To start a coffee shop in Ohio, secure location and licensing first: confirm zoning with the city, signage limits, and parking ratios, negotiate a contingency-based lease, and apply for a local Health Department Food Service Operation (FSO) license with plan review. Form an LLC with the Ohio Secretary of State ($99), get an EIN, register for sales tax and obtain an Ohio Vendor’s License via the Ohio Business Gateway, and set up workers’ compensation with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation before hiring; open an ODJFS account. Align the menu to determine FSO risk level (TCS foods push you to Level 3), which dictates equipment and staffing: one Level Two/ServSafe Manager required for Level 3. Submit floor plans showing 3‑compartment and hand sinks, mop sink, NSF equipment, ventilation, backflow prevention, and grease interceptor (often required for dairy/coffee), pass pre‑licensing, fire, and occupancy inspections. Budget realistic costs: $100–$250/sf build‑out, $12k–$25k espresso machine, water filtration, POS, signage, and health/fire fees. Verify electrical (200A, 3‑phase), water (1.5–2” service), and drainage. Choose vendors, set pars and waste disposal, and install ADA-compliant counters and restrooms. Finally, price with Ohio sales tax, document SOPs for milk temps and cleaning, set drive‑thru stacking if applicable, and launch.
