Restaurant construction jobs are often design-build projects that require a commercial contractor to oversee the project from preconstruction to completion. These projects can range from renovating an older building, refurbishing an existing space, or designing a completely new location for both national franchises and single-location restaurants.
What to Know About Restaurant Construction
Health Codes, Safety and ADA Compliance
Restaurant jobs are higher risk than other commercial construction projects because they require specialized mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) work in order to ensure the kitchen is operational and meets all of the necessary safety and health codes. All restaurant designs and plans must be in compliance with the county health departments, the department of building and safety, and the fire marshall.
In addition, restaurants must meet the guidelines set out by the ADA which primarily pertain to accessibility. These requirements include (but are not limited to) the following:
Restaurant construction is focused into two areas: “back of house” and “front of house”. “Front of house” construction encompasses all of the design work the customer sees, including the exterior, entry, dining rooms, bars, eating counters, and public restrooms. “Back of house” covers construction of the kitchen and is the primary differentiator between restaurant construction and commercial projects. Kitchen construction typically includes the installation of a cook line, dishwasher, refrigerator, and three-compartment sink.
What to Know About Restaurant Construction
Health Codes, Safety and ADA Compliance
Restaurant jobs are higher risk than other commercial construction projects because they require specialized mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) work in order to ensure the kitchen is operational and meets all of the necessary safety and health codes. All restaurant designs and plans must be in compliance with the county health departments, the department of building and safety, and the fire marshall.
In addition, restaurants must meet the guidelines set out by the ADA which primarily pertain to accessibility. These requirements include (but are not limited to) the following:
- parking with appropriate accessibility signage
- routes to building entrance free of steps
- entranceways with approved door hardware
- wheelchair-accessible seating
- ‘Front of House’ vs. ‘Back of House’
Restaurant construction is focused into two areas: “back of house” and “front of house”. “Front of house” construction encompasses all of the design work the customer sees, including the exterior, entry, dining rooms, bars, eating counters, and public restrooms. “Back of house” covers construction of the kitchen and is the primary differentiator between restaurant construction and commercial projects. Kitchen construction typically includes the installation of a cook line, dishwasher, refrigerator, and three-compartment sink.