REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
METAL MUSEUM RESTAURANT VENDOR REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
The Metal Museum is expanding into a new building that will include a restaurant serving Museum visitors, Overton Park visitors, and the greater Memphis community. We are seeking an experienced vendor to manage and operate the restaurant space.
All communications or inquiries regarding the Request for Proposal process should be directed to Natalie Meihofer at nataliemeihofer@metalmuseum.org.
RFP PROCESS TIMELINE
OCT 22, 2025 RFP Released
MAR 1 - APR 16, 2026 Tours of the Restaurant Space
APR 17, 2026 Proposals Due
APR 17 - 30, 2026 Evaluation of Proposals
MAY 2026 Contract Negotiation
JUN 1, 2026 Contract Signed
JUL 1, 2026 Access to Space
SEP 5, 2026 Grand Opening
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. WHO CAN I CONTACT ABOUT THE RFP?
All questions must be submitted in writing via email to Natalie Meihofer at nataliemeihofer@metalmuseum.org. Questions will not be answered over the phone.
2. WHAT IS THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION?
Proposals must be received by 5:00 PM CST on April 17, 2026. Late submissions may be disqualified.
3. CAN I SCHEDULE A VIEWING OF THE SPACE?
Yes. Vendors may schedule a site visit by emailing Natalie Meihofer with your contact information, relevant experience, and a brief expression of interest.
4. WHAT EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS ARE REQUIRED?
Vendors must have a minimum of three years operating a restaurant or comparable food service business. Catering experience is also required for consideration to serve private events. Vendors must demonstrate financial capacity and provide references.
5. ARE THERE EXPECTATIONS FOR THE MENU?
The restaurant should offer fresh, high-quality menu items for dine-in and carry-out, including coffee, tea, beverages, alcohol, and options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. Proposals that highlight locally sourced and seasonal ingredients will score more favorably.
6. ARE THERE EXPECTATIONS FOR OPERATING HOURS?
Yes. The restaurant is expected to remain open during all Museum hours. Vendors may propose extended hours, which will be considered favorably.
7. CAN THE RESTAURANT TAKE CATERING JOBS?
Yes. However, use of the restaurant kitchen for independent catering requires prior approval, and 5% of independent catering sales is payable to the Museum.
8. WHAT ARE THE TERMS AND RENT?
The initial contract is three years with a six-month trial period, expected to start in 2026. Base monthly rent is $5,000, plus 5% of restaurant sales (not to exceed $20,000 per month). Vendors must submit monthly sales reports and profit/loss statements.
9. WHAT EQUIPMENT DOES THE MUSEUM PROVIDE?
The Museum provides basic kitchen equipment, utilities (water, electricity, internet), and standard furniture. Vendors are responsible for additional or specialty equipment, furnishing restaurant-specific items, and daily maintenance.
10. WHAT MUST BE INCLUDED IN A PROPOSAL?
Proposals should include:
Introduction and business plan
Sample menu
Proof of culinary and catering experience
ADA and Equal Opportunity compliance efforts
Licenses, permits, and insurance
References
Rent and terms confirmation