I used to do the bookkeeping and VAT returns for many pubs until the recession hit and one started doing his own books (and the many others was outsourced by a company who hired one staff member inhouse instead) so would say that pubs suffer quite a lot in a recession and unless you personally know this potential client and know they will pay your bill promptly don't do too much work inbetween invoicing them - weekly if necessary.
With the VAT returns would say with the restaurant part especially read up on HM Customs website the description of Vatable items food as some food part sales are exempt and others are standard rated and with the purchases think quite a few are zero rated (I think it is unfair that you cannot claim back on some purchases of food but you must pay VAT on the sale of food item).
