There is nothing as dull as an up-and-coming hip bistro (neighborhood restaurant) located in the cool part of town that doesn't revitalize their outdoor space. Plants, trees, sculptures, custom signage, wrought iron and bistro furniture is welcoming. It tells customers "we care about your comfort." Settings with dull concrete floors and hardly any attractive plants are not welcoming. Restaurateur need to take more consideration on the exteriors of their establishments.
The French Quarter is well known for its Spanish wrought iron balconies, and French/Spanish architecture. Hanging baskets really gives those beautiful New Orleans style buildings a great deal of charm and tropical appeal. You really know you are in a semitropical climate when so many beautiful plants, trees and hanging baskets are adorning these establishments.
Isn't that the reason why so many tourist visit New Orleans? If so, then why do some establishments ignore their outdoor spaces all together? A plant or two just doesn't cut it. If the center of focus is on the barren concrete floors you have already lost the battle.
Restaurateurs, taking heed of these important suggestions could transform the complete ambiance of your establishment. People are attracted to the coziness of neighborhood restaurants. Many sit outside to experience the environment taking in the natural settings and fresh air. Marketing 101 tells us to differentiate your business from the competition.
Magazine St. lures visitors and tourist. The area is known for its outdoor cafes. Many cultures in the Middle East and Europe are known for their outdoor coffee shops and cafes. But you won't see cheap Dollar Store plastic chairs lining the streets of Paris or Istanbul.
So a word to the wise, your outdoor spaces matter.
Look at the three photographs. One is an establishment in the French Quarters and the other two are located on Magazine Street. Which location looks welcoming and which one doesn't. I took these photos on various trips to New Orleans from 2005 - 2008.
