Neighbourhood Tapas Bar

Couples, friends and small groups looking for a casual night out, plus after-work crowds and people booking birthday or team dinners.

Customers order several plates each, and drinks add to the bill. Money comes from covers per night, average spend per table and keeping food and labour costs under control.

• Cooking, or a strong head chef partner
• Managing costs and suppliers
• Hiring and leading a small team
• Welcoming guests and running a busy service

• Food premises permit and inspections from your local public health unit (in Quebec, check MAPAQ rules)
• A liquor licence from your provincial regulator can take time and has its own conditions, so check early
• Food handler certification requirements for you and your staff, which vary by province
• Commercial general liability and property insurance, plus WCB/WSIB coverage once you hire (rules vary by province)
• Zoning, signage and fire code rules from your municipality, and the cost of kitchen ventilation and fit-out
• Thin margins, high rent and staffing costs, so test your numbers before signing a lease
• Quebec has French-language requirements for signage and menus

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $80,000 to $300,000, depending on the premises, kitchen ventilation and fit-out, and licensing. Margins can be thin and rent high, so test your numbers before signing a lease.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $25,000 to $90,000, depending on seating, location, opening hours and how busy service is. Staffing and rent costs can be high, so check your numbers carefully.

Check the food premises permit and inspections from your local public health unit (MAPAQ in Quebec), a liquor licence from your provincial regulator, food handler certification, and zoning, signage and fire code rules. Quebec has French-language requirements.