Open a neighborhood espresso bar in the US

Commuters, office workers, students and neighbors who want a quick, quality coffee on their daily route.

Selling drinks and snacks at a price well above ingredient cost. Revenue grows with foot traffic, so location, speed of service and repeat customers matter most.

• Making consistent espresso drinks
• Customer service and remembering regulars
• Managing costs, stock and staff schedules

• Health department permit and plan review for the space, requirements differ by county
• Local business license, zoning for food service, and sales tax registration with your state
• General liability insurance, plus workers' compensation once you hire
• Lease terms and rent, high rent can erase thin margins
• Build-out costs for sinks, plumbing and ventilation can be much higher than the equipment itself

Startup costs are typically around $60,000 to $250,000, depending on the space, equipment and build-out. Build-out for sinks, plumbing and ventilation can be much higher than the equipment itself, so get quotes early.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $12,000 to $60,000, depending on location, foot traffic and pricing. Margins can be thin, and high rent can erase them, so check lease terms carefully.

Check for a health department permit and plan review (requirements differ by county), a local business license, zoning for food service and state sales tax registration. Also check insurance, including workers' compensation once you hire, and your lease terms.