Restaurant Equipment Financing
Opening a new location, renovating a kitchen, or replacing a walk-in that just failed — restaurant equipment purchases rarely line up neatly with cash flow. We do the work of connecting your inquiry with an institutional lender who understands food service operations.
- Restaurant equipment financing terms typically run 3-7 years, tracking the expected useful life of ranges, walk-ins, hoods, and other kitchen equipment.
- Down payments range from 0-20% depending on credit profile, and whether the equipment is new or used.
- Five North Capital is a brokerage, not a direct lender — inquiries are matched to institutional lenders that understand food service operations.
What restaurant equipment can I finance?
Our institutional lender network finances the following restaurant equipment categories:
What lenders look at for restaurant equipment
- Time in business — established operators generally see more options, though programs exist for newer restaurants and additional locations.
- Cash flow and card sales — lenders look at revenue consistency, and card processing history can help support an application.
- New vs. used — both are financeable; used kitchen equipment may carry shorter terms tied to its remaining useful life.
- Bundled purchases — a full kitchen build-out can often be financed as a single package rather than piece by piece.
Loan or lease?
Long-lived equipment like hoods, walk-ins, and ranges is often financed with a loan, since you'll run it for years. Technology that gets refreshed frequently — POS systems, some beverage equipment — can make more sense as a lease. Our loan and lease calculators can help you compare the numbers for your specific equipment.
Frequently asked questions
Can a new restaurant get equipment financing?
Yes, though options depend on the owner's credit and experience. Newer restaurants may see higher down payments or shorter terms, and we match your inquiry to lenders whose programs fit your situation.
What terms are typical for restaurant equipment financing?
Terms often range from 3 to 7 years depending on the equipment's useful life, with shorter terms common for used equipment and frequently refreshed technology.
How much of a down payment do I need for restaurant equipment?
It varies by lender, credit profile, and whether the equipment is new or used — some programs require no down payment, others ask for 10-20%.
Can I finance used restaurant equipment?
Yes. Used commercial kitchen equipment is financeable, with terms typically influenced by the equipment's age and remaining useful life.
Can I finance a full kitchen build-out?
Often, yes. Many lenders will finance multiple pieces of equipment together as a single package, which simplifies the process for a new location or renovation.
Does restaurant equipment financing cover installation?
Some programs include soft costs like installation, delivery, and ventilation work. It varies by lender, so include those costs in your inquiry.
Request Restaurant Equipment Financing
Tell us about the equipment you need to finance and we'll be in touch to discuss next steps.