Casey CartwrightRestaurants that have well-designed patios are prime dining destinations. For restaurant owners, this component adds more seating and boosts revenue potential. Creating an inviting atmosphere is key to attracting and retaining customers. Explore five fantastic restaurant patio design features that can elevate your establishment and delight your guests.
1. Create a Welcoming Entrance
The entrance to the patio sets people’s expectations. A clear and attractive entryway guides guests smoothly from the street or main restaurant area into your outdoor oasis.
According to a study conducted by the National Restaurant Association, many customers say that their dining experience is more important than the price of the meal. So, consider using an elegant archway, tasteful signage, or a path lined with plants to mark the entrance. It’s the first impression guests have of your outdoor space, so make it visually appealing and easy to navigate.
2. Incorporate Greenery and Natural Elements
Plants and natural elements bring
life and color to any outdoor setting. Integrating planters, hanging baskets, or even a living wall can soften the urban landscape and create a more serene environment. Greenery acts as a natural separator, providing privacy between tables and dampening ambient noise.
Using a mix of plant types, sizes, and textures adds visual interest and can help define different zones within the patio. From small tabletop succulents to large potted trees, plants contribute to a fresh and relaxing atmosphere that enhances the overall guest experience.
3. Choose Comfortable Seating
As the restaurant owner, it’s up to you to guarantee the comfort of your guests. Seating is a major component. Adding cushions and pillows in weather-resistant fabrics can provide extra comfort and a pop of color.
The arrangement of your seating also matters; create a mix of table sizes to accommodate different group dynamics, from intimate two-person tables to larger setups for families and parties.
4. Install Outdoor Patio Heaters
Extend your patio season and keep guests comfortable on cooler evenings with effective heating solutions. Infrared heaters are an excellent choice because they heat objects and people directly rather than just the surrounding air. This method is efficient and provides consistent warmth, even on breezy nights.
One of the reasons why restaurants need outdoor patio heaters is that the devices maximize the restaurant’s seating capacity year-round. Strategically placed heaters make the space usable in spring and fall, not just during the peak of summer.
5. Implement Lighting That Sets the Mood
The lighting scheme should be functional and atmospheric. Use a layered approach with different types of lighting to achieve the desired effect. String lights or fairy lights can create a magical, festive ambience that is perfect for evening dining.
For more practical purposes, use pathway lights to guide guests safely and place accent lights to highlight architectural features or greenery. Dimmers are also a great addition, allowing you to adjust the brightness as the evening progresses, transitioning from a bright, early-evening setting to a more intimate, low-lit atmosphere later at night.
Elevate Your Restaurant
Investing in these fantastic restaurant patio design features is an effective strategy to accelerate small business growth. An inviting and comfortable patio encourages guests to stay longer, spend more, and return for future visits. Take the first step today by evaluating your current patio and identifying which of these features can make the biggest impact on your establishment.
