Boost Your Restaurant's Summer Success: The Power of Outdoor Seating

Summer has arrived, and it's the perfect time for restaurant owners to seize the advantages of offering outdoor seating. As customers seek out the warm weather, outdoor dining becomes an enticing option. In this blog post, we'll explore the remarkable benefits of outdoor seating for restaurants, provide valuable insights on implementing it effectively, and shed light on its positive impact on your restaurant's bottom line. From attracting new customers to enhancing customer satisfaction, embracing outdoor seating can unlock a wealth of opportunities for your restaurant, creating a buzz that resonates throughout the summer season.

Capitalize on Seasonal Demand 

As the temperature rises, so does the demand for outdoor dining experiences. By offering outdoor seating, you tap into the desire of customers to bask in the sun or enjoy meals under the stars. Picture this: guests savoring delicious dishes amidst a picturesque setting, creating memorable moments and leaving a lasting impression. Now that’s something that will have them returning again and again. Outdoor dining adds a touch of experience and excitement, compelling both loyal guests and new customers to choose your restaurant for their summer adventures.

Expand Your Seating Capacity 

Outdoor seating provides an excellent opportunity to expand your restaurant's capacity during the busiest summer months. With careful planning, you can transform your outdoor space into a revenue-generating oasis. By accommodating more diners, you ensure a steady flow of guests and minimize waiting times. This not only maximizes your revenue potential but also enhances customer satisfaction. Whether it's an intimate patio or a spacious garden, outdoor seating allows you to cater to larger groups, special events, and spontaneous walk-ins. Plus, you can add some live music and make it an experience people crave.

Create a Welcoming Atmosphere 

Outdoor seating adds an extra layer of charm to your establishment. It sets the stage for an inviting ambiance that captivates guests from the moment they step foot into your outdoor area. Invest in comfortable and stylish furniture that complements your restaurant's theme, creating an environment that exudes warmth and relaxation. You can enhance the aesthetic appeal with strategic lighting, vibrant greenery, and thoughtfully placed shade options like umbrellas. Such attention to detail transforms your outdoor seating and entices customers to unwind, indulge, and savor the experience.

Adapt to Social Distancing Requirements

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, outdoor seating offers an effective solution for restaurants to comply with social distancing guidelines while ensuring a delightful dining experience. The open-air nature of outdoor dining allows for more excellent ventilation and ample space between tables, assuring the safety of your guests and staff. By prioritizing their well-being, you build trust and loyalty, cementing your reputation as a responsible and caring establishment. Customers appreciate the effort you put into creating a safe environment, and they reward you every time they return.

Implementing Outdoor Seating: Practical Tips 

Assess Your Space: Evaluate your outdoor area to determine its potential for seating. Consider factors such as available square footage, access to utilities, and any necessary permits or licenses. Try and maximize the use of your outdoor space while ensuring you maintain compliance with local regulations.

Design for Comfort: Invest in high-quality, weather-resistant furniture that prioritizes customer comfort. The last thing someone wants is to be sitting outside in an uncomfortable environment. Opt for cushions or padded seating options, ensuring a cozy and enjoyable dining experience. It is very important to provide shade options such as umbrellas, retractable awnings, or pergolas to shield guests from direct sunlight or light rain. This will help limit complaints and allow a place to relax on those extra hot summer days.

Menu Adaptations: Craft a menu that suits outdoor dining preferences, including lighter dishes, refreshing beverages, and seasonal specialties. Think about adding some shareable appetizers and summer-themed cocktails to enhance the outdoor dining experience. You can take advantage of the heat by offering refreshing and delicious drinks. Consider introducing a dedicated outdoor seating menu, showcasing exclusive dishes that can only be enjoyed in the open-air setting. This will make the offer more exclusive and help grow your guest's attraction to it.

Staff Training: Train your staff to handle outdoor seating efficiently. Emphasize the importance of providing attentive service and addressing any challenges specific to outdoor dining. Ensure they are knowledgeable about the menu and capable of managing extended service areas while maintaining a seamless and personalized experience for guests. Also, make sure the outdoor dining area is easy to navigate, that way your servers and food runners won’t run into any unnecessary problems.

Safety Measures: Prioritize safety by implementing rigorous hygiene protocols, maintaining cleanliness in outdoor areas, and ensuring the comfort and safety of guests during inclement weather. Regularly clean and sanitize furniture, provide hand sanitizing stations and establish clear guidelines for staff regarding hygiene and safety practices. This can include wiping down tables and menus after they are used! And, don’t forget to close your umbrellas before locking up for the night to keep them in their best condition.

By incorporating outdoor seating into your restaurant's offerings, you can unlock many benefits that contribute to your summer success. Be sure to follow the practical tips outlined in this blog post to successfully introduce outdoor seating, setting your restaurant apart from the competition. Watch as your restaurant experiences increased customer satisfaction, heightened revenue, and a successful summer season that leaves your guests craving more!