The feeling, or mood of a particular place is known as ambience. In common usage, this term often conjurers up images of romantic candle-lit dinners. To restaurateurs, the meaning goes a lot deeper.
Although some would argue it’s not an exact science, there is a respected amount of research devoted to all things dining ambience. Most chefs, owners, and customers will agree that a balance of great food along with a great environment is what makes a restaurant memorable.
Some might even say the decor should tell a story, the story of what the restaurant is all about. Using subtlety and attention to detail, restaurateurs can create an inviting dining experience that creates a deeper relationship between restaurant and patron. Everything from paint colors to lighting to menu font and chef coats makes a difference when trying to create a unique and special dining experience.
Every restaurant sets out to be a unique entity, offering something guests can’t get anywhere else. While different types of cuisine and culinary focus certainly require different decor, there are many basic strategies that have been proven successful in terms of decor.
- Offer plush, comfortable seating to create a more relaxed atmosphere that will draw guests in and keep them coming back for more.
- Dimmable lights and some slow music like jazz can subconsciously encourage people to eat at a slower pace, helping guests enjoy the occasion more.
- The color red has been thought to open up a person’s appetite shares Interior Designer, Margarida Oliveira . Reds and yellows in kitchen environments can help people feel comfortable as well as stimulate conversation.
- Capitalize on the current trend of ‘freshness’ by doing away with freezers or frozen food, decorating with fresh plants or images of them, and even showcasing herb and vegetable gardens.
New restaurants as well as old can utilize restaurant decor science when opening or re-vamping. If a major overhaul is outside your comfort zone or pocketbook, consider making a handful of visible changes to freshen things up.
Savvy business people understand that decorating is much more than a frivolous activity. Take the time to check out the abundance of research already available before you next restaurant redesign. Create an immersive dining experience and you will surely be successful.