Open a neighbourhood tapas bar

Locals after work, couples and groups of friends on a night out, and small groups booking for birthdays and casual celebrations.

Customers pay per plate and per drink. Drinks usually carry higher margins than food. Extra income can come from set shared menus for groups, small private bookings and quiet-night specials.

• Cooking or managing a kitchen
• Customer service
• Managing stock and costs
• Hiring and rostering staff

• A liquor licence is likely to be needed, and rules and timelines differ by state, so check with your state's liquor licensing body
• Food business registration with your local council, plus a food safety supervisor and food handler training in most states, so check your state's requirements
• Council planning approval and fit-out rules for change of use, ventilation and fire safety
• Public liability and property insurance, and workers compensation once you hire staff
• Fit-out and rent costs are a big upfront commitment, and hospitality margins can be thin, so test your numbers before signing a lease
• Late hours, weekend work and noise rules that may apply near homes

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $80,000 to $350,000, depending on the venue, fit-out, kitchen and bar equipment, and rent commitments. Test your numbers carefully before signing a lease.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $30,000 to $120,000, depending on venue size, location, opening hours and menu, with owners often working from around 50 hours a week. Hospitality margins can be thin.

Check whether you need a liquor licence, as rules and timelines differ by state. Also check food business registration with your council, food safety supervisor and handler training, and council planning approval for change of use, ventilation and fire safety.