Your terrace is packed, but is it as profitable as it could be?

A busy terrace is every restaurateur's dream. But at the end of the day, success isn’t measured by how many guests you welcome – it’s measured by what each service delivers. As consumers become increasingly mindful of their spending, running a smart business has never been more important.

By focusing on added value, seamless service, measurable insights, and memorable experiences, you can create a formula that lasts far beyond one successful summer season.

Focus on value, not discounts

When business starts to slow down, offering a discount can seem like the obvious solution. Is it the best one, though? Not always. Today’s guests aren’t necessarily looking for the lowest price. They want to feel like they’re getting great value for money.

Rather than cutting prices, look for ways to add more value to the experience. Consider attractive menu combinations that include a starter, a main course, and a drink. Small extras like a bread basket, an amuse-bouche, or a fresh side salad, can also make a big impact.

It’s also worth offering dishes with a specific drink pairing. One good recommendation often sells better than an extensive drinks list. Adding a premium signature dish or a sharing platter to your menu can be equally effective. It automatically makes other menu items appear more attractively priced in the eyes of your guests.

You don’t have to cut discounts altogether, just use them strategically; for example, during quieter lunch services or on weekdays when it’s less busy. And why not embrace the spirit of summer? An aperitivo hour with a selection of carefully curated bites is a great way to drive additional traffic and boost revenue.

Make ordering and paying effortless

Every restaurateur has been there: a customer wants to order another drink but the servers are busy on the other side of the terrace. By the time someone comes over, the moment has passed. And that means lost revenue.

The easier it is for guests to order and pay, the more likely they are to add an extra dessert, coffee, or round of drinks to their bill. QR ordering at the table makes it easier for guests to repeat orders and gives them more flexibility.

There are benefits for your team as well. With HandyPay, Trivec’s all-in-one ordering and payment solution, staff only need a single device. Orders are sent directly to the bar or kitchen, while payments can be processed instantly at the table. Less time spent walking back and forth means more time with guests and more efficient service overall.

The payment experience also deserves attention. Fast, reliable payment methods and easy bill splitting reduce waiting times and help free up tables sooner for the next guests.

Measure what matters

You can work as hard as you want, but without concrete numbers, you’re left guessing. Which actions are actually driving results? Which dishes generate the strongest profits? And where are you losing time or margin?

By tracking a few key indicators each week, you can quickly gain valuable insights:

• How quickly do guests get their first drink? This is often the first impression of your service. The faster that first order arrives, the more positive the experience feels.

• How long does it take to pay? A smooth payment process keeps guests satisfied and helps free up tables more quickly for new customers.

• How much is being added to the bill? Desserts, coffees, extra drinks, and sharing plates can give you a clear picture of your upselling potential.

• Which dishes deliver the best margins? Just because a dish is popular, doesn’t mean it's profitable. Regularly reviewing your numbers helps identify which menu items genuinely contribute to your bottom line.

Think of your data as a personal GPS. It helps you make small course corrections along the way, leading to better decision-making in the long run.

Consider a summer refresh

Summer is the perfect time to refresh your venue. Think: seasonal specials, colourful cocktails, alcohol-free summer drinks, and visually striking dishes that guests can’t help but share on social media. Terrace evenings, BBQ nights, and tastings also add an extra layer of engagement.

Don't forget your loyal customers. A short monthly newsletter featuring a new dish, an upcoming event, or a special offer keeps your venue top of mind without feeling overly promotional.

Ready for a successful summer?

Guest expectations are constantly evolving. Hospitality businesses that focus on convenience, experience, and smart technology aren’t just building a strong summer season – they’re building a future-proof business. Curious about the upcoming trends shaping the industry?