What Makes a Restaurant Attractive?
As an avid food lover, I am constantly searching for compelling restaurants to satisfy my cravings as well as my curiosity. My food is my adventure, I like to try new dishes but mostly I like to enjoy them in a satisfying setting with an enjoyable atmosphere. So in this article, my aim is to get the message across to restaurant owners or prospective owners about what makes an attractive setting for diners.
1. Cleanliness - I am mentioning this first because it is what is most important. Good hygiene in areas where food is prepared and served is a definite must. From the actual food to the dishes and table settings - all of it should be clean at all times. At the first sign of a dirty fork, it assured that you have made your customer uncomfortable.
2. Be creative - Original themes and décor are one of the biggest attractions in the restaurant business, often more so than the food served. Put a lot of thought into how your restaurant is decorated and do your research into colour schemes and items that would make your target audience feel relaxed and inspired.
3. Be original - From the dishes you serve to the toilet facilities -think out of the box! Customers will always remember a uniquely presented dish or accessories and displays that are on offer. Even the way the condiments on the table are displayed can impress someone! I just love orignal restaurants!
4. Ambience - this is key. Use candles or dimmed lights to offer a romantic or calm setting for evening meals. If it is a beautiful day outside, open the windows and let the sunshine in. Classical music in the background always ignites a relaxing vibe.
5. Service - yup, good old service. Please make sure your staff is presentable, clear in speech and friendly. Not only are they guaranteed a big tip but they are perfect ambassadors to your restaurant. I know plenty of people who return to restaurants so that they can be served by a certain waiter. I understand that like with most things, mistakes are made, but try your hardest not to make them when getting orders right and implementing other restaurant processes - and if you do, make it up to the customer.
These concepts might all seem obvious, but you would be surprised at some of the ignorant restaurants I have come across. Make an effort and your customers will make the effort to join you in a meal. All of the points I listed are important and necessary, but if you want to go the extra mile I suggest you put a lot of thought into the originality of your restaurant.
