Patio dining can add up to 65 per cent in sales to your operations, so extending patio season as long as you can just makes sense. While the weather can certainly be a factor, depending on your setup, there are a few steps you can take to lengthen the life of your patio.

Ambiance

Cooler nights call for cozy ambiance and staying warm. Adding patio heaters, firepits, or even offering throw blankets to your guests can encourage them to brave the cooler weather. As well, if your summer furniture is metal, switching it out or adding comfortable covers can make your outdoor seating more fall-friendly. Adding lighting may also be something to consider as it gets darker earlier, to add visibility and create the atmosphere you want on your patio. For a seasonal touch, feature fall flowers to add colour and an inviting fall feel for your guests.

Menu

Serving warm food and drinks with a seasonal menu will get guests in the mood for fall, while still dining al fresco. Consider some comfort food favourites that feature fall’s bounty like butternut squash ravioli, pumpkin chili, pork chops with apples, and more. Adding a seasonal element to your menu gives guests a new take on your dishes, features fresh flavours, and keeps them warm while they continue to enjoy outdoor dining.

Experience

Entice guests to enjoy colder temps by offering them a unique dining experience. Consider adding a live entertainment night, hosting events, creating LTOs just for patio guests, and more. Making your patio the place to be means getting creative to offer a dining experience guests want to try – and to tell their friends about. Once you have a concept, make sure to promote it on social media, encouraging your guests to do the same. As many patios will be closing in the fall, focus on spreading the word that you’re offering an experience that diners won’t want to miss.

Seasonality

Winter dining globes have gained popularity in recent years, so you may even be able to winterize your patio and use it all year long. Adding weather-proof panels, along with warming stations, separate access, and more, may mean you can maximize your margins with patio dining through the winter months, too.

Summer’s not over yet but finding a way to keep guests comfortable on the patio as temperatures drop will keep those seats full and your revenues rising through the fall season.