What is the break-even point for a restaurant?

The break-even point is the revenue level at which total costs equal total revenue — profit is exactly zero. Below it you lose money; above it, additional revenue drops mostly to profit.

How do I calculate break-even covers per day?

Divide monthly break-even revenue by average check size to get break-even covers for the month, then divide by days open to get a daily target.

What counts as a fixed cost vs. a variable cost?

Fixed costs don't change with sales volume — rent, insurance, salaried management. Variable costs scale with each sale — ingredients, hourly labor tied to volume, card processing fees.

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Restaurant Break-Even Calculator
How Many Covers Do You Need?

Last reviewed: July 28, 2026

Enter fixed costs, average check, and variable cost percentage to see the revenue and covers you need just to break even.

Enter Your Numbers

Monthly Fixed Costs ($)

Rent, insurance, salaried management, loan payments.

Average Check Size ($)

Variable Cost % of Revenue

Food cost plus hourly labor and card fees tied to each sale.

Days Open per Month

Break-Even Revenue / Month

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Covers / Month

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Covers / Day

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Formula

Break-Even Revenue = Fixed Costs ÷ Contribution Margin %
Contribution Margin % = 100% − Variable Cost %

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Restaurant Break-Even CalculatorHow Many Covers Do You Need?

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Frequently Asked Questions

Want AI to price your whole menu?

Restaurant Break-Even Calculator
How Many Covers Do You Need?