Benefits of Leasing
Restaurant Space
Whether you’re operating in the Short North or the Arena District, there are lots of opportunities to stake your claim on the culinary community in Columbus. The restaurant diversity offers benefits that are unique to this part of Ohio.
Access to Prime Locations
The combination of locals, professionals, students and tourists makes Columbus an ideal city to rent a restaurant, especially if you’re trying to break into the industry. Historic neighborhoods like German Village and North Market are favorite spots for residents and visitors alike. That gives you ample opportunity to grow your business.
Access to Prime Locations
Access to Prime Locations
The combination of locals, professionals, students and tourists makes Columbus an ideal city to rent a restaurant, especially if you’re trying to break into the industry. Historic neighborhoods like German Village and North Market are favorite spots for residents and visitors alike. That gives you ample opportunity to grow your business.
Greater Flexibility
Leasing allows you to make short-term commitments, which is beneficial if you plan to move locations in the next few years. That gives you more flexibility to relocate to different neighborhoods and test new culinary concepts.
Greater Flexibility
Greater Flexibility
Leasing allows you to make short-term commitments, which is beneficial if you plan to move locations in the next few years. That gives you more flexibility to relocate to different neighborhoods and test new culinary concepts.
Lower Upfront Costs
Leasing a restaurant in Columbus allows you to avoid the higher capital expenses typically involved in purchasing property in places like the Short North. You can reinvest those savings in equipment, staffing and marketing to give yourself a competitive edge in the city’s culinary landscape.
Lower Upfront Costs
Lower Upfront Costs
Leasing a restaurant in Columbus allows you to avoid the higher capital expenses typically involved in purchasing property in places like the Short North. You can reinvest those savings in equipment, staffing and marketing to give yourself a competitive edge in the city’s culinary landscape.
Is Leasing Restaurant Space
a Good Investment?
If you’re looking to get your foot in the door of the restaurant industry in a city with a variety of foot traffic, then Columbus is the place for you. You can find available spaces in neighborhoods that continue to grow and are home to residents who enjoy diverse cuisine. Leasing space can expedite your opening process, too, since you don’t have to account for renovations and installing kitchen and dining components. DRK and Company can help you find a commercial space to optimize your restaurant operations.

Frequently Asked
Questions
What areas of Columbus are best for leasing restaurant space?
The Short North, Arena District, Franklinton, German Village and Polaris are well-established dining areas. The neighborhood around The Ohio State University is also a popular culinary destination.
What costs are associated with leasing restaurant space?
Lease rates vary depending on the size and location of a property. You’ll also need to account for utilities, maintenance, permits, licenses, signage and inspections. DRK and Company can provide cost projections to help you find the right location for your eatery or bar.
Are there risks associated with leasing a restaurant space?
You could face higher security deposits in prime areas. Your landlord may also require you to cover property taxes, utilities and insurance costs. Even popular locations can fail to provide you with the proper traffic if they have low visibility, limited parking and access issues. You must also consider regional competition from nearby cafés, shops and food halls.



