As the weather continues to improve, patios are on most Canadians’ minds. But before patio season officially kicks off, you may need to refresh your outdoor space. Patio season can be a crucial component of your seasonal sales, with the potential to add up to 65 per cent more revenue for your restaurant, so plan for a successful seasonal launch.
From spring cleaning to re-designing, you can prepare your patio for this season’s traffic with a few simple steps:
- Start by assessing your furniture, lighting, and umbrellas to ensure they are in good working order. Clean them thoroughly before setting up and repair or replace them wherever necessary.
- If you are opening your patio early in the season, there may still be a chill in the air. Consider bonfires or heaters to help keep guests comfortable while still enjoying outdoor dining.
- Once frost is no longer a risk, populate your patio with plants. The greenery adds privacy and a fresh ambiance for guests. If you have gardens, consider adding plants like lavender or marigolds that deter bugs and help keep your patio pest-free.
- Think about your lighting. Is it still getting dark earlier than it will in the summer months? Consider timers, sensors, and mood lighting to make the space functional while creating the mood you’re looking for.
- Update your menu. Whether you are updating all menus or simply adding a designated patio menu, look at featuring seasonal ingredients and dishes to help generate excitement for our patio experience.
- Get creative and attract guests with planned events, themed menus, happy hours, and more to fill the tables in the space.
- Prepare for spring’s unpredictable conditions by watching the weather and closing the patio, making staffing adjustments, or providing flexibility for guests wanting to transfer indoors.
- Don’t forget to staff for that space. If you need to increase your team to accommodate your outdoor space, plan ahead and leave enough time to hire the staff you need to serve those guests.
Start patio season on a successful note with a strategy that will see you through until fall arrives.
