7 ideas for eating on the terrace: everything you need
When nice weather, sunshine and warm temperatures come knocking at your door, you'll want to enjoy them as much as possible. Even better if you can do so at home! If you're lucky enough to have a space like a terrace, a patio or a balcony, our mission is to show you how to make the most of it. Want to learn how?
In this article, we'll show you how to enjoy a meal on the terrace (or any outdoor space) and everything you'll need so you and your potential guests can be at ease. A little preview: one of the keys to preparing a wonderful meal on the terrace is to take into account the little details and the menu you're going to offer.
Enjoy!
1. Outdoor furniture and decor
Whether you have a large terrace or a small one, foldable and lightweight furniture is always a good idea for the outdoors, especially if you want to organise a meal at home. That way, you can easily adapt it to your needs and circumstances at any moment.
Folding tables and chairs, for example, allow you have more or less space to manoeuvre, and they are quite practical and easy to set up and take down.
And while we're on the subject of the setting, it's a good idea to furnish your terrace with a few accessories to make it more comfortable. For example, we recommend that you add some outdoor cushions and even keep a blanket handy in case it gets cool. These are details that will allow you to spend hours and hours on the terrace without even realising it—and the after-dinner conversation will never end!
Oh! If you have the option, save some space to place some outdoor furniture that can be used as a storage area. You can use a shelving unit or a small cabinet with doors to keep all the items you need near at hand, such as the blankets we mentioned before and even accessories for your meal on the terrace, such as napkins or tablecloths. That way you won't have to make so many trips back and forth to set the table. It will also be the perfect place to store everything once you've finished in order to protect it from the elements. Extremely convenient and comfortable, just as it should be.
2. A meal without music? Turn up the volume!
Everyone loves picnics and meals on the terrace, but they're only half as fun without music. Even if it's a treat just for you, music is a must-have.
Here, the ENEBY speaker is a wonderful option to use on the terrace, because it's portable. You can connect it and listen to music from your mobile, computer or any other device with a Bluetooth connection.
Also, there's no reason to put it on the table where it takes up space; you can hang it from its handle instead. It'll go with you wherever you need it.
3. Barbecues for a quick and delicious meal
Barbecues go hand in hand with meals and dinners on your terrace, even when the space is small.
For your balcony or terrace meal in the city, you must have a grill for preparing your favourite dishes, whether it's meat, fish or vegetables. Especially because it's a simple way to cook outdoors, with friends and without having to go in and out of your home to cook. Nothing is more symbolic of spring and summer than barbecues!
4. A meal on the terrace: choose a varied menu that suits everyone
Having said that, you should consider the people you'll be eating with when choosing the menu and organising a meal on the terrace.
Perhaps not everyone eats meat, or they simply aren't in the mood for it. That's why it's a great idea to offer some appetisers before the barbecue or alternatives to meat, such as plant-based sausages or other vegetarian food (at IKEA we have many options).
Consider opting for several dishes (mostly healthy, if possible) so that everyone eats well. What's more, if there's one thing that nice weather allows us to do, it's to choose more refreshing recipes that include more fruits and vegetables. It couldn't be easier!
5. Plants to decorate the terrace
Do you have a small terrace without any plants? How about a little bit of greenery to spruce it up?
Adding a few plants is always a great way to improve the ambience of your terrace. If you want, you can place them in different types of pots to give the space a variety of materials and colours, or use plant stands to create different heights.
In addition, you could also create a little urban garden on the terrace, with aromatic plants to garnish your dishes: mint, thyme, basil... What do you think?
6. Reusable plastic tableware
Traditional tableware is perhaps too delicate, heavy or formal for nibbles or meals on the terrace.
Consider using reusable plastic tableware, which is great for eating even while standing up (it's as light as can be), it doesn't break, it's washable and looks nice.
At IKEA, we're committed to sustainability, which is why we've designed this line of renewable plastic, a more environmentally friendly option that cares for both you and the planet.
7. The right outdoor lighting
You're sure to know that picnics, lunches and dinners on the terrace can last for hours. This must have happened to you before? Well, to be prepared for that moment, we recommend that you have good outdoor lighting installed.
Choose from solar models like the SOLVINDEN collection: string lights, pendant lamps and table lamps. Combine several sources of light to create the cosiest terrace for those spring and summer nights.
What did you think? Enjoy your terrace or balcony as much as possible! If you liked these ideas and are eager to find out more, don't miss this special selection of articles. They're sure to inspire you!
We love it when customers use our products in a creative way. Why not try to do something new with them yourself? But do remember, any modifications or changes that you make to IKEA products will prevent them from being resold or used for their original purpose, thus invalidating IKEA product warranties and your right to return them.
