Your business doesn’t have to be in a warm location to take advantage of its outdoor space. You can create a profitable outdoor patio area for your restaurant in areas that you’re not using. These spaces are excellent for relaxing, enjoying the weather, and listening to music while ordering food and beverages. Your guests will love having this additional option when visiting your establishment. Here are some guidelines to take into consideration when creating a restaurant patio that’s attractive and lucrative.
Design for inclement weather
It’s challenging to prepare a patio for inclement weather, but not impossible. Consider adding a metal roof above the area or installing an awning. You can also make sure every table has plenty of umbrella coverage to make sure there’s shade or cover during rain. If nights start getting cold, you may want to opt for portable heaters. On particularly hot nights, installing some commercial fans can help.
How to prevent bugs/pests
Because you’re designing an outdoor space, pests are an inevitable part of the equation. You’re going to encounter pests, including flying insects, gnats, birds, squirrels, and stray animals. Sugary sweets and spilled drinks will attract bugs in your outdoor space quickly. Therefore, your staff must be diligent regarding keeping things spotless. All fruit garnishes for drinks must have covered storage.
Make sure you’re sweeping away all spilled food or dropped crumbs immediately. This step will prevent birds from pecking or stray animals from invading. If your staff is quick to clear away uneaten food and empty trash bins as they fill, you’ll also find your pest control will be at a minimum.
Buy the right furniture for outdoors
Select decor that matches the rest of the ambiance and theme throughout the rest of your restaurant. You won’t, however, be able to use the same restaurant tables or restaurant chairs as you are inside. You’ll need to choose restaurant patio furniture that includes outdoor restaurant tables and outdoor restaurant chairs that matches your current theme. That way, this outdoor restaurant furniture flows seamlessly with the rest of your decor.
Make sure patio compliant with local rules
Your patio area must follow all local rules, laws, regulations, and other guidelines. So, before beginning your design, make sure you’re taking all these details into consideration. Be sure to obtain all the necessary building permits and other documentation you’ll need from your local governing authority. Here are some fundamental regulatory factors you may have to take into consideration before opening your patio:
- Will your guests want to bring their dogs and, if so, do you need a permit?
- Do you need a permit to serve alcohol on the patio and if your guests want to bring their own, what are the regulations?
- Does your area have noise ordinances and if so, what are they?
- What do you need to obtain for plumbing and electrical permits to finish your outdoor patio?
Wrapping it Up
Adding an outdoor patio area to your restaurant is an excellent way to extend seating for your restaurant and bring new life to your outdoor spaces. Your guests will love the opportunity to appreciate the weather and have new ways to enjoy their dining experiences.
