Philadelphia's Thriving Restaurant Scene: New Construction Opportunities for Restaurant Owners
Philadelphia’s restaurant scene is the beating heart of the entire city. Many well-known chefs like Nicholas Elmi, Cristina Martínez, Michael Solomonov, Jose Garces, and Marc Vetri do their magic here, contributing to the city’s reputation.
While many restaurants and food businesses were affected by the COVID -19 pandemic, we are now entering a new phase where Philadelphia's thriving restaurant scene is garnering national attention.
This is an opportunity for restaurant owners and aspiring restaurateurs to find a magnificent new construction and build a business in a city full of potential. Once we have completed the reopening phase in Philadelphia, you'll need to give yourself a chance to thrive with an attractive new construction building. So here's a quick guide to help you take advantage of that opportunity.
How to Open a Restaurant in Philadelphia?
If you’re looking to open a restaurant in Philadelphia, you might very soon feel overwhelmed by the number of challenging tasks ahead of you. But, once you break it down into baby steps, you see it’s not that difficult. Just follow these tips, and you are good to go!
Step 1: Get Zoning & Use Permits
If you are a business person, you are already familiar with zoning or use permits. Depending on the building you buy, a zoning permit is required to change the size of the building or the number of its inhabitants. If you want to install signs, you must also get zoning approval.
The use permit is pretty much similar to the zoning permit in terms of application forms and processes, but it addresses the (conditional) use of the building as a restaurant. Zoning and use permits are usually combined into one application. However, you should first consult with your real estate agent to make sure the building is approved for use as a restaurant.
If you want to build your restaurant from the ground up, you should also apply for a building permit. But this process is a bit tricky, so you are better off purchasing a new construction building.
Step 2: Get Approval from the Health Department
This phase is also a little bit challenging. Once you apply for a zoning and use permit for your restaurant, your idea for the building must meet certain conditions -formally known as the Office of Food Protection’s approval.
If the idea is rejected, you may have to resubmit a new plan to the City of Philadelphia or get a new permit for the building. If you buy a new construction building, you won’t have to get a permit for changes to the exterior design because the building is already ready to move in.
Still, you need a building permit to address the food preparation concerns of the Health Department. This process could take a while, but there is usually nothing to worry about.
Step 3: Get Construction Permits
Now you can start designing your restaurant based on the permitted plans approved by the Health Department. Once you get electrical and plumbing permits, you should get another approval for installing signs.
The next stop is applying for a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) that shows your building is safe to be occupied.
Step 4: Get Inspected!
Now that your design and approvals are ready, the Health Department and Licenses and Inspections (L&I) come to examine your work. The inspection process usually includes specific protocols to ensure that the design process is according to the plan and that the building is safe to use.
You can schedule both of these inspections and soon you will receive a call from their department to set a time for reviewing the work.
Step 5: Get Your Food License (and Other Licenses)
The final step involves submitting plenty of paperwork to receive your licenses and inspection approval forms. The main forms include your approved inspection report, Certificate of Occupancy, and tax clearance certificate. This can cost you somewhere between $285 to $415.
With the Tax Clearance Certificate, you can prove that your tax account with the City of Philadelphia is in good standing. It also verifies you’ve met all tax obligations, including taxes, interest, penalties, fees, charges, and any other liabilities.
And now, you are finally ready to open your restaurant!
Why Are New Construction Buildings Perfect for Restaurants?
Setting up a restaurant in a new construction building is more than just serving food. It’s a creative environment where friends and families can enjoy being together. For restaurant owners, it is an excellent opportunity to invest in a place where art and necessity come together to create a lucrative business.
If you are planning to set up an elegant restaurant or move your existing restaurant into a new building, you might ask yourself whether it’s a cost-effective plan or not. As real estate experts, we can help you make the right decision.
Here are three reasons why starting your new restaurant in a new construction building with personalized design is a perfect choice for you:
Eliminating Space Constraints
When you work with expert real estate agencies, you will receive a host of excellent options to set up your business. You can choose a place large enough to accommodate as many customers as you’d like without worrying about space constraints.
Moreover, you can choose the location of your restaurant based on your customer analysis and find an ideal place where people appreciate what you offer.
Personalization
One of the first things business owners are concerned about is implementing their business ideas. When you move into an old building, you should remember that the place has a specific character and identity that may not be fully aligned with what you have in mind.
But a new construction building gives you a lot of room for maneuvering and brings your brilliant design ideas into the real world. You will enjoy the flexibility and freedom to design your building, add a personal touch, and make it your own.
From open-concept models to exposed kitchens, and historical-traditional designs, you will have a wealth of options to choose from for designing your new construction building. Whatever you have in mind for the new place, you only need a seasoned architect who’s able to turn your vision into a reality.
Efficiency & Maintenance
Of course, moving into a new construction building and setting up a business can cost you a lot at first. But when you think about it as a long-term investment, it’s fairly cost-effective compared to alternatives.
You can also consult with us to find you a place that meets your personal preferences, like energy efficiency to reduce overhead costs. And keep in mind that moving into a new construction building naturally mitigates maintenance and repair costs.
Bottom Line
Setting up a restaurant in Philadelphia might sound like a challenging task, but with a little help, you can make it work. Remember that the city is rapidly growing and its thriving restaurant scene is an excellent opportunity to invest.
So, let’s make your dreams come true. Our team of experts will stand by your side throughout the process and help you find the best place to invest your money. Interested in buying new construction in Philadelphia? Browse listings in your favorite neighborhoods and find the perfect place for your restaurant.
Call Jim Onesti Today
Whether you’re looking to invest in commercial real estate or searching for luxury homes for sale in Philadelphia, Jim Onesti is your real estate expert. Jim Onesti has been one of the most successful real estate sales professionals in Philadelphia; focusing largely on luxury homes and large-scale commercial real estate and high-end developments. For further information, contact Jim today to schedule your appointment.