On the Line / Bar & Nightclub / What is a Pub?

What is a Pub?

Learn about the history of pubs, how to start one, and what you can typically find on the menu at a pub.

Opening a Restaurant Checklist
icon RESOURCE

Opening a Restaurant Checklist

So many things go into opening a restaurant. Use this free PDF checklist to set your new restaurant up for success.

Get free download
You must have Javascript enabled in order to submit forms on our website. If you'd like to contact Toast please call us at:

(857) 301-6002
First and last name* is required
Phone number* is required
Restaurant Name is required
What best describes your restaurant type? is required
What is your estimated opening date? is required
loadingspinner

We’ll handle your info according to our privacy statement.

Built for Restaurants
pub hero

A pub is an establishment that sells beer and other beverages. Learn about the history of pubs, how to start one, and what you can typically find on the menu at a pub.

What is a Pub?

A pub is an establishment that typically sells beer and other beverages. A pub may offer a limited food menu or snack items, which is what makes it different from a bar. A pub is essentially a combination of a bar and a restaurant as its purpose is to sell alcohol and some food options, as opposed to a bar, where usually only alcohol is served.

What is the history of the Pub?

The term ‘pub’ is an abbreviation of the term ‘public house,’ which refers to an establishment that provides alcoholic beverages for sale. The term ‘public house,’ comes from the idea that an establishment was offering alcohol that could be consumed on the establishment’s premises. 

The history of the pub as we know it today originated in Britain when common law in the mid-1600s required any establishment known as a public house (an inn, tavern, etc.,) to be socially responsible for the well-being of their travelers and customers. By the 1800s, public houses became a superior establishment and were traditionally owned by licensed publicans and victuallers (a British person who has a license to sell alcohol).

What is typically on the menu at a Pub?

At a pub, you can expect to find great drinks and food. Typically, a pub serves a simple range of beer, wine, and liquor. On the menu, you can expect to find appetizers, snacks, full meals, and desserts – a pub usually offers something for everyone. 

A pub tends to serve comfort foods that most people like, such as chicken wings, burgers, fries, sandwiches, and soup. In Britain, a typical pub would sell common stables, such as fish and chips, bangers and mash, chicken pot pie, or a staple club sandwich.

How do you start a Pub?

A pub is essentially a small restaurant concept that falls somewhere between a bar and a small business. To start one, you should first write a small business plan, find a good location, and design your food menu. 

Since the main purpose of a pub is to sell alcohol and food, to start one, you will need to find an alcohol dealer and obtain a liquor license. Since you will also offer food items, you will need to obtain several licenses, including a health department permit, a food handler’s license, and a food sales permit. Moreover, a pub usually has a laid-back, friendly atmosphere, so look for a small space in a neighborhood or community that lacks a good, local space for drinks and food.

How much does it cost to start a Pub?

Restaurant startup costs can vary based on location, local rent prices, whether you have furniture and seating, renovation needs, and more. The average cost to open a restaurant can range from $100,000 to $2 million.

Start-up costs will vary depending on what kind of commercial equipment you need, your food costs, the number of employees required for your daily operations, and more.

Is this article helpful?

DISCLAIMER: This information is provided for general informational purposes only, and publication does not constitute an endorsement. Toast does not warrant the accuracy or completeness of any information, text, graphics, links, or other items contained within this content. Toast does not guarantee you will achieve any specific results if you follow any advice herein. It may be advisable for you to consult with a professional such as a lawyer, accountant, or business advisor for advice specific to your situation.