This article was written by our expert who is surveying the industry and constantly updating business plan for a tea room.
Our business plan for a tea room will help you build a profitable project
Opening a tea room is a charming venture, but selecting the right equipment can feel daunting.
The challenge lies in knowing exactly what to purchase without overspending or overlooking essential items.
Every tea room has unique requirements, and equipment costs can escalate rapidly without proper planning.
Complete Tea Room Equipment List
Opening a successful tea room requires thoughtful preparation and the proper equipment. This comprehensive list covers everything you need to create an inviting and functional tea service.
Tea Brewing Equipment
- Commercial tea brewing machine - Essential for consistent tea preparation
- Electric kettles (multiple) - Heats water to precise temperatures for different teas
- Tea infusers/strainers - Steeps loose leaf teas properly
- Teapots (various sizes) - Serves individual and group portions
- Tea warmers - Keeps brewed tea at optimal serving temperature
- Water filtration system - Ensures pure water for better tea flavor
- Digital thermometer - Monitors water temperature for perfect brewing
- Timers - Tracks steeping times for consistent results
- Tea scales - Measures loose leaf tea portions accurately
- Measuring spoons - Portions tea for individual servings
Kitchen Equipment
- Commercial oven - Bakes scones, pastries, and light meals
- Convection oven - Provides even heating for baked goods
- Refrigerator - Stores perishable ingredients and dairy products
- Freezer - Preserves ingredients and prepared items
- Microwave - Quickly heats items and melts ingredients
- Food processor - Prepares ingredients for baking and cooking
- Stand mixer - Mixes batters and doughs efficiently
- Blender - Creates smoothies and blended beverages
- Toaster - Prepares sandwiches and toast for light meals
- Griddle/grill - Cooks paninis and grilled sandwiches
Serving & Presentation
- Fine china tea sets - Creates elegant presentation for customers
- Teacups and saucers - Various styles for different tea experiences
- Serving trays - Carries multiple items to tables efficiently
- Tiered serving stands - Displays afternoon tea selections attractively
- Sugar bowls and cream pitchers - Completes tea service presentation
- Linen napkins - Adds refinement to the dining experience
- Tablecloths - Protects tables and enhances ambiance
- Cake stands - Showcases desserts and pastries beautifully
- Serving utensils - Handles food items hygienically
- Tea cozies - Keeps teapots warm during service
Seating & Furniture
- Dining tables - Various sizes for different group configurations
- Comfortable chairs - Encourages customers to linger and enjoy
- Sofas and armchairs - Creates cozy seating areas
- Coffee tables - Provides surfaces for casual seating areas
- Bar stools - Accommodates counter seating options
- Outdoor furniture - Extends seating to patios or gardens
- Umbrellas - Provides shade for outdoor dining areas
Display & Storage
- Display cases - Shows pastries and food items attractively
- Tea storage containers - Keeps loose leaf teas fresh and organized
- Shelving units - Displays retail tea products and accessories
- Refrigerated display case - Shows cakes and perishable items
- Storage cabinets - Organizes dishes, linens, and supplies
- Spice racks - Keeps tea blends and flavorings accessible
Point of Sale & Service
- Cash register/POS system - Processes transactions and tracks sales
- Card payment terminal - Accepts credit and debit cards
- Receipt printer - Provides transaction records
- Menu boards - Displays offerings and prices clearly
- Table numbers - Helps staff deliver orders efficiently
- Order pads - Records customer requests accurately
Cleaning & Maintenance
- Commercial dishwasher - Efficiently cleans large quantities of dishes
- Three-compartment sink - Provides proper washing, rinsing, sanitizing
- Hand washing station - Maintains staff hygiene standards
- Cleaning supplies - Keeps all areas sanitary and presentable
- Sanitizer dispensers - Ensures proper hygiene throughout facility
- Trash receptacles - Manages waste disposal efficiently
- Floor mats - Prevents slips and protects flooring
Ambiance & Decor
- Lighting fixtures - Creates warm, inviting atmosphere
- Sound system - Plays background music for ambiance
- Artwork and decorations - Enhances visual appeal
- Plants and flowers - Adds natural beauty to space
- Mirrors - Makes space feel larger and brighter
- Window treatments - Controls light and privacy
Utilities & Infrastructure
- Adequate electrical supply - Powers all equipment safely
- Plumbing connections - Supports sinks and water needs
- Gas lines - Supplies fuel for cooking equipment
- Ventilation system - Removes cooking odors and maintains air quality
- WiFi system - Provides internet access for customers
- Security system - Protects premises and equipment
Additional Essentials
- Uniforms/aprons - Professional appearance for staff
- First aid kit - Handles minor injuries and emergencies
- Fire extinguisher - Required safety equipment
- Inventory management system - Tracks supplies and tea stocks
- Reservation system - Manages bookings and seating
Our financial plan for a tea room will help you build a profitable project
What Equipment Budget Should You Plan?
Most tea room owners spend between $30,000 and $150,000 on equipment, depending on their size and concept. You really can't go below $20,000 for even the smallest setup because you need quality brewing equipment, furniture, and kitchen basics to operate professionally.
- Small Intimate Tea Room
A small intimate tea room with basic service needs around $20,000-$40,000, with most of the budget going toward quality furniture, tea brewing equipment, and essential kitchen items.
- Medium-Sized Tea Room
A medium-sized tea room with full food service typically runs $40,000-$80,000, including commercial kitchen equipment and expanded seating arrangements.
- Large Tea Room
A large tea room or upscale establishment can easily hit $80,000-$150,000, especially when you add premium furniture, extensive kitchen equipment, and luxury finishes.
Equipment Budget Examples
Small Intimate Tea Room ($20,000 - $40,000)
Small tea rooms focus on creating a cozy atmosphere with essential equipment for quality tea service and light refreshments. The emphasis is on comfort and authentic tea experience.
| Equipment Category | What's Included | Budget Range |
|---|---|---|
| Tea Brewing Equipment | Commercial tea brewing machine, multiple electric kettles, variety of teapots, infusers, and water filtration system | $4,000 - $7,000 |
| Seating & Furniture | 6-8 small dining tables, 20-25 comfortable chairs, 2-3 armchairs, coffee tables for lounge area | $5,000 - $10,000 |
| Kitchen Equipment | Countertop convection oven, small refrigerator, microwave, basic prep equipment, toaster | $3,000 - $5,000 |
| Serving & Presentation | Fine china tea sets for 30 guests, serving trays, tiered stands, linens, and serving accessories | $2,000 - $4,000 |
| Display & Storage | Small display case for pastries, tea storage containers, shelving for retail items, basic storage cabinets | $2,000 - $4,000 |
| POS & Service | Basic cash register, card terminal, simple menu boards, table numbers, order supplies | $1,500 - $3,000 |
| Cleaning & Utilities | Dishwasher, hand sink, cleaning supplies, basic lighting, sound system | $2,000 - $4,000 |
| Ambiance & Decor | Lighting fixtures, artwork, plants, window treatments, background music system | $1,500 - $3,000 |
Medium-Sized Tea Room ($40,000 - $80,000)
Medium tea rooms offer expanded food service and accommodate more guests. Investment focuses on commercial kitchen equipment and creating multiple seating areas for different experiences.
| Equipment Category | What's Included | Budget Range |
|---|---|---|
| Tea & Beverage Equipment | Advanced brewing systems, multiple electric kettles, espresso machine, blender, extensive teapot collection | $8,000 - $12,000 |
| Kitchen Equipment | Commercial oven, full-size refrigerator, freezer, food processor, stand mixer, griddle, expanded prep area | $10,000 - $15,000 |
| Seating & Furniture | 12-15 tables, 40-50 chairs, lounge seating area, outdoor furniture, bar seating | $8,000 - $15,000 |
| Serving & Presentation | Premium china for 60 guests, extensive serving accessories, tablecloths, napkins, cake stands | $4,000 - $8,000 |
| Display & Storage | Refrigerated display case, ambient display case, extensive tea storage, retail shelving, storage cabinets | $5,000 - $10,000 |
| POS & Technology | Advanced POS system, inventory management, reservation system, WiFi setup, security system | $3,000 - $6,000 |
| Cleaning & Maintenance | Commercial dishwasher, three-compartment sink, ventilation system, comprehensive cleaning equipment | $4,000 - $8,000 |
| Ambiance & Infrastructure | Professional lighting design, sound system, artwork, plants, electrical and plumbing upgrades | $3,000 - $6,000 |
Large Upscale Tea Room ($80,000 - $150,000)
Large tea rooms operate as full-service establishments with extensive menus and luxury amenities. The focus is on creating an exceptional experience with premium equipment and elegant surroundings.
| Equipment Category | What's Included | Budget Range |
|---|---|---|
| Premium Tea Equipment | State-of-the-art brewing systems, temperature-controlled kettles, rare tea storage, ceremonial equipment | $15,000 - $25,000 |
| Commercial Kitchen | Full commercial kitchen setup, multiple ovens, large refrigeration, prep stations, specialized baking equipment | $20,000 - $35,000 |
| Luxury Furniture | Premium dining furniture, upholstered seating, custom-built pieces, outdoor dining setup, private dining area | $15,000 - $25,000 |
| Fine Serving Ware | Bone china collections, silver service, crystal glassware, premium linens, specialized serving pieces | $8,000 - $15,000 |
| Display & Retail | Custom display cases, climate-controlled tea storage, extensive retail area, wine cooler for pairings | $10,000 - $18,000 |
| Technology Systems | Advanced POS with analytics, customer management system, online ordering, security and surveillance | $5,000 - $10,000 |
| Professional Kitchen Support | Commercial dishwashing system, extensive ventilation, specialized cleaning equipment, staff facilities | $8,000 - $15,000 |
| Luxury Ambiance | Designer lighting, high-end sound system, artwork and decor, landscaping, custom architectural elements | $10,000 - $18,000 |