In hospitality, customer experience is everything. But it’s not just about great food or friendly service – it all starts the moment someone walks through your door.
The design of your space plays a huge part in how people feel while they’re with you. It influences how long they stay, whether they return, and what they tell their friends afterwards.
Whether you’re running a restaurant, café, bar (or are planning to open one in the near future) getting the interior design right is just as important as what’s on the menu.
We explored this idea in our Manchester interiors round-up, and now we’re keeping things closer to home.
These 5 Cheshire restaurants don’t just offer fantastic food. They each bring something memorable to the table when it comes to design – and there’s plenty for hospitality business owners to learn from each one.
1. Piccolino Grand, Wilmslow
Style: Polished and inviting
Piccolino Grande strikes the perfect balance between luxury and warmth. Marble surfaces, brass fittings, and soft velvet seating are all softened by natural light from large windows and the buzz of the open kitchen.
It’s refined, but still approachable. And that’s exactly what makes it work: it feels special, but not formal.
What to take from it: You don’t need to go over the top to create a premium feel. Focus on layering textures, using a few standout materials, and getting the lighting right to create a welcoming but elevated atmosphere.
2. Next Door, Frodsham
Style: Simple, natural, and calming
Next Door keeps things pared-back, but with real purpose. Exposed brick, timber finishes and a neutral palette work together to create a calming, intimate space.
Subtle lighting and a considered layout make it feel thoughtful and personal. For venues with a more relaxed or fine-dining feel, this kind of simplicity can go a long way.
What to take from it: Minimalism doesn’t have to mean lacking in atmosphere. When the textures, lighting and layout are done right, a clean and simple design can still feel rich and welcoming.
3. Gupshup, Hale
Style: Bold, vibrant, and full of character
Set inside a former bank, Gupshup makes the most of its historic bones while layering in a bold, expressive identity.
Jewel-toned upholstery, patterned tiles, grand ceilings and standout lighting all work together to create a space that’s rich, joyful and completely distinctive.
It’s a space you remember (and talk about).
What to take from it: Your venue’s design is part of your brand. A strong, cohesive style – especially one rooted in storytelling – helps you stand out, build recognition, and become the kind of place people share and recommend.
4. Mowgli, Knutsford
Style: Playful and relaxed
Mowgli’s interiors are always full of personality, and the Knutsford location is no different. Swings instead of seats, twinkling lights, layered textures, and exposed brick all contribute to an experience that feels fun, informal and intentional.
It’s a great example of how design can support a brand tone and customer experience in equal measure.
What to take from it: If your brand leans playful or casual, let your space reflect that. Thoughtful, slightly unexpected design touches can help you stand out and create a stronger emotional connection with customers.
5. Lost & Found, Knutsford
Style: Moody, layered, and atmospheric
Lost & Found blends Victorian charm with botanical drama with dark wood, velvet, vintage-inspired patterns and leafy accents.
It’s immersive without feeling overdone, and it encourages customers to settle in, stay longer, and enjoy the full experience.
This kind of atmosphere works beautifully for venues focusing on evening dining or a sense of escapism.
What to take from it: Design that leans into story and mood can make your venue feel like a destination – not just somewhere to grab dinner. Details like lighting, texture, and theme cohesion help create that ‘lingering effect’ every hospitality space wants.
Thinking about the design of your own venue?
These Cheshire restaurants are a great reminder that interior design isn’t just about aesthetics – it plays a key role in how your business feels, functions, and connects with the people who walk through the door.
If you’re rethinking your space and want support that combines creative ideas with practical planning, our commercial interior design services are designed to help. We focus on making your space work harder for your business, while staying true to your brand and the experience you want to create.
Want to find out more? Book a consultation to talk through your project.