What if setting up and organizing your patio this summer could help you earn a lot more money? Proof? Adding an outdoor patio to your restaurant in the summer can increase your gross profit by 65%, depending on how much you invest in it (source: ideesdefrance.fr). So, investing 200,000 euros in an outdoor dining area could generate a gross profit of 500,000 euros…
So, what are the benefits of having a patio when you own a restaurant?
- Let your customers enjoy the nice summer weather while eating their meals in the sun.
- Increase your seating capacity and the number of seats.
- Attract a different clientele from those who prefer to eat inside & stand out from your competition.
- Create a relaxing, friendly, and festive atmosphere: you can add outdoor decorations, lighting, and music to create a pleasant and relaxed vibe.
So, check out all our tips in this article to get your patio ready for this summer!
#1 Create an attractive space
Lighting that's right for the evening, a chance to be out of the sun for those who want it, nice decorations (cushions, candles, plants, etc.), music that's chill, effective protection against mosquitoes with natural products, free Wi-Fi... Think about every detail so your customers have a great experience at your place.
Of course, such a peaceful (or party!) haven shouldn't be a secret. Share photos on all your channels: social media, website, different online directories... Make new customers dream and share the positive reviews from your regulars.
#2 Offer a table reservation module
We know from experience that it takes much longer to take a reservation by phone than online. Often, you have to call several times to get someone on the line. Young people don't like to call; there are even mishaps: the server misspelled your name and can't find you on the reservation list, it's busy and your staff is less friendly on the phone…
In short, making it easier to book allows you to save valuable time, which you can then use to serve your customers! No need for an employee to be dedicated to taking reservations, no more slip-ups – check out our commission-free online booking module that integrates with Google Widget.
#3 Go for tableside payments and boost your table turnover
It's summer and your restaurant is packed! How do you speed up your service? Offer your customers tableside payments and save time with our app! Your customers can pay straight at the table by scanning their QR code at the end of their meal using their mobile. They can pay by credit card, split the bill, and even leave a tip. This improves the customer experience: no more waiting, they feel free to enjoy their time in your restaurant without pressure.
#4 Equip your servers with handheld devices
Super powerful, durable, and lightweight handheld devices that allow your staff to be mobile, more independent, and responsive; especially during peak hours – between the patio and indoors! Orders are processed in real-time and sent directly to the kitchen, so dishes are ready faster. Order taking and payment are done on the same device. The POS terminal accepts traditional and non-traditional payments: cash, chip and PIN cards, with or without signature, contactless, QR codes, etc.
Discover your handheld device here
#5 Encourage digital tipping, leading to more attractive compensation for your servers
In summer, it's all about sunshine, warmth, a summer vibe, and vacations! Customers are more likely to tip when they're happy with the service! Contactless payments and mobile payment apps are increasingly popular. Customers often prefer using their phones to pay for their meal rather than taking out their wallets and using cash (if they even have any!). Digital tips are therefore increasingly popular in the summer and give restaurant servers more attractive compensation.
#6 Offer a 'special summer' menu
Fresh & seasonal products are what all customers want! When the sun is shining and it's hot, your customers expect freshness on their plates.
What are the top food trends in 2023? Plant-based options: products without animal proteins (to suit everyone's dietary habits); organic, local, and minimally processed products: less sugar, fat, salt, and fewer additives. But be careful! According to a Kantar study, 71% of French people associate the contents of their plates with pleasure; so you need to be inventive when creating your menu... Tasty food without sacrificing the healthy trend: customers are looking for homemade products, with real transparency regarding the quality and origin of the ingredients in their dishes.
The best part? A digital menu! This way, as soon as your customers are seated, they can access the menu and choose their dishes independently. The digital menu comes in the form of a QR code, placed on the table, synchronized with your menu.
In conclusion, filling your restaurant's patio in the summer can be a great way to attract people to your establishment and increase your revenue. But be careful! Before you start setting up your patio, you need to get permission from the town hall to occupy the public space with your furniture. Also, make sure you respect pedestrians' rights by not blocking their passage and only using the space you're allowed. If you want to expand your patio or carry out work, remember to submit a special request to the town hall. Finally, don't forget that service on the patio requires special attention to food safety and parking!
