Amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic, India’s dining scene is undergoing a remarkable transformation to reassure and entice its patrons. Outdoor dining has emerged as a critical trend, providing a lifeline to the struggling food and beverage (F&B) industry and reshaping the way people experience dining out. Here’s a closer look at the innovative steps being taken and the global inspiration driving this change.
The Impact of the Pandemic on Dining
Undoubtedly, the hospitality and restaurant sector has borne the brunt of the Covid-19 crisis. In India, restaurants faced prolonged closures during nationwide lockdowns, only to reopen to a fraction of their usual foot traffic. Concerns over hygiene and safety within enclosed spaces have led many customers to opt for home dining or seek outdoor eating alternatives.
While enclosed spaces struggle to generate revenue beyond 40% of pre-pandemic levels, outdoor dining experiences are proving to be a game-changer for those adapting to new norms. The shift in consumer behavior has made it evident that restaurants must innovate to survive.
Sridevi, a Food Consultant from Bengaluru, highlights this shift, stating, “If you confine yourself, revenues won’t exceed 40% of what they used to be. Outdoor dining is making up for these losses among those yet to embrace the changing landscape.”
Global Inspiration: A Tale of Two Cities
The outdoor dining trend is not unique to India. Across the globe, cities are embracing this concept to revive their F&B sectors and encourage safe social interactions. New York City, for example, faced a similar challenge—convincing diners to return to eateries while maintaining social distancing. In response, the city introduced the ‘Open Streets’ initiative, allowing restaurants to expand onto 85 car-free streets. This innovative program reimagined public spaces, garnering widespread praise for its ability to support the industry and enhance the urban dining experience.
Mayor Bill de Blasio has since proposed making outdoor dining a permanent fixture for thousands of restaurants in the city. This shift not only helps businesses recover but also transforms the urban landscape, promoting a more pedestrian-friendly environment.
Meanwhile, Paris is witnessing a resurgence of its iconic cafe culture. Relaxed rules regarding outdoor terraces have allowed bars and bistros to spill onto pavements, creating an unmistakably Parisian summer ambiance. Streets such as rue d’Aligre, near Place de la Bastille, have been transformed. Once bustling with fruit and vegetable stalls, the area now features tables and chairs arranged along the pavement and parking spaces, thanks to relocated market stalls for better social distancing.
Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo has extended new terrace rules until at least the end of September, with a vision of permanently reshaping the city’s outdoor dining landscape. By limiting car access and emphasizing pedestrian-friendly streets, green areas, and alternative transportation modes like bikes and scooters, Paris is reclaiming its spaces for public enjoyment.
Outdoor Dining in India: A Local Revolution
India’s restaurant owners and F&B entrepreneurs are also capitalizing on the potential of outdoor dining. From rooftop setups to garden seating and pop-up events, the focus is on creating unique and safe dining experiences. This approach caters to customers’ preferences for open-air environments, which are perceived as safer and more hygienic.
One standout example of innovation in India is the concept of mobile restaurants. HungryWheels is redefining the dining experience by introducing restaurants to unique and unconventional locales. From apartment gardens to IT park parking lots, public spaces, and community parks, these mobile restaurants create unforgettable outdoor dining experiences. By adapting to customer needs and leveraging outdoor spaces, HungryWheels and similar ventures are not only boosting revenue but also reshaping conventional norms of dining.
Why Outdoor Dining is Here to Stay
The narrative of outdoor dining is evolving, promising a revitalized dining experience beyond the confines of traditional restaurant settings. The benefits of this trend extend far beyond pandemic-related safety concerns:
- Enhanced Customer Experience: Open-air settings offer a refreshing ambiance, connecting diners with nature and creating memorable experiences.
- Increased Capacity: By utilizing outdoor spaces, restaurants can accommodate more patrons while adhering to social distancing guidelines.
- Flexibility and Creativity: Outdoor dining allows for innovative setups, from themed dining experiences to collaborations with local artists and musicians.
- Economic Revival: For many establishments, outdoor dining represents a crucial revenue stream, helping to offset losses incurred during lockdowns.
- Sustainability: Encouraging outdoor dining aligns with broader urban planning goals of reducing vehicle traffic and promoting eco-friendly initiatives.
The Future of Dining
The outdoor dining trend is not merely a response to the pandemic but a long-term shift in the F&B industry. It reflects changing consumer preferences, urban development priorities, and the resilience of restaurateurs who continue to adapt to new challenges. Cities across the globe, from New York to Paris and Bengaluru, are proving that outdoor dining can be a catalyst for economic recovery and community building. It is not just a temporary fix, but a permanent fixture, bringing new possibilities for both businesses and diners. Whether it’s in a vibrant urban street or a peaceful garden setting, the future of dining is undoubtedly outdoors—dynamic, adaptable, and here to stay.
As this trend continues to reshape the F&B landscape, businesses are exploring innovative solutions to improve efficiency and enhance the overall dining experience. One such solution making waves is the Food POD, helping establishments optimize their operations while maintaining high-quality service, even in mobile and outdoor settings.
Ready to revolutionize your food service? Contact us to explore how the Food Pod can elevate your outdoor dining experience!
Mobility architect, system designer, and ecosystem builder
Since 2012, he has developed various scalable vehicle platforms and solutions for retail, logistics, and defence. As a possibilist, futurist, and innovator, Vikram’s designs have powered the success of Food POD mobile kitchens at ITC, TAJ Hotels, Qmin, Manipal Group, and more.
