How Best to Decorate Your Small Restaurant or Café

Running a restaurant is, as many experienced managers will attest to, not always as easy as it seems. It’s not only about being able to provide great food at reasonable prices – it’s about providing an experience only you can give. People don’t visit restaurants only to get their bellies filled; they go there for the ambience, the service, the whole experience.

The design, decoration and restaurant furniture in your dining establishment play a vital role in both attracting customers and making them feel right at home. Here’s some great news: you don’t necessarily have to spend much to make it cozy and inviting. Here’s how best to decorate your small restaurant or café.

No tablecloths?

When you use linen to cover your tables, it presents a certain style – so we’re not saying that you should give up on them. On the other hand, they can be costly as they have to be cleaned often, and at the end of the day, they are not really necessary. In fact, they might even make your place fancier than it actually is. If you’re trying to keep it simple and rustic, a good old-fashioned wooden table can speak volumes.

Stay casual

Your staff should be recognized – so we’re not advocating getting rid of the whole uniform. Rather, try making your staff’s uniform casual and friendly. A server in white shirt and black tie gives a whole other vibe than a person in a bright yellow or vibrant red T-shirt. Adjust it according to the atmosphere you wish to create.

Be creative

Think about posting cartoons of Hägar the Horrible or Garfield in the male bathroom. Perhaps a distorted mirror for the females? Make it fun to be in your restaurant, and with a little creativity you can have your clientele not only coming back, but actively promoting it.

Your own menus

It’s often expensive to print your own menus, especially if you change them often. Why not print them yourself? With today’s software, you can truly make it your own.

Add art or nostalgia

Think of something unique. Think of something that will evoke emotions. Don’t follow the common trend – find a way to decorate with good restaurant furniturethat makes it count.

Don’t be afraid to visit some popular restaurants and have a few drinks left and right; often the best ways to find great inspiration is to find out how others do it (or don’t do it). There are also plenty of sources online where you can find great ideas. Think of a theme, and see how you can best bring that theme to life. And don’t forget: your customers are looking for a great dining experience in many ways, so never forget your personal touch, and let your personality shine.