Once you've inked your name on a restaurant lease and are counting down to opening day, the clock is ticking. Time is money! While the construction crew is building out the space, make decisions on which lighting fixture looks better over table 42 and what fabric works on the chairs. Consider starting the interviewing and hiring process; taste different foods and wines to develop menus. On your day off (hah!) go out and find the local farmers, ranchers, brewers or distillers. Make the connections and build the relationships—it will make the difference once it is "show time."