How to Keep Your Patio Open When it's Cold

When the temperature is consistently below zero it's hard to think about eating outside. For some people right now that’s their only option. When restaurants don't have their patios open year round they are missing out on so many customers and opportunities. By considering these ideas, customers will be more comfortable approaching your business for their night out.

Keep it warm.

This is obvious. No one wants to form icicles as they’re trying to enjoy their food. There are some super simple and efficient ways to make this possible that might be more in reach than you’d think. Depending on the vibe of your establishment, invest in space heaters or fire pits. Space heaters often give off a more industrial look since they’re made of metal. Fire pits are usually more rustic in appearance, especially if it’s a wood fire pit. Both of these options give off heat which makes sitting outside much more comfortable for guests. This is essential, especially on the days where the temperature dips well below zero. Invest in portable ones or a way to install them in the best possible position to maximize the efficiency for where the guests are sitting.

Make it cozy.

Offer clean and soft blankets to your guests. Not only will this help keep them warm, but it will elevate the experience that only outdoor dining can provide. Add lots of fabrics around the area like blankets, seat covers, carpeted areas, and pillows. Anything that traps heat. This will also help create an environment that replicates warmth and comfort even just visually. Another way to make things feel cozy is by adding lots of enclosed candles and yellow lights. Yellow tinted light is called “warm light” for a reason. This tone of lighting gives off the impression of heat and warmth. The sun is yellow, fire is orange, coals burn red, all for a reason that you could easily utilize just by incorporating these minor lighting tactics.

Offer outdoor specials.

Entice people to eat on the patio by offering patio specials that indoor dining doesn’t include. If you have wood burning fire pits then offer s’mores making activities as a dessert option. Offer complimentary hot beverages to people dining outdoors like hot chocolate, coffee, tea, or espresso. Create a specialty appetizer or main specifically for patio guests to enjoy. Adding these items to the menu or including them as a complimentary item for outdoor diners will not only help keep them warm, but it’ll elevate their outdoor experience even more.

Look into dining pods.

Dining pods, or otherwise known as “reverse snow globes” are essentially single tables covered by a tent or bubble. This covering helps retain heat creating an outdoor dining experience that closely resembles indoor dining. Although given the circumstances the pandemic has put us in, this may qualify as indoor dining and take away from the experience outdoor dining has to offer.

Outdoor dining in the winter is definitely possible if you invest in the right areas. Warmth goes a long way besides maintaining body temperature. Guests can find warmth in the environment and the experience as well. Take a look at our inventory and perhaps you’ll find exactly what you need in order to elevate your outdoor dining experience this season. Your guests and staff will thank you kindly.