More enjoyment, longer stay and increased sales

Gastronomy is no longer just about good food and excellent service – it's about a holistic experience. Guests visit restaurants, cafés, and bars not just to satisfy their hunger, but also to enjoy a special atmosphere. In addition to music, lighting, and furnishings, an often underestimated factor plays a crucial role in guests' well-being: the targeted use of scents.

Professional room fragrance can enhance the taste experience, extend dwell time, and increase sales. The right scent evokes emotions, increases appetite, and can even help guests more consciously perceive certain dishes or drinks.

In this article, you will learn how professional room fragrance can be used in restaurants, cafes, and bars to optimize the dining experience and keep guests coming back.

Why scent marketing is so effective in the hospitality industry

Scientific evidence shows that scents have a direct influence on our perception and behavior. They not only affect our emotions subconsciously, but can also specifically trigger certain reactions. A suitable scent can create a pleasant atmosphere, increase appetite, and intensify the dining experience.

A study by the Cologne Business School found that targeted scent marketing strategies can have a measurable impact on consumer behavior. In restaurants, subtle aromas led guests to perceive the food as higher quality and stay longer in the restaurant. It was also observed that a pleasant scent environment increased the willingness to order additional items such as desserts or drinks.

Especially in the catering industry, where smell and taste are closely linked, targeted room fragrance can not only improve the ambience but also enhance the entire culinary experience.

Targeted use of fragrances in various gastronomic areas

1. Restaurants – Intensify enjoyment and create atmosphere

A restaurant visit should not only be delicious, but also emotionally appealing. A suitable aroma can sharpen the senses, stimulate the appetite, and enhance the atmosphere.

Recommended fragrances for restaurants:

• Fresh herbs (rosemary, basil, thyme): Enhance the natural flavor of Mediterranean dishes.

• Citrus scents (bergamot, lime, orange): stimulate the appetite and convey freshness.

• Vanilla & Cinnamon: Create a cozy, warm ambience in upscale restaurants.

• Woody notes (sandalwood, cedarwood): Underline a noble, exclusive atmosphere in fine dining restaurants.

Why these scents work:

• Fresh herbal scents are reminiscent of authentic, fresh ingredients and increase the desire for high-quality dishes.

• Citrus notes invigorate the mind and stimulate the appetite.

• Warm, spicy aromas create a cozy atmosphere and enhance the feel-good experience.

2. Cafés & Bakeries – Emphasize coziness and enjoyment

Cafés and bakeries particularly benefit from scent marketing, as certain aromas increase the feeling of well-being and reinforce the desire for sweet or savory treats.

Recommended fragrances for cafes & bakeries:

• “Hot Bread” – The smell of freshly baked bread: Evokes childhood memories and increases the desire for baked goods.

• “Coffee & Cake” – Fresh coffee aroma with a pastry note: Promotes the desire for a cozy coffee experience.

• Vanilla & Chocolate: Trigger feelings of pleasure and promote the sale of sweet foods.

• Caramel & Honey: Create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Why these scents work:

• The smell of freshly baked bread has been proven to trigger an emotional response and increase willingness to buy.

• The smell of coffee draws people to cafés and ensures longer stays.

• Warm, sweet scents promote sales of cakes, croissants and desserts.

3. Bars & Lounges – emphasize elegance and relaxation

Bars and lounges are places for relaxation, socializing, and stylish entertainment. Here, scents can be used specifically to create a luxurious, relaxing, or invigorating atmosphere.

Recommended fragrances for bars & lounges:

• Musk & Sandalwood: Elegant and seductive, perfect for upscale cocktail bars.

• Tobacco & Leather: Give a bar a masculine, classic character.

• Fresh Mint & Lemon: Creates an invigorating, stimulating mood in lively bars.

• Cocoa & Rum: Enhance the taste experience of high-quality spirits.

Why these scents work:

• Dark, woody aromas create an exclusive, high-quality ambience.

• Citrus notes in bars can increase the desire for cocktails and drinks.

• Warmer notes like cocoa or rum harmonize perfectly with whiskey or cognac bars.

Tips for the optimal use of scent marketing in the hospitality industry

1. Subtle dosage – less is more

Fragrances shouldn't be too overpowering, but should be perceived gently in the background. Overly strong fragrances can be unpleasant.

2. Combination with other sensory impressions

Fragrances work particularly well when combined with appropriate music, lighting and stylish furnishings.

3. Create an individual fragrance brand

Restaurants or cafes can establish a unique scent that is associated with their branding and reminds guests of the experience.

Conclusion: More enjoyment and sales through professional room fragrance

Professional room fragrance is an effective way to improve the ambience in the restaurant industry, stimulate appetite, and increase customer loyalty.

Whether in restaurants, cafés or bars – with the right fragrance strategy, every visit becomes an unforgettable sensory experience that guests not only enjoy, but want to experience again and again.