Why Boutique Hotel Restaurants Struggle and How to Fix It

Boutique hotels often pride themselves on design, service, and character but their restaurants frequently lag behind. Many operate at a loss or rely solely on hotel guests. Here’s why and how to change that.

Problem 1. Lack of Distinct Brand Identity
If your restaurant is marketed only as a hotel amenity, it won’t attract local diners. Treat it as a standalone brand with its own Instagram, unique branding, and neighbourhood positioning.

Problem 2. Having a Service Flow That Doesn’t Match Guest Needs
Hotel restaurants often default to traditional service styles that don’t align with today’s guests. Quick lunches, flexible dining, and a mix of business and leisure needs. Rethinking service flow can significantly increase covers and guest satisfaction.

Problem 3. Not Optimal Pricing and Upsell Strategy
Hotel dining often plays it safe. Pricing and upsell strategies should be bold yet data-driven, increasing spend per guest without damaging the guest experience.

Treat your hotel restaurant as a separate business unit. Invest in branding, training, and pricing strategy just as you would a standalone venue. Crème specialises in helping boutique hotels turn underperforming restaurants into profitable, brand-building assets.