The Problem with Restaurant Noise and How to Fix

Did you know that nearly two thirds of mid-aged diners say they would actively steer clear of noisy venues?

We want our customers to enjoy an impressive fine-tuned meal, but don’t want an uncomfortable noisy atmosphere to override their experience…

Do the customers have to lean towards each other to hear their companion talking?
Are there miscommunications between guests and staff?
Do customers respond slowly when their order number is called?

If a “yes” was answered to at least one of the above questions, it is possible that our customers are experiencing discomfort due to noise.

Quick Statistics:

Long or repeated exposure to sounds at 75 decibels or above can cause a decrease in hearing sensitivity
The average noise level in restaurants around the nation range between 50 and 90 decibels, and the average is increasing
Noise can even affect how diners perceive their food, including lower ability to taste sweet foods and the tendency to perceive food as dry.

If noisy restaurants are a common thing, imagine how customers would feel after dining at a restaurant with fine food and a pleasant atmosphere!

The good news is that there are quick and easy solutions –

Dampen and disperse sound using physical barriers and/or create alcoves to break up sound waves
Line the walls and ceilings with acoustic panels to effectively absorb sound – there are both plain and fancy styles to suit all interiors
Put rubber caps on chairs legs to reduce banging and mats on long walkways also helps to absorb sound
Consider fabrics rather than leather and vinyl for your chairs, booths and banquette seating
Consider putting mats on long walkways
Consider making the background music quieter

For more tips on how to dampen sound in your restaurant using upholstery, contact us.