Halloween isn’t just for kids or haunted houses; it’s the perfect time for restaurants to get in on the action. With a few creative tweaks, you can turn your place into the Halloween destination for people craving great food and a spooky good time. Here’s how to make the most of the season, without overthinking it.
Join Local Trick-or-Treat Events
In a lot of neighborhoods, Halloween equals trick-or-treating, and that means foot traffic! If there’s a local event nearby, find a way to get involved. We’ve put together a list of Bay area spooky October events for your convenience.
Decorate Like You Mean It
Think cobwebs, flickering candles (fake safe candles are fine!), pumpkins, and maybe a few skeletons to set the scene. Whether you’re channeling a haunted mansion or a cozy pumpkin patch, it’s about creating an experience that guests will remember.
Limited-Time Halloween Menu? Yes, Please.
This is your chance to get playful with your menu. Think pumpkin-flavored desserts, or fun dishes like “Mummy-Wrapped Meatloaf.” The key here is to offer items that are only available for a short time, creating a sense of urgency that gets people in the door. Everyone loves seasonal specials, so make yours stand out.
Host a Costume Night
Encourage your guests to dress up and come in for a meal. A little costume contest with prizes like free cocktails or gift cards can go a long way. It’s also worth considering a photo booth. It adds an element of fun, gets people talking, and gives you plenty of content for your social media channels. Capture the moment with photos and let your guests’ creativity shine!
Create Signature Halloween Cocktails
Got a bar? This is your playground. Serve up themed cocktails like a “Bloody Mary with a Twist” or a “Witches’ Cauldron Punch” with some dry ice for that foggy, magical effect. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the presentation. A Halloween Happy Hour could be your ticket to drawing in the evening crowd looking for something out of the ordinary.
Family-Friendly Trick-or-Treating
If families are your main crowd, consider hosting your own trick-or-treating event (probably not on Halloween night, but close to it). Set up snack stations around the restaurant so kids can collect treats while their parents kick back and enjoy a meal. Want to take it up a notch? Add a pumpkin carving station for a little extra fun. The goal is to be the go-to spot for family-friendly Halloween activities.
Roll Out Halloween Takeout and Delivery
For families Halloween requires enough creativity for the costumes and leaves none left for Halloween dinner, a very important meal given all the candy (and possibly adult beverages) that lay ahead. Make it easy to have a festive dinner by offering a themed takeout menu packaged in fun, spooky containers. A “Spooky Dinner for Four” could be just what families need. Promote these specials on your social media and delivery platforms to get the word out.
Use Halloween to Launch Fall Specials
Think of Halloween as the perfect opportunity to introduce your fall menu. Highlight cozy, seasonal ingredients like squash and apples. This way, you’re building momentum for the weeks to come, keeping guests coming back for those fall flavors.
Set the Mood with Music and Entertainment
Music is key to setting the right atmosphere. Curate a Halloween playlist with a mix of fun and eerie tunes. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider hosting live entertainment, like a spooky storytelling session or trivia night. It’s all about keeping your guests entertained and adding layers to their experience.
Don’t Forget About Your Staff
Your team is the heart of your Halloween festivities. Encourage them to get into the spirit with costumes or themed accessories. A staff costume contest with a little prize can add a lot of energy to the month. Plus, when guests see your staff having fun, it sets a positive, welcoming tone for everyone.
