Tips to Improve Your Restaurant’s Patio This Summer

Summer is just around the corner! Seasonal menus and special cocktails paired with an amazing patio or stellar rooftop are sure to make your business a hot spot this summer (no pun intended). As the demand for outdoor seating increases, you want to make sure your restaurant’s patio has the features it needs to accommodate your customers and their needs. Luckily, there are a variety of different ways to keep your customers happy.

Pet-Friendly Restaurants

When the weather is nice, people enjoy being in the outdoors, especially with their dogs. If you’re a pet-friendly business, consider sharing photos and announcements on your social media to encourage customers to come out with their pets and enjoy your exceptional outdoor area. Keep your patrons cool and comfortable with patio shades, like our motorized sun screens, and a nearby water cooler to help with the summer heat.

Install Shading Options to Your Patio

Perhaps the most important thing of all is to ensure your outdoor area stays comfortable even during the day’s highest temperatures. Entice customers to escape the hot, summer heat and turn to your patio to relax and cool off by enhancing your outdoor area with our sun shades or patio enclosure products. Customized to meet your needs, our easily retractable enclosures are able to decrease temperatures by 10 degrees and reduce debilitating sun glares, allowing your customers to enjoy the view. Combined with AC, oscillating fans, or a misting system, you can ensure that your customers stay cool and satisfied, even during the hottest days of summer.

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Shoal Creek Tavern Highland Village

Shoal Creek Tavern is a gastro pub serving specialty foods including steaks, fresh seafood, Kobe burgers, salads and shareable appetizers. To accompany one’s meal, they feature over 40 taps of imported and domestic beers, unique cocktails and fine wines. They also serve brunch on the weekends, and offer creative daily specials from the Chef. This is truly a destination for anyone who enjoys quality food and drink in a comfortable, friendly atmosphere.
The patio at Shoal Creek Tavern provides a space for customers who prefer a quieter seating option. The motorized patio blinds have clear vinyl windows with a stylish solid black border. This protects diners from the elements, while still permitting them to enjoy the outside view. The blinds also provide good insulation for keeping the patio cool in the Summer and heated during the more chilly months. The comfort of this climate controlled patio encourages customers to linger just a little while longer, and of course that translates to increased revenues and repeat business.

Pilot Knoll Park

Just a few miles from Shoal Creek Tavern is Pilot Knoll Park. This lovely park borders Lake Lewisville, in Highland Village, Texas. The park is 65 to 85 acres (depending on water level), and is perfect for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities. The day use area has picnic facilities, a boat ramp and dock, equestrian trails, kayak and paddle board rentals. There are camping spots for both recreational vehicles and tent campers. After enjoying the great outdoors at this park, a relaxing evening on the patio at Shoal Creek Tavern is a perfect way to end the day.

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The Isle at Watercrest in Bryan, Texas

The Isle at Watercrest in Bryan, Texas is a luxurious independent retirement community. This community takes pride in creating a friendly communal environment where residents enjoy a safe, healthy, and engaging lifestyle. Among the many amenities available to residents is this spacious covered swimming pool. The large windows are covered with motorized sun shades that allow for comfortable enjoyment during all seasons.

The average high temperature in Bryan, Texas during Summer months is over 90 degrees, so these shades help to keep the pool area cool and shady. From November through February, the average high temperatures are in the 60s, with lows dipping into the 40s. Cooler weather doesn’t mean that the pool can’t be enjoyed, though! Swimmers won’t catch a chill from the wind blowing through, as these attractive shades also provide wind protection. The fabric is breathable, so the pool can be heated in the cooler months without creating excess humidity.

George H. W. Bush Presidential Library Center

Just a short drive from The Isle at Watercress is the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum. In addition to the permanent exhibits that focus on President Bush’s life and presidency, there are frequently changing exhibits that offer unique perspectives on American history, culture, and art. This museum offers visitors a chance to see a World War II Avenger Torpedo Bomber, a piece of the Berlin Wall, and precise replicas of the President’s Camp David and Situation Room. You can even get your picture take while seated at the desk in a replica Oval Office!

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Durham Hotel

The Durham Hotel is a charming boutique hotel with impressive mid-century modern decor. Located in the heart of downtown Durham, North Carolina, it is an ideal location for anyone visiting the city. The Roof at The Durham is a year-round rooftop patio spot that is popular with guests and locals alike. It’s a trendy location for intimate gatherings or large groups. The 3,000 square foot layout features a bar, covered and open-air seating, and a space available for private parties.

The motorized patio enclosures on The Roof, with clear vinyl windows, allow guests to enjoy the spectacular view of the city anytime, in any weather. The motorized blinds can be closed up with just the touch of a button. This means adjustments can be made with no disruption to guests enjoying cocktails, or to any special events. These vinyl enclosures also allow the space to be heated or cooled according to weather. Customers will linger when they are happy and comfortable, and the outstanding service at The Durham Hotel paired with a memorable outdoor space is a great example of optimizing outdoor seating for maximum return on investment.

Museum of Durham History

Just a few blocks away is the Museum of Durham History. This is a 21st century museum that uses stories about people, places and things to foster curiosity, encourage further inquiry, and promote an understanding of diverse perspectives about the Durham community and history. Established in 2004, it has been continuously growing by collecting personal stories of local history, hosting special events, and creating walking tours of the city. The Museum of Durham is a must for anyone who enjoys learning about local history and culture.

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Hays City Store

The Hays City Store has been a fixture in Driftwood, Texas for over 30 years. It began as a gas station and corner market, with a cafe added in the early 1990s. In 2013, the Hays City Store was remodeled and reopened by the current owners as a full service restaurant featuring Texas comfort food, local beers, and hand crafted cocktails. The decor was updated, while still retaining the charm of the original building. The original rock wall fence still surrounds the two and a half acres of shaded beer garden. Customer seating was increased with the addition of outdoor picnic tables, and an enclosed patio space. The clear screen enclosures on the patio keep out insects and the occasional rain, while customers can enjoy the peaceful view of the surrounding Texas hill country. It’s the next best thing to eating outdoors, while remaining in enclosed comfort.

Southern Patio Enclosures Showroom

In nearby Buda, Texas is the Southern Patio Enclosures headquarters. A visit to our office allows you to see and feel the hardware and materials that go into all our projects. Our knowledgable team is on hand to answer any questions, and discuss suggestions on the best patio enclosure options for your property. In addition to the sales team in Buda, we have sales staff in Houston and the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Our skilled service teams are located in Texas, Raleigh NC, Denver CO, West Palm Beach FL, Tampa FL, Cincinnati, OH, and Kansas City, MO. We are eager to help you improve your business with a custom patio enclosure. Call or email us if you would like to get a quote.

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Our Commercial Patio Enclosures Can Be Found All Over The Country

Over the last couple of years, we have seen a lot of fun going on under patios where we have installed commercial/restaurant enclosures. All over the country, people love to watch sports while enjoying good food & cold drinks on an enclosed patio. One of our installers, Chase, has raved about these patios and how fun it would be to visit again as a patron of the restaurant or bar. So let’s explore “Chase’s Enclosed Patio Tour,” and share some of the best patios across the nation where people are enjoying watching the big game.

Let’s start the tour off in the Northeast part of the country:

LandShark Bar & Grill, Atlantic City, NJ

The LandShark Bar and Grill, a full-service bar and restaurant on the Atlantic City Boardwalk.

LandShark Bar & Grill in Atlantic City is the only year-round full-service bar and restaurant on the sand side of the Atlantic City Boardwalk. Located on 200 feet of prime beach frontage at the site of the Old Steeplechase Pier, LandShark Bar & Grill brings its guests right to the edge of the Atlantic Ocean.

Imagine watching football on their spacious enclosed patio, while also being able to enjoy a seaside view! With patio seating for over 200 guests, there’s plenty of room for groups of football fans to partake of their signature juicy cheeseburgers and cold beer.

Morgan’s Pier, Philadelphia, PA

Morgan’s Pier in Philadelphia is a one of a kind venue, providing an outdoor barbecue ambiance while serving unique food offerings from seasonal Chefs’ menus.  Each season throughout the year, Morgan’s Pier invites a different celebrated chef to take over the kitchen with their version of a chef-hosted backyard barbecue.

Located along the Delaware River Waterfront, the view is fabulous whether you’re sitting on the open deck, or under the covered patio/bar area. The enclosed patio seating area is perfect for those who want a more secluded space to enjoy cocktails and conversation, but it isn’t so isolated that one can’t enjoy the view or the festive mood.

In 2015, Morgan’s Pier was named “Most Popular Bar in Pennsylvania” by Buzzfeed, and in 2017 Philly Happening Magazine called it the Best Outdoor Dining.

Tío Juan’s Margaritas Mexican Restaurant, Lansdale, PA

Located about 28 miles northwest of Philadelphia, the close-knit community of Lansdale is home to many Philadelphia Eagles fans. The enclosed patio at Margaritas is the place watch an Eagles game! This popular Mexican restaurant attracts football fans by offering game day specials, as well as their regular menu of tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, and more. The beautiful enclosed patio lets guests enjoy lovely autumn days during football season while remaining comfortable.

From the Northeast, we’ll travel down to the Midwestern state of Kansas…

Sullivan’s Steakhouse, Leawood, Kansas

Sullivan’s Steakhouse in Leawood, KS serves classic steakhouse fare in an elegant, yet relaxing, atmosphere. Located across the street from the Town Center Plaza, it’s a great place to unwind after a long day of shopping with some of the best Kansas City steaks, fresh seafood, and signature cocktails in a genuinely unique steakhouse atmosphere.

The Kansas City Pitch awarded Sullivan’s Steakhouse their “Best Patio Seating” award in 2010. Their enclosed patio features seating for 60 people, with heaters to keep the space warm and cozy during the fierce Kansas winter months.


Moving along on our tour, let’s stop in Little Rock, Arkansas for some tasty Tex-Mex on the patio at Chuy’s…

Chuy’s, Little Rock, AR

The first Chuy’s Restaurant originally opened on April 16, 1982, on iconic Barton Springs Road in Austin, TX. The restaurant’s founders had a vision of a fun and funky Tex-Mex restaurant that served authentic and fresh food in an atmosphere that appealed to everyone. From these humble beginnings to present day, Chuy’s is now an iconic destination for lovers of Tex-Mex cuisine in 19 states.

Tex-Mex food just always seems best in the fresh air. Relaxing on a patio with a margarita while watching a game, or enjoying people watching, is one of life’s most simple, perfect pleasures. If the weather turns nasty, the patio can be enclosed to keep out the wind and rain. The eclectic decor and fun loving atmosphere at Chuy’s double the already enjoyable experience.

Chuy’s, Knoxville, TN

Here in Knoxville, TN we have another Chuy’s location, featuring the same signature Tex-Mex menu and fun ambiance that is in all their locations.

A spacious patio area lets diners enjoy their margaritas in the fresh air while remaining protected from the elements. Tacos and enchiladas always taste great, but they’re even better when experienced outside. Watching the big game on the patio at Chuy’s just makes an ordinary Sunday afternoon feel like a party!

Venturing South on our tour, let’s take a look at a few enclosed patios in the great state of Texas!  Texans love sports, and they love being outdoors. It’s no surprise that there are so many great locations to watch a game on a comfortably enclosed patio…

Eastwood’s Bar, Dallas, TX

Known as the “living room of Uptown,” Eastwood’s Bar is a popular neighborhood place serving elevated American fare with an extensive cocktail menu. The large covered patio is “dog- friendly,” so patrons can bring their best friend along for a night out. Rain or shine, customers can watch sports from any of the several television screens placed around the patio. There’s a great view, no matter where you’re sitting.

The Fort Worth Star-Telegram named Eastwood’s Bar as one of the best places to watch the Super Bowl in 2017. With plenty of seating and multiple television screens, this is one of the most popular places in the area to spend game day.

Wise Guys, Grapevine, TX

Wise Guys Pizzeria in Grapevine, Texas specializes in pizza, pasta, and premium drafts. Could there be any better accompaniment to watching a game? The variety of Italian fare on the menu, as well as kids’ choices, means that there is something there that will appeal to everyone.

The patio at Wise Guys Pizzeria has large televisions, so you can enjoy the fresh air while enjoying your game-day plans. Ceiling fans keep the patio cool and breezy in the Texas heat during the day, and screens prevent annoying insects from interfering with diners.

Pour House, Dallas, TX

The Pour House is a neighborhood sports pub located in the Lakewood neighborhood of Dallas, TX. Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner; this is a haven for anyone who loves to watch sports. They are known for their delicious burgers, signature pizza, and a large selection of local beers and national microbrews.

The enclosed patio at Pour House features several prominently placed televisions so that everyone can see the action. Long communal tables allow for groups of friends to cheer on their favorite team while making friends with fellow fans.

Smoke’n Honey House, Houston, TX

There is a saying that almost everything is bigger in Texas, and the Smoke’n Honey House proves this! It has approximately 14,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor seating space, nearly 40 beers on tap, about 60 different bottled beers, and a mouth-watering menu of barbecue and sandwiches.

The spacious patio seating area is the perfect spot to enjoy a beautiful view while hanging out with friends. The enclosed patio features motorized blinds, which the wait staff can lower with just a push of a button to help keep the space cool and cut down on harsh sun glare.

Finally, we end the tour by visiting Florida, the Sunshine State. With plenty of coastline and ocean breezes, it’s no wonder that hanging out on enclosed patios are so popular with sports fans all over the state….

Applebee’s, West Palm Beach, FL

Applebee’s Restaurants are known for their extensive menu of American dishes, as well as a wide selection of beers and cocktails. The kids’ menu makes it easy for families to enjoy dining out, without having to worry about finding a place that can please everyone.

In Florida, people love the bright sunshine and fresh air. At Applebee’s, an enclosed patio with large televisions allows sports fan to watch their favorite game while enjoying their favorite Applebee’s specialties, without being bothered by annoying insects.

World of Beer, Pensacola, FL

The name says it all! At World of Beer, you can find 50 craft beers on tap, over 500 bottled varieties in the cooler and a menu of tasty tavern food. Their trained staff can help you pair the perfect beer with your dinner, or answer any beer related questions one might have.

Located near the coast, World of Beer’s patio seating lets patrons enjoy an ocean breeze with their favorite beer. Since World of Beer is great for anyone who enjoys watching sports, the expanded seating capacity on the patio allows as many fans as possible to meet up and cheer for their favorite team.

Have you visited any of these locations? If you have recently enjoyed one or more of these enclosed patios across the US, please let us know via FB, Twitter or Google+.

Motorized Screens for Smoking Rooms

Miami Valley Gaming in Lebanon, OH

Ohio wind screens on casinosOpened on December 12, 2013, Miami Valley Gaming is a favorite destination for anyone who needs a brief escape from their usual routine. The facility features over 1,800 gaming machines, 4 great restaurants, a 5/8-mile harness horse racing track, and more!
The patio area is enclosed and equipped with motorized sun shades. Having an enclosed patio allows Miami Valley Gaming to offer their customers a “smoking area”, and maximizes their gaming space capacity.
Since the weather in southern Ohio can vary from warm and humid to bitterly cold, these shades help keep the patio space as comfortable as possible. In addition to blocking the harsh glare of the sun, they help to keep out any cold winds that might blow through! The motorized sun shades are easily adjusted by any staff member with just a touch of a button, so customers who are gaming won’t be interrupted.

Cincinnati Zoo

Just a thirty minute drive away from Miami Valley Gaming you will find the prestigious Cincinnati Zoo. The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens first opened in 1875, making it the second oldest zoo in the United States. It has been rated by peer zoological parks as one of the best zoos in the nation, and it continues to set the standard for conservation, education, and preservation of wild animals. In addition to their regular hours, the Cincinnati Zoo offers classes, “Zoo Camp” for children, and several holiday events. It is a wonderful place to visit for animal and nature lovers of all ages.

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Roll Down Vinyl Louisiana

Cane River Bar and Grill Natchitoces Louisiana

Roll Down Vinyl LouisianaThe philosophy at Cane River Bar and Grill, in historic Natchitoches, Louisiana, is “We cook. You eat. It’s that simple.” The menu features perfectly grilled steaks and fish, comfort food, and Louisiana classics. It’s all classic food, prepared expertly and with a lot of pride. It’s not just the delicious food that attracts diners; their enclosed patio seating area is an optimal place to enjoy a relaxing meal with family. The patio overlooks the lovely and historic Cane River. Clear window enclosures that can be manually raised or lowered allow customers to enjoy their food without having to battle mosquitoes. Large fans placed strategically on the patio keep a refreshing breeze blowing on hot days.

Natchitoches, Louisiana – History and Southern Charm

Natchitoches is the oldest settlement in the Louisiana Purchase. The 33-block Historic Landmark District features Creole architecture, bed and breakfasts, restaurants, shops and historic homes.
The epitome of southern charm, Natchitoches was the location of the award winning 1989 film “Steel Magnolias”. In fact, the historic Taylor-Cook House, now known as the Steel Magnolia Bed & Breakfast, is a popular destination for movie fans. This house was central to many scenes in the film, and now the public can visit these iconic scenes for themselves. The Steel Magnolia Bed & Breakfast boasts 5,900 square feet of living space, six bedrooms and bathrooms, a grand staircase, and an 800 square foot guesthouse. Details such as gas fireplaces, crystal chandeliers, and antiques add to the overall charm.

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Wind Screens Ace Hotel

Ace Hotel, New Orleans

Wind Screens Ace HotelThe Ace Hotel is a boutique hotel located in the warehouse district of New Orleans. Located just a short distance from the French Quarter, the Ace Hotel is popular with tourists who want a respite from the energetic atmosphere of the quarter. The Ace offers elegant rooms, tasty dining choices, and live entertainment several nights a week.
With New Orleans being so close to the Mississippi River and Lake Pontchartrain, humidity, insects, and hight temperature are the norm for a large part of the year. The sun and insect screens installed on the patio at the Ace Hotel allow guests to enjoy the beautiful city view and fascinating people-watching, without being attacked by mosquitoes or burned by the midday sun.

French Quarter – Bourbon Street and Beyond

The French Quarter is just a short distance from the Ace Hotel. If you’re looking for a lively, “party all night” atmosphere, the bars and clubs on Bourbon Street are the place to be! For anyone who wants to enjoy the history and artistic side of the French Quarter, a stroll down Royal Street can’t be beat! Royal Street is just a block over from Bourbon Street. It is a mix of antique shops, boutiques, fine jewelry stores, colorful art galleries and world-class hotels and restaurants. This is where one will find the distinctive New Orleans architecture. Some of the most picturesque and frequently photographed buildings and iron lace balconies – many of which date back to the 18th and 19th centuries – are along Royal Street.

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Gloria’s Latin Cuisine

Authentic Latin Food

Gloria’s Latin Cuisine serves authentic Latin food, created by Salvadorian immigrants Gloria and Jose Fuentes. Since opening the first restaurant in 1986, they now have 17 locations across the state of Texas. Serving brunch, lunch, and dinner as well as a variety of refreshing cocktails, it is a busy and popular place all day long. At the Garland, Texas location, a screened-in patio is transformed into popular seating space. This increases the restaurant’s overall seating capacity, and gives some customers a cozier place for dinner, away from the main dining room. The enclosed area has both clear screens, which are perfect for “people watching”, and sun screens, which create a comfortable retreat from the hot sun. Who wouldn’t enjoy spending a happy hour with a cold cocktail; just watching the world go by on a comfortable patio? The sun screens are motorized, making it easy to lower and raise the screens without disturbing customers.

Colleyville City Park

Texas has pleasant weather through most of the year. Spending an afternoon in a park is a favorite way for families to relax and rejuvenate. Just a short drive from Gloria’s Latin Cuisine, is the Colleyville City Park. This 40-acre community park features nine lighted baseball and softball fields, six lighted tennis courts, basketball courts, concessions/restrooms, a covered pavilion, pond, amphitheater, and a one-mile, multi-use trail. Pavilions can be reserved and rented for weddings, birthdays, and other special occasions.

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