It’s finally summertime—even in Colorado, where you can count on snow through the end of May. With temps climbing and school breaking for vacation, everyone is searching for that summertime feeling, right out the gate.
To maximize the energy and to please your guests, here are a few things restaurant owner-operators should consider launching the summer season.
- Hours. Make sure that your hours of operation are set for the outdoor season and longer days. People will want to linger, and they’ll be willing to stay out later to do so. With students out of school, there should also be a bump in daytime traffic, so don’t forget lunch hours or perhaps opening happy hour a bit earlier.
- Menus. Customers will be hungry for lighter fare and summertime flavors. Bringing in seasonal dishes is a must, and a cocktail menu refresher can’t hurt either. Here are some of National Restaurant Consultants’ favorite summertime cocktails and seasonal dishes we have loved in the past.
- Outdoor Spaces. Be sure your patios and available outdoor dining spaces are all updated! This means being sure that you have at your indoor seating are matched with your outdoor tables regarding table tents, condiments etc. Your guests will want to be outside. Consider seating, shade, and cooling options. In this blog post, our consultants analyze the best choices in outdoor furniture.
Richard Weil, Principal, owner of National Restaurant Consultants, says, “Your outdoor seating is an extension of your business and needs to mirror your inside aesthetic. But you should also have a ‘plan B’ for inclement weather, namely, how to accommodate guests in the event you need to bring them inside quickly.”
He adds, “Staff should also be aware of safety concerns, such as tripping hazards like steps. But ultimately, outdoor dining is a great way to increase both revenues and capacity.”
Our restaurant consultants are experts in pivoting menus and business operations to maximize trends and seasons for successful results. Please contact a restaurant consultant today to ready your restaurant for the season.