Small vegan cafe-restaurant

Vegans and vegetarians, health-minded locals, students, and groups of friends where one person eats plant-based.

Sales of meals, drinks and desserts, with extra from takeaway and delivery apps. Profit depends on food costs, rent and wages.

• Cooking plant-based food well
• Costing menus and controlling waste
• Managing staff and customers

• Food business registration with your local council and food safety supervisor requirements, check your state rules
• Council approval for the premises use and fit-out, plus any liquor licence if you want to serve alcohol
• Public liability insurance, and workers compensation insurance once you hire staff
• High fixed costs such as rent and wages, so plan a cash buffer for slow months
• Allergen labelling and honest vegan claims, as cross-contamination can matter to customers

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $50,000 to $250,000, depending on your premises, fit-out and equipment. Rent and wages are high fixed costs, so plan a cash buffer for slow months before you open.

Check food business registration with your local council and food safety supervisor requirements in your state. Also check council approval for the premises use and fit-out, plus any liquor licence if you want to serve alcohol.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $15,000 to $75,000, depending on your location, menu and opening hours. That is revenue, not profit. Expect to work at least 40 hours a week, with rent and wages to cover.