The Benefits of Outdoor Seating for Restaurants

Dining outdoors can be a very special experience. Whether it’s the fresh air, or the warm rays of sun that make food taste better, it creates a unique setting to enjoy a meal with loved ones.

Outdoor seating is a great way to increase capacity for restaurants and cafes. However, there are some important factors to consider before making the decision to install it.

Weather

In many cases outdoor dining is a weather dependent activity. Unfavorable conditions such as rain, wind and extreme heat or cold discourage diners from venturing out and may result in lower than expected sales.

Restaurants can help to counteract unfavorable weather conditions by providing shade, heating and other amenities. A common sight at restaurants in New York is a row of cleverly decorated, portable umbrellas to provide shelter to patrons waiting for tables outside.

Another way restaurants improve the comfort of their outdoor seating is by offering comfortable chairs and tables. Considerations include the type of material, heat absorption and if it is suitable for indoor/outdoor use. Durability is also an important consideration as commercial furniture that is used outdoors must be able to endure sun, wind and rain. Selecting furniture constructed of materials like wicker, rattan and teak will ensure that the piece is sturdy enough to endure a variety of climates. Additionally, look for cushions that utilize quick-dry foam cores and outer covers made from solution dyed fabrics that won’t fade in sunlight.

Space

Regardless of the location, whether in a shopping center, an industrial warehouse or a crowded city street, adding outdoor seating can increase your customer service capacity. It can also attract diners who may not have been able to get a table at your restaurant without an outdoor dining space.

In addition, the experience of eating al fresco has health benefits. Studies have shown that spending time outdoors decreases stress, lowers blood pressure and boosts the body’s supply of vitamin D.

In the case of quick-service restaurants, where many customers order and pick up food to go, an aesthetically pleasing outdoor dining area can be a differentiator between your business and the QSR across the parking lot or in the next block. In fact, the ROI of installing a beautiful, comfortable outdoor dining space might be more than your investment in the tables and chairs themselves.

Atmosphere

As restaurants begin to open their patio, rooftop and sidewalk seating for the season, it’s important to understand what guests are looking for from these spaces. Whether it’s an added ambiance, more seats or a chance to soak up some vitamin D, outdoor dining has been shown to improve the overall dining experience for guests.

Outdoor seating can attract new diners by attracting families, pets and patrons seeking a laidback vibe. Additionally, it can increase the number of people a restaurant can seat, which often results in higher business revenue.

When planning an outdoor dining area, make sure to include enough tables to seat the number of guests expected in a given day. Also, keep in mind that some localities require restaurants to provide a sign notifying customers that the establishment is serving food outdoors. You may also need to consider putting fly traps or bug zappers in the space to minimize insects and pests that can detract from the atmosphere.

Comfort

One of the biggest reasons to eat outside is that it provides diners with a cosier space. With proper awnings, restaurants with outdoor seating can make their dining areas weather-proof, which means that even if it rains or snows, guests will be able to continue enjoying their meals.

If your restaurant offers outdoor seating, it’s important that the furniture is comfortable for guests. The best way to determine this is by reading reviews from customers and confirming that the measurements of the chairs are correct.

Many popular types of outdoor furniture include plush cushions for additional comfort. Additionally, some chairs come with lumbar support to help prevent back pain. Other features that can make a chair more comfortable include adjustable backrests and reclining capabilities. Lastly, zero gravity chairs distribute weight evenly, which can reduce strain on the body. This can also help reduce fatigue and increase comfort during long meals. The type of material your furniture is made from is also a factor that can influence comfort.

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