Latest Outdoor Horeca Trends

Embracing the demand for outdoor dining is crucial for horeca owners looking to attract and retain customers. By offering outdoor dining spaces, you can provide a refreshing change of environment and create a memorable experience for your patrons. Whether it's a rooftop terrace, a garden patio, or a sidewalk café, the possibilities are endless.

To make your outdoor dining spaces more appealing, consider creating cozy corners and providing bigger spaces for entertainment. By incorporating comfortable seating, soft lighting, and even outdoor heaters, you can make your outdoor area feel just as comfortable as the indoor space. This will encourage customers to linger longer, increasing their overall satisfaction and likelihood of returning.

Here several ideas on how to make your outdoor area more sustainable:

• Use sustainable materials for furniture, such as reclaimed wood or bamboo, to reduce the environmental impact of production.
• Implement recycling programs within your business to encourage employees and customers to properly dispose of waste and reduce landfill waste.
• Promote reusable utensils and offer discounts for customers who bring their own cups or containers, encouraging them to reduce their single-use plastic consumption.
• Install energy-efficient lighting and appliances in your outdoor area to reduce energy consumption and lower your carbon footprint.
• Consider implementing a composting program to divert food waste from landfills and create nutrient-rich soil for gardening or donation.
• Partner with local environmental organizations and participate in community clean-up events to show your commitment to sustainability and engage with the local community.

One way to create a unique outdoor dining experience is by taking the food preparation outdoors. Introducing outdoor kitchens allows customers to witness the culinary process firsthand, adding an element of excitement and authenticity to their dining experience. Additionally, this trend combines well with the growing popularity of edible gardens and/or locally sourced ingredients. By growing herbs and vegetables on-site and/or supporting local farmers, you can offer customers the freshest ingredients while also showcasing your commitment to sustainability and reducing carbon emissions.

In today's market, catering to health-conscious customers is not just a trend, but a necessity for businesses looking to stay competitive. With more and more people adopting plant-based diets and prioritizing their health and well-being, offering a range of healthy menu options has become essential.

By incorporating plant-based and healthy dishes into your outdoor menu, you can attract a growing segment of health-conscious diners. These customers are actively seeking out restaurants that align with their values and provide options that cater to their dietary preferences. By offering a variety of plant-based dishes, you can tap into this market and position your establishment as a go-to destination for those seeking nutritious and delicious meals.

In addition to the menu, consider incorporating wellness activities into your outdoor spaces. By transforming your outdoor space into a hub for wellness activities, such as hosting yoga classes or outdoor fitness events, you can provide a unique selling point that sets you apart from your competitors.

These wellness activities not only attract health-conscious individuals but also create a sense of community and engagement. By offering these activities, you are not only providing nourishment for the body but also promoting a holistic approach to well-being. This can help foster a loyal customer base who sees your establishment as a place to not only enjoy a healthy meal but also engage in activities that promote wellness.

By positioning your outdoor dining area as a place for both nourishment and wellness, you can differentiate yourself from competitors and attract a loyal customer base. With the growing demand for healthy options and wellness activities, embracing this trend can lead to increased customer satisfaction, positive word-of-mouth, and ultimately, business growth.

To truly stand out in the outdoor horeca market, consider creating memorable experiences for your customers. Here are some ideas to help you do just that:

1. Breathtaking views & ambiance: offering beautiful views and sunsets can create a truly magical atmosphere for your customers. Consider positioning your outdoor seating area to take advantage of scenic landscapes, waterfronts, or rooftop views. Invest in comfortable seating and stylish decor that complements the natural surroundings. By creating a visually appealing ambiance, you'll leave a lasting impression on your customers.

2. Dining with animals: hosting pet-friendly events or having a designated area for customers to interact with friendly animals can be a unique selling point for your establishment. For example, you could organize "Yappy Hours" where dog owners can bring their furry friends to enjoy a meal together. Alternatively, you could partner with local animal shelters or farms to bring in animals for customers to interact with. This can create a fun and memorable experience, especially for families and animal lovers.

3. High tea events: organizing high tea events in your outdoor space can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your offerings. Create a special menu featuring a variety of teas, finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries. Decorate the space with elegant table settings, flowers, and soft lighting to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Promote these events as a perfect option for special occasions, such as bridal showers, birthdays, or anniversaries.

4. Outdoor cinema nights: transform your outdoor space into a unique outdoor cinema experience. Set up a large screen, comfortable seating, and provide blankets or cushions for extra comfort. Offer a selection of classic or popular movies and pair them with delicious food and beverages. Your guest could for example eat the food they see in the movie. This can be a great way to attract customers who are looking for a different kind of dining experience. Consider offering themed movie nights or partnering with local film festivals to create a buzz and attract a larger audience.

5. Igloo dining: introduce the concept of igloo dining to your outdoor space. Igloos can provide a cozy and intimate dining experience, especially during colder months. Set up transparent igloos that allow customers to enjoy the view while staying warm and comfortable. Decorate the igloos with fairy lights, cozy blankets, and comfortable seating. Offer a special menu featuring warm and comforting dishes that complement the cozy atmosphere. This unique dining experience will not only attract attention but also create a sense of exclusivity and luxury.

By unique experiences like these into your outdoor horeca offerings, you can create a memorable and captivating experience for your customers. These ideas will not only attract new customers but also encourage repeat visits as they seek to relive the exceptional moments you provide.