By Evelyn Long
Warm weather in Canada typically feels so scarce throughout the year, so when it arrives, we rush to spend as much time in the heat as possible. For restaurants, this can mean seeing more business from both locals and tourists, packed patios, and seasonal menus to help draw in a crowd. Is your restaurant set up for a successful summer rush?
The summer rush
Warm weather brings in more restaurant business. Last year, the Restaurants Canada restaurant dining index rose to 94.2 in July, up from 92.6 the previous month. It was the highest level recorded in 2025 at the time, steadily rising for the third consecutive month.
That said, restaurant owners should remain vigilant, as overall visits are still slightly lower than in 2024. Plus, 42 per cent of Canadians also reported reducing restaurant visits due to budget constraints and rising costs. Taking a thoughtful approach to your restaurant’s dining experience can determine whether someone makes the trip to visit.
From a design perspective, the stakes are a little higher when the weather heats up and the traffic increases. The summer sun can be harsh, causing discomfort for your guests and damage to your outdoor furniture. Plus, if the restaurant’s design and service aren’t up to par, it could discourage repeat visits and incite bad reviews that could taint your reputation.
Ways to prepare for the customers and heat
To maximize the pros and eliminate the cons, operators need to be as prepared as possible. The general rule is that restaurants need to showcase business personality while staying practical.
Playgrounds attract families: Indoor or outdoor, a playground makes a fun and unique addition to any restaurant, giving kids an attraction and parents some free time. If it’s an outdoor structure, it’s important to provide some shade to protect both the play equipment from overheating and the kids from sun exposure.
There are a variety of great sources for shade structures for playgrounds that reduce temperatures by up to 25°C so kids can beat the heat, too. You can even customize the overall structure for optimal functionality and aesthetic compatibility, but take a strategic approach, considering factors like compliance, hygiene, maintenance, and noise management when adding a play structure to your restaurant.
Retractable awnings benefit outdoor dining: Your outdoor space needs to be flexible, taking weather changes into account. Installing retractable awnings can help your restaurant adapt to sunnier days when needed, adding a desirable space for guests looking for fresh air that’s out of the direct sun. Used as a décor feature, it can also enhance the overall look of your establishment.
To keep it local, look for Canadian manufacturers that offer custom retractable awnings, perfect for commercial patios and outdoor dining areas. Many use solution-dyed marine-grade acrylic fabrics and other quality materials for a sturdy, beautiful addition.
Strategic lighting adds ambiance: Make your restaurant as enticing and welcoming as possible – even after the sun sets – with strategic lighting, inside and out. Incorporating the right fixtures for your space to create a comfortable ambiance makes summer nights extra enjoyable for diners. You may want to include dimmable, motion, or movable fixtures so you can make adjustments when needed.
Many manufacturers offer modern, energy-efficient LED options for commercial spaces, some that include modular recessed lighting that can be moved and configured for the best indoor and outdoor lighting.
Weather-resistant furniture is a must: If your outdoor furniture is showing signs of wear and tear, it may be time for an upgrade. Furniture that is an eyesore, not fully functional, or uncomfortable, can discourage guests visits. Investing in commercial-grade tables and chairs that can handle high traffic and unpredictable weather will allow guests to enjoy their dining experience while providing operators peace of mind.
Look for for stylish and resilient commercial outdoor furniture that suits your brand, design, and layout, which keeping functionality and accessibility in mind.
Decorate with modern planters: Make outdoor dining even more special with a nature-based design, adding flowers and plants to make your space seem warmer, greener, and more accommodating. Seek out durable, weather-resistant options that fit your space and provide an atmosphere your outdoor guests will enjoy. If you are planting real greenery, think about minimal scent that does not interfere with scents from the kitchen. Also think about functionality – many plants like marigolds offer bug deterrent properties, which could help enhance the guest experience.
Enhance tranquility with water features: Fixtures like water walls can enhance the natural theme of your restaurant, add natural background noise, and add an elegant feel to your restaurant. From room dividers to glass waterfalls, choose an option that fits your restaurant’s style.
Use seasonal tableware: Food presentation is an important part of a guest’s dining experience, so consider swapping out your usual tableware for more stylish and colourful dinner plates this summer. Choose fun seasonal colours and textures for a seasonal vibe. Consider functionality, too. Does your restaurant offer share plates or boards? Choose options that reflect your menu along with your brand.
Stay summer-ready
Once your design is complete, there are a couple of extra steps you can take to make sure your restaurant stays ready for the rush all summer long:
Stock up on water supplies: The warmer weather means more hydration, so whether you offer bottled water or water in jugs, ensure that you are fully stocked up through the season.
Curate a summer menu: Staying seasonal means being able to offer local options, helping your guests experience both Canadian produce and local producers. Changing your menu up seasonally can also help generate interest and encourage repeat visits throughout the season.
Service your equipment: Ensure your ventilation system is working so your indoor space stays cool for guests. Don’t forget refrigeration equipment, ice machines, and any outdoor coolers that will work extra hard when the hottest weather arrives. You don’t want equipment failure during the busiest season that could detract from your guests’ experience, create unexpected costs, or put pressure on your labour.
Summer typically brings in more guests, so operators need to start the season with a design that helps them succeed. From adding shade to sprucing up your decor, create a strategy that allows you to make the most out of the summer months.
Evelyn Long is a leader in accessible and inclusive interior design for commercial spaces. Her expertise is featured in publications like I+S and Facility Executive, where she shares insights on creating environments that cater to all users. As Editor-in-Chief of Renovated Magazine, Evelyn champions innovative and thoughtful design solutions that prioritize inclusivity and functionality.
