Outdoor dining domes are transforming the way restaurants utilize their spaces, offering a unique blend of style and functionality. However, some restaurant owners hesitate to adopt them due to various concerns. Let’s explore why these worries are often unfounded and how dining pods can enhance any restaurant’s appeal.
Common Concerns of Restaurant Owners (And How to Overcome Them)
Concern 1: Limited Space
Think your outdoor space is too tight for dining pods? Shubert Ho at Sankai Sushi in Edmonds faced a similar challenge. With a narrow strip of patio alongside his restaurant, he needed a solution that maximized space without compromising on the dining experience. The result? Three Hypedomes, perfectly positioned to boost seating by 50%, allowing guests to enjoy their sushi in a cozy, unique environment. This setup not only made the most of a small area but also became a standout feature that drew in more customers.
Concern 2: Proximity to the Street
Worried that your dining pods will be too close to the street? 1051 GWR in Glasgow turned that challenge into a stylish advantage. Their dining pods are nestled in a narrow space between the restaurant and the busy road, yet they’ve turned this area into a chic, inviting outdoor dining spot. These pods create a visual and experiential buffer from the street, transforming what could have been an underutilized space into a magnet for patrons seeking a stylish dining experience.
Concern 3: Windy Locations
If strong winds are making you second-guess outdoor dining pods, think again. Humphrey’s in Rotterdam, a city notorious for its blustery weather, successfully integrated Hypedomes that stand firm against the elements. Designed to withstand strong winds, Hypedomes offer several anchoring options that ensure they stay securely in place, no matter the weather. This stability means that even in challenging climates, your outdoor dining spaces remain comfortable and inviting year-round.
Concern 4: Surrounded by Buildings
For restaurants surrounded by other buildings, there’s a concern that dining pods might feel too enclosed or lack appeal. However, Lucarelli in West Bromwich shows that the opposite is true. Their dining pods, placed in a courtyard surrounded by other structures, have become the most sought-after seating option. The pods offer intimacy and privacy, creating a cozy, exclusive dining experience that guests love. So, rather than being a drawback, surrounding buildings can actually enhance the pod dining experience by providing a sense of seclusion.
Concern 5: Need for Larger Event Spaces
Planning to host larger gatherings? Both the Ipedoma M e Ipedoma L are ideal for this purpose. While the standard Hypedome S is perfect for up to eight people, the M and L models cater to more substantial events, comfortably accommodating up to 14 and 30 guests, respectively. Whether it’s an intimate family dinner or a cocktail party, these larger domes offer the flexibility you need to create memorable events in a unique setting.
Concern 6: Maintaining Aesthetic Harmony in Classic or Historic Locations
Worried that modern dining pods might clash with a classic or historic aesthetic? Take a cue from In De Kazerne in Eindhoven. Situated in a stunning 1900s Art Deco building, their Hypedomes blend seamlessly with the historic surroundings. The result? A perfect fusion of old and new that has proven so popular, the pods are booked out months in advance. Dining pods can, in fact, enhance the ambiance of your establishment, adding a modern touch that complements rather than conflicts with your venue’s character.
Why Dining Pods Are a Smart Investment
Dining pods not only elevate the aesthetic appeal of your restaurant but also make your outdoor spaces functional year-round. They allow you to add more tables, increasing your capacity and revenue potential. Restaurants that have embraced dining pods, like those we’ve discussed, have seen increased bookings, higher table turnover, and improved customer satisfaction. Offering a unique dining experience sets your establishment apart, making it a go-to destination for both regulars and newcomers.
In today’s competitive dining landscape, offering something unique isn’t just an advantage – it’s a necessity. Dining pods don’t just meet the challenges of space, weather, and aesthetics; they transform them into opportunities. By embracing this concept, you’re not just adding tables – you’re creating an unforgettable dining experience that keeps customers coming back. Dining trends are evolving – make sure your outdoor space is part of the next big wave.