How to Start a Coffee Bar
For many Americans, nothing beats a delicious cup of coffee. Starbucks alone has about 11,000 coffeehouses in America, not to mention McDonald's, Dunkin' Donuts and the thousands of mom-and-pop coffee shops. With so much competition it may seem like a saturated market. However, there is still a high demand for one-of-a-kind coffee bars. If your town lacks a novelty coffee bar, consider starting your own.
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Things You'll Need
- Liability insurance
- Sales tax permit
- Federal tax ID
- Espresso machine
- Furniture
Instructions
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Learn everything there is to know about coffee and espresso. Visit coffee trade shows. Review industry magazines. Visit coffee shops in your area, sampling their beverages and fare.
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Become a trained barista. Do this by working as a barista or by enrolling in a barista training course.
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Find a great location. Your coffee bar should be situated near coffee drinkers. Look for locations near universities, busy business parks or office buildings, or places coffee drinkers would pass on their way to work. Depending on your location, it may be smart to include a drive-through with your coffee shop. Ensure your locale is properly zoned. Don't skimp on space. If you can't find a large enough location for your budget, consider waiting a few months.
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Get licensed. Form a business structure and then register your business. Obtain a sales tax permit, federal tax ID and liability insurance. Contact your health department to learn of your county's health regulations, obtain a food handler's permit, and set up an inspection of your coffee bar.
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Decide what to offer at your coffee bar. In addition to pastries and an assortment of teas and coffees, you may offer sandwiches, salads and sushi. Coffee bars are typically open late and may provide live music and performers. Your coffee bar might have a section stocked with playing cards, magazines and books for your patron's convenience. Or, your coffee bar may host local artists' work.
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Meet with local bakers and coffee suppliers to purchase food and beverages for your coffee bar. Sample their work. Create signature drinks using the finest ingredients and test them out on family and friends.
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Purchase a roaster, lounge furniture, tables, chairs, espresso machine, grinder, condiments, silverware, napkins, mugs, and saucers. If going for a vintage theme, find furniture, mugs, saucers and decor at thrift stores.
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Hire friendly employees and put them through extensive training on how to provide excellent customer service, presentation, and how to make consistent beverages.
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Advertise. Register your coffee bar with your Chamber of Commerce. Get involved with local events, charities and other organizations. Leave fliers at local gyms. If you host artists' work or have live music, advertise in art galleries and local music industry magazines. Give customers coupons. Consider purchasing a website for your coffee bar. Have a bulletin board and allow other businesses to advertise on your board in exchange for being able to promote your business at theirs.
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