The 18 Types Of Restaurants

In the expansive world of the food and beverage industry, one sector truly stands out – the restaurant business. This sector is characterized by a wide range of different styles and offerings, each catering to distinct tastes and preferences.

Restaurants are not only spaces where people eat; they serve as social arenas, places for celebration, business meetings, or simply a haven to relax. 

In this article, we delve into the rich landscape of the common types of restaurants. From the elegance of fine dining to the convenience of fast food, each restaurant type brings a unique flavor and experience to the table. 

Factors To Categorize Restaurant Types

The restaurant industry is diverse and multi-faceted. To navigate this landscape, it’s important to understand the parameters that classify different restaurant types. Here are four key factors that contribute to categorizing restaurant types:

By Service Type

There are various forms of service styles in the restaurant industry. The type of service can greatly influence the dining experience of the customers.

1. Table Service is a formal service style where a waiter or waitress serves the customer at their table. This is common in upscale restaurants and those focused on creating a refined dining atmosphere. 

2. Buffet Service provides an assortment of food types where customers serve themselves. It creates a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing customers the freedom to choose their food portions and combinations. 

3. Plated Service is where food is served to customers already portioned onto dishes. This type of service adds an element of elegance to the dining experience.

By Menu Style

The menu style can be determined by the types of cuisine or the types of menu offered

1. Specific Cuisine: Some restaurants focus on a specific cuisine, like Italian, Thai, Mexican, or Indian food, offering an array of food types within that particular culinary tradition.
2. Theme or Concept: Other restaurants might have a menu revolving around a particular theme, like vegan food, seafood, or grilled items.
3. Types of menus: restaurant menus come in various forms, such as Table d’hote, A la carte, Prix fixe, Tasting Menu

By Atmosphere

The atmosphere of a restaurant is crucial to the customer experience. It ranges from upscale and formal environments in fine dining restaurants to casual and relaxed atmospheres in cafes and bistros. The choice of décor, music, lighting, and even the attitude of the staff all contribute to a restaurant’s atmosphere.

By Pricing

Pricing is another critical factor in classifying restaurants. Some restaurants cater to a high-end clientele with expensive dishes and luxury dining experience, while others aim for affordability with budget-friendly meals. 

What Are The Different Types Of Restaurants?

1. Fine Dining

Fine dining restaurants are at the pinnacle of the restaurant industry, providing an upscale atmosphere and an impeccable dining experience marked by high-quality food and superior service.

Characteristics

• Formal dress code is often in place for both staff and customers.
• They feature dishes prepared by professional chefs, offering a specific concept and exquisite presentation.
• The ambiance is classy with a quiet and sophisticated atmosphere. Seating usually involves plush booths and table service as well.

Why open a fine dining restaurant

While starting a fine dining establishment requires a higher initial investment, it offers potential for higher price points, which can result in substantial profit margins. If your restaurant becomes famous enough, it can attract celebrities and high-paying customers, which can further boost your reputation and earnings.

2. Casual Dining

Casual dining establishments strike a balance between fine dining and fast food. They provide full table service, a relaxed atmosphere, and a broad menu with varying price points.

Characteristics

• Casual dining restaurants offer a variety of food choices with mid-range prices.
• The ambiance is comfortable, often with a combination of booths and table service.
• Some may serve alcoholic beverages and often feature a separate bar area.

Why open a casual dining restaurant

This is a popular choice as it caters to a broad demographic. Casual dining appeals to families, groups of friends, and individuals who want to enjoy quality food without the formality and expense of fine dining.

3. Fast Casual

Fast casual types of restaurants are a rising star in the industry. They fall between fine dining and fast food, offering better quality food than fast food restaurants but with a quicker and more simplified service.

Characteristics

• These establishments generally feature fresher, healthier food items at a slightly higher price point than fast food.
• Counter service is often coupled with an option to eat-in, often in a comfortable, casual atmosphere.

Why open a fast casual restaurant

Fast-casual dining is becoming increasingly popular, especially in urban and metropolitan areas, due to its quality food, affordability, and quick service. Opening a fast-casual restaurant can tap into this trend and draw in a modern, health-conscious demographic.

4. Contemporary Casual

Contemporary casual is a newer type of restaurant, integrating a modern, upscale atmosphere with a commitment to quality, often locally-sourced, food.

Characteristics

• Contemporary casual restaurants often feature a modern, chic interior design and an open kitchen concept.
• Menus are often seasonal, reflecting the freshest ingredients available.

Why open a contemporary casual restaurant

If you’re passionate about creating a unique dining experience and offering fresh, quality food, a contemporary casual establishment may be a good fit. They often attract customers willing to pay a bit more for a unique, quality dining experience.

5. Ghost Restaurant

Ghost restaurants, also known as virtual restaurants, operate exclusively through online ordering and delivery with no physical dine-in space.

Characteristics

• Ghost restaurants operate out of commercial kitchens and have no dining area or customer-facing storefront.
• The focus is entirely on the food and delivery efficiency.

Why open a ghost restaurant

The significant advantage of a ghost restaurant is reduced overhead costs – there’s no need for a prime location or dine-in amenities. This concept is beneficial for experimental, niche, or pop-up restaurants testing a new market.

6. Family Style Types Of Restaurants

Family-style restaurants cater to families and large groups with their communal, shareable dishes, and relaxed atmosphere.

Characteristics

• The menu typically includes comfort food served in large platters or bowls to be shared amongst the table.
• The atmosphere is generally casual and friendly, suitable for both children and adults.

Why open a family style types of restaurant

Family-style restaurants are popular due to their informal ambiance and focus on communal dining, which can attract large groups and families. If you enjoy creating a homely environment and shareable meals, this could be a great option.

7. Fast Food

Fast food is one of the most popular types of restaurants globally, known for its quick service, low prices, and consistent menu.

Characteristics

• Fast food restaurants often offer counter service, drive-thru, or even delivery options.
• The menu typically includes items like burgers, fries, and other easily portable foods. Chains like McDonald’s and Burger King are famous examples.

Why open a fast food restaurant

While the market is competitive, a successful fast food restaurant can be incredibly profitable. If you can offer quick, tasty food at competitive prices, you might find success in this sector.

8. Food Truck

Food trucks are mobile restaurants that serve food from a truck or a similar vehicle. They are popular in urban areas and at events.

Characteristics

• Food trucks offer a variety of food types, from grilled sandwiches to gourmet cupcakes.
• They offer flexibility in changing locations based on foot traffic and popularity.

Why open a food truck

A food truck is a great option if you’re working with a smaller budget (learn more about how much does a food truck cost in this article) or if you want to test a restaurant concept. It requires less investment than a brick-and-mortar restaurant and can go directly to the customers.

9. Concession Stand

Concession stands are small food service locations, often found at outdoor events, entertainment venues, or tourist attractions.

Characteristics

• They generally serve easy-to-handle foods and drinks like hot dogs, popcorn, soda, and ice cream.
• They typically operate in high foot traffic areas during events.

Why open a concession stand

Opening a concession stand is a great way to break into the food service industry without a large investment. They also allow flexibility and can generate good profit during events and peak tourist season.

10. Pop Up Restaurant

A pop-up restaurant is a temporary restaurant concept that operates from a rented space or existing restaurants for a limited time.

Characteristics

• Pop-ups can test a new concept, offer a unique dining experience, or showcase a famous chef’s specialties.
• They bring novelty and exclusivity, often creating a buzz in the local food scene.

Why open a pop up restaurant

A pop-up restaurant is an excellent opportunity for experimentation without the long-term commitment of a permanent location. It’s also a great way to build up a customer base and create a buzz before opening a permanent establishment.

Please note, this is just the first half of the list of types of restaurants. The second part will cover Cafe or Coffee Shop to Contemporary Casual.

11. Cafe or Coffee Shop

Cafes, or coffee shops, are popular establishments mainly serving coffee, tea, pastries, and light meals. They often act as social hubs in their communities.

Characteristics

• Cafes provide a cozy and relaxed atmosphere, often with comfortable seating and free WiFi, inviting patrons to linger.
• They typically offer a variety of hot and cold beverages and light meals.

Why open a cafe

Cafes are appealing due to their broad customer base – everyone from students to professionals may patronize a cafe throughout the day. With a well-chosen location and quality offerings, cafes can be a successful endeavor.

12. Buffet Style Types Of Restaurants

Buffet-style restaurants offer a wide selection of food at a fixed price. Customers serve themselves from a variety of dishes displayed on a buffet table.

Characteristics

• They provide a vast selection of food choices, including various cuisines and dietary options.
• The pricing is usually straightforward – a single fixed price for unlimited access to all dishes.

Why open a buffet style types of restaurant

Buffet-style restaurants can attract customers seeking value and variety. They are particularly popular for large groups and families, where everyone’s taste can be satisfied.

13. Bar or Pub

Bars or pubs primarily serve alcoholic beverages but often offer a menu of comfort and snack foods to accompany the drinks.

Characteristics

• Bars or pubs often feature casual and sociable atmospheres, encouraging patrons to stay and socialize.
• They may provide entertainment like live music, quizzes, or televised sports.

Why open a bar or pub

Opening a bar or pub can be profitable, particularly in areas with a high density of adults seeking relaxation and social interaction. With the right location and atmosphere, bars or pubs can have high earning potential.

14. Bistro

A bistro is a small, casual restaurant that serves simple meals in a modest setting. Originating in France, bistros have become popular worldwide.

Characteristics

• Bistros generally offer a compact, frequently changing menu, often based on locally sourced or seasonal ingredients.
• The atmosphere is casual, often with outdoor seating.

Why open a bistro

A bistro is a great option if you’re passionate about offering fresh, quality food in a relaxed setting. With lower operating costs compared to more formal restaurants, bistros can offer profitability with a personal touch.

15. Pizzerias

Pizzerias are restaurants specializing in pizza. However, many pizzerias also serve a variety of other dishes like pasta, salads, and sandwiches.

Characteristics

• Pizzerias range from small carry-out establishments to full-size restaurants with a broad menu.
• The star of the show is, of course, pizza, available in a multitude of varieties and toppings.

Why open a pizzeria

Pizza is a universally beloved food, ensuring a broad customer base. Whether you’re considering a small take-out location or a large dine-in restaurant, opening a pizzeria can be a fruitful venture.

16. Cafeteria

Cafeterias offer a simple and economical dining option where customers serve themselves from a range of pre-prepared dishes.

Characteristics

• Cafeterias feature counter service where customers select dishes.
• They often offer a variety of meals, snacks, and beverages at reasonable prices.

Why open a cafeteria

Cafeterias are popular in places like schools, hospitals, and large businesses due to their efficiency and affordability. If you can secure a contract with such establishments or operate in an area with high demand for quick, economical meals, a cafeteria can be a promising venture.

17. Diner

Diners are casual dining establishments known for serving a range of American comfort food. They are often characterized by their distinctive, retro aesthetics.

Characteristics

• Diners typically offer an extensive menu including breakfast, lunch, and dinner items.
• They often feature booth seating and a counter, with a casual and friendly atmosphere.

Why open a diner

Diners appeal to a broad spectrum of customers due to their varied menus and relaxed ambiance. If you’re passionate about comfort food and a nostalgic dining experience, a diner might be the perfect fit.

18. Contemporary Casual

Contemporary casual restaurants, also known as “polished casual” or “upscale casual,” provide a dining experience that is fancier than casual dining but not as formal as fine dining.

Characteristics

• They offer high-quality food at a slightly higher price point than casual dining establishments.
• The atmosphere is more upscale, often featuring modern and trendy decor.

Why open a contemporary casual restaurant

Contemporary casual restaurants attract patrons seeking a sophisticated dining experience without the formalities of fine dining. If you’re interested in delivering a high-quality dining experience that is still accessible and relaxed, this restaurant type could be for you.

What Restaurant Types Are the Most Popular?

The popularity is often driven by the type of customer and their dining preferences.

Fast food chains like McDonald’s and Taco Bell have a significant global presence, demonstrating the wide appeal of quick, reliable, and affordable meals.

On the other hand, casual dining establishments such as Applebee’s and Olive Garden cater to those seeking a more relaxed, sit-down dining concept without the formalities and price tag of fine dining. 

What Restaurant Type Is the Most Profitable?

As a broad trend, fast-casual restaurants often yield high profits due to their blend of quality food at a moderate price point, which can attract a wide range of customers.

Additionally, pop-up restaurants are also gaining traction as they require low initial investment and can motivate customers with their unique and limited-time dining experiences.

Regardless of the type, profitability ultimately hinges on the restaurant’s ability to offer enticing options available to meet customer demands and preferences for a particular type of food.

Setting up a Restaurant: Which Type of Restaurant Is Right For You

Deciding on the right type of restaurant is a critical step in setting up a successful restaurant business. The decision largely depends on your target audience, budget, culinary skills, and personal interests.

Deciding on the restaurant type: key considerations

• Target Market: Understand the demographics and eating habits of your potential customers. For example, if you’re located in a bustling business district, a restaurant that serves quick breakfast and lunch options could be lucrative.
• Budget: Your available capital will significantly influence your decision. Establishing a fine dining restaurant requires a larger investment than starting a food truck or a pop-up restaurant. Check out this article to learn more about the cost to open a restaurant
• Personal Interest and Expertise: Your passion and knowledge about a certain type of food or dining concept can help drive the success of your restaurant.

Insights into running a successful restaurant business

• Quality of Food and Service: Regardless of the restaurant type, quality food and excellent service are crucial.
• Business Acumen: Successful restaurant ownership requires understanding of marketing, accounting, and management.
• Adaptability: The ability to adapt to changing trends and customer demands is key. For instance, while popular fast food and service restaurants continue to thrive, new restaurant concepts are emerging all the time.

An Online Ordering System Is Essential For All Types of Restaurants

In today’s digital age, an online ordering system has become a necessity for all types of restaurants. It doesn’t matter if you run a fine dining establishment, a casual bistro, or a bustling food truck, the benefits of having such a system in place are manifold.

Menubly is a comprehensive online ordering system designed specifically for food service businesses. It offers an interactive menu that customers can use to place orders for dine-in, pickup, or delivery. It also comes with a QR code menu which allows your customers to scan to access your menu. This system allows customers to get their food quickly and conveniently, reducing waiting time and improving the overall customer experience. The ability to easily serve dishes to customers, whether they’re enjoying their meal on-site or on-the-go, opens up new ways to make your restaurant more profitable and customer-friendly.

Unlike third-party delivery services like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and GrubHub; Menubly doesn’t take a commission from your sales. This allows you to retain more of your profits, which is crucial for small businesses.

Moreover, an online ordering system like Menubly can simplify operations. It can reduce the chances of order errors, speed up service, and free up your staff to focus on preparing those famous dishes that make your restaurant stand out.

Conclusion

The restaurant industry is diverse and ever-evolving, with an array of restaurant types catering to different dining experiences, cuisines, and customer preferences.

Whether you’re enamored by the charm of fine dining establishments or the quick service of popular fast food joints, understanding the different types of restaurants is fundamental. It not only helps in appreciating the history of the establishment but also aids prospective restaurateurs in identifying small business trends and making informed decisions.

Ultimately, the success of a restaurant hinges on choosing the right type, delivering quality food and service, and adapting to the changing tastes and expectations of customers.