DINING UNDER THE STARS

Alfresco dining is coming to the forefront in the post-pandemic phase as eating out in open spaces is preferred

- BINDU GOPAL RAO

From sidewalks, patios, rooftops, and garden dining, outdoor dining has become very popular post-pandemic. After all, the lure of fresh air and a cool breeze when you dine can hardly compare to dining in cramped and closed spaces.

SPACE MATTERS

Many hotels and restaurants have come up with the concept of open-air dining so that the outlet does not feel congested or the guests feel uncomfortable. The best part about alfresco dining is that it is cost-effective as investors invest a considerable amount for a restaurant's ambiance, as the surroundings play a vital role as guests would be having their meal while connecting with nature and seeing the surroundings.

"We have opened an outlet at the rooftop of Mercure Hyderabad KCP located in Punjagutta, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, situated at the heart of Hyderabad, which is a rooftop restaurant so that our guests can dine in with good food and view from the top of the hotel. This kind of experience is different, and dining here automatically ensures that social distancing is maintained as our guests believe there must be special attention given to hygiene and safety. As it is an open space, it has a better capacity for the seating arrangement," says Soumitra Pahari, GM, Mercure Hyderabad KCP. Outdoor dining has the added advantage that it usually has some great views especially when located on the terrace of a hotel. Arshita Thapa, Director of Restaurants, The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake, adds, "Be it a sundowner with friends or a lavish weekend brunch with family, alfresco seating is always the preferred option. In the monsoons, too, we offer stylish canopy seating so that our diners can enjoy the weather in comfort and luxury. The team created the concept of alfresco dining based on Westin's brand philosophy of 'Eat Well' to enhance the entire epicurean experience to allow patrons to savour their meals in the serenity of the outdoors."