Want to know how to create the right restaurant atmosphere?
You will have to take into consideration the kind of area your restaurant, cafe or coffee shop is based on when you are thinking about the atmosphere you want to project. Are you in an area where your customers will predominately be shoppers or business people?
If you have competition based in the same area you will also have to offer something quite different. The general atmosphere of your food outlet should be appealing to your customers and to you. If you don’t feel comfortable in the shop, your customers certainly won’t.
The following are all important aspects to consider when you are creating a unique and appealing atmosphere for your restaurant, cafe or coffee shop:
Lighting
Good lighting is essential but avoid harsh fluorescent lights which can cause headaches. Instead choose soft lighting which is bright enough to read by but gives a warm, cosy feel. Also good natural light from windows is great.
Music
Pleasant background music can enhance the atmosphere of a food outlet. Invest in a good music system, but don’t play the music too loudly as customers will complain if they are unable to carry on a conversation. Remember, if you decide to play recorded music you will have to obtain a license.
Furnishings
Whichever kind of atmosphere you are aiming for, your restaurant, cafe or coffee shop must be a warm and inviting place where people can relax in comfort.
If it is in the style of an ‘olde worlde’ teashop, pretty tablecloths and matching curtains would help to create a traditional look, but make sure they also complement your colour scheme.
If your food outlet has a more contemporary feel you might prefer modern blinds and either wooden or glass-topped tables and some stainless steel.
No matter what type of tables you choose, whether they are glass tops, wooden or laminate, make sure that they are easy to clean and fit in with the rest of your decor.
Comfortable chairs are a must. I always think high bar stools are really uncomfortable and I would always avoid them when possible.
Some attractive pictures on the walls and a few large plants will add the finishing touches to your food outlet.
Flooring
Think carefully when you are buying flooring for the sitting area in your restaurant, cafe or coffee shop; there are many types on the market now. You should choose something that is hard-wearing and easy to keep clean because you are bound to have some spillage.
Create the right restaurant atmosphere
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