Enter the total area of the restaurant, space required per seat, and the efficiency factor into the calculator to determine the seating capacity.

Restaurant Seating Capacity Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the seating capacity of a restaurant. 

SC = (A / S) * E

Variables:

  • SC is the seating capacity of the restaurant
  • A is the total area of the restaurant (in square feet)
  • S is the space required per seat (in square feet)
  • E is the efficiency factor (percentage of the total area that can be used for seating)

To calculate the seating capacity of a restaurant, divide the total area of the restaurant by the space required per seat. Then multiply the result by the efficiency factor. The efficiency factor accounts for the percentage of the total area that can be used for seating, considering factors like aisles, restrooms, kitchen, and other non-seating areas.

What is a Restaurant Seating Capacity?

Restaurant seating capacity refers to the maximum number of customers that a restaurant can accommodate at a given time. It is determined by the size of the restaurant, the layout of tables and chairs, and local fire and safety regulations. This capacity can influence the restaurant’s revenue, customer comfort, and efficiency of service. It is crucial for restaurant owners to optimize their seating capacity to maximize profitability while ensuring a pleasant dining experience for their customers.

How to Calculate Restaurant Seating Capacity?

The following steps outline how to calculate the Restaurant Seating Capacity.

  1. First, determine the total area of the restaurant (A) in square feet.
  2. Next, determine the space required per seat (S) in square feet.
  3. Next, determine the efficiency factor (E) as a percentage of the total area that can be used for seating.
  4. Next, use the formula SC = (A / S) * E to calculate the seating capacity of the restaurant.
  5. Finally, insert the variables and calculate the seating capacity.

Example Problem:

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.

Total area of the restaurant (A) = 1500 square feet

Space required per seat (S) = 20 square feet

Efficiency factor (E) = 80%