Restaurant

Restaurants exist in The Sims: Hot Date, several of The Sims 2 expansions, and in The Sims 3.

The Sims
The Hot Date expansion pack introduced restaurants to the world of The Sims, but only allowed them to be placed Downtown.

A restaurant needs these objects:
 * At least one podium
 * An expensive podium will spawn a maitre d', who will stand at the podium and seat diners, as well as a waiter or waitress.


 * Dining booths and/or dining tables and chair
 * These must be in the same room as the podium, or Sims will not be seated.


 * At least one stove
 * There should be as many stoves as podiums. Any type of stove can be used, and they don't all have to be the same.


 * A refrigerator
 * Any type of refrigerator can be used.


 * Counter space
 * The chef(s) will need someplace to prepare food, and places to put finished meals so the waiter(s) can pick them up.


 * A sink and/or dishwasher
 * A trash can and/or trash compactor

When using one of the Maxis podiums, it's best to use Maxis appliances and seating as well.

The Sims 2
Nightlife, Open For Business and Bon Voyage each contain restaurant objects and lots.

Restaurants in The Sims 2 needs these objects:
 * A host's desk for the host
 * A chef's stove (the two tile one that only available in Community lots)
 * At least a few tables and chairs for the customers.

A bar and bar stools can be added. It is not needed, but it makes the option "Be seated at counter" available to Sims.

Restaurants do not need a cash register at all, because Sims can pay the bill automatically when they exit the lot. However, they can choose to pay at the host's desk and stay, or "Skip out" on the bill if they think it wasn't worth it and dash out.

In Open For Business, players could have their Sims operate their own restaurants, with hosts, waiters and chefs.

In Bon Voyage, objects were introduced that included restaurant and kitchen counter tops along with a bar with capacity for four people. Each vacation destination had one of these objects selling its own regional food.

The Sims 3
The Sims 3 contains restaurant rabbit holes.
 * Diner
 * Bistro

The Sims 3: Late Night contains no proper restaurants, but each bar offers bar snacks.