To establish a successful food truck business, open a restaurant, or create a café in California, certain steps are essential. The costs associated with these ventures can range based on the type of establishment and location.
Establishing a Food Truck Business
- Create a plan.
- Do your research.
- Register your business.
- Find investors.
- Get a truck and commercial space.
- Obtain permits and licenses.
- Obtain insurance.
Opening a Restaurant
- Create a restaurant business plan.
- Select an accessible, visible location.
- Register your restaurant business.
- Obtain necessary permits and licenses.
- Market your restaurant.
Note: Costs vary widely.
Starting a Cafe
- Research and prepare your business plan.
- Obtain food handler permits.
- Find vendors.
- Get required licenses.
Cost Range: $3,000-$25,000.
Selling Street Food Legally
- Fund your business.
- Get licenses.
- Find locations to sell.
Note: Costs vary.
Food Service Licensing Costs
- Food Handler Card: Minimum score of 70 percent on a test. Fee varies by county.
- Street Food Permit: Selling food without a license from the city is unlawful.
- Restaurant Business License: Costs vary by city and state, around $50 for most applications.
- Food Service License: Fees range from $100 to $1000, renewed annually.
Food Truck Costs
A food truck costs on average $50,000. This includes the truck, permits, licenses, ingredients, staff, marketing, and other expenses, with prices varying widely by location and offerings.