Curious about the many benefits a well thought-out choice of music can offer your restaurant? In this comprehensive guide, we'll take a closer look at why well-chosen background music can make all the difference to your customers' experience!

We'll also look at the noise standards in force to ensure a respectful and comfortable noise environment for all.

The importance of music to liven up your restaurant

Focus on the importance of music to liven up your establishment!

Background music and food: it's all connected

Did you know? Well-chosen background music can transform the atmosphere of your restaurant, creating a unique, immersive experience.

But background music doesn't just set the mood. It also plays a crucial role in the rhythm and tempo of the meal.

Studies have shown that music can influence our perception of time and the speed at which we eat. For example, calm, soothing music encourages us to savor every moment, promoting a slower, more reflective eating experience. Conversely, more dynamic tunes energize the atmosphere, encouraging a more animated and rhythmic meal.

Music influences our behavior

Music also plays an essential role in the ambience of your restaurant. Soft, melodious melodies can create a warm, soothing atmosphere, softening the moods of your guests. They help to create a relaxed atmosphere where customers can enjoy their meal to the full.

On the other hand, upbeat rhythms and catchy melodies can stimulate energy and generate positive emotions in your customers. They can put them in a good mood, whet their appetites and create a friendly, festive atmosphere!

👉 To find out more: How to create a brand identity for your restaurant!

Music influences our judgment

The choice of background music can even influence the ratings your customers give your restaurant! When you think about it, who would want loud, fast, stressful music in a chic, traditional restaurant? Or slow, classical music in a fast-food joint? Here, too, studies show.

Good restaurant atmosphere thanks to music

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What music should you choose for your restaurant?

Choose music that reflects your concept

Music contributes to your restaurant's DNA. It's important to choose a playlist that matches the style of your restaurant, as this helps reinforce the theme of your establishment.

Take, for example, Ellen's Stardust Diner in New York, which has based its entire concept on a typical American diner with 50s decor and waiters singing hits from the greatest musicals of the era (Mamma Mia, West Side Story, Mary Poppins, ...) as well as the great American rock and Motown hits (Jackson 5, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross ...).

Here are a few ideas:

If you own a fast food restaurant, play current music and rankings: Top 50 France or world.
For a salad bar, you can opt for softer music and Relax-type playlists.
A foodcourt can choose fast-paced pop or rock songs to create an energetic, dynamic atmosphere, perfectly suited to a lively foodcourt. Artists such as Bruno Mars, Maroon 5 or Imagine Dragons are ideal.
Ice cream parlors are often places where people come to relax and enjoy sweet treats. Soft, soothing music, such as acoustic ballads or light pop songs, can create a relaxing atmosphere.

To help you: Spotify playlists

Why not use Soundtrack (the Spotify of restaurateurs)? Soundtrack is a very practical tool, offering ready-made playlists! In fact, Soundtrack offers pre-existing Spotify playlists created by experts or users. You can find playlists tailored to different musical genres, moods or specific themes, making it easy to find the right music for your restaurant.

What's more, if you want to create your own playlist, you have access to a catalog of over 100 million tracks!

A few must-have playlists:

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Current regulations

Here's what the law says!

Broadcasting rights

If you wish to broadcast music, you must make a prior declaration and sign a general performance contract with Sacem to pay royalties. Don't hesitate to consult their site to find out the cost of this fee for your establishment, as it varies according to the number of seats and the catchment area.

If you don't want to pay royalties to Sacem, the only free alternative is to broadcast royalty-free music. To create your royalty-free playlist, you can visit the Sacem website to check whether you can distribute it.

What are the noise regulations?

Noise regulations in restaurants are based on local standards and the relevant authorities.

However, here are a few important points to bear in mind:

Permissible noise limits: Regulations generally set thresholds for acceptable noise levels. These may vary according to geographical location, type of neighborhood (residential, commercial, etc.) and time of day. Compliance with these limits is essential to avoid penalties or complaints.

Quiet hours: In some regions, quiet hours are established during which noise levels must be reduced to a minimum. The purpose of this measure is to preserve the peace and quiet of nearby residential neighborhoods, or to respect quiet hours.

Noise abatement measures: Regulations may require the implementation of measures to reduce noise pollution. This may include the use of soundproofing materials, the installation of sound-absorbing panels or the adoption of good noise management practices, such as moving enclosures away from sensitive areas.

Complaints from neighbors: Your neighbors have the right to lodge a complaint about excessive noise from a restaurant. It is therefore essential to comply with current regulations and take steps to mitigate noise.

What are the penalties for a restaurant?

Restaurants can face a variety of penalties for noise.

Here are some of the possible negative consequences:

Fines and administrative sanctions: Noise enforcement authorities may impose fines or administrative sanctions on restaurants that fail to comply with authorized noise limits. Fines may vary according to the severity of the nuisance.

Withdrawal of licenses and authorizations: Restaurants that fail to keep their noise levels under control may have certain licenses or authorizations required for their operation withdrawn: operating licenses, terrace authorizations or extended opening hours.

Damaged reputation: An establishment that regularly generates excessive noise nuisance can see its reputation deteriorate. Disgruntled customers may write negative reviews online, which can damage the image and dissuade potential guests from visiting.

👉 To find out more: Which licenses should you choose for your restaurant?

How is noise pollution controlled?

Once neighbors have lodged a complaint with the authorities, an inspection visit may take place. The inspectors come directly to your restaurant and may use noise measuring equipment to assess the noise level. They may also check that your restaurant has the necessary permits to play music or use sound equipment.

The results of the inspection and measurements are then evaluated by the relevant authorities. If the noise level exceeds authorized limits, or if other infringements are found, action may be taken (fines, financial penalties, even permanent closure of the restaurant, depending on the situation).

👉 To find out more: How to choose the right decor for your restaurant

And above all, don't forget the importance of maintaining an adequate sound level to allow your customers to chat quietly! Finding the right balance between musical presence and human interaction is the key to an optimal experience!

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What background music should you choose for your restaurant?