Outdoor dining spaces allow foodservice operators to easily expand seating capacity and offer customers the option to enjoy nice weather along with their meal.
The beauty of the outdoor dining experience is the connection to nature for customers and, for operators, utilizing the eating establishment’s exterior space for additional seating.
Patio seating that is both appealing and functional offers adequate space between tables for seamless service, some protection from the elements, and comfortable seating. It can enhance the visit, making it memorable to encourage repeat business.
When specifying patio and outdoor dining spaces, obviously budget is a key concern, but effective space planning is also essential. What will the space encompass? There may need to be a separate lounge or bar area along with tables and seating.
The climate also needs to be considered. Will the space be used seasonally or all year? Also, look at how much space can be allocated to outdoor dining and consider what forms of protection from the elements may need to be included. Separation between tables, the street and/or parking lot also are key concerns.
The type of operation, whether fast casual, quick service or white tablecloth, will directly impact outdoor dining areas’ decor and branding requirements. Room should also be allocated for server support areas, such as bussing and beverage stations.
Functionality Factors
Looking at logistics, patios and outdoor dining spaces are best located near the indoor dining room and, if possible, the back of house. This ensures waiters and staff can easily cater to indoor and outdoor guests with minimal steps required.
By the same token, storage and access of support items, such as backup silverware, plates, napkins, water pitchers and condiments, are also a consideration. If there is outdoor cooking on a grill or with a smoker, this presents other challenges, such as equipment placement and adherence to local codes.
Ambiance is another aspect to take into account. For this reason, outside factors, such as noise, should be considered. Separation with screens, temporary walls or planters offers acoustical benefits.
Furniture, upholstery and other decorative elements are susceptible to the outside elements, so durability should be a deciding factor when specifying these spaces.
For longevity, all patio components should be rated for commercial and outdoor use. Keep in mind that higher altitudes equal stronger sunlight, which can damage, fade and heat up some materials.
Furnishing Spaces
In looking at the appearance of outdoor dining spaces, the style should emulate or complement the indoor dining area’s design. The brand should remain both
cohesive and seamless, so the dining experience is similar whether outside or indoors.
Outdoor furnishings not only reinforce a concept’s brand but also can serve as a form of marketing. Bright colors, large umbrellas and additional signage in these spaces can help draw in customers off the street. The more inviting and finished the patio area is, the more successful it will be in garnering attention and creating a great dining experience.
When specifying, look at different patio layouts to see which setup is not only comfortable for guests and convenient for staff but also efficient for speed of service. It’s recommended not to crowd too many tables and seating areas in this space, otherwise functionality may be put at risk. Orienting table heights allows diners to either take advantage or obscure the surroundings.
Outdoor furniture is available in a wide range of designs as well as formats. For larger parties, bench seating and long tables are best, while smaller tables provide intimate seating for couples.
These days, less formal outdoor environments are taking on a rustic feel. For example, the DIY look has become more widespread in casual settings with picnic table style seating, industrial decor and farm elements as part of the theme.
Square tabletops are currently trending since this type offers more versatility. Unlike round versions, square tables can be easily pushed together, expanding seating for larger groups. This type also doesn’t have a pedestal that may interfere with leg room. Banquettes are another option to accommodate larger parties. If space allows, it also is recommended that chairs include arms for increased comfort.
Securing outdoor furniture is another consideration. Will it be taken inside and stored during off hours or chained up outside when not in use? It is important to decide how this will be handled to make sure items are not damaged or stolen.
Furniture that is not kept up can make an outdoor dining area unappealing. Cleanability and maintenance should be top of mind since patio furniture will undergo more excessive wear and tear due to the weather. Special attention needs to be given to patios located by the sea as they will be negatively impacted by salt water.
Materials and Decor
Although the design may emulate the indoor dining aesthetic, the outdoor space can be distinguished or set apart with unique materials and color schemes that are on brand.
Outdoor furniture finishes are specifically designed to withstand the elements, such as UV rays, extreme temperatures and moisture. The destructive impact of salty sea air, which causes corrosion and rust on steel and cast iron surfaces, is often overlooked.
Wrought iron and high-end stone benches and tables are durable and best used in traditional patio spaces, while metal materials and modern seating with darker colors give more of a city vibe. Lighter metal won’t get as hot in the sun as opposed to black or dark hues.
Powder coated steel or aluminum can withstand the elements and ensure many seasons of use. Also, material that incorporates recycled plastic lumber is manufactured with UV inhibitors and is low maintenance. Recycled plastic is often incorporated into the design of products, and it is also extremely durable and low maintenance.
Wood furniture provides a long service life and goes with any decor. The type used on outdoor patios is typically redwood or Indonesian hardwood that is treated and protected. Some wood, such as walnut or plywood, is not well suited for these areas. Note that some wood types, such as teak, require additional maintenance as it needs to be oiled every few months. Because wood appearance changes over time when in the elements, providing operators with samples of starting quality versus weathered versions is helpful to see the differences.
Casual setups work well with wicker furniture, which is both durable and lightweight for easy moving. Vinyl wicker substitutes, tubing or wire that is wrapped around the furniture, stands up well to weather and humidity.
Alternative materials such as faux wood and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) are robust and durable. These offer a longer service life and are good choices for inclement weather.
Outdoor furniture is differentiated by its weight, which should be light enough for easy moving and stacking but heavy enough to withstand strong winds. In addition, when choosing outdoor seating, stability is a consideration. Operators don’t want to prop a table that wobbles, so a durable base that can be easily adjusted as needed works best.
When specifying furniture, consider whether cushions or upholstery will be included. Because it can be labor intensive to bring removable cushions inside every night, operators may prefer a woven seat back and/or seat.
Understanding what flooring or landscaping will be used helps coordinate the furniture and other components. Pavers can be difficult when attempting to stabilize chair and table legs. Also, gravel material is unstable and doesn’t work well with pointed legs.
For color schemes, grey and bright colors go well together, while warm, earthy tones like brown and green can make a space more inviting. Black and white is a classic color scheme.
Comfort Qualities
Outdoor furniture doesn’t require the same level of comfort as pieces used for indoor dining. These components also tend to be more casual in terms of aesthetics.
These seating areas are more functional when guests are protected from various types of weather. Weather protection is also an issue even when the restaurant is closed to prevent potential damage to the property.
In addition to protecting guests from the weather, it is essential to offer ample shade for a comfortable meal. While sunshine is a beautiful aspect of dining outdoors, shade helps provide protection from the heat to increase comfort while dining.
Many outdoor restaurants use different shade structures when creating an outdoor restaurant design plan. Shade structures also provide added architectural value to these spaces. High quality umbrellas can easily be moved around to provide shade where needed. Surface mounted and cantilever types provide added versatility. Depending on the size and shape of the space, awnings are another option to block the sun.
Plants and flowers enhance being outdoors and are a budget-friendly way to accessorize any outdoor space. Not only do plants add color and texture, but these also can be used to segregate areas for additional privacy. In addition, outdoor drapery is another divider option.
Exterior lighting is a great way to not only create an appealing ambiance but also is functional for added visibility. If the operation is open during evening hours, exterior lighting is a necessary element to ensure guests can safely and comfortably enjoy their meal. Waiters and staff will need proper exterior lighting to work and safely walk to and from the outdoor dining area. Decorative lighting can be incorporated, such as neon signage or a light box, which provides a signature element that brings added attention to the operation. Some popular exterior lighting options include string lights, fire pits, candles and lanterns.
The restaurant’s location will determine if outdoor heating is warranted. This can be beneficial even with operations located in warmer climates, as evenings can bring on chilly temperatures. It also can extend the outdoor dining seasons for northern and eastern states. In addition to providing comfort, outdoor heating can ensure outdoor restaurant space can be utilized on a cold or cloudy day. When installing outdoor heating, it’s important to follow all safety regulations and secure any loose wires to avoid creating a tripping hazard for guests and employees.
The enjoyment of outdoor spaces can quickly become a nuisance if bugs, birds and other wildlife are too close for comfort. Although many are an inevitable inconvenience, when specifying it helps to have a plan in place to mitigate pests. Creating an area that is easy to clean, including dealing with crumbs and other food scraps, can keep infiltrating pests to a minimum. Also, keeping trash bins, tubs holding dirty dishes and similar areas covered will ensure this won’t become a problem.
It’s important to enhance diners’ experience with outdoor spaces but to not create a place where customers linger too long as table turns are desirable to operators.
Specifying Considerations for Outdoor Spaces
- Be aware of mold and mildew resistance on all materials.
- Consider UV ratings when choosing fabrics to prevent premature fading.
- Furniture covers provide added protection during off hours and increase longevity.
- The same spacing should be used outdoors as is used indoors. An operator also needs to follow local ADA requirements when creating their outdoor space.
- Operators should follow the manufacturer’s cleaning and maintenance instructions for outdoor furniture. Failure to do so may void the manufacturer’s warranty.
- From a management perspective, the ability to move, stack and store furniture is important.
- Complicated and detailed furniture is a hassle. Open web and filigree type materials with nooks and crannies that hold debris and dust are more difficult to clean; it’s best to stick with simple designs and smooth lines.
- Glides on seating legs make it easier to move chairs in and out when needed.
- Look at ease of configuration, as operators will want to break up and pull together tables, depending on party size.
- Determine if casual outdoor patio components can be dressed up or upscaled for evening use.
Readers Weigh in on Outdoor Dining Popularity
In a pulse survey fielded in 2024, just 8% of rd+d readers reported that their current restaurant projects have no outdoor dining component. As for the 92% of readers who are including outdoor dining elements, here’s what they had to say:
- 35% of readers say that between 1% and 25% of their projects include an outdoor dining component.
- 17% of readers say that between 26% and 49% of their current projects include outdoor dining.
- 23% of readers say that between 50% and 74% of their current projects include outdoor dining.
- 17% of readers say that 75% or more of their current projects include outdoor dining.
