New Restaurant Checklist
For a more detailed version, please purchase New Restaurant Opening Manual a 50 page guide to help you plan, organize & execute a successful restaurant opening.
| Task |
Done |
| Apply for Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) |
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| Obtain permit to serve food from Texas Department of State Health Services |
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| Obtain TABC license to serve liquor |
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| Obtain sign permit from local municipality and permission from land owner (see your local city or county website) |
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| Obtain a music license |
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| Schedule fire inspection appointment |
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| Obtain tax permits from Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts (seller's tax permit, franchise tax, etc.) |
|
|
Select a business structure and report
|
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| Order banners/signs for opening and hiring purposes |
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| Verify water service, permits, plans, inspection, hard water, etc. |
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| Check local smoking regulations |
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| File I-9 Form |
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| File W-4 Form |
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| Obtain business permits |
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| Familiarize yourself with sales tax information |
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| Choose a foodservice provider |
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| Register restaurant name with the Texas Secretary of State Office |
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| Examine information on starting a business and write a business plan |
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| Obtain a building and zoning permit from your local city or county |
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| Set-up a business checking account |
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| Choose Point of Sale software system |
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| Choose employee uniforms |
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| Inspection of HVAC system |
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| Inspection of roof, exterior, termite or pest damage |
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| Choose restaurant decor |
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| Design or purchase employee handbook and rules, determine benefits and pay |
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| Obtain insurance (building, general liability, liquor liability, workman's comp, group medical) |
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| Make a health inspection checklist (see link for example) |
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| Determine Menu Pricing |
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| Fulfill handicap access and emergency exit requirements |
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| Post legally required food safety posters |
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| Certify employees with Texas Department of State Health Services approved FoodGuard and ServSafe programs |
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| Train alcohol serving employees with a TABC approved course. |
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For products offered by TRA to get your restaurant up and running, to keep your customers coming back and your employees happy, please visit Shop TRA.
