To open a coffee shop in Poland, secure three essentials fast: register the business, register the food operation, and prepare the premises to pass Sanepid. Register as a sole trader in CEIDG or a company in KRS and add PKD 56.10.A (restaurants) and 56.30.Z (beverage serving). Before launch, file your food business notification with the State Sanitary Inspectorate (Sanepid) including a technological layout showing clean/dirty flow, washable surfaces, dedicated handwash sinks, dishwashing parameters, ventilation, water quality confirmation (or contract for potable supply), pest-control and waste contracts, and HACCP/GHP/GMP documentation tailored to your menu (milk handling, chilled display logs, thermometer calibration). If the unit’s use changes, report it to the building authority; ensure fire safety equipment and clear evacuation routes. Fit an online fiscal cash register linked to the Central Repository and display gross prices and allergen information compliant with EU 1169/2011. Staff need occupational health clearance and BHP training. Serving alcohol requires a municipal on‑premise permit (A: beer, B: wine/low‑alcohol, C: spirits) with annual fees tied to turnover. Sidewalk seating on public land needs a gmina permit. Public music requires ZAiKS/STOART/SAWP licenses. Verify VAT via WIS—coffee beverages are often 23% while some food items are 8%. Typical timeline: 4–8 weeks if the fit‑out meets sanitary flow from day one.
