People consider patio dining and restaurant dining options when it comes to a dinner out. However, the difference between the two is quite significant and can make a massive difference in your experience. Taking the time to understand the differences between the two can help you decide which is the right choice for your next outing.
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Al fresco dining
Al fresco dining may be best defined as eating in an outdoor setting. It is a big thing in a restaurant, especially in warmer climates. The benefits of dining outdoors include the fresh air, the chance to enjoy the great outdoors, and a hefty boost to your bottom line. Moreover, al fresco dining in Jack London square activities can be a delightful experience. Whether you want something as hearty as a steak and lobster or something as simple as a burger and a drink, an amazing outdoor dining experience is the ideal way to enjoy a relaxing evening with friends and family.
While some restaurants have been offering alfresco dining for years, others have been playing catch-up. The cool thing about these new entrants to the dining scene is that you can choose the ambiance and the food. With a bit of forethought and planning, you can increase your bottom line while savoring the company of your fellow diners.
Outdoor vs. indoor dining
If you plan to dine outside this winter, you must know the rules. Luckily, you are not alone.
The good news is that most restaurants are now complying. They have also taken steps to increase the ventilation in their outdoor dining areas. Some have even set up heaters to make the experience more comfortable.
But what are the exact rules? In New York City, for instance, there is a multi-phase program that promotes open space while at the same time enhancing social distancing.
One of the guidelines is that an outdoor dining space cannot be more than half enclosed. It must have enough air flow from the side, and the roof or wall must be able to open.
Another requirement is that the structure is at least six feet from pedestrian traffic. Take your measurements because it may be difficult to judge from a distance.
Streetery vs. Shed
If you’ve never been to a famous restaurant, you might not know what outdoor dining sheds are. They’re the shabby wooden structures that are popular with restaurants. There are also faux RVs, pagodas, and boxcars.
While some may be tempted to dismiss sheds as a relic of a bygone era, the fact is that these structures opened up a lot of creative street space ideas. Some were luxurious, and some were rough and ready. But they all shared one thing: they were enclosed entirely and barely ventilated.
Dining sheds were a way for restaurants to reclaim a piece of public land for their use. The sheds were made from repurposed parking spaces, and the restaurant could supplement the structure with chairs or tables.
