Q How can a restaurateur decide if a lender is reputable?

Having a team in place that is knowledgeable in the restaurant industry (banker, attorney, insurance agent, accountant, human resources advisor) is highly recommended. The team, as well as a real estate broker who specializes in the industry, would most likely know and have relationships with reputable lenders. Experience in the industry is invaluable and each of the team members properly chosen would only deal with and bring the restaurateur to a reputable lender. Of course, there is always the option of calling the Better Business Bureau or Attorney General's Office to ascertain if formal complaints have been filed; however, the best way is usually to inquire from your peer group. Quite often financial institutions will have a reputation that is well known in the industry - whether good or bad.