Sunshine State Sizzle: What Restaurateurs Need to Know About Operating in Florida

South Florida is turning on the heat as vacant kitchens sizzle up with renowned restaurants, reigniting a restaurant-going experience. Spurred by favorable tax laws, tropical weather and relaxed COVID-19 restrictions, many have flocked to South Florida, relocating their families and businesses. As Miami becomes “Wall Street South” and an influx of tech moguls move to South Florida, restaurant operators are opening locations in Florida, following the migration of renowned restaurants such as Le Bilboquet, Cote, Carbone, and Freehold.

While other parts of the country are grappling with closures, strict restrictions or operating at limited capacity, the majority of South Florida restaurants have been operating at 100-percent capacity since October 2020. Florida’s looser restrictions and friendlier year-round climate have accelerated the migration of restaurateurs looking to make South Florida their new home. 

Although restaurant operators moving to South Florida may not face…