Buy a Restaurant
Acquire a Legacy
Your guide to finding and purchasing the perfect restaurant in the Phoenix, Arizona market.
Dreaming of Owning a Restaurant in Phoenix?
Buying a restaurant can be a complicated procedure, from finding the right one to working out all the details required for a smooth transfer of ownership. While there is no such thing as the "perfect" restaurant, a professional broker knows the importance of finding one that fits your needs, talents, skills, and lifestyle.
Almost 90 percent of all those who purchase a small business have never owned a business before. Most of them end up buying a business different from what they originally envisioned — because exploring the marketplace with an experienced restaurant broker opens doors you didn't know existed.
Our team at Arizona Restaurant Sales has deep expertise in the Phoenix restaurant market. We represent opportunities across Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, and the entire Valley — from casual dining to fine restaurants, bars, franchises, and more.
The Buying Process
Steps to Buying a Restaurant
Get the Basic Facts
Review preliminary information on price, terms, income, cash flow, and location. The key factor is the cash investment required — most restaurant purchases are financed by the seller.
Visit the Restaurant
Inspect the business location, both inside and outside. Pretend you're a customer. There's no point going further if you don't like the physical location or appearance.
Get Your Questions Answered
What is the rent? How long is the lease? What have sales been? Meet with the seller to understand the business operations, growth potential, and daily realities.
Make an Offer
If you're ready to proceed, make an offer subject to verification. The main purpose is to see if the seller will accept your terms, price, and deal structure.
Due Diligence & Closing
Verify all financial information, inspect equipment, review the lease, and work with your advisors. Once satisfied, proceed to closing and take ownership.
Due Diligence
What to Look for When Buying a Restaurant
- 01How long the business has been operating
- 02How long the present owner has owned it
- 03Why the present owner is selling
- 04Quality and accuracy of financial records
- 05Lease terms and transferability
- 06Condition of equipment and fixtures
- 07Liquor license status and transferability
- 08Local market competition and trends
The Bottom Line
Being in business for yourself can be a daunting prospect. There are no guarantees. But if running your own show, making your own decisions, and being your own boss are important — then owning a restaurant could be for you. After taking the leap of faith, almost all business owners will tell you they would never go back to being an employee.
Browse Available Restaurants
Ready to Buy a Restaurant in Arizona?
Contact Arizona's most experienced restaurant brokers to request access to our confidential inventory of restaurants, bars, and food businesses for sale across the Phoenix Valley.