What is Restaurant Packages?
Restaurant package insurance combines multiple coverages into a single policy tailored for food service operations. These packages commonly bundle commercial general liability with property coverage, equipment coverage, and optional endorsements such as commercial auto exposure for delivery vehicles or participant accident coverage for on-site events. The goal is to simplify underwriting and provide coordinated protection for day-to-day operations and typical hospitality risks.
Who needs it
Restaurant packages are used by a wide range of food-service businesses — full-service restaurants, fast-casual locations, bars, delis, caterers, food trucks and small chains. Owners who face spectator or customer injury exposures, kitchen equipment breakdowns, or liquor liability needs often look for a package that aligns general liability with property and business interruption protections. For examples of tailored solutions, see the Fine Dining Restaurant Insurance Package and overview resources like the Restaurant Insurance Program Overview.
What it typically covers
A restaurant package usually includes a core set of coverages, often with optional add-ons depending on risk profile:
- Commercial general liability (customer injuries, slip-and-fall)
- Property coverage (building, contents, refrigeration and kitchen equipment)
- Business interruption (lost income after a covered loss)
- Equipment breakdown (ovens, HVAC, refrigeration)
- Liquor liability (for bars, restaurants serving alcohol)
- Commercial auto (for delivery drivers and owned vehicles)
Operators with specialized exposure—such as large events or catering—may add event liability or participant accident coverage. If you operate a deli or similar food-service concept, see specific options for smaller food establishments like Insurance Coverage for Food Service Establishments.
Common exclusions or limitations
Policies often exclude intentional acts, wear-and-tear, certain pollution incidents, and some cyber exposures unless endorsements are added. Many carriers also limit coverage for high-value specialty equipment or for incidents tied to poor food-handling practices without documented risk controls. Understanding exclusions helps you select appropriate endorsements or separate coverages.
Factors that influence cost
Premiums depend on underwriting factors such as location, annual receipts, payroll, number of seats, liquor sales, loss history, safety measures, and the presence of delivery operations that create commercial auto exposure. Risk management considerations — for example, staff training, slip-resistant flooring, and proper equipment maintenance — can lower renewal rates.
Risk scenario: a customer slips on a wet floor and sustains an injury, triggering general liability and potential medical payments coverage.
Proof of insurance & compliance
Many landlords, event venues, and local permitting authorities require certificates of insurance naming them as additional insureds. Certificates typically document limits for general liability, liquor liability if applicable, and commercial auto. Keep certificates current and provide them when signing leases or catering contracts.
How to get a quote
To compare coverages and limits, gather basic information about your business operations, estimated annual sales, payroll, seating capacity, and any delivery or catering activity. You can research program options like those offered by specialized carriers — for example, the Restaurant Insurance Program by Colonial General Insurance Agency, Inc. — and then talk to your agent to review quotes, limits, and available endorsements. If you’d like to request pricing or submit details, talk to your agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do restaurant packages include liquor liability?
Liquor liability is often available as an endorsement or a separate policy, depending on the carrier and the level of alcohol sales.
Can I add delivery coverage for drivers?
Yes. Commercial auto or hired-and-non-owned auto coverage can be added for delivery vehicles and drivers, subject to underwriting guidelines.
What documentation do landlords usually request?
Landlords commonly request a certificate of insurance showing general liability limits and naming the landlord as an additional insured; they may also ask for property and business interruption evidence.
Still have questions? Talk to a local insurance expert.