We all know location matters, but in the restaurant business, the stakes are even higher when it comes to choosing the best location for the build. For a restaurant business to succeed, it needs to get seats in chairs and food on the table, plain and simple. While a whole host of factors will go into the decision-making process, including analyzing customer demographics and understanding parking and general accessibility, there are also some important construction-related questions to consider when finalizing a site selection. Here are three we discuss with our clients as they choose a location for their restaurant buildouts:

• What are your overall square footage requirements? Factored into this are front-of-house and back-of-house needs, while also considering projected growth plans. Kitchens often take up more than 25 percent of the overall space requirements, and depending on the type of restaurant you’ll be operating, your needs will vary. Finding a location to accommodate them is sometimes easier said than done.
• Will you need specialized commercial kitchen equipment? Installing commercial kitchen equipment is much more complicated than many might think at first glance. Hood systems, refrigeration, and every other piece of equipment needs to not only be installed to code, but it also needs to integrate with how you want your kitchen to operate. On top of this, your GC will have recommendations on how to ensure the equipment installation meshes with the life safety requirements (such as the fire alarm and sprinkler, in addition to the electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems). Certain property layouts or other factors may make commercial kitchen equipment installation more challenging than others, so it’s important to keep in mind as you evaluate site options.
• How does your exterior façade fit into the interior business concept? Your business goals and restaurant concept will need to be thoughtfully considered while shopping for a restaurant location. If you have a specific vision you’d like to see carried through from outside to in, ensuring that your location will reasonably accommodate those goals is important. From a building perspective, we’re able to work around most obstacles, but your budget, timeline, or code requirements may not allow it. Being open-minded and creative are important companions on a site-selection journey.

Successful restaurant buildouts start by successfully choosing the right location for the job. As an experienced local South Florida general contracting firm, we know the ins and outs of restaurant construction and are ready to help you get started with your project today. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your specific needs.