Serving great food at a restaurant is of course the most obvious way of generating custom. Positive reviews, word of mouth and repeat customers are sure-fire outcomes of a kitchen that can serve up non-stop delicious food.
But let’s face it, the customer’s experience is made up of so many more parts than just good food. Service, atmosphere, value and visual appeal are just some of the many other contributing factors that you as a restaurant have a direct influence over.
Alongside your chefs cooking up a storm, here are some other ways of getting new customers in your restaurant:
What do your customers want?
It’s no use introducing a new décor, menu ideas or equipment if it doesn’t match with your target market. For example, an open, casual interior with quirky features and interesting menu concepts will appeal to millennials but it might not be the best fit for those family outings.
Take the time to research your target market’s likes, habits and interests to underpin how your interior, furniture and menu should look.
Interior refresh
How long has it been since your restaurant has had a refresh? Trust us, it doesn’t take long for your interior to appear outdated to a potential new customer.
There’s nothing like a relaunch with a new interior design and menu to bring in new customers and give old customers a reason to pop back. You could go for a themed, upmarket or casual interior – giving your restaurant a total makeover, or maybe just add a lick of paint and some new furnishings.
A project we recently worked on, Arty’s restaurant in Gosport, is an example of how big a lift an interior refresh can give a restaurant.
Bonus points if you make your interior instagrammable. That way your customers will share photos of your restaurant with all of their followers – giving you some free marketing!
Atmosphere
How does one create an appealing restaurant atmosphere? Well, that depends on the outcomes of your research. Communal tables are a way of creating a casual and relaxed atmosphere but this has no place in a restaurant that is looking to create an intimate, cosy atmosphere.
Not only is your choice of furniture an important one, your brand and type of eatery should be echoed in everything from your choice of wall art right down to the type of crockery.
Get your restaurant exterior looking good
What’s the first impression potential customers and passers-by have of your restaurant? An immediate judgement can be made on the type of establishment you are just by looking at your restaurant’s front.
Is it well-maintained, vibrant or welcoming? If not, why not? Your outside area is a perfect opportunity to attract passing traffic and stand out from your neighbouring competition.
Consider your outdoor furniture, too. It might be time for a much-needed upgrade.
Buying restaurant furniture
Trent Furniture has been supplying furniture to the UK’s restaurant and hospitality industries for many years. We have developed an extensive range of furniture suitable for a commercial environment and a range to include products for every kind of interior and budget.
Take a look at our full range of restaurant furniture today.