The Restaurant Journey Roadmap

How to open a restaurant in the US —
a 14-chapter roadmap

Federal, state, county and city requirements, concept development, food & health compliance, lease, build-out, finance, marketing, and technology — every step in the right order.

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The first 3 chapters are free — no credit card required.

The 14 chapters of the Journey

Click on any chapter to preview its steps. Sign up to unlock the personalized version with regulatory authorities for your city.

Federal Requirements

Establish your business identity at the federal level.

These apply nationwide and anchor everything.

  • Apply for IRS EINsource
  • FDA Food Facility Registration (if applicable)(optional)

State-Level Framework

Secure state-level food and alcohol authority approvals.

  • Register with Secretary of State
  • Register for Sales Tax
  • Identify State Health Department Requirements
  • Identify Alcohol Licensing Authority (ABC/Liquor Board)

County & City Layer

Local zoning, health, and fire compliance.

  • Contact County Health Department
  • Verify Zoning / Use & Occupancy
  • Contact Fire Marshal
  • Apply for Local Alcohol Approval (if separate)(optional)

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