Rules for Successful Outdoor Dining

The types of al fresco dining environments are diverse, each with its own unique requirements. Is your location suitable for outdoor seating? Considerations such as what can be seen and who can see your patio area are key factors when choosing the right space for your restaurant's outdoor dining.

Simply arranging patio furniture doesn’t necessarily entice guests to dine outdoors. Do your customers prefer to eat al fresco, or would they rather enjoy a more private, quiet indoor experience? What is the ideal outdoor setting for enjoying a meal or a drink? Additionally, vacant patio tables and chairs may not communicate the inviting atmosphere you intend, so it's important to curate a welcoming and vibrant outdoor space.

Outdoor dining areas have specific factors that must be considered in patio design and layout. While some design considerations are standard for any dining space, such as the proper placement and spacing of restaurant tables and chairs to ensure smooth traffic flow for both guests and wait staff, outdoor spaces come with their own set of unique requirements:

• Doorways to the building’s exterior must be easily navigable for smooth transitions between indoor and outdoor areas.
• Simple signage, such as Patio Open, should be displayed to clearly indicate that the outdoor dining area is open for business.
• All outdoor furniture and items must be set up each day and removed into off-street storage at night to protect them from weather conditions.
• Commercial outdoor furniture, signage, lighting, and decorations may be fixed to the floors or walls to ensure stability.
• All furniture and items should be designed to withstand high winds, particularly in outdoor spaces with uneven floors.
• There should be adequate shading and weather protection to ensure comfort during varying conditions.
• Patio furniture must be waterproof, UV-resistant, and stackable to ensure longevity and ease of storage.
• Consider providing outdoor heaters and/or fans to improve guest comfort during cooler or warmer weather.

There are several contributing exterior design elements that can make your patio space more attractive and inviting to guests. One of the most effective is the use of greenery. A space adorned with lush foliage can significantly enhance the alfresco dining experience, creating a relaxing environment when combined with great food and pleasant weather. This effect can be easily achieved by incorporating plants in pots or allowing climbing plants to grow around a pergola. Greenery not only elevates the aesthetics of your patio but also entices more guests. Planters with foliage can provide privacy between dining areas, while miniature trees lend an air of refinement to any outdoor space.

Lighting design above your patio seating area is another critical factor in attracting customers. Although lighting may sometimes be considered an afterthought, it is essential in setting the right ambiance for your outdoor space. Poor lighting can result in some tables being overly lit, while others remain in shadow, which can negatively impact the dining experience. Thoughtfully designed lighting can highlight the architectural features of your restaurant, draw attention to signage, and accentuate other decorative elements. Lanterns and string lights can create a warm, romantic atmosphere. Additionally, outdoor lighting serves as a security measure, helping to deter break-ins and robberies when the restaurant is closed.

As with any legally operated business, there are laws and regulations that you must comply with both inside and outside the four walls of your restaurant. While these regulations can vary by state, here are some common requirements you should be aware of:

• Smoking - Many municipalities have enacted laws for smoke-free outdoor dining areas, while others may restrict smoking to specific sections of outdoor spaces. Learn more about these regulations here.
• Pets - Generally, pets are not allowed indoors. However, dogs (or other pets) may be permitted in outdoor patio areas, provided certain requirements are met.
• Open-Air Kitchens - While outdoor dining is generally allowed, the same health and safety regulations that apply to indoor restaurant kitchens must also be followed for outdoor kitchens if you choose to add one.
• Patio Bars/Outdoor Alcohol Service Areas - Outdoor dining areas such as patios, decks, rooftops, and sidewalk cafes must be enclosed with a 42" high barrier. Additionally, a liquor license application is required for alcohol service in these areas.