We’re in the throes of summer, and that means customers will be seeking out a nice outdoor dining experience. Creating an inviting and comfortable outdoor dining space is sure to encourage more customers to come check out your restaurant. However, there are certain criteria that your outdoor space must meet in order to be a pleasant and desirable spot. Here are the 5 essential steps to a quality outdoor dining area:

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1. Choose Comfortable and Stylish Seating

Comfort is paramount for outdoor dining. Invest in high-quality, weather-resistant furniture that balances comfort and matches your establishment’s style.

Consider these options:

Cushioned Seating: Go for chairs and sofas with removable, washable cushions for convenience.

Diverse Seating Options: Include a mix of seating types like lounge chairs, benches, and traditional dining chairs to cater to diverse customer preferences.

Durable Materials: Select furniture made from materials like teak, metal, or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) that can withstand the outdoor weather.

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2. Ensure Effective Bug Control

Nothing ruins an outdoor dining experience faster than a bunch of mosquito bites. Make sure to implement effective bug control measures to keep your guests comfortable.  

Here are some options:

Citronella Candles and Torches: Strategically place these in fire-safe spots in the dining area to repel mosquitoes.

Bug Zappers: Install electric bug zappers to attract and eliminate various flying insects.

Natural Repellents: Plant naturally insect-repelling herbs like lavender, basil, and mint around the perimeter of the dining area. This doubles as nice décor.  

Regular Maintenance: Keep the area clean and free of standing water, which attracts mosquitoes.

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3. Optimize Lighting for Ambiance and Safety

Good lighting creates a pleasant ambiance in your space and the visibility ensures safety for your guests and staff. Consider the following lighting solutions:

String Lights: Hang string lights in fun ways around the space. Warm toned lighting is recommended.  

Pathway Lights: Install lights along walkways to guide people safely to and from the dining area.

Table Lanterns: Place battery-operated or solar-powered lanterns and/or electric candles on tables for soft, intimate lighting.

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4. Provide Adequate Shade and Weather Protection

Weather can be unpredictable, so it's essential to provide adequate shade and protection so that guests can sit there no matter the conditions:

Umbrellas and Canopies: Use large umbrellas or retractable canopies to cover guests from the sun and light rain.

Pergolas and Gazebos: Install permanent structures like pergolas or gazebos for more substantial protection. It is more pricey, but it looks unique and adds interest.

Heaters and Fans: Equip your space with heaters for cooler months and fans for warm weather to ensure year-round comfort.

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5. Create a Lush, Green Environment

Incorporating greenery can significantly enhance appeal, making the space more inviting and relaxing:

Potted Plants and Flowers: Arrange potted plants and flowers around the dining area for nice pops of color.

Vertical Gardens: Vertical gardens maximize space and create a natural backdrop.

Herb Gardens: Cultivate an herb garden that can be used in your dishes, giving your restaurant a farm-to-table vibe.

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Crafting a desirable outdoor dining space requires comfort, ambiance, and practicality. By investing in comfortable seating, implementing effective bug control, optimizing lighting, providing adequate weather protection, and creative use for plants, you can bring tons of customers in to enjoy your lovely outdoor dining space.

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