Summer in St. Louis is peak patio season. Warm evenings and longer days bring diners out. This is a golden chance for local restaurants to shine.
Outdoor lighting is key for summer success. It helps guests see their food and sets a vibe that invites people to stay. Whether it’s a casual happy hour, a jazz night, or a barbecue after a ball game, the right lighting makes an outdoor dining experience relaxing and enjoyable, and keeps your customers coming back for more.
Outdoor dining = Outdoor ambiance
Outdoor dining is about creating an experience.
Lighting sets the mood. Cozy bistro lights give a courtyard a warm feel. A softly lit pergola creates intimacy for couples. Colorful LED features make a rooftop patio feel festive.
And, of course, customer curb appeal. Lighting catches a potential diner’s eye from the street. It gives your space presence after sunset. Plus, a well-lit patio is very Instagram-friendly. Want to get more social media attention? Give customers a space that looks amazing, so they want to share it with others.
Lighting tips for summer restaurant events
Here’s how outdoor restaurant lighting can support specific summer events.
Live music nights
- What works: Uplighting for performers, soft bistro lights overhead. Have a dance floor set up? Add a few well-placed spotlights angled low to highlight the area without throwing off the groove.
- Why it matters: This setup creates a special event feeling while avoiding glare. Performers are highlighted and visible. Guests can still enjoy their drinks and meals under the softer bistro lights.
Special tasting events
- What works: An eye-catching statement fixture for each dining area, plus tableside sconces. String lights can be used on outdoor structures, too.
- Why it matters: The visual splash of a statement fixture makes things dramatic and memorable; keep the brightness toned down so it’s not overwhelming. Subtle tableside lighting provides visibility so guests can see what they’re tasting.
Outdoor cocktail hour
- What works: Under-bar LED lighting, color-coordinated with the rest of the decor; Bistro lights over an area for mingling or dancing.
- Why it matters: Programmable, energy-efficient LED lighting makes the bar a focal point. Plus, you can adjust the colors and brightness to suit the mood. Use bistro lights to designate an area for mingling or dancing.
Practical lighting upgrades for restaurants
To improve your outdoor dining space this season, consider these simple changes:
- Dimming control to adjust the mood from dusk to dining to dancing.
- Pathway lighting for guest safety and easier navigation.
- Color-changing LEDs for seasonal themes and an instant festive feel.
- Energy-efficient fixtures that look better and lower utility costs.
- Motion sensor lights for security and guest safety behind the restaurant and in parking areas.
- Landscaping uplights to add depth and highlight features.
Outdoor lighting is functional and vital to the guest experience. The right setup adds value, elevates ambiance, and helps your space stand out.
With some planning, your restaurant’s outdoor area can become the go-to spot as the sun sets. Want to enhance your restaurant’s outdoor space this summer? Let’s talk about lighting solutions for patios, events, and more.
