Summer is almost in full swing, and restaurants are gearing up to make the most of their outdoor patios. With the busy season upon us, now is the perfect time to ensure your patio is running at its peak efficiency! ☀️
In this blog post, we share the significance of patio upkeep and strategy, and provide you with valuable insights and a tangible checklist to ensure your patio continues to thrive during the bustling summer months!
Don’t miss our helpful & handy Summer Patio Checklist PDF download at the bottom of this post 👀
Why Patio Upkeep and Strategy Matter
1) Expanding Seating Capacity:
A patio offers an opportunity to increase your restaurant's seating capacity, accommodating more guests and therefore generating higher revenues. By properly maintaining and utilizing your patio space, you’ll be able to optimize the number of diners you can serve — which means more sales 🤑
2) Enhanced Customer Experience:
Outdoor dining has become increasingly popular. A well-maintained patio provides a delightful ambiance, allowing your guests to enjoy their meals in a relaxed, enjoyable, and comfortable setting. This positive experience can lead to customer loyalty, repeat visits, and positive word-of-mouth referrals 🧡
3) Increased Revenue Potential:
A successful patio can significantly contribute to your restaurant's bottom line. By leveraging your outdoor space effectively, you can generate additional revenue from both regular customers and new patrons who are drawn to the outdoor experience. The potential for increased revenue during the busy season is substantial! 📈
Best Practices for Patio Upkeep and Strategy
1) Regular Maintenance:
- Clean and sanitize patio furniture, umbrellas, and fixtures to ensure they are in excellent condition.
- Regularly sweep and hose down the patio area to keep it clean and free of debris.
- Inspect and repair any damages promptly to ensure the safety and comfort of your guests.
2) Optimal Seating Arrangements:
- Strategically plan the layout of your patio to maximize seating capacity while maintaining a comfortable and spacious atmosphere.
- Consider using various seating options such as tables for larger groups, cozy seating areas for couples, and bar seating for solo diners.
- Provide shade options like umbrellas or canopies to shield guests from direct sunlight and adverse weather conditions.
3) Efficient Staffing and Service:
- Adequately train your staff to handle the unique challenges and demands of serving guests on the patio.
- Ensure efficient communication between the kitchen and patio staff to minimize service delays.
- Implement systems for regular check-ins with patio guests to maintain high levels of customer satisfaction.
4) Weather Considerations:
- Monitor weather forecasts to anticipate changes and be prepared with appropriate responses, such as umbrellas or heaters.
- Establish a clear policy for patio closure during extreme weather conditions to protect the safety and comfort of guests and staff.
By prioritizing patio upkeep and implementing effective strategies, restaurant operators and managers can capitalize on the advantages of outdoor dining during the busy season. A well-maintained and strategically managed patio can expand seating capacity, enhance the customer experience, and ultimately contribute to increased revenue. By following these best practices, you can ensure that your patio runs effectively, providing your guests with a memorable and enjoyable dining experience 🙌
If you’re a restaurant operator or manager who needs some assistance with your patio setup or ongoing maintenance, ResQ’s got your back. Check out our handy printable / editable PDF checklist — all the necessary patio tips & tricks in one easy-to-use sheet 👇. From setting up ongoing maintenance plans, such as power washing, to the initial landscaping installation, ResQ has certified vendors ready to service your patio ASAP!
