Beer and wine lounge in a ready-made space

Locals after work, small groups, book clubs and people hosting tastings or casual get-togethers.

Beer, wine and snack sales at the venue, plus private hire, tasting nights and community events on quieter days.

• Customer service
• Knowledge of beer and wine, or willingness to learn
• Basic bookkeeping and stock control
• Event organizing

• License type, cost and transfer rules differ by state and city; verify before signing a lease
• Zoning and occupancy for the space, and whether a previous owner's permits carry over; check with your city or county
• Liquor liability and general liability insurance, plus workers' compensation if you hire
• Health department rules even for simple snacks; check what is allowed with your local health department
• Evening and weekend work, with slow weeknights while you build a following

Estimates typically put startup costs at around $60,000 to $250,000, depending on the condition of the space, licensing, stock and any updates. Taking over a space with a bar counter or kitchenette is the idea here.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $12,000 to $50,000, depending on location, hours, pricing and events like tastings. Weeknights can be slow while you build a following.

Check license type, cost and transfer rules in your state and city before signing a lease. Also check zoning and occupancy, whether a previous owner's permits carry over, health department rules for snacks, and liquor and general liability insurance.