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Optimizing Entertainment for Foodservice Success
Entertainment Is Redefining Guest Engagement in the Foodservice Industry
Dining out is an immersive experience, or at least, it should be. Today’s diners are looking for experience restaurants that go beyond a good meal, but that doesn’t mean that your restaurant has to reinvent the wheel to stay relevant. You can establish your property as a gathering place and event hotspot just by leveraging your entertainment systems correctly.
Match Programming to Your Audience
The most successful entertainment strategies begin with understanding who you’re serving. A sports bar thrives on delivering access to live games and commentary, while a family-friendly restaurant may benefit from kid-friendly programming or curated music that appeals to multiple generations. Upscale dining concepts, on the other hand, might prioritize ambient playlists or cultural broadcasts that elevate the atmosphere without overwhelming it.
By tailoring your entertainment choices to the preferences and expectations of your core audience, you create a sense of belonging that encourages guests to return. In other words, the right content for the right crowd turns casual visitors into loyal regulars.
Build Buzz Around Events
Your in-house TVs aren’t just there for your regulars. They can be a magnet for new and returning guests when you use them to broadcast events.
Consider how major sporting events, televised award shows, or even seasonal cultural broadcasts can position your location as the go-to gathering spot. Want to make sure that fans of the premier TV show or local sports team choose your experience restaurant to tune in? You can host the ultimate watch parties by:
- Planning food or drink specials that fit the theme of the planned entertainment.
- Booking local personalities to act as emcees for the events.
- Hosting giveaways or simple games for attendees to participate in.
Watch party events also foster a sense of community, where diners associate your venue with shared experiences and memorable nights out.
Stay True to Your Brand
Not sure which programs to highlight at your restaurant or bar? Your entertainment choices should feel like a natural extension of your brand identity rather than an afterthought.
For example, a family-friendly restaurant might host weekly movie nights, while a high-end dining concept could curate live jazz performances or stream exclusive cultural events. A sports-themed bar, on the other hand, can reinforce its positioning by spotlighting local teams and hosting viewing parties.
The key is intentionality. When entertainment aligns with your restaurant’s story, it strengthens your overall brand and gives guests a consistent, memorable experience. Done well, it becomes part of what sets your property apart in a crowded market.
Make Sure You’re Connected to Key Programming
The ultimate key to optimizing your entertainment systems? Sourcing everything you need through a group purchasing partner. Foodbuy Foodservice works directly with suppliers like DirectTV for access to all the channels you need. Plus, we partner with groups like ODP Business Solutions for TV systems. You can supply your facility with everything you need to keep your diners entertained.