How to Start a Bar & Grill

by Jagg Xaxx
Running a bar and grill usually involves long hours.

Running a bar and grill usually involves long hours.

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Giving others an enjoyable place to eat and drink can be a satisfying career for a sociable person who likes to work hard. The bar and grill industry is notoriously competitive and the failure rate is high, but if you believe you're the one who can succeed at it, it's worth an attempt. Establishing yourself in this field can give you a stable business, an income and a social experience at the same time.


Acquire all of the necessary paperwork and permits before opening your business. A liquor license is a necessity for a bar and grill, along with a business license and liability insurance. By taking care of all of these things before your first day of business, you'll be able to concentrate more completely on pleasing your customers when your business opens.


Hire a superior bartender. A competent, personable bartender is an absolute necessity for a successful bar and grill. Find an experienced person who gets along well with clients, and pay him well so he stays with you. The bartender is the public face of your establishment.


Develop a menu that's both tasty and inexpensive enough to be popular. Visit the other bars in your area to learn about what they serve. Talk to friends and family about what they like. Always be willing to change your menu in response to customers' suggestions.


Rent, lease or buy a suitable venue in a location that's easily accessible to large numbers of people. If you can find a location that's already been used as a restaurant or as a bar and grill, it may make your setup less expensive and your inspections easier to deal with.


Promote your bar and grill relentlessly. A bar and grill depends on repeat business, but as a new establishment you'll have to create these loyal customers from scratch. Offer discount coupons in local newspapers to draw people in, then keep them coming back with great food and drinks and excellent service.


Create a unique atmosphere that's suitable to your preferences and those of the people you're trying to attract. Some establishments are loud and exciting and cater to large groups and young people, while others are more sedate and focused on good food and quiet conversation. Tailor your promotions and advertising to encourage your desired atmosphere.


Choose a theme for your bar and grill and customize your advertising, decor and menu to fit the theme. The theme that you choose will influence the kind of person who comes to your bar and grill and will reinforce the atmosphere. A sports bar will feature wide screen TVs for watching games, and sports memorabilia on the walls. A bar focused on music will have a small stage for live acts and a good sound system. A bar that emphasizes quality drinks might have its own wine cellar.


  • Always require identification from young-looking patrons. Serving underage drinkers can get you into trouble with the law.

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