Restaurant Building Services Key Terms

Get to know the terminology used in restaurant building services
By B. Lumadue Building a restaurant involves many processes, from designing the seating, kitchen, bathroom and parking areas to choosing kitchen equipment and restaurant decor. The goal is a restaurant that meets local and national building codes and regulations, has a floor plan that allows the restaurant to run efficiently and is attractive to patrons. Get to know the basic terms used in restaurant building services to meet your goals within budget and schedule.
 

Building codes

Building codes vary from region to region. They are set by state and local building and health departments. These codes dictate the design of a restaurant as well as setup and equipment.
Try: See Nation's Restaurant News for an article about challenges in meeting building codes and tips for dealing with them.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) sets regulations for public buildings in order to provide accessibility for people with disabilities. The ADA includes regulations for restaurants and facilities within restaurants like bathrooms. ADA compliance must be taken into consideration when designing a restaurant.
Try: The United States Access Board lists requirements for restaurants, including counter, table and bathroom requirements.

Design service

A design service usually performs all the steps necessary to get the restaurant built, including drawing up plans and working with field engineers and contractors.
Try: View Maxey Hayse Design Studios to see the steps involved in the design process.

Equipment installation

Vendors that sell and install food service and restaurant equipment have the knowledge necessary to recommend products, properly install and configure equipment and conform the equipment to current safety and building codes.
Try: See One Fat Frog for an article on the importance of professional installation of restaurant equipment.

Decor

A restaurant's decor can add ambiance and give an indication of what type of regional or specialty food is served. One trend in restaurant design and decor is to locate restaurants in historical buildings.
Try: See FoodHistory for opinions and information about restaurant decor, including the use of historic spaces for restaurants.

Facade

Your restaurant's facade provides an outsider a view of your concept and business. It needs to have curbside appeal to make a good impression, including lighting, signage, and maintenance.
Try: See the Quantified Marketing Group for tips on creating a facade.