It is a tough life. I don't own one but I worked for a restaurant that did. If you are not a franchise you have to advertise and get your name out. There is no corporate backing, but you can play by your own rules. Expect long hours with the nights pretty much controlled by the restaurant. However, there are many factors that decide whether or not you will succeed. What type of food, target market, price, location, and status of economy are some factors that will affect the outcome.