Nearly 60 percent of customers don’t return to a restaurant after one negative experience. You can’t afford to lose these customers!
You only have one chance to make a good impression. If you make a mistake here, you’ll wish you never opened your restaurant.
You’re about to realize your dream of opening up a restaurant and serving food to the masses. Check out our handy guide on how to start a restaurant below!
1. Create a Memorable Atmosphere
For many customers, the atmosphere of a place makes the experience of a restaurant. Even if the food is not special and the customer service unremarkable, you’ll keep getting crowds for your unique atmosphere.
Your atmosphere boils down to a few things.
The music needs to be consistent with the restaurant’s brand. If you’re a lively and energetic foodie paradise, ensure the music reflects this.
You also need to consider the right lighting. Are you aiming for a dim and moody environment or a bright and warm feeling?
What design do you want? Yourplace could be a contemporary twist on a classic design or traditional dining experience which oozes of nostalgia.
2. It’s All About the Little Extras
You can put a smile on your customers face with the little extras. Over two-thirds of customers say that complimentary extras make them want to return to a restaurant.
Sure, there are the usual baskets of bread and mint at the end of the meal. But, what can you do differently?
Perhaps you offer customers a free drink on the house. Maybe you have exciting deals for loyal customers to make them feel special.
3. Keep Your Restuarant Spick and Span
It doesn’t matter whether you’re one of the best restaurants in town or the new kid on the block, cleanliness and food hygiene is a priority.
Over three-quarters of diners say that they wouldn’t go to a restaurant with poor customer reviews regarding cleanliness.
You won’t last long in the business if you don’t take cleanliness seriously.
4. Deliver Excellent Customer Service
You need to deliver excellent customer service in this business. Over 70 percent of customers say that outstanding customer service makes them spend more money.
If you want to sell your diners an extra dessert or that side dish of fries, you better turn on the charm.
5. Keep Your Staff Engaged
If you want your customers happy, you better raise the mood of your staff as well. If your staff is not engaged, they’re not going to work hard to give your customers with a smile.
Studies have found that staff engagement can even increase sales by around 20 percent. By keeping your staff-driven, you’ll make more money.
How to Start a Restaurant?
Starting a restaurant is a lot harder than you ever imagined. You’ll encounter plenty of challenges as you learn how to start a restaurant.
Every successful restaurant depends on a happy customer. Our handy guide will help you satisfy rumbling bellies and put a smile on the faces of your customers.
If you enjoyed this blog post, check out the rest of our website for more like it.
