The perfect beer garden: 9 tips for successful outdoor dining

The sun is shining, the beer is cold, and the aroma of freshly grilled food fills the air – a good beer garden is a definite crowd-puller in the summer . But not every outdoor space automatically becomes a popular spot. Restaurateurs and restaurateurs must tailor their concept to meet their guests' expectations to stand out from the competition. But what makes a good beer garden?

With the following 9 tips for successful outdoor dining, your beer garden will become the perfect summer hotspot!

The right location – creating visibility and atmosphere

The first step to the perfect beer garden is the right location . A beer garden should be easily accessible for both locals and tourists and located either in a lively neighborhood or along a popular walking path. However, an idyllic spot by a river, in a park, or amidst green meadows can also be a great choice.

Tip: Ensure good visibility and accessibility – also by placing signs.

Cozy atmosphere: furniture and decoration

The charm of a beer garden lies primarily in its coziness . The choice of furniture plays a crucial role here. Wooden or rustic tables and benches are classics, but light, comfortable chairs and cushions also make the experience more pleasant.

Tip: Opt for harmonious decorations with colorful flowers, fairy lights, torches, and solar lamps to make the beer garden a cozy meeting place in the evenings.

Shady spots – comfort in any weather

Not everyone wants to sit outside in the blazing sun. Shade-providing trees , parasols, or awnings ensure your beer garden remains comfortable even in hot weather.

Tip: Make sure there is enough space for freedom of movement without the chairs and tables being too close together.

High-quality beer and versatile drinks

A beer garden without good beer? It's simply not possible! High-quality, well-chilled beer is the heart of any outdoor dining experience. But non-alcoholic beverages, wines, cocktails, and homemade lemonades also provide variety.

Tip: In addition to classic beers, offer seasonal or regional specialties . Non-alcoholic alternatives are an important addition for guests who don't drink beer.

Delicious food – A beer garden thrives on its gastronomy

A good drink alone is often not enough – the food must also be impressive. In a beer garden , hearty snacks are a must. But traditional dishes like pretzels, sausage platters, and grilled dishes, as well as fresh salads and vegetarian options, are also in demand.

Tip: Offer a diverse menu that includes both traditional beer garden dishes and modern variations. Fresh, local ingredients are a big plus.

Live music and events – create even more atmosphere

A beer garden comes alive not only through good food and drinks, but also through musical entertainment and events . Live music, DJ sets, or small open-air concerts bring guests together and create a special experience. The more atmospheric the visit to your beer garden is, the more likely you are to be talked about.

Tip: Regularly organize theme nights such as beer or wine tastings, live music evenings or barbecues to create variety and attract new guests.

Family-friendliness: A beer garden for everyone

A beer garden should be attractive to all guests, especially families with children. Children's play areas , children's menus, and child-friendly drinks, as well as vegetarian and non-alcoholic options, are therefore a must for every modern beer garden.

Tip: Offer special family deals like happy hours for families or picnic options – this will fill up your outdoor dining area even on comparatively quieter days.

Sustainability – Attracting environmentally conscious guests

Younger visitors, in particular, are increasingly paying attention to the sustainability of the restaurants they visit. An environmentally friendly beer garden focuses on sustainability in all areas, from the tablecloth to the choice of ingredients to the napkins used.

Tip: Use environmentally friendly packaging for takeaway food, reduce plastic consumption, and focus on locally sourced ingredients. Proper waste separation and composting of food scraps will also make your beer garden even greener!

Digital ordering – convenience and speed

Today, especially in larger cities, spontaneous guests often expect the option to order digitally without having to wait for a server. A digital ordering option , whether via an app or QR codes on the tables, allows guests to order quickly and easily. This isn't a must for every beer garden, but depending on the location, it can be a plus.

Tip: Offer online ordering and digital payment options to speed up service and minimize lead times. This ensures smooth operations, especially during high visitor numbers.

Summary: The perfect beer garden thrives on atmosphere and variety

The perfect beer garden is a place where guests feel completely at home. If you can achieve this, your beer garden is perfect – even if things don't run smoothly. Good drinks, delicious food, a cozy atmosphere, and varied events are crucial to attracting guests and ensuring unforgettable hours in your beer garden. With these 9 tips, you can make your outdoor dining business a success and delight your guests time and time again – not just in summer, but all year round!