How to source and purchase front-of-house items

To get your dining area ready for customers, you need to buy all the essential front-of-house items. This means everything from tables and chairs to cutlery and glassware. The key is to find durable, commercial-grade products that fit your restaurant's brand and style, all while staying firmly within your startup budget.

Step 1: Create a detailed shopping list

Before you start browsing, make a comprehensive list of everything you need. It’s easy to forget small items, so break it down into categories to be thorough.

• Furniture: Tables (in various sizes), chairs, highchairs, any outdoor seating, and host station furniture.
• Tableware: Main plates, side plates, bowls, cutlery (forks, knives, spoons), and glassware (water glasses, wine glasses, pint glasses).
• Linens: Tablecloths, napkins, and aprons for staff. Decide if you will use linen or disposable options.
• Decorative Items: Lighting, artwork, mirrors, plants, and any other items that bring your brand's atmosphere to life.

For each item, estimate the quantity. A good rule of thumb for crockery and glassware is to have enough for every seat (or 'cover') in your restaurant, plus at least 20% extra to account for breakages and to ensure you don't run out during a busy service.

Step 2: Decide between new and second-hand

Your budget will heavily influence where you source your items. Both new and used equipment have their pros and cons.

New Equipment

Buying from specialist hospitality suppliers guarantees that items are new, consistent, and come with a warranty. This is often the best route for items that see heavy use and washing, like crockery and glassware, as you can easily re-order the exact same style when you need replacements.

Second-Hand Equipment

You can find significant bargains from restaurant auction houses, online marketplaces, or by buying from businesses that are closing down. This is a great way to get high-quality furniture like solid wood tables and chairs at a fraction of the original cost. However, be prepared to inspect items carefully for wear and tear, and remember there will be no warranty.

A hybrid approach often works best. You could invest in brand new, durable plates and cutlery, but save money by purchasing second-hand tables and chairs that you can perhaps refurbish to match your style.

Step 3: Get quotes and make your purchase

Once you have your list and have decided on your sourcing strategy, start getting quotes from different suppliers. Don't be afraid to negotiate, especially if you are placing a large order. When you are ready to buy, pay close attention to a few key details:

• Durability: Always choose commercial-grade items. Domestic plates will chip in a week, and standard furniture won't withstand the constant use of a busy restaurant.
• Lead Times: Check the delivery schedule. Custom-made furniture or items from overseas can take weeks or even months to arrive, so order them well in advance of your opening date.
• Brand Consistency: Remember that every single item a customer sees or touches contributes to their overall experience. Ensure your choices, from the style of the fork to the colour of the napkins, align with the restaurant concept you've worked so hard to create.