Many diners prefer al fresco spaces because of their comfortable seating and open atmosphere. In many cases, elegant tablescapes and extra amenities like live band sessions bump up the al fresco experience. Because of this, al fresco has been one of the go-to dining options today.
Setting up an al fresco space is an excellent idea if you own a restaurant. It won’t just revamp your environment but also provide your customers with various options, enhancing your marketing strategy.
Suppose you’re interested in setting up an al fresco space. In that case, consider reading this article for how to set up one. So, keep on reading!
1. Choose An Al Fresco Dining Type
If you’re considering adding an al fresco space in your restaurant, check first the available area in your business. After determining the space you’ll utilize, you may choose among the following types:
Sidewalk Seating
This type is appropriate if you’re situated near a sidewalk or road. Primarily, sidewalk al fresco requires a sheltered space where you can set up tables and chairs.
For this purpose, you can install outdoor dining tents and similar covered structures. What’s good about this option is that you can move them anywhere around the restaurant or keep them if you decide to vacate the al fresco space.
Rooftop Dining
If your restaurant has a terrace or rooftop space, you can set up an al fresco area on top of it. You may install tents or cottages as the area is spacious enough for these structures. You may also install long tables on the terrace’s sides where the food and other comforts will be set up.
Patio Dining
If your restaurant is situated near a bustling street, patio dining al fresco may be good to consider. This option may also need extra covered space or just some dining tables and chairs where passers-by can sit and enjoy their al fresco meals.
You can get creative with your al fresco seating as long as you have ample space for it.
2. Complete The Furniture
After choosing the type of al fresco space for your restaurant, you can start buying the furniture needed in the area. You may start with the dining tables and chairs. In choosing them, consider first their durability.
You won’t want a piece of furniture that needs repeated repairs after paying for them. Minimizing repairs is one way to keep your small business thriving. For this purpose, choose durable and low-maintenance chairs you could use for outdoor dining.
Opt for weather-proof materials that are easy to clean and maintain. Apart from the main dining tables, you may also add long side tables where you can place your utensils, fruits, and other necessities.
If the outdoor space is narrow, you may install floating or hanging shelves instead of side tables. In addition, you must choose outdoor furniture that doesn’t lose its luster quickly.
In other words, pick furniture pieces with long-lasting features and colors. Lastly, install furniture that requires minimal maintenance and cleaning.
3. Add Appropriate Lighting
Adding the type of lighting to your al fresco space is necessary to make the most of the ambiance and illumination. If you think you’d fall short of ideas about these types, check the following:
Ambient Lighting
This refers to the general lighting. It doesn’t need to be the brightest but may need to cover a wider area. For this purpose, you can install wall and hanging lights.
Task Lighting
This type is appropriate for al fresco spaces, such as an outdoor kitchen or countertops where dishes are prepared. For this purpose, you may set up LED downlights or strips.
Accent Lighting
In many cases, accent lighting complements the primary lights to improve a space’s aesthetics. For this purpose, you may install high hall wall lights or low-glare uplights.
You don’t have to go overboard here – placing key light fixtures in strategic areas can brighten up your al fresco space. Make sure your diners can see their food well and maybe snap a photo or two to share on social media.
4. Explore Themes
In considering the theme of your al fresco space, you may choose between sticking to the current theme of your restaurant or tweaking a little by selecting a different motif.
You may revamp the walls or re-stylize the floors. In these options, you must consider the color you wish to stand out and the materials you plan to be prominent.
Wrapping Up
Setting up an al fresco space in one’s restaurant is indeed challenging. Careful planning is vital to make good use of the al fresco space and install the necessities that’d make the most of the area.
Suppose you’re planning to add an al fresco space to your restaurant. In that case, refer to this article and consider the insights this write-up offers.
