Coffee shop license in Texas: here’s the fast, practical path. Form your entity and secure an EIN, then apply for a Texas Comptroller Sales Tax Permit (free; online; approval often in 2–3 days) so you can collect tax on prepared drinks and issue resale certificates for ingredients. Next, obtain a local Retail Food Establishment Permit from your city or county health department (DSHS only handles areas without a local program), which triggers plan review and a pre‑opening inspection; at least one certified Food Manager must be on duty and all staff need Food Handler cards within 60 days. Lock in your Certificate of Occupancy after passing building, fire, and health inspections; confirm zoning for restaurant/coffee use, grease interceptor requirements, and whether your equipment needs a hood (espresso/holding only usually no; ovens, panini, or frying require ventilation). Build your menu first: prepackaged-only is simpler; open-food prep demands hand sinks, dishwashing, temp control, and logs. If serving beer or wine, secure TABC BG with local sign‑offs; spirits require Mixed Beverage plus Food and Beverage Certificate. For a cart or trailer, apply as a Mobile Food Unit with a commissary agreement. Typical timeline: 30–90 days; permits and training: ~$400–$2,500. Include insurance and signage.
