Open a Neighbourhood Tea Room

Locals, shoppers, remote workers, friends meeting up, and groups booking afternoon tea for birthdays or showers.

Pots of tea, drinks and food sold at the table, with higher-value afternoon tea sets and bookings. Loose-leaf tea and gifts can add extra sales.

• Knowledge of teas and how to brew them
• Basic cooking or baking, or a reliable baker to buy from
• Customer service and a welcoming manner
• Budgeting and stock control

• Food premises permit and inspection from the local public health unit, check requirements before you fit out
• Zoning, signage and building rules from your municipality, and any liquor licence if you want to serve alcohol
• Commercial general liability and property insurance
• Lease terms, rent and fit-out costs, which can be the biggest risk
• Allergen handling and labelling
• Slower winter or summer periods depending on your location, plan your cash flow
• WCB/WSIB registration once you hire staff, rules differ by province

Estimated startup costs are typically around $30,000 to $150,000, depending on the premises, fit-out, equipment and stock. Lease terms, rent and fit-out costs can be the biggest risk, so compare quotes carefully before you commit.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on location, menu, opening hours and season. Some areas have slower winter or summer periods, so plan your cash flow. Revenue is before rent, wages and other costs.

Check food premises permit and inspection requirements with your local public health unit before fit-out. Also check zoning, signage and building rules, any liquor licence if serving alcohol, insurance, allergen handling, and WCB/WSIB registration once you hire staff.