Cafe fitout costs in Australia vary more than most online guides suggest. This post breaks down what is actually driving the budget - from tenancy condition and kitchen scope to compliance costs and common blow-outs - so you can plan with a realistic figure in mind.

A cafe fitout in Melbourne or on the Mornington Peninsula involves four separate approval streams, food safety standards that shape every kitchen design decision, and cost ranges that vary significantly depending on tenancy type and heritage constraints. This guide covers what operators need to understand before engaging a builder - from planning and building permits through to grease trap requirements, liquor licensing implications, and realistic timelines.