OK this is a bit ambitious, but I'd appreciate some advice...?

Question

I would like to open a sushi bar. I'm not expecting it to be easy, and I obviously need to build up experience and take a business course. I would hire a chef(s) and buy a small unit in an up-and-coming area. I have about 20k to start me off. There are no sushi bars where I live, but I think there is the market for it, if it is publicised accordingly.
And advice from people who have experience in the area of opening business, cooking or japan please help.

Answer 1

Although Sushi is yummie - it is an acquired taste and there are an awful lot of people who won't even try it because it is raw fish. Have you considered having noodle dishes on the menu too, or just Japanese in general, as this will make you place appeal to a broader spectrum of potential customers and thus, more likely to succeed. Good Japanese restaurants are few and far between. Chicken ramen is my favourite - put this on the menu and I'm there!

PS. I think the conveyor belt thing has been done to death already.

Answer 2

You're going to need a lot more that 20k to start up; heck, the price of a knowledgeable sushi chef's salary is going to be a lot more than that! You're a woman, right? Many banks are making loans to woman just starting a business; I'd check with a local bank 1st to see what they want to see before issuing a loan; would assume you'd have to written up a major business plan and have an artist's rendering of how the place will look!

Answer 3

I live in L.A. where's there's alot of great sushi places.I manage a resturant next to a sushi place and for this city,parking is a big concern.People eating sushi like to take they're time and not worry abuot the parking meter,relaxing is part of the experience.As another person told you,definitaly talk to other people in the biz.Most professionals are glad to share theyr're expeirince,but make sure not to come in at busy lunch or dinner times.Making an appointment may be a bit pretenctious,they are busy people.It would be apprietated if you brought in your own paper and pencil to take notes and send a thank you card to them later.Good luck and follow your dreams.....

Answer 4

oh, theres a lot of sushi places where i live. there are 2 kind of sushi places that work: take out places and real sushi bar...i suggest u mix both. Dont make ur restaurant to classy, othewise u will only get people for supper. Make it with a nice decoration. People should be impressed when they get in. they should feel as if there changing contry. DONT put fish aquariums ( very 1990's) ...just to give u an idea: -very dark brown square tables ( very simple. same color of chair. put some bamboos on each tables. this should work... oh yeah....put a rug ( dark brown)

Answer 5

First of all you have'nt had your business course yet and you need to take that before you spend your money on opening the bar. Buisness courses take a long time like 18 months for an accelerated course.
.

Answer 6

Sorry I can't give you any advice, but I wish you the best of luck! I'm sure if you do everything the right way, you'll do fine. Just make sure to follow all the codes and keep your place clean!

Answer 7

Contact BANZAI in downtown DENVER. He did what you want to do --- brought sushi to landlocked Denver! The owner's a great guy, ask his advice. I am sure he will give you a few pointers & suggestions. Btw, his place ROCKS!

http://www.100rolls.com/

Answer 8

write a business plan if you haven't alredy
do you have a supplier for fresh fish?
restaurant supply store wholesale prices?
how much would a chef cost?
additional investors if needed?
marketing plan to entice customers

Answer 9

Look for a good location so people know about it and it is a high traffic area, advertise profusely and good luck

Answer 10

Why do you need advice? Seems you have this well thought out. Go to school to fine tune your plan and you should be successful. Good Luck....