Almost every hotel has a bar or restaurant. Yet how many are really making the most of this amenity? Beyond providing menus and dining options, a select group of hotels are starting to set themselves apart by offering not just meals but unforgettable dining experiences. From breathtaking views and locations, to above-and-beyond service and personalisation, these establishments demonstrate that a hotel's restaurant can be a vital asset, capable of creating lasting memories that encourage guests to spend more, experience more, and recommend to more of their friends and family. In this post we delve into the art of turning food and drink into experiential hospitality, exploring what sets these hotels apart and uncovering the invaluable lessons they offer to hotels worldwide.
Almost every hotel offers breakfast to its guests. But is there more you could be doing with that first meal of the day? At PortoBay Madeira, guests are given the opportunity to transform their breakfast into a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The "Breakfast Above the Clouds" invites guests to indulge in a breathtaking view, surrounded by nature, and with a sunrise setting. All the preparation and logistics of the event are guaranteed by the hotel: from blankets and heating, to adding specialized dishes like caviar, smoked salmon.
❤️ What we love: Taking the opportunity to elevate something that often gets overlooked (like breakfast) and making it a true differentiating factor
💡 What you can learn: See how you can level up your existing meals with additions to the menu, a special location, or above-and-beyond service. It doesn’t have to be breakfast - picnic lunches work really well too!
The Ritz-Carlton in Bali truly celebrates Indonesian cuisine, whilst also making the most of their amazing beachfront location. Beyond their restaurant and bar options, the hotel really stands out for their private barbecues by the sea. Guests can enjoy having a private chef prepare a delicious meal, at a time of their choosing, while enjoying the cool ocean breeze and uninterrupted views.
❤️ What we love: Making the most of a beachfront location, with private dining options for VIP guests.
💡 What you can learn: See what locations around your hotel could offer an unparalleled dining experience. Private dining options are an excellent way to go above-and-beyond where it counts.
The Dorchester in London elevates afternoon tea to an art form. Afternoons are typically down-time for any restaurant, and yet here they don’t just stay busy, they actually get more guests through the door. Not only does the afternoon tea reinforce the Dorchester’s brand, it also creates new buzz and excitement amongst an entirely new audience.
❤️ What we love: Making the most of your dining amenities outside of mealtimes, and attracting new audiences to your hotel
💡 What you can learn: Whether it’s cocktails, brunch, or afternoon tea - think about the ways to make the most of your amenities outside of mealtimes, including opening up to travelers outside of your regular guests.
The Nest Resort in Zanzibar traditionally attracted guests for their kite-surfing. However, after introducing a new VIP dining experience, they have a whole new clientele. The dinner is 7 course, complete with paired drinks and follows the Ahimsa belief of non-violence. However, what truly sets it apart is the magical setting of private outdoor "nests" that make it an unforgettable experience.
❤️ What we love: Attracting new guests through a unique dining option that makes the most of the resort's setting
💡 What you can learn: Transform dinner at your hotel into an experience guests are willing to travel for. Make it a set menu, and offer something they can't find elsewhere.
These standout hotels reveal that dining can be more than an amenity; it can be the key to guests’ most cherished memories. Whether you want to attract more guests on social media, improve your hotel website, or be one step ahead in your hotel strategy, dining experiences provide an fantastic opportunity. Whether your hotel has a world-renowned chef, you’ve got some inventive cocktails, or you want to make the most of your views over the sunset, there’s something to be learnt from turning food and drinks into unforgettable culinary experiences: the key lies not just in the food served but in the experience created around it.
If you’d like to learn more about the practicalities of how to start selling hotel dining experiences, check out what we’re up to, or book a call with one of our team.
In less than a week you could be selling and managing all your experiences online.
