Art cafe with a rotating gallery wall

Local residents, remote workers, students and families buying food and drinks; workshop attendees; art buyers and artists paying for events or hanging space.

Mostly food and drink sales. Extra income can come from ticketed workshops, room hire for evening events, and a commission on any artwork sold.

• Customer service
• Basic food prep and hygiene
• Managing costs and stock
• Building relationships with local artists

• Register your food business with your local council before you open, usually at least 28 days beforehand (check with your council)
• Check the premises has the right planning use class for a cafe and whether you need a change of use
• Food hygiene training and a food safety management system
• Public liability and employer's liability insurance if you hire staff, plus cover for displayed artwork
• Playing recorded music or hosting live events may need licences (check PPL PRS and any premises licence rules)
• Lease terms, rent and business rates can be significant fixed costs

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £25,000 to £90,000, depending on the size and location of the premises, lease deposit, fit-out, kitchen equipment and any display fittings for artwork.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around £8,000 to £30,000, depending on location, opening hours, menu prices and whether you add workshops or events. This is revenue before rent, staff and ingredients.

Check you register your food business with your council, usually at least 28 days before opening. Also check the planning use class, food hygiene training, insurance including cover for displayed artwork, music and event licences, and lease and business rates costs.