Over the past few years, patios have played an increasingly significant role in the business plans of restaurant owners. In 2020, as pandemic-related restrictions turned the industry on its head, many restaurants began expanding or upgrading their outdoor dining facilities to maximize cash flow. While most of the regulations that created this trend have since been lifted, the province’s reignited appreciation for patios is here to stay.
Although Canadians have never shied away from spending time in colder temperatures, there are a few upgrades you can make to make your patio feel more comfortable and appealing during the fall months.
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Add Extra Lighting
With the sun setting earlier during the fall months, you’ll want to ensure your patio is well lit. Having adequate lighting not only allows your staff to navigate the area easily but is also an important part of customer safety. If you have any steps, curbs or ledges on your patio, make sure they’re well illuminated.
Of course, outdoor lights are also a fantastic way to set the mood of your patio. Great ambient lighting feels warm and inviting, and there are several lighting types that can help you accomplish this. String lights, sconces, fairy lights and battery-powered candles are all popular options.
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Options For Heating
Most importantly, you’ll want to ensure that your customers are warm and comfortable during their visit. As fall days become cooler, particularly in the evenings, your patio should be equipped to provide adequate heat. One popular item amongst bars and restaurants in Toronto is propane fire pits as they’re fairly small and give off plenty of heat. They also look great and can contribute nicely to your patio’s overall atmosphere.
Standard lamp heaters are also a common solution as they heat up quickly and don’t take up much space. Given these factors, they’re often the best option for restaurants with smaller patios. That being said, as a hot commodity in Toronto, lamp heaters have unfortunately become a common target for theft in recent years. Before you invest, ensure you have a secure place to store lamp heaters and other outdoor supplies or furniture when your restaurant is closed.
Embrace Warm Flavours
One easy way to keep patio customers cozy is by serving up warm dishes (and drinks)! When temperatures begin to change, optimize your menu by putting your most comforting dishes at the forefront. If you don’t have warm dishes on your menu just yet – why not introduce a few as seasonal specialties? New menu items are a great way to explore your culinary creativity, however, it’s important to not stray too far from your restaurant’s primary specialty.
During the fall you can also expect to serve a lot of hot beverages. While coffee and tea are staples, hot ciders or cocktails are also a unique way to add variety to your menu offerings.
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Prepare Your Team
Of course, getting ready for an extended patio season is not just about your restaurant’s outdoor space. If you typically close your patio at the end of the summer, your staff may also need to prepare for working in the new seasonal elements.
Like any change to your restaurant, keeping your team informed as early as possible can help you make the transition smoother. For instance, if you plan on introducing seasonal menu items, your team should have adequate time to become familiar with the new drinks or dishes.
If your restaurant requires staff members to wear a uniform, you may want also to invest in warmer articles of brand standard clothing to ensure your employees are comfortable while serving customers.
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