BlueBull!!
thanks for the interesting topic. although I don't completely agree with all what's been said but anyway..
i noticed you like the restaurant business!? now i can admit that it's a rewarding business if done prepoerly but don't forget, you're not exactly in a metropolitan city, where you can pretty much do whatever it takes to make your restaurant stand out! lots of restrictions here..
another thing, the restaurant business needs ALOT of attention..you NEED to be on top of it day in and day out! not sure it's smth you would wanna do as a side business..dont forget inventories, perishables, etc..

i would agree with you on the contracting and trading bit though. With the right connections, you can make good money with minimal effort..