2025-925 Restaurant Lease & Operations

The City of Gardner, Massachusetts, through its Purchasing Department, is seeking proposals for the lease and operation of the restaurant at the Gardner Municipal Golf Course located at 154 Eaton Street. This Request for Proposals (RFP #2025-925) is soliciting a qualified vendor to manage food and beverage services for one season, from approximately March 15 to November 30, 2025, with potential for two additional one-season renewals. The successful proposer must operate the restaurant with specific requirements, including maintaining a 70-patron sit-down capacity, providing beverage cart service, and adhering to mandatory operating hours (Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from 7:00 AM until one hour after Pro Shop closing, and Wednesday through Friday from 11:30 AM until one hour after Pro Shop closing). Proposers must demonstrate at least three years of restaurant ownership/management experience and be capable of obtaining a seasonal liquor license. The proposal evaluation will consider both price and technical components, with proposals due by December 18, 2024, at 1:00 PM, to be submitted in separate sealed envelopes to the Purchasing Agent's office in Room 217 of City Hall.

The RFP does not explicitly indicate specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. The minimum acceptable rent is $2,000 per season, with a $500 security deposit required. The selected operator will be responsible for all utility costs, including water, sewer, electric, and propane, as well as facility maintenance and cleaning. Insurance requirements are substantial, including comprehensive public liability insurance of $1,000,000 with property damage coverage of $500,000 per occurrence, and liquor liability insurance of $500,000 per occurrence. While no incumbent vendor is mentioned, the proposal suggests this is likely a recurring contract for restaurant services at the municipal golf course. The total financial commitment for the vendor includes rent, utility expenses, insurance, and operational costs, with potential revenue generated from restaurant and beverage cart sales. The contract represents a modest but potentially attractive opportunity for a small restaurant or catering business with golf course service experience.