Restaurant Patios should be about function, comfort, shade, and colour.
If you master all of these aspects, your patio will be inviting.
Comfortable Outdoor dining provides extra seating for your business and attracts customers who enjoy being outside while dining.
The Patio needs to be functional for the staff as well. In other words, there has to be room to get in between the tables and chairs to serve customers.
If there is room, create a servers' station with a sink and storage for napkins, silverware, glassware, condiments and clothes. Preferably one with doors that lock so you don't have to move them inside when the restaurant is closed.
Provide lighting for outdoor guests. You can place candles or lanterns on tables or you could string lights along the railing.
Colour, Colour and more Colour.
Plant some flowers, mini-bells & petunias lots of colours.
If there is room, perhaps consider growing your own herbs for the restaurant.
There are some fast growing trees you can plant that will provide shade within a year or two. Cedars shrubs can be purchased in many sizes and can offer some quick shade for those patios exposed to the direct sun.
Finally, lap blankets or quilts will provide warmth and a splash of colour to any patio.
For something unique, make your own lap quilts for your patio. Choose colourful fabric to brighten up your outdoor dining area.
