Off-topic, but location specific- Looking for a financial advisor

[Running Mommy]

I would send him a pm. His biz knowledge is spot on! Sounds like you need more of a good accountant and attorney. Possibly two that could collaborate.
When I think of financial advisor I think broker. I used to work for a broker/dealer firm, so a "financial advisor" to me is someone who will invest your nest egg.
A good attorney and accountant can look at the deal and give you a better idea of what your "really" getting yourself into.
Good luck. Being a biz owner is tough, but it's SOOO worth it!

[Kalidurga]

I'm actually thinking I need all three: A financial planner (that's probably the more correct term than 'advisor') to help me understand what my options are for both the restaurant's and my own finances; an accountant to review the financial statements, etc; and a lawyer for all the contractual issues. I'm talking to two financial planners and trying to decide between them. One of them has recommended an accountant, and I also have a neighborhood acquaintance who's a CPA that I've been trying to get in touch with (and, of course, I'm doing this during tax season ). I also talked to a bank loan officer today. Still haven't been able to get any referrals for a lawyer, though, but I've got a ways to go before I've plowed through all the financial aspects of this.

Thanks for the suggestion, Running Mommy, and I'll take any others you might want to throw my way. I haven't really talked to Mr. Silver here at TE, but he definitely seems like a level-headed guy. Mr. Silver, if you read this, you may very well be hearing from me...