5 Things to Consider When Opening a New Restaurant

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December 3, 2021

Starting a restaurant from scratch is a little bit like starting a meal from scratch in your commercial kitchen. You start with the raw materials of sufficient capital, delicious recipes, a solid location, and a top-notch team, and you transform all the elements into a successful final product. As you enter the planning stages of opening a restaurant, there’s a lot to think about. Here are several questions to reflect on as you begin your professional adventure.

Do I have capital investors or a small business loan?

Starting a restaurant is an expensive proposition. From inventory and commercial kitchen equipment to menus, wages, and electricity, the costs of a restaurant quickly add up. To combat the negative profit you may see in the first few weeks or months, you’ll need capital investors or a small business loan to provide the initial seed money for getting a thriving restaurant off the ground.

Is there a demand for my product?

Creating demand before opening is a time-tested way to build up a customer base before you open your doors. Consider running a few pop-up events to introduce your brand and offerings, especially if you can partner with other, more established eateries. Building a strong social media presence can also help spread the word about your restaurant.

What will my monthly overhead costs be?

Restaurants live or die based on the profit margins they’re able to make. A slow month can decimate a restaurant’s financials and quickly turn it from profitable to unsustainable. Restaurants that survive are able to use good inventory practices to make quality meals that customers demand. They do this at a price point that allows for a profit which can then be reinvested back into salaries, inventory, and maintenance.

Do I have the right commercial kitchen equipment?

Deciding on commercial kitchen equipment is an important investment. Since it’s one of the most expensive parts of opening a restaurant, it’s a decision that needs to be carefully considered. There are a huge number of equipment manufacturers, and it can be quite a task to sort through the many equipment models offered by each brand. If you’re setting up your commercial kitchen and looking for a few quick tips for buying new kitchen equipment, we’ve got you covered. Or, if you’re planning on buying used commercial kitchen equipment, we’ve also written a guide for that. When purchasing, keep future repairs in mind, both from a cost and parts availability stand point.

Do I have planned maintenance scheduled in advance?

Whether you buy new or used, regular planned maintenance is a good way to extend the life of your equipment and address any issues before they spiral out of control. Commercial restaurant equipment needs to be regularly maintained in order to stand up to spills, temperature fluctuations, and constant use in a busy kitchen. Once you procure a piece of equipment, establish a relationship with a local restaurant equipment service company.

Initially, they can inspect a new or used unit to verify a baseline on its function—often called a Performance Check. Next, schedule regular maintenance checks to assess the health of each unit. When issues are addressed early, and worn-out parts are replaced, you’re more likely to see years of solid performance from your equipment.

Need Some Guidance As You’re Opening Your Restaurant?

Getting a commercial kitchen up and running is a huge feat that requires careful planning and coordination. The heart of any restaurant kitchen is its equipment. By making wise purchasing decisions, you’ll outfit your kitchen with the tools necessary to operate smoothly. Once your equipment is in place, reach out to ATECH for a planned maintenance quote. We’re an authorized service agent for over 120 manufacturers. We’re also proud of our written 90-day parts and labor warranty, backed by our 100% customer satisfaction guarantee. Let us show you why so many Tennessee businesses trust ATECH for commercial equipment repair.

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Spring into Cleanliness: Essential Tips for Restaurant Spring Cleaning

By markl • March 20, 2024

As the season changes and springtime blooms, it's the perfect opportunity to refresh and rejuvenate your restaurant space. Spring cleaning isn't just about tidying up; it's about ensuring a safe, welcoming environment for your patrons and staff. In this blog post, we'll explore some essential tips and best practices for restaurant cleanliness in the springtime. Embrace Deep Cleaning : Spring cleaning is the ideal time to tackle those deep cleaning tasks that may have been neglected during the busier seasons. From scrubbing floors and walls to deep cleaning kitchen equipment, thorough sanitation ensures a hygienic environment for food preparation and service. Focus on High-Traffic Areas : Pay special attention to high-traffic areas such as dining areas, restrooms, and entryways. These areas are prone to accumulating dirt, dust, and germs, making regular cleaning essential for maintaining a pristine appearance and preventing the spread of illness. Refresh Outdoor Spaces : If your restaurant has outdoor seating areas, spring is the perfect time to freshen them up. Clean outdoor furniture, sweep away debris, and power wash outdoor surfaces to create an inviting atmosphere for al fresco dining. Check and Replace Equipment Filters : Don't forget to inspect and replace filters in HVAC systems, refrigeration units, and ventilation hoods. Clean filters help maintain air quality and prevent the buildup of contaminants, ensuring a healthy indoor environment for both customers and staff. Engage Staff in Cleaning Initiatives : Encourage staff members to take pride in the cleanliness of the restaurant by involving them in spring cleaning initiatives. Assign specific tasks and provide training on proper cleaning procedures to ensure consistency and effectiveness. Implement Regular Maintenance Schedule : Establish a regular maintenance schedule to keep up with cleaning tasks throughout the year. By incorporating daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning routines, you can maintain a high standard of cleanliness and prevent the accumulation of dirt and grime. Invest in Quality Cleaning Products : Choose cleaning products that are effective yet environmentally friendly. Look for products that are certified as safe for use in foodservice establishments and follow manufacturer recommendations for proper application and usage. Monitor and Adjust Cleaning Protocols : Continuously monitor cleaning protocols and adjust as needed based on feedback, customer traffic, and changing regulations. Regular evaluation ensures that your cleaning practices remain effective and in compliance with industry standards. Spring cleaning is an essential aspect of restaurant maintenance that goes beyond just aesthetics. By implementing thorough cleaning routines, engaging staff members, and investing in quality cleaning products, you can create a safe, hygienic environment that enhances the dining experience for your customers and promotes a healthy work environment for your staff. As you embark on your spring cleaning journey, remember that ATECH is here to support you with a wide range of cleaning and maintenance solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of your restaurant. Happy spring cleaning!

Mastering Winter with ATECH: A Comprehensive Guide for Businesses

By markl • January 26, 2024

Winter is here, and at ATECH, we understand the unique challenges businesses face in keeping their commercial equipment running smoothly during the colder months. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the strategies, tips, and success stories that can help your business navigate winter effortlessly. From equipment maintenance to emergency services, consider this your go-to resource for mastering winter with ATECH. Winter Equipment Maintenance Tips Checklist for Winter-Ready Equipment: Inspect Seals and Gaskets : Ensure a tight seal to prevent cold air leakage. Check Insulation : Evaluate the insulation of walk-in coolers and freezers. Clean and Sanitize : Thoroughly clean and sanitize all equipment surfaces. Temperature Adjustment : Set optimal winter temperatures for each piece of equipment. ATech Maintenance Tips for Different Equipment: Fryers and Grills : Clean and inspect burners for efficient operation. Ice Machines : Check water lines for insulation and replace filters regularly. Heating Systems : Schedule preventive maintenance to optimize efficiency. Electronic Equipment : Keep spaces well-heated and clean to prevent malfunctions. Businesses often grapple with specific equipment failures that can disrupt operations. ATECH understands the challenges posed by heating system malfunctions, electronic equipment performance, and other issues during the colder months. To tackle these common winter-related failures, businesses should prioritize preventive measures. Regular heating system maintenance checks and air filter replacements can prevent malfunctions. For electronic equipment, maintaining ambient room temperature and conducting routine cleaning are key strategies to ensure optimal performance throughout winter. ATECH's Winter Services: A Lifeline for Your Business Winter demands a proactive approach to equipment maintenance, and ATECH stands as the lifeline for businesses navigating the challenges of the season. Our comprehensive winter services go beyond mere repair and include prompt equipment repairs, planned maintenance, and emergency services. With a commitment to same-day service for urgent winter emergencies, ATECH ensures that businesses can rely on swift resolution during critical times. What sets us apart is our team of factory-trained and CFESA-certified technicians, offering not just reliability but a dedicated partnership to keep your business running smoothly through the coldest months. Trust in ATECH, your lifeline in the winter business landscape. Winter doesn't have to be a season of uncertainty for your business. With ATECH by your side, you have a reliable partner dedicated to providing top-notch equipment repairs and maintenance services. Master winter with confidence, knowing that our comprehensive guide and expert services are here to support your business every step of the way. For personalized winter readiness assessments and expert guidance, contact ATECH today. Let's navigate winter together, and keep your business thriving.