Restaurant Resource Center

The Restaurant Resource Center designed to help you understand the requirements of opening a restaurant in Chicago. It has a long history of culinary excellence and innovative cuisine, and we thank you for your hard work and dedication.

Opening a restaurant is a significant undertaking that is both challenging and greatly rewarding, and the City of Chicago is committed to helping you succeed. This Restaurant Resource Center is designed to provide you with the information and resources that you need to open and operate your restaurant. We are proud that you have selected our City as the home for your restaurant, and we look forward to working with you to ensure its success.

The website is divided into several sections that cover important steps of opening and operating your restaurant. The information focuses on the City's licensing and permit process, and is intended to provide you a broad overview of the City's requirements and services.

We hope that you find the information and resources on this site helpful to you as you open and operate your restaurant in the City of Chicago.

Supporting Information

• Chicago's Guide to Restaurants / Retail Food Establishments
• Restaurant Resources - What Should I Do First?
• Retail Food Readiness Checklist
• What City Taxes Might Apply?
• When Do I Apply?

Additional Resources

Restaurant License Inspection Status

Liquor License Information