Skip to main content

Restaurants and Cafes: Providing a Pleasurable and Safe Outdoor Dining Experience


Some establishments had been operating as take-out only, some were closed, but now that rules have evolved to include in-person dining, many restaurateurs have either moved forward or struggle with the perfect solutions or procedures to implement for employee and patron safety. We've seen everything from stuffed animals or mannequins, tents, plexiglass barriers, individual greenhouses or domes, robotic servers, empty tables, and other wacky ways that restaurants are enforcing social distancing. Functional, yes. A bit quirky, sometimes. The best long-term options, debatable.  

Those in charge of restaurant operations may be deliberating with which direction to move in to ensure that they can abide by social-distancing measures, operate effectively, and sustain their business in the future. As coronavirus positives continue to pick up around the US and states like New York retract their go-aheads for indoor dining, the big question looming for eateries is "what can we put in place to accommodate our patrons?" 


Four Seasons Sunrooms - Straight Eave 


Converting Outdoor Areas for Socially Distanced Dining: Glass Structures 

Never before has there been a greater emphasis on alfresco dining. Those clamoring for the coveted outdoor seats during warm weather, now have even more competition from those seeking to dine out, as they are the only seats available. Restaurants, bars, and cafes may have untapped outdoor space, but the areas may not be conducive or aesthetic enough to support outdoor service or customer satisfaction. Decision makers should assess what makes the most sense for their business. 

Global locations have utilized "social distancing cubicles," leveraging their positioning in scenic locales to revive demand and deliver an enjoyable atmosphere for those eager to have a meal outside of their homes. Super creative and completely helpful for these businesses past the time that people need to stay apart. As the seasons change or the weather is less than stellar, outdoor seating like this can still be available for diners.  

In reality, these pods are mini sunrooms, greenhouses, or conservatories. They may not be appropriate for everyone, but can be reproduced in some capacity to mimic the functionality. Just add a table, lighting, and heat source (if necessary), and voila — an eatery has a desirable, functional, and out-of-the-box (or actually in-the-box) solution.  

Patio Dining is Making it Enjoyable and Safe to Eat at a Restaurant 

Some restaurants are handling outdoor social distancing with some really bizarre tables or head coverings. While these are certainly interesting ideas and can offer a bit of fun, are they really the most efficient methods for staying afloat? They require an investment in supplies or furniture and will not have relevance in the long run. For budgeting purposes and long-term sustainability, it makes more sense to consider a more standard, tried-and-true solution. 

Many eateries are relying on umbrellas and tents which do work, but only to a certain degree. They may need consistent replacement and be useless in high winds or other inclement weather conditions. The ground materials, tables and chairs could also benefit by being protected by a more permanent and longer lasting covering that also happens to establish a more pleasing exterior.  

Patio covers or pergolas can be altered with shades and coverings, strung with lights, adorned with flowers, and even support fans. These long-term structures are a worthwhile investment that can extend usage of outdoor space and deliver a wonderful environment that customers will just love to visit. The extremely versatile spot will also be a great event space for functions once we are back to full normalcy.  

 

Pergola 

 

Four Seasons Sunrooms and Windows is here to help businesses navigate the new normal. Our versatile options can be tailored to meet specific needs. Contact us at 888-270-3546 to discuss the choices that can help you to abide by social distancing protocol and help your business to thrive. 

 
 

Popular posts from this blog

Turning your Sunroom into a Greenhouse

Four Season’s sunrooms offer endless opportunities to design and customize. And the perfect touch could be to add an interior garden to your sunroom. Sheltered from the elements and situated in the sunlight, sunrooms are ideal for growing plants.  You may be asking, “ What kind of plants can I grow in my sunroom? ” Plants that need lots of sunlight are ideal, as your sunroom feeds off of direct rays all day. Conveniently, plants that thrive in an indoor garden are plants that would not usually do as well outside due to the harshness of the weather. This way, if you are interested in gardening, you can grow a wide variety of plants inside and outside your sunroom. Additionally, sunroom gardens require less maintenance, and can be kept all year round. This is the perfect opportunity to grow something you always wished you could with the proper conditions.  The following plants, herbs, and flowers are recommended for sunroom gardens: Mint, Rosemary, Citrus plants, Hibiscus, Peace lily

3 Reasons Why You Should Consider Enclosing Your Patio

  As winter approaches, most homeowners put away their patio furniture and wait until spring to enjoy their backyards. But wouldn't it be great to enjoy your outdoor space any time of year? By enclosing your patio or deck, you won't need to rely on the weather to put your space to good use. From holiday get-togethers to an extra storage room, an enclosed patio is a weatherproof and practical addition to any home. How Do Patio Rooms Work? Patio rooms are a simple way to enclose your space and give you more versatility to use it whenever you need to. For example, our patio rooms at Four Seasons are designed to let you enjoy your outdoor space all year long without worrying about bugs, bad weather, or dangerous sun rays. They only take a few hours to build, and you can design the perfect one based on your budget and taste. 3 Major Advantages Of Enclosing Your Patio An enclosed patio can be a wise investment for most homes. Here are a few main advantages of having one: E

Decorating Your Outdoor Space for July 4th Celebrations

Summer is here, and the Fourth of July holiday is just next week! American flags are flying, people are wearing their stars and stripes, and getting excited about the colorful fireworks show. This is a time for family and friends to celebrate our independence by gathering on the patio, grilling our favorite foods, and adorning everything in red, white, and blue. Here are 4 easy star-spangled ideas for decorating your outdoor space for the July 4th celebrations.  Target ,  Michaels Stores,  and other craft stores have all the materials you need.   Dress up your Patio and Porch with a Patriotic Theme Hanging American flags for Independence Day decorations is a great way to set the tone. Red, white, and blue balloons and banners spruce up your outdoors by adding fun and color. Display your creativity with a trail of balloons on your fence, porch, and railings. This  66-piece Fourth of July decorations set  from Amazon.com is stocked with more than enough party decor supplies, from red, wh