Hi Wazuans,

I am planning to venture into food restaurant business, either by buying out a run down restaurant and renovate or start one outright mainly to serve healthy African dishes (Think Kosewe) but better quality food and service. However i have a few questions i need help from any one with experience in this industry.
1. How long is the incubation period of a restaurant Especially if its new from start i.e. not previously existing?
2. What pitfalls should a novice starter in this industry avoid?
3. since most of the materials used in a restaurant are from informal (No receipts) which is the best way to procure these products?

1 pitfall is always supplies,manage this well and ur set to go, imagine asubuhi ,customers want tea and the milk is delivered at 9 or 10.
2 is customer service, i always go back to a restaurant coz of the service.

what is your location? if it's in Nairobi CBD you realise there are many food joints taken over by the walalos and they have an aattractive model; do the furnishing right and serve good food on time and you will be on the rright track.

Thanks. No 1. above here i have identified as one of my biggest challenges

Put in measures to avoid theft by employees they even steal sugar onions etc.It is best that you are around to run operation if you have a full time job then ensure you are there 100% of your free time otherwise you will be setting a business for others to gain profits.

I agree with @Bigchick. However, you can try to create a niche where families can patronise on weekends especially on Sundays and try to attract the working class over lunch depending on the location