So You Think You Can Bar Hop Your Way to Business Ownership? How to Open a Bar in Philly Without (Too Many) Headaches
Philly! City of Brotherly Love, cheesesteaks that could feed a family of four, and... a bar on every corner, practically. But what if you, my friend, have a dream bigger than just belly-up at one? What if you crave the sweet (and sometimes sticky) siren song of bar ownership? Well, then this post is for you, you glorious dreamer!
Step 1: Concept, My Friend, is King (or Queen)
First things first, grasshopper. What kind of bar are you gonna be? A dimly-lit speakeasy where passwords are whispered and vintage cocktails flow like tears at a rom-com marathon? A craft beer haven with more taps than a centipede has legs? A sports bar where the cheers are so loud they could wake the Liberty Bell from its nap? Do your research, find a gap in the market, and choose a theme that sets your soul (and hopefully your cash register) on fire.
Subheading: Pro Tip! Philly loves a good underdog story. Think you can make artisanal cricket protein bars a thing? Go for it! (Though maybe consult a lawyer first, just in case.)
QuickTip: Reflect before moving to the next part.
Step 2: The Bureaucratic Hustle: More Fun Than a Root Canal (Okay, Maybe Not)
Alright, so you've got your theme. Now comes the not-so-fun part: the paperwork. Licenses, permits, inspections, oh my! Buckle up, buttercup, because navigating the wonderful world of legalese can feel like trying to decipher a fortune cookie written in Klingon. But fear not, intrepid bar owner! The good people at the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB) have all the info you need. Just be prepared to spend some quality time with forms, fees, and enough legalese to make your head spin.
Subheading: Lawyer Up? While not mandatory, having a lawyer on your side can be a lifesaver. They can help you wade through the legalese and ensure you're crossing all your t's and dotting your i's.
Tip: Read in a quiet space for focus.
Step 3: Location, Location, Location (and Hopefully Not Next to a Yoga Studio)
 |
Picking the perfect spot is crucial. You want to be somewhere with good foot traffic, but not so close to residents that the sound of merriment turns into a noise ordinance violation. Think about parking (unless you want your bar to be the exclusive hangout for people with teleportation powers) and accessibility. Bonus points for a quirky historical building or a view to die for!
Step 4: From Beer Goggles to Business Savvy: Budgeting and Beyond
QuickTip: Focus more on the ‘how’ than the ‘what’.
Now, let's talk money, honey. You gotta crunch some numbers and figure out how much this dream is gonna cost. From rent and equipment to staff and insurance, there's a lot to consider. Don't forget to factor in those fun things like furniture (comfy bar stools are a must!), a killer sound system, and of course, a righteous selection of adult beverages.
Subheading: Shark Tank Ready? Having a solid business plan is key to attracting investors or securing a loan. So put on your best suit (or your most convincing bar napkin sketch) and get ready to impress!
Step 5: Bottoms Up! But Also, Remember Responsible Service
Tip: Read at your own pace, not too fast.
Congrats! You've opened your doors (or swung open those saloon doors, if that's your vibe). Now comes the fun part: serving up drinks and creating a welcoming atmosphere. But remember, with great bar ownership comes great responsibility. Train your staff on responsible service, make sure your security is on point, and keep an eye out for any shenanigans. You want your bar to be a place where people have a good time, not a scene from a bad frat party movie.
FAQ: How to Open a Bar in Philly - The Quick and Dirty
- How much does it cost? A whole lot! Plan to spend anywhere from six figures to...well, let's just say prepare to get friendly with your bank.
- How long does it take to get a liquor license? Be patient, grasshopper. It can take months, so get started early.
- What kind of insurance do I need? You'll need general liability insurance at the very least, but consult with an agent to make sure you're covered.
- Do I need a lawyer? Not mandatory, but highly recommended.
- How do I make my bar stand out? Be unique, have a killer drink menu, and curate a fantastic atmosphere. People go to bars
 |
