How to choose a restaurant architect

Ask about comparable restaurant projects

A useful example has similarities beyond appearance. Ask about the cooking systems, size, building condition and landlord requirements the architect handled.

Discuss the architect’s actual role and the work performed by other consultants. Ask which members of that team would work on your space.

• Review projects with similar kitchen and service needs.
• Ask about work in existing commercial buildings.
• Discuss how the team handled design changes.

Understand who coordinates the details

Ask who aligns the architectural drawings with equipment information and engineering. Equipment supplier drawings alone may not answer every question about the building.

A responsibility list helps you see whether engineering, accessibility review, landlord coordination and agency responses are included or separately appointed.

• Name the lead contact for equipment coordination.
• Identify which engineering services are included.
• Ask who responds to review comments and field questions.

Agree what will be delivered

Compare written proposals by scope and deliverables, not just fee. Ask how revisions, additional services and site visits are handled.

Confirm the drawing package you will receive for bidding and construction. Discuss how contractors get clarifications and how your team records changes.

• List deliverables and intended submission stages.
• Define the review and decision process.
• Ask for references from similar restaurant clients.

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