Spring and summer naturally increase footfall as customers look for places to enjoy food and drink outdoors. For UK restaurants and cafés, al fresco dining is not simply a seasonal trend. It is a strategic opportunity to expand covers, boost visibility and increase revenue without extending the internal footprint.
A well-designed outdoor space can elevate your brand, attract passing trade and encourage guests to stay longer. Whether you operate a pavement café, terrace, courtyard or beer garden, thoughtful planning ensures your outdoor area works as hard as your interior.
Al Fresco
Al fresco dining refers to eating outdoors. The phrase originates in Italian and loosely translates as “in the cool.” In hospitality terms, it represents relaxed outdoor tables, quality coffee in the sunshine and evening meals in an open setting.
For operators, it is about atmosphere as much as location.
Maximise Your Outdoor Space
Introducing or upgrading an outdoor dining area requires careful consideration. The layout, furniture and service flow must support both customer comfort and operational efficiency.
First Impressions
Your outdoor seating is often the first point of contact with potential customers. Cleanliness, organisation and presentation directly influence footfall.
Keep tables aligned, walkways clear and surfaces spotless. Planters, subtle lighting and coordinated furniture can enhance kerb appeal and encourage impulse visits.
Indoor Standards Outdoors
Guests seated outside expect the same level of service and quality as those indoors. Your exterior space should feel like a seamless extension of your venue.
Maintain:
- Consistent service levels
- Cohesive branding and décor
- Clear menu presentation
- Well-managed table service
Outdoor dining should never feel like an afterthought.
Furniture That Works Hard
Commercial furniture is essential for busy hospitality environments. Domestic pieces rarely withstand the demands of daily trading.
At BE Furniture Sales, our café bistro tables are built for durability, stability and visual appeal. Available in a range of sizes and finishes, they suit compact pavement areas and larger terraces alike. Pair these with our café bistro chairs, designed for comfort, stackability and weather resistance.
When selecting furniture, prioritise:
- Robust materials suitable for British weather
- Stable bases for uneven paving
- Easy clean surfaces
- Stackable options for efficient storage
Reliable furniture protects your investment and maintains a professional appearance throughout the season.
Layout and Compliance
Beyond aesthetics, practical considerations are crucial. Adequate spacing improves customer comfort and allows staff to move efficiently between tables.
Operators using pavement space must also ensure compliance with local authority licensing conditions. This may include defined boundaries, unobstructed pedestrian routes and appropriate barriers. Checking current council requirements avoids unnecessary disruption or penalties.
Accessibility should also be considered. Clear access for wheelchair users and prams supports inclusivity and reflects positively on your business.
Know Your Audience
Design your outdoor area around your core customer base.
A pavement café layout with compact bistro tables may appeal to professionals, couples, and coffee drinkers who enjoy people-watching.
A courtyard or garden setting may attract families and larger groups. In this case, slightly larger tables and highly durable finishes are practical choices.
Understanding your clientele helps shape a space that feels intentional and commercially effective.
Plan For The Weather
The British climate demands flexibility. A well-prepared outdoor area can remain profitable beyond peak summer weeks.
Consider:
- Patio heaters for cooler evenings
- Parasols for shade and light rain protection
- Windbreaks in exposed locations
- Furniture finishes resistant to moisture
Extending usability by even a few weeks each year can significantly improve return on investment.
Increase Dwell Time and Spend
Comfort influences customer behaviour. Guests seated in a well-sheltered, attractive, and comfortable environment are more likely to order an additional drink, dessert, or a round of coffee.
Stable tables, supportive chairs and a pleasant atmosphere contribute directly to higher average spend. Outdoor areas can also be used creatively for seasonal menus, themed evenings or promotional events.
Al Fresco Furniture From BE Furniture Sales
At BE Furniture Sales, we supply commercial furniture nationwide for cafés, pubs, restaurants and hotels. Our outdoor collections combine durability with style, making them suitable for high-traffic hospitality settings.
From sturdy café bistro tables to practical and attractive café bistro chairs, our ranges are selected for craftsmanship, longevity and ease of maintenance. Whether you are furnishing a small frontage or a large terrace, our team can help you create an outdoor space that enhances both the customer experience and profitability.
A well-planned al fresco area strengthens brand presence, increases seating capacity and supports consistent revenue growth. With the right approach and the right furniture, it can become one of the most valuable assets in your venue.
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