Start a sit-down pizza restaurant in Canada

Local families, couples, groups of friends and people celebrating, plus takeout customers.

Pizza, side and drink sales at the table. Drinks and shared starters usually lift the bill, and takeout fills quieter times.

• Running a kitchen and managing food costs
• Hiring and managing staff
• Customer service and hospitality
• Budgeting and cash flow

• Food premises permit, inspections and food handler certification (rules vary by province and public health unit)
• Liquor licence for beer and wine, handled by your provincial regulator and often slow to obtain
• Commercial general liability and property insurance, plus WCB/WSIB coverage once you hire
• Large upfront costs, long leases and thin margins, so check your numbers carefully
• Staffing, minimum wage and employment standards that differ by province
• Quebec has its own rules, including French-language requirements

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $150,000 to $500,000, depending on location, size, kitchen equipment and lease terms. Large upfront costs, long leases and thin margins mean it is worth checking your numbers carefully before committing.

Things to check include a food premises permit, inspections and food handler certification, which vary by province and public health unit. Also check liquor licensing for beer and wine, insurance, WCB/WSIB coverage when you hire, and Quebec's French-language requirements.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $30,000 to $120,000, depending on seating, location and how much takeout and delivery you add. Expect to work roughly 50 hours a week or more, and check staffing costs and employment standards in your province.