Restaurant Lighting Design: A Complete Guide

Lighting is one of the most powerful tools in restaurant interior design. It shapes the mood, influences how guests perceive food, and can even affect how long they stay.

The Three Layers of Restaurant Lighting

1. Ambient Lighting

The base layer that provides overall illumination. In restaurants, we typically aim for 30-50 lux for fine dining and 100-200 lux for casual venues. Dimmer systems are essential for transitioning from lunch to dinner service.

2. Task Lighting

Functional lighting for specific areas: the bar, host stand, kitchen pass. These need to be bright enough for staff to work efficiently without disrupting the dining atmosphere.

3. Accent Lighting

The magic layer. This is where we highlight architectural features, artwork, or create focal points. Pendant lights over tables, wall sconces, and LED strips can transform a space.

Color Temperature Matters

For restaurants, we recommend:

• Fine dining: 2700K-3000K (warm, intimate)
• Casual dining: 3000K-3500K (warm but energetic)
• Fast casual: 3500K-4000K (bright, efficient)

Our Approach at Belenko Design

In projects like Wine Love and Saint Bar, we used layered lighting with custom chandeliers as statement pieces. The key is creating zones of light and shadow that guide the eye and create intimacy even in large spaces.

The best restaurant lighting design is invisible — guests simply feel comfortable and the food looks appetizing.