As the vibrant greens and golds of spring begin to emerge, it can only mean one thing – St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner! This beloeve Irish celebration, known for its cheerful spirit and cultural significance, offers the perfect excuse to gather friends and family for a memorable party.

Whether you have Irish roots or simply enjoy the festivities, hosting a St. Patrick’s Day celebration is a delightful way to embrace the luck of the Irish. Let’s explore some St. Patrick’s Day party ideas. From traditional decorations to mouthwatering Irish-inspired menus and lively entertainment options, we’ll make sure your celebration is an unforgettable experience for all. So, dust off your shamrocks and get ready to revel in the joyous spirit of St. Patrick’s Day!

St. Patrick’s Day Party Checklist

Let’s Get Started!

• Set the date, time, and location for the celebration.
• Create and send out theme invitations – get creative!
  • Include any dress code suggestions

All About the Decor.

(See below for more in-depth St. Patrick’s Day party decoration ideas.)

• Choose a scheme (typically green and gold)
• Purchase or create traditional Irish-themed decor
• Look into party linen rentals in your color scheme
• Explore table centerpieces and additional areas to decorate

St. Patrick’s Day Party Food and Drinks

In your party planning, creating a menu is one of the biggest to-dos.  Are you planning a formal dinner party or a more informal buffet moment. Fortunately, Irish cuisine lends itself to both types of events.

• Plan an menu featuring traditional Irish food
  • Examples – Corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, Irish stew, green bagels, and Irish soda bread.
• Order St. Patrick’s Day-themed desserts
  • Examples – Lucky Charms cupcakes, shamrock cookies, chocolate and mint brownies.
• Stock up on Irish beverages
  • Whiskey for cocktails, grasshoppers, and ingredients for green beer.
  • Minty milkshakes and other non-alcoholic options

Decide on Entertainment.

• Create a playlist featuring traditional Irish music
• Hire a local band or singer for live entertainment
• Plan on some dancing including Irish jigs or dance-offs.
• Organize games  and other fun activities for party guests of all ages, like trivia, scavenger hunts, or Irish-themed charades.

Last Minute Details!

• Set up the decorations 
• Dress tables
• Double-check food and drinks
• Test any equipment needed such as a sound check
• Create designated space for coats (if season calls for it)
• Check in with any last-minute vendor

St. Patrick’s Day Decor

Whether you are hosting at home or renting a party venue, bring some Ireland into your space. If kids will not be attending, you can keep it simple by locating a traditional Irish pub that hosts parties such as yours. They’ll be sure to have the best beverages, food, and decor all ready to go. 

Traditional Irish Decorations

Shamrocks and Clovers

When you think of St. Patrick’s Day, you most likely are thinking of shamrocks and four-leaf clovers as they are quintessential symbols of Irish culture. In addition to being deeply rooted in folklore, they are also associated with luck. Depending on the venue and level of formality, choose ways to incorporate this type of decor into your space.

Green and Gold Color Scheme

Is there another timeless combination for St. Patrick’s Day outside of green and gold? You may also wish to weave in some orange. Incorporate these hues into every aspect of your decor, from tablecloths and banners to balloons and streamers. Bergen Linen offers a wide selection of event linens in these Irish-friendly shades. 

Table Centerpieces

St. Patrick’s Day table centerpieces offer a wonderful opportunity to infuse your dining area with Irish charm and creativity. If you are looking for a simple yet elegant centerpiece idea, arrange potted clovers in decorative containers or place them in charming, rustic vases. For something more whimsical, incorporate small pots of gold or personalized table signs. A more formal event may call for floral centerpieces that are heavy in greenery to capture the beautiful Irish landscape. And don’t forget the themed table linens. 

Invitations

Creative St. Patrick’s Day-Themed Invitations

Incorporate the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day into your invitations by choosing creative and thematic designs. When creating your invites, take into consideration the formality of your event and audience. For family and children-related events, think bold, bright, and fun. A more adult even may call for an elevated invitation with a few touches of green and gold.

Dress Code

Encouraging Guests to Wear Green

Set the tone for a visually cohesive celebration by encouraging guests to wear green attire – and be sure to include this in your invitation. Whether it’s a subtle touch with accessories like hats, scarves, or beads, or a head-to-toe ensemble, the sea of green will create a festive and unified atmosphere. Be sure to have some extra green beads and other accessories should someone forget (or not have) the right finishing touches.

What to Serve

Delight your guests’ taste buds with an Irish-inspired menu that pays homage to the rich culinary traditions of St. Patrick’s Day.

Edible Suggestions

• Green bagels with a spread
• Shepherd’s pie
• Corned beef and cabbage
• Fresh Irish soda bread
• Irish sausages and champ
• Colcannon
• Irish beef stew
• Bailey’s chocolate cream pie

Beverage Suggestions

• Green beer
• Irish whiskey ginger
• Mint milkshakes
• Irish Maid

By creating a mouthwatering menu with a drink selection to accompany it, your St. Patrick’s Day celebration is bound to be a culinary delight. Be sure to encourage all partygoers to drink responsibly.

St. Patrick’s Day Entertainment Ideas

Traditional Irish Music Playlist

Ready to create the ultimate St. Patrick’s Day playlist? Transport your guests with a carefully curated traditional Irish music playlist. Include iconic tunes like “Whiskey in the Jar” and “The Wild Rover”. Typically, music selection is designed around the specific event and audience.

Some popular song selections:

• “An Irish Pub Song” — The Rumjacks
• “Molly Malone” — The Dubliners 
• “Drunken Lullabies” — Flogging Molly
• “The Irish Rover” — The Dubliners & The Pogues
• “I’m Shipping up to Boston” — Dropkick Murphys
• “The Wind That Shakes the Barley/The Reel With the Beryle” — The Chieftains

And when in doubt, encourage guests to make requests. You’ll truly be playing what the people want to hear. 

Tip: Be sure to properly time faster songs around any sit-down eating time.

Irish Dancing

Are there many guest with Irish roots attending? Whether they have the dancing skills or not, encourage them (and all guests!) to join in on classic Irish jigs and reels. For a more novice crowd, you should definitely consider a live band, pre-recorded music, and/or some type of guide. Also, consider hiring an Irish dance troupe to perform their mesmerizing steps. Who doesn’t love dinner and a show?

Games and Activities 

Keep the festivities engaging with a variety of games and activities suitable for guests of all ages.

• Irish dance competition
• Shamrock cookie decorating
• Make-your-own Blarney stone
• Trivia challenge with prizes
• Green-themed photo booth
• Scavenger hunt featuring Irish-themed items
    For prizes, consider a special beverage, chocolate gold coins, or higher ticket items. Prior to your party, be sure to assign someone to be in charge of these games. If possible, have a co-host or share the duties. You’ll want to be on-hand for other party ‘situations’ should they arise.  St. Patrick’s Day Party Favors

A. Unique St. Patrick’s Day-Themed Favors: Send your guests home with delightful St. Patrick’s Day-themed party favors that encapsulate the spirit of the celebration. Consider items like personalized shamrock keychains, festive green candles, or lucky clover pendants. These unique mementos will serve as cherished reminders of the joyous occasion long after the festivities come to an end.

B. DIY Favor Ideas for a Personal Touch: Infuse a personal and creative touch into your St. Patrick’s Day party favors with DIY creations. Craft handmade shamrock bookmarks, personalized thank-you cards, or even small potted clovers for guests to take home. Not only does this add a special touch to your event, but it also showcases your thoughtfulness and effort in making the celebration uniquely memorable for each attendee. Whether simple or intricate, DIY favors add an extra layer of warmth and personal connection to your St. Patrick’s Day gathering.

A Few Extra Tips

Encouraging Responsible Drinking

Prioritize the well-being of your guests by encouraging responsible drinking. Promote moderation, provide a variety of non-alcoholic beverage options, and consider incorporating water stations throughout the venue. Remind guests to drink responsibly and be aware of their limits.

Providing Transportation Options 

In the spirit of safety, consider the well-being of your guests by providing transportation options. Coordinate with local transportation services, arrange for designated drivers, or make someone the go-to in setting up ride share options.  

Now, You’re Ready to Party

As we wrap up this St. Patrick’s Day celebration guide, we hope that you walk away with some helpful tips to incorporate into your next event. From vibrant decorations and Irish-inspired cuisine to lively entertainment and thoughtful party favors, the recipe for an unforgettable celebration lies in the combination of tradition, creativity, and shared joy.

Why Choose a Bistro Napkin?

There are many reasons some restaurants choose bistro napkins over solid color napkins. 

1. Classic Elegance: Bistro napkins, especially in classic white, exude a timeless and elegant appeal. Upscale restaurants, formal dining, and even more casual cafes choose the understated sophistication of white bistro napkins to add a touch of elegance. Often, you will see a royal blue stripe. However, there are options so give us a call today at (800 789-8115.

2. Versatility: Bistro cloth napkins in neutral colors, such as white or ivory, are versatile and can complement a wide range of table settings and decor. This versatility allows restaurants to use the same  cloth dinner napkins for various occasions without the need to frequently change linens to match different color schemes.

3. Ease of Laundering: White or light-colored table napkins are generally easier to maintain and launder, as they can withstand more frequent washing without showing signs of fading or wear. Machine washable linens is a practical aspect is crucial for restaurants that experience high customer turnover and need to consistently present clean and well-maintained table settings. Plus, reusable napkins are better for the environment including a restaurant’s carbon footprint.

Full Service Linen Services

Have you considered striped napkins for your placesettings? A Bergen Linen team member would be happy to stop by your establishment to review your options including colored napkins for any catered events. And please put away those disposable napkins. Welcome your guests with nice linen napkins.

In addition to bistro napkins, Bergen Linen also offers the following:

• Polyester napkins and table linens
• Party linen rentals
• Floor mats
• Waitstaff and back-of-house kitchen aprons
• Kitchen towels and bar mops
• Uniforms and chef wear

We are a family-owned and operated full service linen provider located in Bergen County. Our team offers pick-up and delivery service in the New York and New Jersey area. Bergen Linen prides itself in excellent quality, passionate customer care, and reliable customer service.

Request a quote for bistro stripe linen napkins and any other table linens today.

Wondering what the next restaurant trends are?

Even if you aren’t one for trends, it is important to have an idea of what your competitors are reading about (and what new things they may be implementing). In the ever-evolving world of restaurant experiences, the concept of dining extends far beyond the plate. The trends shaping the restaurant industry today encompass a diverse range of elements.

Why Restaurant Trends are Important

Perhaps you’re not one for trends. It’s still important to stay attuned to evolving trends; these are not merely a matter of aesthetics but rather a strategic necessity for owners and managers. The dynamics of the dining landscape are ever-shifting, influenced by evolving consumer preferences, societal changes, and advancements in technology.

Recognizing and embracing these trends is crucial for the food and beverage industry to maintain relevance, attract and retain customers, and ultimately, ensure the long-term success. From the ambiance and menu offerings to service styles and staff uniforms, each element contributes to the overall guest experience.

By staying abreast of the latest trends, owners and managers can make informed decisions, tailor their offerings to meet customer expectations, and position their establishments as innovative leaders in the culinary landscape. For example, you may have already noticed that your guests are interested in craft cocktails and healthier eats. And for the most part, they are eating local and like having a go-to spot. With each year, restaurant owners and caterers learn from their customers and from each other.

What’s New in Restaurant Aesthetics

As restaurant business operators already know, trends are continuously shaping the ambiance and aesthetic appeal of dining areas. Current restaurant industry trends still reflect natural and earthy color palettes, where muted tones and organic textures create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Earthy greens, calming blues, and warm neutrals continue to popularity, fostering a sense of connection to nature that resonates with modern diners. For something more dramatic, black and navy add a touch of modern. Alongside colors, textures play a pivotal role in creating a tactile and visually engaging environment. The integration of raw materials such as wood, stone, and textured fabrics adds depth and character to the dining space, enhancing the overall sensory experience for patrons.

Restaurant furniture plays a crucial role in setting the tone for the dining area. The trend toward eclectic and diverse seating arrangements is gaining momentum, with a mix of chairs, benches, and even lounge-style seating contributing to a more dynamic and casual atmosphere. The days of uniform seating arrangements are giving way to a more personalized and curated approach, where each piece of furniture tells a unique story. The choice of chairs and tables is not just functional but also an extension of the restaurant’s brand identity. Sleek and minimalist designs, paired with natural materials, are in vogue, reflecting a preference for simplicity and elegance. Overall, these trends in the dining area underscore the importance of creating a visually striking and comfortable space that resonates with the evolving preferences of today’s diverse and design-conscious clientele. Table linens in both neutrals and preferred colors are available to add that special touch. We’d be happy to provide a complimentary quote.

Revisit the Uncomfortable World of Tipping

Recently, tipping trends have undergone significant shifts, prompting reflection and adaptation among both diners and establishments. The movement towards fair wages and equitable compensation has sparked discussions about alternative models to traditional tipping.

One option some restaurants are experimenting with is service-inclusive pricing; food prices are adjusted to encompass fair wages for staff, eliminating the need for patrons to calculate tips. This approach aims to ensure that all team members, from servers to kitchen staff, receive a consistent and livable income. And well-deserved. The move towards no-tipping policies is not only a response to wage disparities but also a means of fostering a more collaborative and supportive environment within the restaurant.

With so much talk about tipping and fair wages in the news, there comes a growing trend of transparency and communication between restaurant and patron. Restaurants are increasingly providing clear information to customers about how tips are distributed among staff including if there is a service charge included in the bill. This transparency not only builds trust with patrons but also highlights the commitment of establishments to fair compensation practices.

As tipping norms continue to evolve, restaurants are navigating a delicate balance between ensuring fair wages for their staff and maintaining guest comfort. The ongoing dialogue around tipping trends reflects a broader societal shift towards recognizing and addressing income inequality within the hospitality industry. Improving business conditions for your team helps everyone.

Trending Restaurant Menu Items

The future of restaurant menus is poised for a transformative journey. If we are speaking literally about menus, it is important to note the integration of technology to enhance menu accessibility and customization. Digital menus, accessible via QR codes or tablets, allow patrons to interact with dynamic content, view images of dishes, and receive real-time updates on specials or seasonal offerings. Beyond the touch screen, some innovative dining experiences are exploring augmented reality (AR) applications; this provides immersive experiences where diners can virtually preview dishes or even see interactive details about ingredients and preparation methods.

The future of restaurant food trends is embracing plant-based dishes and transparency. From classy establishments to fast-casual restaurants, are adding options or creating specialty plant-based menus. Menus are becoming more conscientious about sourcing, highlighting locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, and emphasizing sustainable practices. The plant-based movement is also leaving an indelible mark on menus, with an increasing array of innovative and delicious plant-centric dishes. The focus is shifting towards promoting a healthier and more environmentally conscious dining experience. As consumers become more health-conscious and eco-aware, restaurant menus are evolving to align with these values. This also includes ways to reduce food waste. In doing so, you can still offer a diverse and thoughtful array of options that cater to varying dietary preferences and ethical considerations.

Consider a Ghost Kitchen

Ghost kitchens, also known as virtual kitchens or cloud kitchens, have emerged as a prominent trend in the F&B world. With a focus on food for delivery and pick-up orders, this type of kitchen space eliminates the need for a traditional full-service establishment. The no dining floor business model is gaining popularity due to its cost-effectiveness and efficiency; it allows food producers to focus solely on their culinary offerings without the overhead of a physical storefront.

Often, these ghost kitchens host multiple brands under one roof. Restaurateurs experiment with diverse cuisines and concepts, responding to the demand for variety in the online food delivery market. The agility of the ghost kitchen model also allows for strategic partnerships and collaborations.

Popular Restaurant Trends in Technology

Technology integrations allow for streamlining in the order process, interactive menus, and more. Restaurants are leveraging technology to create seamless and user-friendly interactions. Mobile apps and online platforms enable customers to place orders, make reservations, and even customize their dining experience from the convenience of their smartphones. Moreover, the adoption of contactless payment systems and digital menus not only caters to the current demand for health and safety measures but also adds a layer of convenience for both customers and staff.

Caterers, too, are embracing technology to elevate their services. Online catering platforms and apps simplify the catering booking process, allowing clients to explore menu options, customize orders, and manage event details with ease. Virtual tastings, conducted through video conferencing, enable caterers to showcase their offerings and collaborate with clients remotely. Additionally, event planning software and management tools aid caterers in organizing and executing seamless events, from tracking RSVPs to managing inventory and logistics.

Focus for Restaurants and Their Sustainable Practices

Sustainable practices in the restaurant industry have evolved from being a niche trend to a fundamental ethos. In fact, these practices have shaped the way many establishments operate. One prominent trend is the emphasis on locally sourced and seasonally inspired menus. While innovative dishes (featuring global ingredients) are still loved, restaurants are forging partnerships with local farmers and producers. By doing so, independent restaurants are able to reduce their carbon footprint and support other local businesses. By prioritizing seasonal ingredients, chefs can showcase the freshest produce to create delicious meals. Conscious consumers often gravitate to a head chef or restaurant that focuses on sustainability.

Along with health benefits, a farm-to-table approach not only appeals to eco-conscious diners but also fosters a stronger connection between the restaurant and its community. Local sourcing also offers an opportunity to reduce food costs since you can sometimes remove the need for costly food delivery companies. There are many additional sustainable practices that you may be interested in implementing.

• Chefs finding creative ways to utilize every part of an ingredient (thus minimizing waste)
• Growing movement of restaurant chains reducing single-use plastics and eco-friendly packaging
• Implementing recycling and composting programs to divert organic waste from landfills

These practices are not just trends; they represent a fundamental shift towards a more environmentally conscious and responsible future for the restaurant industry.

What Restaurant Trends Will You Be Trying

From embracing sustainable practices and innovative technology to redefining dining spaces and tipping norms, the ever-changing trends are shaping the very essence of dining. By understanding and adapting to these trends, restaurant owners and managers can foster an environment that not only meets but exceeds guests’ expectations. How can Bergen Linen help you improve your customer experience? Request a complimentary quote today.

At this time of the year, we start to think about the new year – and this also means the future of customer service.

In the ever-evolving landscape of the food and beverage industry, customer service stands as the cornerstone of your success. From the integration of cutting-edge technologies to cater to the modern diner’s evolving preferences to a deepened commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, let’s take a look at the different customer service areas that can be evaluated (and possibly improved).

Restaurant Customer Service Trends

1. Embracing Technology

When it comes to the future of customer service , it is undeniably intertwined with technology. From online reservations and digital menus to contactless payment options, restaurants are leveraging tech solutions to enhance the overall dining experience.

Automated reservation systems (i.e. OpenTable), mobile apps, and smart ordering platforms (i.e. Toast) empower your guests with convenience. At the same time, these types of technology allow your team to streamline operations and focus on delivering exceptional service. For anyone that has worked the front of a restaurant, you are definitely going to appreciate the reduced reservation calls and ease in scheduling.

2. Personalization Beyond the Plate

Once your guests are in the door, the customer service really begins. And it goes beyond the mere act of serving meals. Personalization will become a guiding principle. With a few extra steps, restaurant owners and managers leverage data analytics to understand their patrons on a deeper level.

From guests’ favorite dishes to preferred seating arrangements, anticipating and meeting individual preferences will be the new standard. As a sometimes restaurant guest yourself, imagine a dining experience where the ambiance, menu suggestions, and even the music are tailored.

3. Sustainability and Social Responsibility

Today’s diners are very conscientious about their meal options – and will only continue to be more mindful of their culinary options. Along with more sustainable grocery options, they also thinking about the restaurants they visit. With so many establishments around (especially in our area!), it is important to understand the landscape. What are other venues doing? Are they showcasing their sustainable options, their social responsibility, etc.?

From eco-friendly packaging to locally sourced ingredients, discover new ways to engage in practices that align with your environmental and ethical values.  Then, provide transparent communication about your sustainable initiatives; the messaging will not only resonate with patrons but also contribute to a positive and responsible brand image.

4. Customer Satisfaction and Instant Resolution

In any industry, feedback is welcome. Unfortunately, it can also be stressful. One misunderstanding, one undercooked plate….and there it is – a dreaded, less than stellar customer experience review. And while you do your best to make things ‘right’, it is understandable why a diner may want to share their honest experience with others.

Between social media and technology, restaurant-goers have an even louder voice, thanks to the integration of real-time feedback mechanisms. Restaurants should leverage technology to collect instant feedback. This allows them to address concerns promptly and enhance the overall dining experience. Two-way communication not only fosters a sense of transparency but also enables restaurants to continuously evolve based on direct input from their patrons.

Your Customer Service Team

When implementing any customer service updates, it is important that these changes are properly communicated with your entire team. If possible, try to hold a department meeting to discuss these changes. Smaller groups tend to foster a  more relaxed atmosphere so your team members feel open to asking questions.

Through these discussions, it is important to remind everyone that we are a client-facing industry  – and that the customer always knows best. On a stressful day, it can be easy to lose sight of the main goal. However, your team wins as a team.

Positivity starts from the top. Owners and managers that treat both their employees and diners with respect truly reflect a positive environment. And with the right team, you should expect less employee turnover.  After all, it is hard to leave a place where you love what you do and who you work with. People like seeing other people being treated well; it really resonates -especially with other team members. Ideally, employees would like to work with a team they can be proud of. Is it time to revisit your team communication?

 Future of Customer Service 

The future of customer service in the restaurant industry is exciting! By embracing technology, prioritizing personalization, championing sustainability, fostering real-time feedback, and improving the customer journey, restaurants can elevate their service standards.

As we navigate this transformative era, one thing remains certain: the heart of exceptional dining experiences will always be the commitment to delight, surprise, and exceeding customer expectations for every guest that walks through the door. Bergen Linen looks forward to supporting you through your next chapter.

Request a quote today.