The definition of fine dining is a restaurant concept offering patrons the finest in food, service, and atmosphere. The experience at such an eatery is typically more sophisticated, unique, and expensive than one would find in the average restaurant. If your dream is to open your own fine dining restaurant, here are some tips to get you started.
The Legal Stuff
Like with any business, you need to take care of some paperwork and cut through some red tape before you can think about the fun stuff.
First of all, write a business plan detailing your aspirations, objectives, and goals. Plan how much money you will need to get the business off the ground and consider how you will raise the finance if you don’t already have this in place—research what permits and licenses you will need and apply for them.
Premises
The location of your restaurant is of utmost importance. Take your time and visit properties in your area and also outside your comfort zone. Buildings that are unique and quirky such as old farm barns, mills, or churches, can offer a spectacular venue for your restaurant.
Decor and Equipment
Your restaurant’s interior should reflect the quality of your menu and the image you wish to convey. Shabby and distasteful decor won’t exactly bring in the crowds. Furnish the restaurant with quality furniture that is sleek and beautiful. Look at companies such as Seatable UK for a wide range of restaurant furniture that will create a stylish image for your new venture.
Select tableware, linens, and accessories that ooze sophistication and glamour. Traditional white tablecloths, crystal glasses, shining cloches, and polished silver cutlery are a classic look that never fails to impress.
Lighting is an easy way of creating an ambiance. Choose beautiful light fittings that offer a subtle glow to the room. Soft, classical music or mellow jazz playing in the background will also add to the atmosphere. For a real touch of class, you may want to hire a pianist to tinkle away on the ivories of a grand piano!
The Menu
Since the restaurant is all about the food, make sure your menu is perfectly compiled and prepared to the highest standard. Select dishes that use locally sourced produce. Include the finest cuts of meat, exotic fruits, vegetables, seasonings, unique fish dishes, and inventive vegan and vegetarian offerings. Presentation of the meals should be immaculate and like a work of art – it should look as inviting as its sounds on the written menu. Customers want to believe that each dish has been plated up by the chef, especially for them.
The Staff
As the owner of a fine dining restaurant, there are a few staff positions you will need to fill. Most restaurants will require a manager, assistant manager, executive chef, chef de cuisine, sous chef, pastry chef, line cooks, sommelier, Maitre D, bartender, hostess, busser, and dishwasher!
Employ staff who are well presented, polite, reliable, and hardworking. Ensure the leading chefs have good references and can prove their skills during the interview process.
