The Ultimate Guide to Restaurant Financing How to Get a Fast Short Term Small Business Loan
May 06, 2025 | Last Updated on: May 06, 2025

Are you someone who is looking to start a restaurant? But have you given a thought to the financials that you would have to take care of while opening a restaurant? It is not just finances, but you will also require equipment to make your restaurant business a success, with good annual revenue.
Therefore, you will require a fast, short-term, small business loan to give a kick-start to your startup. There are multiple loan options that you can consider while making your business plan. If you want to go with traditional loans, they are in the form of traditional banks, loans or gifts from family and friends, lines of credit, grants, crowdfunding, and much more.
However, the best way you can decide on financing solutions is by analyzing the loan amount you require to raise your business, the type of restaurant you are planning to start, and if you have any personal assets. In this article you will be able to learn how you can decide your financing options, as restaurant financing may take several months.
Benefits of restaurant loans
If you have funds that will help you to make your business stand out in the competitive market it is always the best idea. Below are a few reasons why you should select equipment financing or loan for the restaurant business.
Secure prime locations
Location is the most essential part of the restaurant business and plays a crucial role in its success. If you are renting a commercial real estate that would drive foot fall at your place would be a good option.
Choose flexible payments
As a small business owner of a restaurant, you should have a clear understanding of your repayment terms, which are tailored according to your business needs and cash flow.
Build an exceptional team
You should use your funding options wisely to hire the best chefs for your restaurant business, who can make an exceptional menu to retain your customers.
Enhance your marketing
If you become a successful restaurant, you cannot just rely on repeat customers, but you would have to make strategies to get new customers. You would have to make a push in marketing your business by hiring influencers, social media presence, and advertising.
Access competitive rates
You would have to look after the lenders who can offer you the best APR in the industry. If you have a bad credit score, you would have to get a loan advisor who can help you with the best, fast, short-term, small business loan.
Consolidate your debt
If you have taken a loan with a high interest rate, you can look for the one which has lower interest rates and will help you keep away from falling into debt, by reducing your monthly payments.
Cover essential expenses
You should use the fast, short-term, small business loan to run your business successfully, which will include purchasing new equipment for restaurants, investing in a POS system, and making a cash reserve for the slow season.
Restaurant financing options
When you are looking for business financing options to fit your business eligibility, you should follow the loan options below.
Business line of credit
A business line of credit is a flexible financing option that provides quick access to working capital—ideal for managing cash flow, covering unexpected expenses, or seizing growth opportunities. Unlike a traditional loan, it functions more like a credit card, offering revolving access to funds with a lower annual percentage rate (APR) than many other financing options.
Here are the key advantages of a business line of credit:
- Flexible, on-demand funding: This fast short term small business loan alternative gives you immediate access to capital whenever you need it—without the need to reapply.
- Pay only for what you use: You're only charged interest on the funds you draw, helping you control costs and cash flow better.
- Build business credit: Responsible use of a business line of credit can help improve your company's credit profile, opening the door to larger financing options.
- Save with early repayment: Most lenders don't charge prepayment penalties, so you can pay your balance early and reduce your total interest costs.
If you're looking for a fast short term small business loan with flexibility and cost control, a business line of credit could be the right fit.
Short-term loans
This is one of the most common types of loans taken by business owners. A short-term loan comes under the traditional loan option. In this, the borrowers borrow a fixed amount of capital from the lender, which has a fixed interest rate to be paid over a certain duration of time. You will get the entire amount of this fast, short-term, small business loan as a lump sum and use it for any kind of business expenditure.
The perks of this loan are:
- No need of collateral: It can be secured without putting your personal or business assets at risk, which makes this a safe option.
- Fast funding. Loan closing usually occurs within one to two days, providing fast access to funds for your immediate business needs.
- Approval process is simple: The approval process of this loan is usually easy and quick and saves your valuable efforts and time when you require capital.
- Flexible credit requirements: You don't have to worry about the credit score, as they are comparatively low, but you still should have a score of 550.
SBA Loans
The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers two well-known financing options for restaurant owners: SBA 7(a) loans and SBA Microloans. These government-backed loans are designed to support small business growth with favorable terms and competitive interest rates.
For loans up to $150,000, the SBA guarantees up to 85%, and for larger loans, up to 75%. While these loans aren’t as quick to fund as a fast short term small business loan, they offer excellent long-term value.
Here are the key benefits of SBA loans:
- Government-backed security: SBA loans are partially guaranteed by the federal government, reducing risk for lenders and improving your chances of approval, even if you don’t qualify for traditional financing.
- Flexible, long-term repayment: Repayment terms can range from 5 to 25 years, helping you maintain healthy cash flow as your business grows.
- Low-cost financing: With interest rates starting at 5.75%, SBA loans are among the most affordable funding options for small business owners.
Equipment loans
This is the best loan when you have made a successful restaurant. This fast short term small business loan offers competitive interest rates and requires minimal paperwork, which helps with quick funding.
Below are some of the benefits of equipment financing:
- Self-secured structure: The only collateral required for this loan program is the purchased equipment.
- Competitive pricing: This fast short term small business loan provides attractive rates, with APR starting with as low as 7%, which makes it an affordable financing solution.
- Streamlined paperwork: The application process for this loan comes with minimal documentation, which simplifies the process.
- Flexible approval terms: If you are applying for this loan, your loan will be approved even with a bad credit score or credit history.
Working capital
A working capital loan can be a factor rate for your restaurant business when it's a low season. This type of financing is required when you face cash flow gaps and need to cover operational costs to help your business generate monthly revenue.
Here's what makes this small business financing an attractive choice:
- Simple approval: Getting these short-term business loans is a simple procedure, which makes it easier to secure your business requirements.
- Quick funding: Financing with this fast short term small business loan is usually quick, with funds available within 24-48 hours of approval.
- Full ownership: This fund will give you complete control of your business and will not ask you to give on shares.
- Tax advantages. You can often deduct the interest rate paid on this type of loan from your taxes, which will provide you with savings towards the year-end.
Final Thoughts
Securing the right funding is crucial to launching and sustaining a successful restaurant business. Whether you're investing in equipment, hiring staff, or marketing your brand, a fast short term small business loan can provide the immediate capital you need without lengthy approval delays.
You can make smarter financial decisions by understanding your financing options and aligning them with your business goals. Don't forget to set up a dedicated business bank account to manage your funds effectively, track expenses, and strengthen your business's financial credibility. The right financial foundation today can pave the way for long-term growth and success.
FAQs about fast short term small business loan
What is the easiest loan to get for business?
If you need funds quickly, there are several practical options to consider for fast access to cash. You might start by borrowing from friends or family, requesting a payroll advance, or contacting local community organizations for support. Additionally, short-term loans and credit card cash advances can offer immediate funding, though reviewing the terms and interest rates carefully is essential. These solutions can help bridge financial gaps when time is of the essence.
Does a LLC have its own credit score?
A LLC (Limited Liability Company) can establish its credit score, which is distinct from the personal credit scores of its owners. This business credit score is determined by factors such as the LLC’s payment history, credit utilization, and overall financial performance. Building a strong credit history for your LLC can help secure better financing options and improve your business’s financial standing.
Who can give me money right now?
If you need funds quickly, there are several practical options to consider for fast access to cash. You might start by borrowing from friends or family, requesting a payroll advance, or contacting local community organizations for support. Additionally, short-term loans and business credit card cash advances can offer immediate funding, though reviewing the terms and interest rates carefully is essential. These solutions can help bridge financial gaps when time is of the essence.
Can I get a loan with my LLC EIN number?
You can usually apply for a business loan using your LLC’s Employer Identification Number (EIN). The EIN is an essential identifier for your business and is often required during the loan application process. However, remember that an EIN alone isn’t enough to secure financing. Lenders will also evaluate your business’s credit profile, financial performance, and overall ability to repay the loan before deciding.
What disqualifies you from getting an SBA loan?
Several factors can prevent you from qualifying for small business funding loans. Common reasons for denial include a poor credit history, lack of sufficient collateral or personal equity investment, and an inadequate or unrealistic business plan. Other disqualifying factors may include past bankruptcies, consistent negative taxable income, or a criminal record. To improve your chances of approval, addressing these issues and presenting a strong, well-documented application is essential.