With a plethora of cafés, gastropubs and restaurants in close distance to most people’s homes, there is certainly plenty of competition in the dining industry. Spending cuts have tightened purse strings, reducing the opportunity for eating out, so ensuring your restaurant is enticing, both economically and taste-wise is vital.

Whilst price may seem like the most important factor in dining decisions, that’s often not the case. Foodies are much more likely to be drawn to a restaurant with high-quality, fine food served at a reasonable price, vs a cheap and cheerful restaurant where culinary excellence is a second thought.

Keep the menu fresh and simple. Many of the best restaurants and gastropubs operate a set menu with four or five options per course. Locally-sourced produce on the menu can be a big draw, encouraging local visitors and those from further afield. Don’t try to have multiple themes to your food, instead choose one main style or a fusion theme to establish your name as a leader in that particular field. Launch your menu inviting local food critics for maximum exposure – just make sure you give them a good experience!

The layout and design of the restaurant is also a great tool in attracting people to dine. Look at the architecture and design of the exterior of your restaurant to gain ideas – an uber modern design inside an old building may only work if incorporated with period features; likewise, a rustic, country kitsch theme would look out of place in a modern riverside development. Pay close attention to restaurant furniture to keep patrons comfortable, encouraging them to opt for all three courses. Leather backed or ergonomic chairs tend to provide more comfort, whilst keeping style top of the list.

Embracing changes to your restaurant will prove worthwhile in the long run, serving to help with marketing activities such as getting featured in the local paper, food magazine and The Times Good Food Guide.