
Opening your own restaurant is a big dream for many people. However, it requires thorough planning and implementation in order to be successful in the industry. We reveal five tips for aspiring restaurateurs to pave the way for the successful opening of a restaurant business. From market analysis and location selection to customer loyalty.
Before embarking on restaurant business planning, a thorough market analysis is of great importance. What are the current trends, the preferences of potential customers and the competitive situation in the chosen region? A comprehensive market analysis helps to identify the target group and tailor the offer to their needs.
Choosing the right location is a decisive factor for the success of the restaurant business. Factors such as footfall, accessibility, parking facilities and proximity to the desired target group can be decisive or at least helpful. A well-chosen location can have a significant impact on sales. Simply be different and unique! Make sure you stand out from the competition. A clear positioning and an individual gastronomic concept can help you to differentiate yourself in a highly competitive market.
Sound financial planning is essential to ensure the financial stability of your catering business. Nowadays, nothing works without a detailed business plan! All costs need to be taken into account: including rental costs, staff, food, equipment and marketing. Unforeseen expenses are always lurking. A sufficient capital reserve is important to avoid financial bottlenecks. Statistics show that the start-up rate for accommodation and catering businesses in 2021 is 4.4%, while the closure rate is 5.8%. A solid financial basis is therefore crucial for long-term success.
The right team is the key to success in the restaurant business. Qualified staff is advisable. But even more so is a team that shares the same passion and enthusiasm for the industry. Investing in training and further education to continuously improve the skills and expertise of the team should definitely be taken into account. A well-trained team can have a positive impact on the customer experience and help create a pleasant atmosphere.
Customer acquisition and retention are essential to the success of the restaurant business. Marketing channels such as social media, an informative website and targeted advertising campaigns to reach the target audience are essential these days. What do guests expect? A unique experience, excellent service, great food - because only then will guests become fans and regular customers. Studies show that an extremely satisfied customer can generate up to 14 times more revenue than a dissatisfied one. Feedback systems can help to collect customer opinions and continuously work on improving the offer.
From market analysis and location selection to customer retention, thorough preparation and consideration of these tips will help maximize the chances of long-term success in the restaurant industry.
The two-star Berlin restaurant Horváth returns to Vienna in early 2026 with an exclusive pop-up, presenting an uncompromising new menu based on “emancipated vegetable cuisine.” For two weeks, Sebastian and Jeannine Frank’s team will take over the Herzig restaurant and serve a 7-course menu that shows how innovative, precise, and luxurious vegetables can be today. A culinary highlight for foodies, fine dining fans, and anyone who doesn’t want to miss Austria’s most exciting pop-up experience of 2026.
This time, Sebastian Frank is taking an even more uncompromising approach, with a new menu and a clear message: vegetables can be luxurious – even without caviar.
With the opening of its new distillery in Mosbach, Aromahopping is sending a strong signal about the future of artisanal spirits. Between extraordinary gin compositions, creative tastings, and a high-caliber supporting program, it became clear what makes the Odenwald brand so special: attention to detail, curiosity about new flavors, and a passion for honest craftsmanship.
Takeaway without a guilty conscience – and with social added value: since its relaunch in 2024, the TafelBox has become one of the most effective tools against food waste in Austria. The simple principle: guests take leftover food home with them – and at the same time donate to a good cause. For every box sold, 20 cents go directly to Die Tafel Österreich to provide people affected by poverty with rescued food.
Opening your own restaurant is a big dream for many people. However, it requires thorough planning and implementation in order to be successful in the industry. We reveal five tips for aspiring restaurateurs to pave the way for the successful opening of a restaurant business. From market analysis and location selection to customer loyalty.