Restaurant Kitchen Space: An Advisory Perspective for Entrepreneurs Before Launching Your Project
Restaurant kitchen space is considered one of the fundamental decisions when planning to open a new restaurant, as many entrepreneurs focus on location, identity, and branding, while restaurant kitchen space decisions are made late or without proper planning. In fact, the kitchen is the element that has the greatest impact on daily operations, cost, and the project’s ability to grow.
How to Consider Kitchen Space from an Investment Perspective
Based on experience in restaurant projects, kitchen space should not be considered as a fixed number but as an operational tool. On average, the kitchen accounts for 30% to 40% of the total restaurant area. This ratio balances operational efficiency and maximizing the commercial space. However, this guideline varies depending on the restaurant type, menu size, and number of staff in the kitchen
The Minimum Kitchen Space That Can Work
In startup projects or restaurants that rely on delivery orders, it is possible to start with a space ranging between 15 and 20 square meters. Entrepreneurs in Saudi Arabia can refer to the Balady platform to review the municipal requirements for restaurants and licensing conditions before making a space decision. However, this option requires precise decisions, the most important of which are
Limiting the menu to specific dishes
Choosing compact and suitable equipment
Minimizing unnecessary movement inside the kitchen
Any mistake at this stage may lead to costly redesigns later
Best Kitchen Space According to Business Model
The ideal restaurant kitchen space depends on the type of activity
Fast food restaurants require smaller spaces with a clear production line
Cafés rely on smaller but organized spaces
Restaurants with diverse menus require larger and flexible kitchens