[jpatokal]

He spent half a mil on rent, construction, kitchen equipment, permits, etc. Artwork, furniture, plates etc (= the "fancy" stuff) came in at "only" $100k.

[cassieramen]

I can't believe that half the time and about 15% of the budget were all due to permitting delays. That is totally nuts.

[mahyarm]

And you wonder why the rent is expensive

[obstinate]

Construction and rent also vary with fanciness. Rent because rent is more expensive in the fancy parts of town. Construction because the quality of finishes is a significant factor in construction costs.

[briandear]

And actually a cheap kitchen since the stove/oven expense at a sushi place is considerably less than it would be at other kinds of restaurants.