The weather is starting to warm up! With spring in full swing, Canadians are preparing for the arrival of patio season. For restaurant owners, this is the perfect opportunity to attract new customers and promote their eateries. What are some of the best ways for restaurateurs to promote their eateries during patio season?
Invest in a well-designed patio.
Your patio section should attract customers and provide a comfortable outdoor dining experience. Make sure to have plenty of tables, chairs and umbrellas to provide shade and protection from the sun. Consider adding string lights, plants and other decor to create a welcoming ambiance. A visually appealing patio will attract passersby and encourage them to stop and dine at your restaurant.
Utilize social media to plug your patio section.
Once you have a great patio setup, it’s time to promote it. Use social media to showcase your patio and highlight any special offers or events that you will be hosting. Share photos and videos of happy customers enjoying your outdoor space. Use hashtags like #patioseason and #patiolife to reach a wider audience. Encourage your customers to share their own photos and experiences on social media, and offer incentives for those who do so.
Partner with local influencers.
In addition to social media, consider partnering with local influencers or bloggers to help promote your patio. Reach out to popular food bloggers in your area and offer them complimentary meals on your patio in exchange for reviews and/or social media posts. This can help generate buzz and attract new customers to your restaurant.
Host special events and promotions.
Consider offering patio-specific menus or drink specials during happy hour. Host live music or trivia nights on your patio to create a fun and engaging atmosphere. Consider partnering with local breweries or wineries to offer tastings or pairing events. By hosting unique and engaging events, you will create memorable experiences for your customers and encourage them to return to your restaurant.
Keep your menu fresh.
It’s also important to keep your menu fresh and exciting during patio season. Offer seasonal dishes that incorporate fresh, local ingredients. Consider adding lighter options like salads and seafood to your menu to appeal to customers who are looking for lighter fare during the summer months. Highlight your patio menu on your website and social media channels to attract customers who are specifically looking for outdoor dining options.
Train your staff to provide excellent service on your patio.
Your staff should be knowledgeable about the menu, able to make recommendations and able to handle any issues that arise during outdoor dining. Make sure your staff members are equipped with the necessary tools and equipment to provide seamless outdoor dining experiences.
Do you allow your restaurant’s customers to place orders online?
Speaking of necessary tools and equipment to provide seamless outdoor dining experiences, Unity Payments’ online ordering platform is one of them! It allows restaurant owners to place QR codes on their tables to make the meal ordering process easier than ever. To learn more, call us at 1-800-661-3761 or email us at info@unitypayments.ca.
