Running a café catering to tourists may seem simple, but it requires special attention when it comes to foreign guests on vacation. Data from Ansa Viaggi for 2016 is clear: the number of foreign visitors to Italy increased by 1% compared to the previous year, a trend that appears to remain stable this year as well. Italy has always been a favorite destination for tourists, especially those from abroad. Running a café in a tourist destination can be a real goldmine, especially during the vacation and travel months. To make the most of this opportunity, here are some simple tips every café catering to tourists should follow.
Bars for Tourists: Four Simple Rules
Language and communication
A bar's reputation among tourists often depends on effectively communicating basic information, such as prices and opening hours, in multiple languages. Knowing at least one foreign language in addition to Italian is essential for managing a business in a tourist destination. Furthermore, using foreign-language signs to display prices, menus, ingredients, and the availability of dietary options, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options, is essential to ensuring a positive experience for international customers.
Meal times
Every country has a unique culinary culture, which is reflected not only in the dishes offered but also in the typical eating times of its residents. Tourists often prefer to eat at different times than Italians, so keeping the kitchen open with quick solutions is essential to accommodate hungry travelers at any time. To reduce kitchen running costs, the Combi Wave is your secret ally. Thanks to its versatility as a multipurpose oven, it is always ready for use, even in standby mode. Its internal temperature remains low enough to allow cooking even when it is turned off, saving you time and money. Discover the many features of the Combi Wave to optimize your business.
Menu with typical dishes
Italian cuisine is renowned worldwide for its incredible variety and flavor. Therefore, offering foreign diners typical dishes from your region is an excellent strategy. Even the least adventurous tourists won't be able to resist a delicious Tuscan panzanella or Abruzzo arrosticini. Investing in a traditional menu can significantly boost your revenue, as evidenced by the ever-increasing number of travelers embarking on food and wine tours.
Furthermore, offering typical local dishes is an excellent visibility strategy. Imagine a foreign tourist savoring the summer flavor of tomato friselle in Puglia and being so enthusiastic about it that they share a photo of the dish on social media like Instagram and Facebook. This increases your online visibility, helping to enhance your restaurant's reputation.
Another valuable tip is to carefully curate the presentation of your dishes, avoiding them appearing sloppy or rushed. Want to improve your bar's online reputation among tourists? Find out how yourpublished images can make a difference.
Wi-Fi zone
Imagine a foreign tourist who, thrilled by tasting friselle in Puglia, wants to share their experience on Facebook and Instagram. However, their internet connection is poor or data charges are too high to allow them to instantly post a photo. This is an opportunity for visibility that can't be missed. An effective solution to this problem is to offer free internet access via a free Wi-Fi system. You could provide the password at the time of purchase, making sure it's easy to remember but not too simple.
From communications to menus, running a tourist bar requires a number of additional attentions compared to other types of establishments. However, these tips can also be useful for improving your reputation and increasing revenue, even for those operating in a non-tourist area. If you run a tourist bar, share your secret with us in the comments.