Adding a lounge to existing business

[Iowamcnabb]

So we are in the exploratory stage at this point, but we are thinking about taking over the small space next to ours to open a bar/ lounge.  Here is what I am trying to sort out. 

- I want the lounge to have it's own name and identity. 
 
- The bar would have it's own entrance and also a door that would lead into our pizzeria. 

All the cooking/baking/dishes for the bar would be done on the pizzeria side. 

Will I need to start a llc or corporation for the bar or is there a way to attach this business to our pizza corp? 


I realize this is a question for my lawyer/ accountant.  Just trying to piece some of this together before I get too serious about this. 

[TXCraig1]

I think you would want a different corp for the bar so that you can separate the liability from the pizzeria.

[Iowamcnabb]

I think you would want a different corp for the bar so that you can separate the liability from the pizzeria.

Would that preclude me from doing dishes, cooking etc in the pizzeria side?  The empty space is only big enough for a bar and a few tables.  My vision is a small menu featuring international street food and tapas. 

[TXCraig1]

Would that preclude me from doing dishes, cooking etc in the pizzeria side?  The empty space is only big enough for a bar and a few tables.  My vision is a small menu featuring international street food and tapas.

I don't see why it would, but as you noted, this really is a question for your lawyer.

[souspizzaiolo]

OTTO in Portland ME did something like this. i met them at pizza expo and they seems approachable enough.

I think is just matters how you and your accountant prefer to look at it. But i think you should do it!

[kmb]

Your total insurance may cost less if you keep the two together. Restaurant insurance is less than bar insurance. We set out to open a bar and ended up with a pizzaria/bar, more food than booze sales, and it was great for the insurance rate.

[Iowamcnabb]

Your total insurance may cost less if you keep the two together. Restaurant insurance is less than bar insurance. We set out to open a bar and ended up with a pizzaria/bar, more food than booze sales, and it was great for the insurance rate.

This is great to hear thank you!