What are some steps I can take to end up opening a restaurant someday?

Question

that's my ultimate dream is to open my own restaurant. or one with my boyfriend haha, we are probably taking culinary school together. what are some things i can do now to give myself the credibility to do that? i've got other career opportunities in mind because i know starting a business like a restaurant can be risky business... but i want to have what i need so if i ever have the chance or the money, i can. i already cook a ton, and try to learn about every ingredient and recipe and cooking style as much as i can. thanks :)

Answer 1

Start real small in a tiny location.  See if you could share an existing place with a business that has space.  I never made much money owning restaurants.  It's a tough business but it's fun to own something all by yourself.  The key is not to lock yourself into a 3 year lease at $1,500 a month which is what most landlords want.  That is a sure way to go broke fast.  I think you can do this.  I owned 2. .

Answer 2

I have several family members in the restaurant business who have done really well for themselves. The one thing they all say is to have experience 'behind the counter' before you venture out on your own. Get a job at a restaurant and plague the management with questions about payroll, menu options, marketing, inventory, etc. Once you have a good grasp on that get a SBA loan and go for it. Most small businesses fail within the first 3 years due to overcapitalization and undue debt. Your best bet is to start small, develop a customer base, and increase size as demand for your menu increases.