What Does a Restaurant Fit-Out Cost?

Fitting out a restaurant can be expensive, but the build-out is generally the biggest cost. This article examines fit-out and additional costs.

If you’ve dreamed of owning your restaurant, you know that a restaurant fit-out cost is one of the biggest expenses. Fitting out a restaurant can cost anywhere from £50,000 to £250,000. This cost can be divided into several categories: layout and style, equipment, labour, materials and additional costs.

luxury modern restaurant with a bar

Cost breakdown

Layout and style £10,000 to £50,000
Equipment£5,000 to £20,000
Labour£5,000 to £20,000
Materials £5,000 to £20,000
Additional costs£5,000 to £20,000
Total restaurant fit-out cost£50,000 to £250,000

Remember that these are only estimations, and your restaurant fit-out cost depends on the specific features you want in your restaurant. Talk to a professional to get a more accurate estimate for your restaurant.

Factors to consider when budgeting for a restaurant fit-out:

You must consider a few important factors when figuring out the cost of your restaurant fit-out.

1. The size of your restaurant

The size of your restaurant greatly impacts the overall cost. A smaller restaurant costs less to fit out than a larger one. However, larger restaurants can present some cost-cutting opportunities. For example, you might be able to get a bulk discount on a large furniture order.

2. The location of your restaurant

The location of your restaurant also plays a role in the cost. Your restaurant fit-out cost increases if you are situated in a busy neighbourhood compared to a less attractive region. On the other hand, a better location would provide you with access to more services that you can use in your fit-out.

3. The type of restaurant

The type of restaurant you are opening also affects the cost. A fine dining restaurant costs more to fit out than a fast food restaurant. There are exceptions of course – you can still go for an expensive fast food restaurant, for example.

4. The type of equipment you need

The type of equipment you need also impacts the cost. If you need high-end, professional kitchen equipment, your restaurant fit-out cost will be higher than if you need basic restaurant equipment.

5. The type of materials you use

The materials you use for your restaurant fit-out also affect the cost. Using high-end materials, your restaurant fit-out cost will be higher than basic materials.

6. The type of labour you need

You must also take the type of labour into consideration. If you’re planning to work with a large number of professional decorators and designers, this will add a lot to your bottom line.

Man standing in a restaurant

7. The type of permits and licenses

The cost also depends on your required permissions and licences. If you need many different types of permits and licenses, your restaurant fit-out cost is higher than if you only need a few.

8. Additional costs

When planning your restaurant fit-out budget, you need to consider a few extra expenses. These include the cost of furniture, the cost of decor, and the cost of marketing.