or letters of intent from suppliers or partners.
A solid business plan will help you turn your restaurant dream into something tangible. Take the time to work through each section, as it will help you approach your launch with clarity and confidence. Then, use it to pitch to investors, apply for funding, or simply stay organized.
Remember: plans can evolve, menus can change, and strategies may shift, but starting with a strong foundation will make every next step that much easier. You’ve got the vision, now go build it! If you need help with any sections of your plan, we’d love to hear from you.
