checklist for launching your new food / beverage business

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Whether you’re starting a restaurant, café, bar, or any other food business, you will be obligated to obtain special licenses and permits to operate. 

To open a business in the food or beverage industry you must first register your business with the Secretary of State. Once registered, your business will have to apply for many licenses and permits. These are required to protect the public as well as the business. 

Businesses may operate under DBA (doing business as) using a name other than their legal name, provided that name was registered with the state.  

Most businesses selling food or beverages will be required to collect and remit sales tax to the NJ Division of Taxation. Some businesses may be exempt from this. As a result, they will have to apply for a Resale Certificate that can be used when purchasing items for resale. 

NJ Society of Food & Beverage Businesses collaborated with our preferred vendor - OnPoint Food & Beverage accountants - to bring you a comprehensive guide titled  HOW TO START RESTAURANT & CATERING BUSINESS IN NEW JERSEY.