How to correctly decorate a restaurant display window with food and drinks models

In order to make food and drinks models work (bring new customers and generate sales), they need to be correctly located and arranged. A display window location, illumination and decoration, as well as plates angle, setting in groups and may other factors – all matters and influences on sales rate very much.

By purchasing food models by “Nippon Dom” company, you get full expert support of your display window setting and decoration. Consultations will help you to create an efficient instrument, which generates sales at maximum.

General guide

Japanese marketing specialists developed a general guide on decorating display windows with food and drinks models.

1. The Perfect Showcase Placement to Attract Customers

Restaurants and cafes

Food models are mostly located in display windows or in showcases by the entrance. If there are no windows or space is limited, some cafes or restaurants use some pretty holders or a portable table with the most popular menu items.

Fast food outlets

A display window with food models is located close to the cash register, so that visitors could study the assortment and make an order, while standing in a queue.

2. Bright lighting for the best color presentation of the dish

The attractive and appetizing appearance of food replicas largely depends on proper display window illumination. Bright lighting enhances the vividness of colors in food and drink replicas, making them look more delicious and stimulating the viewer’s appetite.

Moreover, a brightly lit display window in a café or restaurant is visible from afar, effortlessly drawing the attention of passersby.

3. Plates angle

The angle at which plates are displayed also affects sales. Dishes are more visible and appealing when placed at an angle of 45–60 degrees.

Ensure that all plates on the same shelf are positioned at the same angle for a neat and consistent appearance.

4. Category-Based Display for Effortless Browsing

A display window with food replicas grouped by category looks neat and appealing. This arrangement also makes it easier for visitors to find a specific dish within a large assortment.

Place meals on large plates on the lower shelves, and meals on small plates on the upper shelves.

Note: Dishes placed in the center of the display window are the most popular among visitors. That is why signature dishes are usually displayed in the center of the middle shelf.

5. Locate price tags in front of every food model

Position a price tag with basic information about the dish in front of each food model. Include:

• Meal name
• Meal price

For added appeal, you can also provide:

• Calorie count (to attract visitors who care about their health)
• Information about ingredients and the best characteristics of the dish

Note: The description should stimulate appetite. Use numbers and mouth-watering adjectives to make it more enticing.

6. Keep your display window clean

• Clean food models reflect light, and meals look natural and delicious.
• If food models are dirty, people may think that the restaurant is not clean enough as well.

GET FREE CONSULTATION

What else increases sales rate

1. Demonstrate set meals menus

Food replicas of set meals help increase the average bill and reduce customer service time.

Ready-made meal sets save visitors time when choosing, allow them to quickly enjoy a balanced lunch, and make the ordering process more convenient and enjoyable. This improves comfort, enhances customer satisfaction, and encourages repeat visits.

2. Place the Replica of Your Signature Dish in the Center of the Display

According to Japanese marketing statistics, a food replica placed in the center of the display attracts the most attention from visitors, making it the best-selling item.

That’s why it is recommended to position the most expensive and iconic dish from your menu in the center of the middle shelf to highlight it, spark interest, and boost its sales.

3. Turn Discounts into Sales Drivers

Discounts can apply to:

• Specific dishes
• Drinks
• Certain hours (such as lunch time)

Discount information should be presented in large fonts using red and orange tones. The color scheme of the display and price tags has a significant impact on attracting customer attention and boosting sales.

4. Make Your Best-Selling Dishes Stand Out

People trust reviews and popularity. The very fact that your restaurant has best-selling dishes automatically increases potential visitors’ trust.

When customers are unsure about what to order, they often choose dishes with positive reviews or those marked as the most frequently ordered.

It is recommended to highlight these dishes with bright flags — red or orange — to draw attention and encourage orders.

5. Add Style and Appeal with Thematic Décor

Thematic elements make the display window more attractive, expressive, and unique.
These can include:

• Decorative items, souvenirs, and ornaments that emphasize the national style of the cuisine
• Large photographs of dishes
• Bottles with real beverages

6. Seasonal and festive touches that enhance appeal

Use decorations that match the season or an upcoming event to create a festive atmosphere and attract customer attention.

Update decorations:

• For each holiday

• For significant events in the city or your restaurant

• For each season

Don’t forget to remove seasonal decorations on time. If they remain on display long after the holiday or season has ended, it can give the impression that the establishment is neglected.

Get unlimited free consultations and create a showcase that attracts the maximum number of guests! We will help you select the perfect set of food replicas and provide ideas for placement and design, ensuring your display works to boost sales.

To get a consultation, simply send us a photo of your restaurant’s facade and a copy of your menu.

P.S. The secret to a successful display window isn’t having a lot of models — it’s the right assortment, smart placement, and eye-catching design.

GET FREE CONSULTATION