There’s more to an upscale restaurant than fine food.

While Michelin stars might draw new customers into your new or newly remodeled upscale restaurant, design and ambiance make them eager to return. The type of atmosphere you build around your cuisine will ultimately determine how long your customers stay, the price they’re willing to pay for a meal, and whether they’ll rave about the experience to their friends and family.

How can you create an upscale restaurant that appeals to more than just the palate? We have a few tips. 

Comfort As Customers Wait

You only get one first impression, and frequently, the waiting area is where these first impressions are made. You can ensure a positive experience by providing ample, comfortable seating as customers preview your menu and sip their preferred drink. 

Differentiation

Some say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but not when it comes to restaurants. In a sea of establishments to choose from, your restaurant will become the favorite of many because of your distinct "flare"–don't be afraid to show it. To accomplish this, work with a collaborative design and construction team. They will bring your unique vision to life and point out what you may not see from the inside–what makes your establishment different.

The Perfect Balance of Natural and Artificial Lighting 

Proper lighting can make or break your space. A dark, dull interior will drain the atmosphere out of any restaurant. However, high-end establishments pair well with subdued, dimmed lighting as it showcases your invitation for customers to take it easy and stay awhile. A combination of artificial and natural lighting sets the tone at all times of the day.  

The Right Color Palette

Welcome customers back into your space with an intentional touch of color. Warmer palettes, such as brown, burnt orange, and golden yellow,  are inviting and increase heart rate and excitement, stimulating hunger. On the other hand, natural, earthy tones encourage relaxation and enjoyment of the surrounding company. 

Outdoor Spaces Under California’s Blue Skies

The pandemic forced many restaurants to reconsider strategies to continue business as always. In some cases, restaurants with existing outdoor dining renovated the space to provide four-season, socially distanced use. 

This design trend isn’t fading anytime soon and is particularly achievable in Southern California, where the weather is warm year-round. If your restaurant is located near water, even better. Guests enjoy a kiss of sun on their shoulders during brunch or watching the sunset with a glass of wine at dinner.

Smart Indoor Spaces

Building a terrace is an efficient way to utilize indoor spaces. Terraces accommodate large groups or private parties. Although tucked away, this space will provide the restaurant's overall vibe they're looking to experience.  In either case, some occasions call for privacy, and having this as an option is one more way to serve people well.

Finally, although we want as many people as possible to enjoy our spaces, leaving freedom to move around is essential to the dining experience–for guests and staff alike.

Instagram Worthy Pieces

Love it or hate it, social media is here to stay. And your restaurant's aesthetic showcased online will bring people to the table. Adding in certain design elements, like a wall of greenery with bold text on top or an outdoor mural that lends itself to being photographed, can boost your marketing efforts for a relatively low cost.

Let’s reach the finish line–together.

Burge Corporation works only with the most skilled Architects, Engineers, and Designers to bring your vision to life. Let us facilitate your next project by calling us at 949-492-1175.