How to Host a Business Meeting at a Restaurant

Business meetings are serious affairs most of the time, taking place in conference rooms that can make everything feel formal, serious, and no-nonsense. However, it doesn’t always have to be this way. To switch things up and create a more relaxed atmosphere, these meetings can be held in a restaurant setting. Whether it’s an initial meeting, networking, or in-depth discussion, the right restaurant will be able to accommodate to your agenda and needs. 

Without further ado, here’s how you can host a productive and enjoyable business meeting at a restaurant. 

Set the agenda

Your agenda will determine whether or not the meeting can be held at a restaurant. It will also influence the kind of venue you book. For example, it may not be wise to conduct a discussion about classified company information at a restaurant. However, it’s a different story if you’re just looking to receive project updates from your team. 

Before deciding on a place, make sure you are fixed on the goal of the meeting, topics of discussion, number of people attending, and who will be attending. 

Choose the right venue

The restaurant you select for your business meeting is dependent on a variety of factors.

Guest list

Who will be attending this meeting? What positions do they hold within the company? Are they one of your high-profile clients, or is this a casual catch-up meeting with your department? Having this information will be the difference between reserving a spot at a fine dining restaurant or a chain restaurant. 

Privacy

Your agenda will determine how much privacy you need. If sensitive information will be divulged, choose a restaurant with a private room where you can safely discuss. 

Space

One-on-one meetings or small team gatherings may work in the main area of most restaurants. However, anything with over five people may need to be hosted in a private room or a restaurant that has a larger seating capacity.

Facilities needed

If you need to present slides to a big group of people at your business meeting, make sure the restaurant you’re booking allows you to bring a projector and/or screen. Some restaurants may even provide display upon request. In this case, you will most definitely be in the private room and not the main restaurant area.

Ambience

If you’re not booking a private room, choose a restaurant that supports your participants’ focus and productivity. Find a place that is well-lit, not too noisy, and plays music at a volume that still allows for conversation. You can even call or visit the restaurant beforehand to make sure that the surroundings will be conducive for a business meeting. 

Location

Make sure the venue you choose is accessible for everyone attending.

Consider the menu

What you eat during your meeting will vary greatly depending on the time of day it is held. 

Brunch or lunch

Light salads and bright, refreshing entrees will suit a meeting that takes place earlier in the day. 

Coffee

If you’re meeting in the afternoon, find a restaurant that specialises in coffee or tea with a wide selection of small bites, pastries, and desserts. 

Dinner

Dinner meetings call for more decadent options, with the possibility of a drink or two. For these evening meetings, a restaurant with an extensive drinks menu may be appropriate. 

Work together with the restaurant

At the end of the day, the successful running of your business meeting is in your hands. Your restaurant of choice is your partner in executing the meeting well. Be sure to communicate your needs with them, from any special seating required to facilities needed to dietary restrictions to cater to. 

Host your business meeting at Merah Putih

Planning a business meeting in Bali? Merah Putih is here to host you and your partners or clients. The restaurant is located in the bustling Petitenget area, making it accessible for you and your attendees. With a luxurious interior illuminated by a translucent roof, the restaurant seats 110 people in the main floor. For more privacy, opt for the teak pods available on the mezzanine. 

Merah Putih Restaurant serves Indonesian fine dining, bringing you the country’s beloved recipes with a modern twist. Whether you’re here for an afternoon or an evening meeting, the dedicated lunch and dinner menus are sure to spoil your palate during your discussion!

For your next business meeting, book a table today and use these exclusive gift vouchers.

FAQ

How do you prepare for a business meeting?

A successful business meeting has a clear agenda with predetermined goals and discussion points to go over. Be sure to have this information before your next meeting, especially if you’re going to be gathering at a restaurant. This agenda will determine the kind of venue you book.

What should I consider when holding a business meeting at a restaurant?

If you’re hosting a business meeting at a restaurant, consider your invitees, the level of privacy and facilities you would need, the restaurant’s ambience, and accessibility for you and your guests.

What food should I serve at a business meeting?

What you eat during your meeting will vary greatly depending on the time of day it is held.
Light salads and bright, refreshing entrees will suit a meeting that takes place earlier in the day. If you’re meeting in the afternoon, find a restaurant that specialises in coffee or tea with a wide selection of small bites, pastries, and desserts. Dinner meetings call for more decadent options, with the possibility of a drink or two. For these evening meetings, a restaurant with an extensive drinks menu may be appropriate.

Where can I host a business meeting in Bali?

Merah Putih is here to host you and your partners or clients. The restaurant is located in the bustling Petitenget area, making it accessible for you and your attendees. With a luxurious interior illuminated by a translucent roof, the restaurant seats 110 people in the main floor. For more privacy, opt for the teak pods available on the mezzanine.

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