Based on a local brewpub's experiences: you are looking at $400-500K in equipment for a 10 barrel brewery and a kitchen. As stated, licensing varies from state to state. In Oregon, a brewery takes one type of license, a brewpub requires a different one. Add in building costs and enough money for float for a year to 18 months, probably another $200K.
Another possibility is to work with someone who wants to start a resturant. Make certain that this is someone you won't mind killing eventually.
Oregon Trails is stuck back in the corner of the Olde World Deli, they sell his ales on tap and he sells it elsewhere. I've always felt the ideal setup is to have a small pub in between a pizza place and a sausage shop.
A surprising number of megaswillers will drink a golden or a wheat, if you keep the hops on the light side.
Most brewers learned their trade on the job. I would strongly recommend working at a brewery for 6 months to a year, first, even if you do not intend to be the brewer.
If you are serious and don't mind moving to Oregon, the Trask Brewpub is available.