Running a Bar For Dummies

Have you ever thought of owning your own bar? Did you ever stumble into an overpriced watering hole and think how much better it could be if you ran the place? Or maybe you walked into your dream bar and realized that running one was the dream job you’ve always wanted?

With Running a Bar for Dummies, you can live your dream of operating your own establishment. This hands-on guide shows you how to maintain a successful bar, manage the business aspect of it, and stake your place in your town’s nightlife. It provides informative tips on:

Understanding the business and laws of owning a bar
Developing a business plan
Creating a menu, choosing décor, and establishing a theme
Stocking up on equipment
Choosing and dealing with employees
Handling tough customers
Controlling expenses, managing inventory, and controlling cash flow
Getting the word out about your place
Preparing for your grand opening, step-by-step

This guide cues you in on how to keep your bar safe and clean, making sure everyone is having fun. It warns you about the pitfalls and no-nos that every owner should avoid. There are also helpful resources, such as contact information for State Alcohol Control Boards and Web sites with valuable information.

Customer Reviews:

Recommended If You Really Want to Start a Bar!

By Monica Main "Monica Main" - May 15, 2007

This book is very thorough in teaching you everything from A - Z on starting a bar. It even talks about getting the money for your business venture.

After reading this book I felt exhausted and decided that I wouldn't be opening a bar anytime soon...at least not for now.

This is definitely a book you need if you want to make sure you dot all of your Is and cross all of your Ts.

Note: Starting and opening a bar takes an incredible amount of work. (Actually all business take an incredible amount of work.) As with all other retail businesses, expect to be there 90% to 100% of the opening hours. Most bars are open 7 days a week, 14 - 16 hours per day. So...that's a lot of hours to have to be there. (Hence, my decision in not wanting to start a bar.) That's something you should consider before starting a bar or restaurant. Make sure it's something you're so into that you want to live, breathe, and eat!

Best wishes.

Perfect for ther new owner

By Bart - March 5, 2012

I plan to open my own restaurant and bar; have been doing extensive research for the last 5 years. This book was extremely helpful and informative. It really excites me about my future.

helpful book

By dansmommyx3 - March 28, 2011

Book was in great shape. Helpful and informative. Written in a humorous and realistic language. Discusses both positive and negatives about being a bar owner.