Starting a restaurant can be a daunting task. Not only do you have to worry about the food and the service, but you also have to ensure that your guests are comfortable and happy. One of the best ways to do this is by sprucing up your restaurant space. In a study by the University of Denver, consumers have told that restaurant ambiance is more influential than service and food quality.
So, what can you do to make your restaurant more inviting? Here are a few ideas and tips that you might want to consider.
Start with your exterior appeal
Even with the best food and service, your restaurant won’t be successful if guests don’t want to come inside. That’s why making a good first impression of your exterior is essential. If your building looks run-down, many potential customers will keep walking.
Consider giving your establishment a facelift with a power wash or a fresh coat of paint. It’s a simple and relatively inexpensive way to make a big difference. And when it comes to your signage, be sure it’s visible and easy to read from the street. You want potential customers to be able to find you without any trouble.
Investing in outdoor decor is another great way to make your restaurant more inviting. If you have a patio or deck, consider adding some tables and chairs so walk-in guests can enjoy the outdoors while waiting. Just be sure to choose furniture that’s weather-resistant and easy to clean. Depending on your budget, you might also want to add landscaping features like planters or flower beds. These can brighten up your entryway and make it more inviting for guests.
With these exterior changes, you can help encourage customers to come inside and try out your food.
Make sure your entrance is clean and welcoming
Once guests set their feet into your restaurant, you want to ensure the space is clean and comfortable. Have a staff member walk the entrance at least once an hour to check for trash or debris. If it’s cold outside, ensure the door is closed to prevent drafts from coming inside. In the summer, you might want to keep the door open to let in some fresh air.
As guests enter your restaurant, they should get greeted by a friendly host or hostess. This person can help seat guests and answer any questions they might have. If your restaurant gets busy, you might consider hiring a greeter to help with this task.
Your entrance should also be clear of any obstacles guests might encounter. Make sure there’s enough space for people to move around without bumping into or knocking things over. And if you have a coat rack or umbrella stand, place it in an easily accessible spot.
Customer experience begins the moment they step through your door, so making every detail count is crucial.
Think about your seating arrangements
Your seating arrangements can have a significant impact on the overall ambiance of your restaurant. If you want a more formal setting, consider using tablecloths and linens. For a casual vibe, opt for bare tables or butcher paper. And if you have outdoor seating, take advantage of the natural lighting and fresh air.
When it comes to the layout of your tables and chairs, you want to ensure enough space for guests to move around freely. You also want to avoid any bottlenecks that might form. If possible, create a floor plan that allows for an easy traffic flow.
You might also want to consider the type of guests you’re trying to attract. If you wish to appeal to families, you might want to have a few high chairs on hand. And if you’re aiming for a romantic crowd, you might want to add some soft lighting and intimate table arrangements.
How you arrange your tables and chairs can play a significant role in the overall atmosphere of your restaurant. That’s why it’s essential to take the time to get it right.
Add unique elements to your outdoor seats
Many diners enjoy eating outdoors, so if you have the space, consider adding some unique elements to your outdoor seating area. For example, you might want to add heat lamps for chilly evenings or umbrellas for sunny days. You might also want to provide blankets or shawls for guests who get cold quickly.
If you want to make the most of the relaxing outdoor vibes, consider investing in a comfortable outdoor hanging chair. These are becoming increasingly popular and can help add a touch of luxury to your space. You can use these pieces on your porch, patio, or garden. They’re perfect for reading a book or enjoying a glass of wine.
Making your outdoor seating area more comfortable and inviting can encourage customers to choose your restaurant over others. It’s a small change that can make a big difference.
Focusing on your restaurant space can be a great way to spruce things up and keep your guests happy. You can make a significant impact by reconfiguring your seating arrangements, adding unique elements to your outdoor space, and keeping your entrance clean and welcoming. With these small changes, you can make the overall experience more enjoyable for your guests.
