Everyone knows that your bill at a fine dining establishment will be higher than if you were to order similar items at a more casual restaurant (or if you were to cook the same recipes at home). So why do some restaurant goers choose the upscale option over the more cost-effective one? 

The answer lies in the overall experience. When you go out to eat at a restaurant, you pay for more than your food. Your bill also includes the restaurant’s expenses, the service provided, and the unique visual elements such as plating and interior design. 

What Is Fine Dining?

Before you can understand the appeal of fine dining, it’s important to understand the elements that create a fine dining restaurant experience. 

Multiple details determine whether a restaurant could be considered fine vs. casual dining, from the location of the establishment to how much an entree will cost on average. Many fine dining restaurants will advertise themselves as such or work to attract a wealthier clientele. 

Common Traits of a High-End Restaurant

Looking to recreate the upscale dining experience of a high-end restaurant? Maybe you’re planning a private party or providing food and beverage operators for a large event. 

No matter the scale, the traits that make fine dining worth the hype can be incorporated into all kinds of situations. Here are the most important characteristics of fine-dining establishments that will create the upscale atmosphere you desire for your guests.

High-Quality Ingredients

Even though the experience of fine dining is largely created by the atmosphere in the restaurant, the actual ingredients being used in the recipes are a crucial piece of the puzzle. Dishes at fine dining restaurants aren’t more expensive than other establishments for the sake of the experience. In many cases, the ingredients being used are worth more and cost more to procure. 

High-quality ingredients will make a huge difference when you’re trying to make a meal feel upscale. This could mean using only fresh produce, incorporating handmade sauces and dressings, or taking a farm-to-table approach by serving exclusively local ingredients. 

Unique Offerings

When you visit a fast-casual restaurant, most of the items you’ll see on the menu will probably be available at many other similar establishments. One important trait that sets fine dining apart is the opportunity for visitors to try something they’ve never tried before. 

Including unique ingredients in appetizers, entrees, and desserts is a common strategy for upscale eateries to give their guests a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Another way to do this on a smaller scale is to feature special wines, locally brewed beers, or other handmade beverages on your menu.

Next-Level Service

What the eating area looks like and how the food tastes are both important when curating a fine dining experience. However, arguably one of the most crucial fine dining characteristics is the service, from hosts and hostesses to wait staff and bussers. 

There’s a reason why upscale restaurants tend to hire very experienced staff members. That’s because visitors to these establishments expect a higher level of service than is typical at a casual eatery. The staff in a fine dining situation should be more than just friendly and welcoming. They should also be extremely knowledgeable about the menu and able to answer any question with a detailed response. 

Redesign the Fine Dining Experience With One Haus Hospitality

With an expert hospitality procurement team like One Haus Hospitality, you’ll be able to curate a truly unforgettable dining experience for your guests, no matter the scale of your event. Contact us to learn more.