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Insurance for Restaurants

Coverage that keeps your kitchen running.

Protect your restaurant from the unique risks of the food service industry with comprehensive coverage for liability, property, and employees.

Licensed agents who understand food service deliver fast quotes and expert support for restaurants nationwide.

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Talk to a business insurance specialist

Licensed agents who understand your industry and get you competitive quotes fast.

Why Restaurant Insurance Matters

Protect your business from kitchen to curb

Running a restaurant means juggling countless risks every day—from foodborne illness claims and slip-and-fall accidents to kitchen fires and employee injuries. The food service industry faces some of the highest liability exposure of any business type, with customers, employees, and vendors constantly moving through your space.

Most restaurants need a combination of General Liability (for customer injuries and property damage), Workers' Compensation (required in most states for employees), Commercial Property (to protect equipment, inventory, and the building), and often Liquor Liability if you serve alcohol. Equipment breakdown coverage protects expensive kitchen equipment, while Business Interruption coverage keeps you afloat if a covered event forces you to close.

The right restaurant insurance package protects you from the claims that could shut your doors permanently. Working with agents who understand food service regulations, health department requirements, and the unique risks of your operation ensures you get coverage tailored to your restaurant—whether you're a fast-casual spot, fine dining establishment, or food truck operation.

Coverage Checklist

Recommended coverage for your business

The policies you need to protect your business and meet client requirements

General Liability

Required

Covers customer injuries, foodborne illness claims, and property damage from your restaurant operations.

Avg. Cost
$1,000-$4,000/year

Workers' Compensation

Required

Required for employees. Covers medical bills and lost wages for burns, cuts, slips, and other kitchen injuries.

Avg. Cost
$3-8 per $100 payroll

Business Owners Policy

Bundled coverage for property, general liability, and business interruption—ideal for smaller restaurants.

Avg. Cost
$1,000-$3,000/year

Industry Risks

Common risks you need to protect against

1
Foodborne illness claims from customers
2
Slip-and-fall accidents in dining areas
3
Kitchen fires and equipment failures
4
Employee injuries from burns, cuts, and slips
5
Liquor liability claims if you serve alcohol
6
Delivery driver accidents and injuries

Real risks restaurants face

See how the right insurance protects your restaurant when things go wrong

Risk

Multiple customers get sick after eating at your restaurant, claiming food poisoning from your kitchen.

General Liability

Pays for medical expenses, legal defense, and settlements—potentially saving you $100,000+ in claims.

Risk

A line cook suffers severe burns from hot oil splashing during a busy dinner rush.

Workers' Compensation

Covers all medical treatment, rehabilitation, and partial lost wages while your employee recovers.

Risk

A grease fire damages your kitchen equipment and forces you to close for two weeks.

Property + Business Interruption

Pays for equipment repairs and covers lost income while you rebuild your kitchen.

Why Choose Us

Why restaurants choose 1-800-INSURANCE

  • Agents who understand food service industry regulations and requirements
  • Coverage packages designed for restaurants, cafes, and food trucks
  • Help meeting landlord and franchise insurance requirements
  • Liquor liability specialists for bars and restaurants serving alcohol
  • Fast certificates of insurance for vendors and suppliers
  • 24/7 online policy access for claims and documentation
A man and woman sitting at a dining establishment table, drinking red wine and celebrating

Ready to protect your business?

Get quotes from top carriers, instant COIs, and coverage that keeps you working.

Common questions

Restaurant Insurance FAQs

What insurance does a restaurant need?

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Most restaurants need General Liability, Workers' Compensation, Commercial Property, and often Liquor Liability. Many opt for a Business Owners Policy (BOP) that bundles these coverages. Food delivery operations may also need Commercial Auto coverage.

Do I need liquor liability insurance?

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Yes, if you serve alcohol. Liquor liability protects you if a customer causes harm after drinking at your establishment. Many states require it, and landlords often mandate it for leases.

How much does restaurant insurance cost?

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Costs vary by restaurant type, size, and location. A typical small restaurant might pay $3,000-$8,000 annually for a comprehensive package. Bars and fine dining with alcohol service typically pay more due to higher liability exposure.

Protect Your Business Today

Our commercial insurance specialists understand your industry and can help you find the right coverage at the best price.