Patio season is more than just serving meals or drinks alfresco. It's a chance to create a vibrant atmosphere that draws customers in and keeps them coming back. Let's explore some practical considerations and promotional ideas to help your bar or restaurant make the most of your outdoor space this patio season.
Spruce Up Your Space
Outdoor dining spaces are canvases for creating unforgettable experiences. Whatever budget you are working with, it’s worth investing in quality outdoor furniture and decor that is practical and inviting. The idea is to create an atmosphere that entices customers to not only come but stay. Think comfortable seating, vibrant cushions, fairy lights, outdoor greenery, etc.
Conquer the Elements
Mother Nature can be unpredictable, but with a little preparation and planning, you can keep your patio space ready for business in most conditions. Practical items such as retractable awnings, fun umbrellas, or sunshades can keep customers comfortable, and they can also double as Instagram-worthy backdrops. Overhead or corner fans are great for warmer days, while sleek space heaters can keep the evening chill at bay. And make sure your furniture and accessories are designed with the outdoors in mind. Easy-to-clean fabrics and materials that can withstand the elements are essential!
Optimize Your Service Flow
While outdoor dining is often more casual, you still want to ensure your customers receive quality customer service and enjoy their experience at your establishment. Take some time to evaluate and optimize the layout of your patio to ensure efficient service. Set up designated areas for waiting, ordering, and dining to prevent congestion, and ensure your staff has as clear, direct a path as possible for serving food and beverages. You may also need to set up additional server stations to minimize wait times.
Empower Your Staff
A prepared staff is essential to creating a successful outdoor experience. Ensure that your team is knowledgeable about the patio menu, attentive to customer needs, and capable of navigating the unique challenges presented by outdoor dining. Also, don’t forget about their attire. Consider modifying uniforms to make sure your staff is comfortable whatever the weather. Think polo or logo t-shirts for warmer weather, branded jackets for cooler temps, etc.
Don’t Forget Furry Friends
Opening your patio inevitably prompts the common question "Can I bring my dog?" While pet-friendly patios have their advantages, considering potential allergies, distractions, safety, and local regulations is crucial. Some cities may restrict non-service animals in dining spaces, so thorough research is essential. Designated pet days/hours or specifying pet-friendly zones are potential ideas to keep customers happy wherever they fall on the animal-loving spectrum.
Make it Enticing
Once you have your space set and staff prepped, it’s time to bring on the fun. Some ideas to make your customers’ outdoor experience extra special include:
Patio-specific happy hour specials on food and/or beverages
Live music
Outdoor trivia
Food truck weekends (if you don’t already serve food)
Family-friendly, festival-type activities and events (think face painting, corn hole competitions, etc.)
Dedicated seasonal customer loyalty programs
The nice thing about patio season is that customers generally expect a more casual experience, so don’t be afraid to get creative and try new things!
By focusing on practical considerations such as comfortable seating, weather-proofing, and staff training coupled with creative promotional ideas, you can craft a vibrant and enticing outdoor experience that leaves a lasting impression on customers and keeps them coming back.
