Already struggling in recent years, the chain casual dining segment struggled to stay afloat during the pandemic. The goal of this study is to enhance the dining experience through the identification of themes that have emerged in the restaurant industry as a response to the pandemic.
To identify these emergent themes, the researcher conducted a web content analysis, chronologically tracking and gathering data on COVID-19’s impact on the restaurant industry and restaurant design over a ten-month period. Utilizing the literature review and original research, the author established various design solutions that support each emergent theme identified. Applications of the design solutions are found in the three hypothetical restaurants designed by the author. The restaurants design supports the emergent themes and ultimately enhances the customer dining experience in the COVID-19 era.
