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.
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All communications or inquiries regarding the Request for Proposal process should be directed to Natalie Meihofer at nataliemeihofer@metalmuseum.org.
RFP PROCESS TIMELINE
OCT 15, 2025 RFP Released
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NOV 1 - NOV 15, 2025 Tours of the Restaurant Space
NOV 15, 2025 Submit Written Questions
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DEC 31, 2025 RFP Submission Deadline
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DEC 31 , 2025 - FEB 2026 Evaluation Completion
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FEB 2026 Contract Signing
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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.
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2. WHAT IS THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION?
Proposals must be received by 5:00 PM CST on December 31, 2025. Late submissions may be disqualified.
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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.
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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.
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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.​
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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.
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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.
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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.​
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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​