Food, play, and fun wrapped up into one: that’s the goal of Eatertainment facilities everywhere. But while you may have heard about Eatertainment options near you, what does that include? What can you expect when you walk into one of these facilities? And, more importantly, why have they absolutely exploded in popularity in recent years? Let’s take a closer look.
What Does Eatertainment Mean?
You’ve likely heard the word “Eatertainment” over and over again recently. But what does it mean? Let’s break it down in the simplest terms possible.
“Eatertainment” is just a mashup of two words everyone already loves: eating and entertainment. When you think about it, isn’t it a perfect pair?
These facilities can encompass a wide range of fun and games, as long as they contain the two core components — food and fun. The concept has been a hit, particularly in recent years. One recent survey found that 82% of consumers have visited an EATertainment facility — and with good food and a great atmosphere, people just keep coming back for more!
The main trend in eatertainment is a higher level of quality of food, drinks, and service paired with a fun activity. We all remember the old bowling alley stained with cigarette smoke trying to sell you an overcooked hotdog and stale nachos. Those days are over and for good reason. Nowadays there are a lot of other options for your customers to choose from so if your eatertainment concept isn't delivering, customers will find ones that are.
Types of Eatertainment Venues
While Eatertainment has been skyrocketing in popularity in recent years, it’s not a new concept. Original examples include bowling alleys — which often have dine-in service and food delivery right to your lane — or volleyball courts with a courtside kitchen and bar.
New-aged concepts include Topgolf, a venue that combines technology with golf for an innovative spin on the classic sport, which really started the Eatertainment trend and has made a name for itself as a top Eatertainment chain. Another, Chicken N Pickle — who recently appeared on our podcast — has found rising popularity as the pickleball trend continues to grow. A few other examples include putt-putt cocktail bars such as Sinker's Lounge, football bowling franchise Fowling Warehouse, arcade bars, golf simulator bars, breakout rooms, and much, much more.
In short, there’s no limit to the types of Eatertainment venues out there. Some venues find their niche by providing a unique spin on a well-known sport, or by creating new, engaging games. Others make their fame by offering high-quality, delicious food. New Eatertainment concepts are popping up every day, and there’s a reason people love them!
Eatertainment Benefits for Businesses and Consumers
There are plenty of advantages of eatertainment, both for the facilities themselves and for the customers who frequent them.
The first main benefit? Fun! Eatertainment instantly enhances the customer experience through interactive activities and good food. And when your customers have fun, they’re more likely to come back to your facility, increasing customer engagement and loyalty. Even better — next time they come back, they’re likely to bring their friends!
One final benefit? Smart food and beverage businesses that can find a way to integrate entertainment into their current business model can see additional revenue from a whole new customer experience.
Creating a Successful Eatertainment Venue
Are you ready to open an Eatertainment venue (or upgrade your current venue to include new food or activity options)? There are a few considerations you should keep in mind before you get started:
- Finding balance. Eatertainment includes food and activities — don’t go overboard on one aspect and neglect the others! If your games are fun, but your food is unpalatable, people aren’t likely to eat it or come back to eat it again. And if your food is great but your games are boring, customers aren’t likely to come back. Find the right balance for your customers. Good food is the difference between someone staying for another drink and more games or coming in for lunch and/or dinner as well which helps capture additional dollars from each customer each time they visit.
- Create a unique experience. The best part about a facility is immersing yourself in the experience! Make sure that whatever you’re offering your customers is fun and engaging.
- Don’t forget regulatory and safety compliance. We all want to have fun, but if that fun comes at the expense of safety, you’re going to run into a problem sooner or later. Plan ahead for safety and regulatory requirements so that you’re not surprised later down the line. This means having the right insurance for your activity and most of the time it means having a waiver that every guest signs before playing.
Ready to Get Started? You Need an Ally
If it’s time to get started on your Eatertainment plans, you need a strong partner who can help you plan your facility, manage bookings, and keep tabs on your equipment and maintenance schedules. Facility Ally can help. We’re experts in fun, games, and Eatertainment, and we’re ready to work with you to execute your newest Eatertainment ideas.
