Outdoor dining has become an integral element of a profitable restaurant. As the restrictions on coronavirus quarantine are loosening and restaurants are returning to normalcy, the public is looking forward to outdoor dining more than ever.

Now is the time to invest in a restaurant patio. All it takes is the right outdoor furniture, a solid budget and an outdoor patio design.

1. Check Restaurant Patio Laws and Regulations
Consider local restaurant patio laws and regulations. Each state or country has unique local, state or federal regulations. Check for required permits and guidelines regarding restaurants or bar patios.

Are there additional permits required for electricity and plumbing on an outdoor patio?
Are there noise ordinances in the area?
Is serving alcohol allowed or is offering BYOB service permitted?
Is smoking allowed?
What are the rules regarding pet-friendly outdoor patio?
2. Utilize Outdoor Dining Operations During Coronavirus Limitations
Whether planning to re-open or begin an exclusively outdoor restaurant after the coronavirus, check outdoor dining rules with local officials before designing an outdoor patio.

Certain COVID-19 safety rules could include:

6 feet of distance between tables
Installed floor direction signs for bathrooms and hand-wash stations
Newly implemented sanitary and safety measures to maintain patio cleanliness
PPE supplies for all staff
Sanitization of each table between customers after use
Use of disposables and paper menus
3. Get Covered
Place shades and shelter over outdoor restaurant patios. Whether on a hot summer day or during a passing rain shower, shade options ensure customers stay dry and comfortable while dining outside. Shade and shelter options include:

Gazebos
Patio covers
Patio umbrellas
Pergolas
Retractable Canopies and Awnings
Super-large Umbrellas
4. Pre-Plan the Layout
Envision an ideal patio and pre-plan its layout. Determine a desired ambiance and begin designing.

Interactive atmosphere fit for live entertainment
Picnic tables for casual fare
Romantic lounge with couches and fire pits for a more intimate feel
and more!
5. Create a Full-Service Patio Bar
Outdoor bars attract customers. A full-service bar can bring in high profits, especially on warm summer nights.

6. Implement Inviting Fabrics and Frames
Get creative by incorporating inviting fabrics. Colorfully designed frames and fabrics add warmth and coziness to outdoor dining areas. From classically designed rugs to rustic tablecloths, experiment with the many options.

7. Be Prepared for Inclement Weather
While outdoor patios depend on the weather, there are ways to promote business operation when the forecast is not ideal.

Install fans from above to maintain air flow.
Position deck covers, shades and foldable umbrellas.
Prepare an evacuation plan for unpredictable and extreme weather.
Store heaters nearby.
Store waterproof covers nearby in case of rain and ice to prevent damage from water and moisture.

8. Prevent Pests from Invading
Pests are harmful and damaging to both indoor and outdoor restaurant settings.

Diligently implement a spilled drinks cleaning routine.
Have a bug spray ready for flies, mosquitoes, bees or wasps.
Immediately clear uneaten food and sweep floors for fallen debris.
Store fresh fruits in containers and keep juices secured.
In a worst-case scenario, call a professional pest control if problems persist.
9. Select the Right Patio Furniture
Choose patio furniture that delivers funtionality, desired aesthetics and comfort.

Are metal chairs and seat cushions in line with the charming and romantic setup?
Would rustic wooden picnic benches and tables balance with the lighting and decors?

10. Additional Tips
After closing, store furniture cushions to keep them dry and secure.
At night, illuminate stringed lights or lighted signage.
Create private patio spaces with planters, dividers or portable fences.
Use colored flowers, canopies and attention-grabbing decor to attract customers.
Florida's Leading Patio Furniture Company
When it comes to outdoor furniture, Suncoast Furniture is second to none. Suncoast Furniture provides premium outdoor furniture to residential and commercial spaces including patios, decks and gardens as well as hotels, restaurants and resorts.

Our outdoor patio furniture is handcrafted in the U.S.A. utilizing the finest materials, latest manufacturing techniques and most skilled craftsmanship. We offer an extensive range of outdoor furniture to suit every need, taste, budget and lifestyle.