In many states and cities, outdoor dining is making a comeback long before the return of indoor seating. Even in regions where indoor seating is allowed, customers often still feel safer enjoying their meals outside.

 

Some local governments are working with restaurants to allow them to operate on sidewalks or

in parking lots, which gives restaurants that previously didn’t offer outdoor seating the chance to

legally and safely rework their businesses. Although this provides many restaurants with an

exciting chance to create a fun outdoor dining experience, it also comes with a unique set of

challenges, especially as the weather heats up.

 

Whether you’ve been operating a thriving outdoor business for years, or are offering outdoor

seating for the first time, a few simple tips can help you keep customers happy, comfortable,

and safe.

 

One of the most challenging things about serving customers outdoors is the weather. With

temperatures climbing, it’s important to consider investing in a few key tools to keep diners cool.

Awnings are a great choice to cover patios, but if you need a more flexible option, umbrellas can

help keep tables protected from the heat and glare of the sun. When purchasing umbrellas,

choosing an option that is designed for commercial use and has safety features such as built-in

wind vents can help reduce the risk of an umbrella falling and injuring someone.

 

This model comes in a variety of colors and tilts to provide shade throughout the day.

In some climates, shade isn’t enough to protect customers from summer temperatures. Placing

fans around your outdoor dining area can provide a pleasant breeze, and installing misters

provides an effective way for customers to cool down. To save space and to reduce the chance

of running into logistical issues, you can consolidate these two items by purchasing a

 

Pet owners are often drawn to restaurants that allow them to bring their furry companions.

Allowing dogs on your patio is a great way to attract customers and bring energy and vibrancy

to your outdoor space. Customers will appreciate it if you provide a comfortable experience for

their pooches as well, and providing bowls of water and even dog treats are both small steps

that can make a big impact. These disposable water bowls are inexpensive, biodegradable, and

leakproof.

 

Luckily, new technology is making outdoor dining easier and simpler for restaurant owners. The

world is becoming increasingly reliant on utilizing technology for contactless ordering for both

safety and efficiency reasons. Using a system such as Adora’s QR Code Ordering streamlines

the ordering process for your customers, your front of house staff, and your kitchen. This feature

allows customers to take a picture of a custom QR code and place their order from their phone!

The order is sent directly to the kitchen, and servers simply deliver the food when it’s ready. This

feature not only reduces contact between customers and staff, but it also saves time. As staff

must now dedicate an increased amount of time and energy towards following and maintaining

safety protocols, using Adora’s QR code can help your business adjust to a new workflow.

 

Properly training your staff will ensure they are able to effectively handle the new challenges

presented by outdoor dining. Develop protocols and train your staff on what to do in a variety of

situations such as an unexpected storm. Emphasizing simple steps of service such as staying

on top of providing guests with cold water at all times, can also help ensure your staff are able

to provide customers with the best possible experience. Keeping your outdoor staff comfortable

during the hot summer months is also crucial, and their comfort should be kept in mind when

selecting uniforms or enforcing dress codes.

 

Choosing the proper tools to keep customers protected from the elements, training your staff on

how to provide the best outdoor experience, and taking advantage of helpful technology will all

help your outdoor business succeed. At the end of the day, the most important thing to

remember is that outdoor dining is fun, and restaurant owners should look at it as a chance to

provide their customers with a positive and happy dining experience.