How to Create a Profitable Patio Space

Whether your restaurant is located in a warm climate year-round or you want to take advantage of the weather, a patio can be an excellent addition to your business. When executed correctly, an outdoor dining area will attract new guests and make your restaurant a destination for those who want to enjoy their food outdoors. However, maintaining a successful patio space requires planning and consistent attention. We'll outline the benefits of outdoor dining areas and how to start one the right way below.

Benefits of Offering Outdoor Dining

Creating an outdoor dining area for your restaurant can boost your success in many ways. They unlock new opportunities and offer more potential to make a profit. Consider the following advantages if you're on the fence about starting one for your business:

• More seating: By expanding your dining area to the outdoors, you can accommodate more customers, ultimately leading to increased revenue for your establishment. However, a patio must feel open and relaxed. Avoid overcrowding the outdoor area with tables to ensure customers enjoy their meals in a comfortable and spacious environment.
• Live entertainment: Having a patio opens up the possibility of hosting live events that enhance the overall dining atmosphere. Invite local bands, host events like trivia and karaoke, and offer outdoor games or activities to keep guests engaged.
• Unique environments: By strategically designing and utilizing your patio space, you can create a dining area that sets your establishment apart. Examples include adding lush greenery, comfortable seating options, or decorative lighting.
• Competitive edge: A patio gives you a unique selling point that sets you apart from competitors, potentially drawing in customers seeking a more relaxed and open-air dining environment.

1. Adhere to Local Patio Laws and Regulations

When designing a patio space for your restaurant or bar, you must adhere to laws or regulations in your area. Failure to comply can result in fines, penalties, and even closure of your establishment. Consider local, state, and federal laws before you finalize the design of your patio. Permits and licenses can vary significantly depending on your location, so it is essential to contact your township to understand expectations. These regulations can change over time, and it is crucial to stay in the loop to avoid legal issues.

• Patio permits: These permits certify that you can serve food outside your establishment.
• Alcohol permits: Liquor licenses are required if you plan to serve alcohol on your patio.
• BYOB laws: If you cannot obtain an alcohol permit, verify whether you can offer BYOB service.
• Utility restrictions: Some localities may have specific rules and regulations regarding electricity and water use for outdoor dining areas.
• Pets: Verify whether your area allows guests to bring their pets to your outdoor space.
• Noise ordinances: Be mindful of noise ordinances that may apply to your establishment, depending on how your location is zoned.

2. Plan Your Restaurant Patio Layout

Clearly defining and planning your patio layout is essential in maximizing its potential. It impacts the way that customers experience your space and plays a significant role in your ability to offer quick, convenient service. However, there isn't one layout that works best for all outdoor dining areas. Be intentional about your design and make the most of the area that is available to you. Consider the details below to ensure your layout makes sense and allows for the best guest experience:

• Functionality: Even if you design an eye-catching patio, it will not succeed if it is not functional. Leave ample room for your staff to maneuver efficiently and ensure that the layout fits seamlessly with your restaurant concept and the foods you cook.
• Comfort: Create an inviting patio that makes your guests and staff comfortable. Design a layout that encourages guests to stay longer, such as providing adequate shade to protect them from the sun and ensuring that tables are spaced correctly for privacy and comfort.
• Overcrowding: Avoid trying to do too much with the space and focus on creating a layout that makes sense given the size of your restaurant. A cluttered patio can detract from the dining experience, so keep the design clean and purposeful.
• Outdoor food and bar service: A full-service patio bar or outdoor cooking area can increase revenue. Leave enough room to accommodate these additional services so your staff can work effectively and efficiently.

3. Keep Weather In Mind

Any restaurant that operates an outdoor dining area will inevitably have to contend with various weather elements. Although you cannot control the weather, you can take steps to mitigate certain factors. Whether in a region prone to heavy rainfall or where temperatures soar, thoughtful planning ensures a comfortable experience for your patrons.

• Wipe down furniture: After a rainstorm, promptly wipe down tables and chairs.
• Invest in patio heaters: Patio heaters enhance guest comfort, particularly during colder months. They keep patrons warm and extend the usability of your outdoor space in winter.
• Invest in patio umbrellas: In sunny locales, safeguard guests from harsh UV rays by investing in patio umbrellas, which provide shade and add a decorative touch to your patio area.
• Install fans: Consider placing fans along the roofline to create a cooling breeze and regulate temperatures during hot weather.
• Develop an evacuation plan: By proactively preparing for weather emergencies, you can ensure the safety and well-being of both your guests and staff.

4. Defend Against Pests

Pests pose a significant threat to the success of your outdoor dining area, and there are more pests to worry about when serving food outdoors. They bother guests, create unsightly distractions, and may cause damage to your equipment and decor. To ensure a pleasant experience, you must prevent, prepare, and react quickly to pest-related issues. Consider taking the steps listed below to ensure a pest-free outdoor dining experience:

• Have a designated trash area: Rodents, flies, and other pests are naturally attracted to garbage, so keep trash far away from your patio area. Regularly emptying and maintaining your trash bins is crucial to preventing pest infestations.
• Keep your space clean: Clearing tables promptly and removing food waste will deter pests from congregating in your outdoor dining area. Regularly sweeping and cleaning the area will also prevent the buildup of debris.
• Maintain proper lawn care: Some animals hide in overgrown grass and landscaping, so keeping up with mowing, trimming, and overall landscape maintenance will make your patio less hospitable to unwanted visitors.
• Hire a pest control service: Professional pest control services can help you identify the root cause of the issue and implement effective solutions to keep pests at bay.
• Utilize pest control equipment: Purchase pest traps, bug zappers, and other appliances to defend against rodents, insects, and other pests.

5. Invest in High-Quality Furniture and Decor

The right furniture and decor will make or break your outdoor dining area, enhancing overall ambiance and comfort. Select furniture that not only fits the theme and aesthetic of your restaurant but is also durable enough to withstand different weather conditions.

• Outdoor restaurant tables: Tables provide a functional surface for guests to dine and enjoy their meals. Choose tables that are sturdy and easy to clean to accommodate varying group sizes.
• Outdoor seating: Offer a comfortable and inviting space for patrons to relax while dining. Opt for seating options that are weather-resistant and easy to maintain.
• Patio umbrellas: Umbrellas provide shade and protect guests from the sun's rays. Invest in umbrellas that are sturdy and large enough to cover seating areas.
• Outdoor lighting: You can get creative with outdoor lighting options to set the mood and enhance your aesthetic.
• Patio heaters: Choose patio heaters that are safe to use outdoors and provide ample warmth for guests to enjoy their meals comfortably.
• Landscaping: Create privacy for guests from the area beyond your dining area and provide a natural barrier with strategic landscaping.
• Decorations: From string lights to outdoor rugs, decorations can help create a welcoming and stylish outdoor dining space.
• Fire pits: An inviting sight for guests as the sun goes down, fire pits can add warmth and ambiance to your patio. Consider adding a fire pit as a focal point for guests to gather and enjoy the outdoor experience.

6. Advertise Your Patio Space

By getting the word out about your patio space, you can attract more people to experience your offerings. There are several strategies you can implement to advertise your patio space effectively.

• Utilize social media: One of the most powerful tools for advertising in today's digital age is social media. Make use of platforms like Instagram and TikTok to showcase your patio space. Create engaging posts highlighting the ambiance, menu offerings, and special features, and encourage customers to share their experiences.
• Create signs: Post a sign outside your establishment to alert passersby that you have a new outdoor dining area. Eye-catching signage can pique the interest of potential customers and entice them to visit your establishment.
• Host events: Consider organizing live events such as live music performances or themed nights to create a lively and entertaining atmosphere.

With careful planning, an outdoor bar or restaurant space will bring in new customers. You'll be able to boost profits, foster a fun and exciting environment, and offer guests a new experience. Adhere to the information above to position your restaurant for success as you design and develop your new outdoor dining area.