5 tips for better acoustics in catering establishments

Because the ear eats with you! When designing a successful restaurant, it is not only the exquisite cuisine that plays a role. It’s not for nothing that they say “the eye eats with you”, because the ambience and the presentation of the dishes influence the taste experience. However, it is less well known that the ear is also involved in the dining experience. Acoustics play a decisive role in how comfortable guests feel in a restaurant.

Experts have found that the average noise level in restaurants is 80 dB. However, this noise level can be reduced by up to 10 dB through various measures. A 10 dB reduction equates to an impressive 50% reduction in background noise.

Five tips for better acoustics in catering establishments:

1. Use suitable materials
   Choosing the right materials for floors, walls and ceilings can have a big impact on the acoustics in a hospitality space. Sound-absorbing materials such as carpets, curtains, acoustic panels or special wall coverings can reduce reverberation and lower noise levels.
2. Room design and furniture placement
   A well thought-out room design can help to distribute sound optimally. Disturbing sound reflections can be minimised by clever placement of furniture and partition walls. In addition, care should be taken to ensure that there is sufficient distance between tables to ensure a pleasant background noise.
3. Acoustic separation of areas
   In catering establishments with different areas, such as a restaurant and a bar, it is important to create an acoustic separation. This can be achieved by using soundproof walls or curtains to prevent a background noise between rooms and to provide a pleasant atmosphere for each area.
4. Music and sound reinforcement
   The right choice of music and appropriate sound reinforcement can improve the acoustics in catering establishments. Careful tuning of volume and music direction can help create pleasant background music that is not overpowering and helps to entertain guests.
5. Staff training and communication
   Staff training can help ensure that staff understand the importance of acoustics in the hospitality space and take appropriate steps to ensure a pleasant sound experience for guests. This includes good communication between staff to point out any sources of noise or problems and respond quickly.

Good acoustics are a decisive factor for the well-being of guests in catering establishments. By implementing appropriate sound reduction measures and careful room design, restaurateurs can create a pleasant atmosphere and improve the culinary experience of their guests. Consider these five tips for better acoustics in your catering establishment and let your guests enjoy with their ears, too.