supplies?

I am interested is there any secret(s) or tips people can give me in reference to getting inventory - specifically food.  Dogs, buns, condiments - etc. etc. etc.
 
I know about the Sam's, Costco's etc etc.  And we even have a Restaurant Depot that sells to people like us - but I was wondering is there any advantages to going through an institutional supllier like a sysco or monarch?  Do they offer better prices or can I get pretty much the same prices at a Sam's?  Also - what about choices - I kind of felt like the Instituional companies would offer more choices and more choices of various servings - the downside....they only service people like restuarants who do MEGA volumes of product.  Is there ways of getting around "not being a restaurant" or is it even worth it?

You do have other option for dealing with purverors. Sysc brokers, GFS and  number of other seel strictly wholesle to peple in the 1st tier of the food service inustry.    Its so easy to set up an account.  If you have a bit of volume a rep can even come take an order at your cenivienance.  Or you can go and shop as welll as phone in your order for a "will-call" pickup.
I used it to but cleaning supplies for my wifes consingment shop.  In fact i catered a party once, buying all the foods at wholesale from the local Sysco at far less than Sams would be.
All you need is a tax ID number.

If your a small time operator its better to use cash and carry. The only way you get good prices through a Food service company is to buy in volume. its also depends on what your time is worth. Most of the small cart operators buy as they go, some can't afford a $1000 delivery or a place to keep it..Remember it cost money to have a truck stop and deliver.................Bill

I do have to disagree.  When we had our kitchen I was small potatoes.  Even tho i didnt always have enough for a delivery(I think the min back theem was about 300) i was always welcome to walk in or will call.  I got the same price as the big guys provided they could get me the quantity.  Some items they were happtpy to break down from case lots.