Opening a cafe? 12 decisions to make before work starts
Most cafe budgets go wrong because decisions are made on site, one at a time. Settle these twelve before work starts and your build will be faster and cheaper.
Layout
1. Where is the counter? Customers should see it from the door, with the menu board readable from the queue.
2. How many seats, really? Count by type: window bar for solo guests, two-tops for pairs, one bench for groups. Squeezing in extra seats makes people leave sooner.
3. Where does the queue stand? It must not block the door or the seating.
Kitchen and services
4. Kitchen platform size and what equipment goes where.
5. Water, drainage and exhaust. Fix these before the false ceiling, never after.
6. Power points. Coffee machines, fridges and ovens need dedicated points. List every appliance.
Look and feel
7. One photo-worthy wall. Guests who post photos bring their friends.
8. Lighting for evenings. Hanging lights over tables and warm cove light keep the mood after sunset.
9. Floor and table finishes that survive spills and daily cleaning.
Brand
10. Signboard visible from both directions of the street, lit at night.
11. Menu board design that matches your brand and is easy to update.
12. Your budget limit, with a 10–15% buffer for surprises.
Key takeaways
- Fix kitchen services before the false ceiling.
- Plan seating by type, not just by count.
- One photo wall and good evening light are worth the spend.
See the cost for your cafe
Free work list in 3 minutes. Then a free site visit, if you like.
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