7 Brilliant Restaurant Fronts & Signage

A restaurant’s shopfront and signage are far more than functional markers; they are the face of your business and one of the first touchpoints for your customers. In today’s competitive hospitality market, creating a memorable and engaging visual identity can make the difference between a casual passer-by and a loyal customer.

Written By:

George Atherton

January 16, 2025

7 mins

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From dynamic ramen bars in Canada to artisanal pasta spots in the UK, the best restaurant branding blends creativity, functionality, and a deep understanding of the brand's ethos. This post explores seven standout examples of shopfront and signage design that not only captivate but also communicate the essence of the restaurants they represent.

How Restaurant Branding Can Help Your Small Business

For small businesses, especially in the restaurant industry, branding is crucial. A well-designed shopfront doesn’t just attract attention; it tells a story about your brand’s values, culture, and offerings. By creating a strong first impression, your restaurant branding can:

  • Differentiate Your Business: Stand out in a crowded market with unique visuals and messaging.
  • Build Trust and Familiarity: Consistent and professional design fosters confidence among potential customers.
  • Enhance the Customer Experience: Great branding goes beyond aesthetics, setting expectations for quality and atmosphere.
  • Increase Word of Mouth: Memorable visuals make your restaurant more likely to be shared online and recommended by customers.

By investing in thoughtful design, even small businesses can establish a strong presence and build a loyal customer base.

Highlights from 7 Stunning Restaurant Fronts

Each of the examples below demonstrates how shopfronts and signage can creatively reflect a brand’s unique identity:

1. Dashi Ramen – Trois-Rivières, Canada

Dashi Ramen’s shopfront perfectly reflects the dynamic and authentic experience of the restaurant. Commissioned by Super Studio, the branding uses a typographic approach that ensures instant recognition. The logotype features a spiral symbolising the traditional Narutomaki fishcake, a key ingredient in ramen, conveying culinary authenticity. A clever design twist is the “S” in "Dashi," shaped like a ramen noodle, adding a playful and memorable detail. This vibrant, contemporary design captures the essence of Dashi Ramen, making it instantly identifiable and appealing to customers.

2. Neighbourhood Café – Belfast, Northern Ireland

Neighbourhood Café's shopfront is a perfect blend of warmth and modernity, designed to cater to a diverse clientele, including students, commuters, and coffee lovers in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter. Established in 2021, the café’s branding emphasises a welcoming atmosphere, making guests feel right at home. The logo, signage, menus, and interior design, all created by Crown Creative, are thoughtfully designed to complement each other and establish a sense of familiarity. The carefully selected brand colours further enhance this inviting vibe, making Neighbourhood Café a perfect spot to relax and recharge.

3. Crumb Vegan – London, UK

Crumb, the plant-based cookie shop in London, stands out with its bold and playful branding. The use of vibrant yellow across the shopfront, coffee cups, and packaging creates an inviting atmosphere that sparks curiosity. Designed by White Sky Creative, the brand's identity combines a hand-drawn logo with a loud, simple logotype, reflecting both nostalgia and modern confidence. The shopfront's energy matches the brand’s mission to deliver irresistible cookies and coffee, with the signature yellow becoming synonymous with joy and indulgence. It’s a visually memorable experience that has become a distinctive part of London’s café scene.

4. Elsewhere Coffee Roasters – London, UK

Elsewhere Coffee Roasters' shopfront combines bold simplicity with a sense of wanderlust. The brand, developed by Studio Thomas, focuses on the journey and experience of coffee. The design uses clean, modern typography and a muted colour palette that feels approachable and intimate, reflecting the brand’s focus on making great coffee accessible. The understated yet inviting exterior speaks to the idea of coffee as a gateway to new experiences, while the interior carries through this theme with a welcoming atmosphere.

5. Bavet – Multiple Locations, Belgium

Bavet's shopfronts embody the brand’s fun and friendly spirit. The design created by Skinn features vibrant colours and playful elements, creating an inviting atmosphere that aligns with the brand’s ethos of being "Made for Friends." This quirky approach to retail design not only attracts attention but also fosters a sense of community and connection. With a focus on hospitality and inclusivity, Bavet’s shopfronts are visually striking, ensuring a memorable customer experience from the moment they walk in. The design approach reinforces the brand's commitment to offering a welcoming space for all.

6. SARTO – Leeds, UK

SARTO, a pasta-focused bar and restaurant in Leeds, features a visual identity by Saul Studio rooted in Italian culture. The branding uses a sophisticated colour palette, complemented by foils and textured papers that carry through to the restaurant's interior design. A standout feature is the form of the letter "S," which references both fusilli pasta and the building's history as a tailor's shop. This clever integration of brand elements creates a cohesive and unique experience, perfectly embodying the restaurant’s focus on fresh, handmade pasta.

7. Choc et al – Frome, UK

Choc et al’s shopfront beautifully blends tradition with modern appeal, capturing the warmth and indulgence of its chocolate offerings. Designed by New Century Design, the brand identity includes signage, uniforms, packaging, and a striking wall graphic that elevates the store’s aesthetic. The design captures a harmonious balance, ensuring the brand feels contemporary yet welcoming. It’s a visual treat that draws chocolate lovers in and enhances their in-store experience, solidifying Choc et al as a standout destination in Frome.

For more details, visit New Century Design’s Choc et al project.

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