If you own a restaurant, chances are the Art of Presentation is not new to you… after all, plating your dishes is an art form in itself.
But the presentation of the restaurant is equally important. Setting the tone for the diner’s experience begins long before they take their first bite. No matter how delicious the dishes, the restaurant will always feel lacking if the interior design doesn’t reflect your vision and ethos.
So when you’re developing your restaurant’s concept, the interior design needs to be as carefully curated as your menu. Every element that diners will come into contact with should be considered. From soap dispensers to napkins, seating and lighting… right through to the smallest details such as menu covers, bill presenters, coasters and cutlery.
They don’t necessarily need to be expensive, but paying attention to these little extras will truly elevate the customer experience.
Custom made
There’s a lot to consider (and pay for!) when putting your restaurant together, and custom-made accessories may not be top priority. But, choosing branded accessories provide the opportunity to create a totally unique interior that is exclusive to your restaurant.
The beauty of personalisation is that it also creates a branding opportunity with every interaction for your guests, raising brand recognition. Use your accessories to show your customer that every last detail has been thought through, leaving them to relax – knowing that their evening is taken care of in style.
What’s your flavour?
The choices for custom-made accessories can feel overwhelming. So as you start to explore your options, consider the overall vibe of your restaurant, and how your finishing touches can enhance the feel…
In a restaurant with a sustainable ethos and a focus on ethical practices, you might choose eco-conscious accessories, made from recycled or reclaimed materials. Sustainable hand wash – with a custom label, embossed soap bars, or even a custom-blended fragrance – makes a luxe touch guests will notice. Reusable napkins are a great opportunity, as they add texture to the table, and provide a touchpoint for your logo, colours or branding. Go for high quality, organic cotton that feels great on the skin, and is kinder to the planet.
If your restaurant focuses on a farm-to-fork approach, then why not consider leather restaurant products? Custom leather products are a luxurious addition to your tablescape, and with placemats, coasters and menu covers available, you can create a really clean and cohesive look. Using leather specifically from food-waste byproducts allows you to reinforce your farm-to-table ethos. As an extra touch, look for custom embossing to have your logo, slogan or other text added on.
Does your menu make bold statements with flavours and ingredients? Then you might do the same in your interiors. Opt for vibrant colour, opulent fabrics and colours. Choosing custom made accessories can make your interior as unique as your dishes, and reflect your eclectic experience. It will add a sense of occasion, and ensure that every meal is one that diners won’t forget in a hurry.
An industrial feel is very popular in venues at the moment. In this setting, consider natural stone accessories that add texture. Slate is very popular and easily customisable for items such as placemats and coasters. Or opt for a high-end material like marble. This adds colour and contrast amidst what is often a pared-back appearance. The juxtaposition of the marble accessories against the industrial interior feels unexpected and fresh.
Get the bill…
And finally, when it comes time to present the bill, this is where the final little touches can be carried through right to the last element. A ‘thank you’ note adds a personal touch – if time doesn’t allow for a handwritten thank you, then pre-printed works just as well here. Serve the bill in a custom branded bill presenter, and maybe add a sweet treat (if you don’t have the budget for custom-logos on sweet wrappers – few people can refuse an After Eight) for a finishing touch that will leave a pleasant taste in anyone’s mouth. You’ll have customers rushing to pick up the bill.
The restaurant and hospitality has always been competitive, perhaps now more than ever. As customers are on the hunt for great food AND a great experience, boost your restaurant’s reputation for quality – on and off the plate – with these little touches your customers will love.