Let’s set the scene:
A table for two.
The wine is perfectly chilled.
The service is on point.
The filet is cooked to a flawless medium rare.
And yet… the Yelp review says, “Food was fine. Ambience was meh. Just not feeling it.”
Why?
Because it was raining. And Susan's hair frizzed, her sandals got soaked, and her serotonin levels plummeted somewhere between the parking lot and the host stand.
Welcome to the weird and wonderful world of weather psychology—where Mother Nature joins your front-of-house team, whether you like it or not.
Sunny Skies, Sunnier Reviews
Research shows that people are more generous, patient, and optimistic on sunny days. One study found that diners tipped up to 26% more when the sun was shining versus overcast skies. Another revealed that we rate our experiences higher—same food, same service—when the weather is good.
Why? Because sunshine triggers the release of serotonin and dopamine—those magical mood-boosting neurochemicals that make everything from soup to staff seem just a little bit better.
It’s not just about being warm and dry. It’s about how the brain interprets external cues and uses them to color internal experiences.
Translation: If the weather outside is delightful, guests are more likely to feel like their burger is, too.
Cue the Clouds… and the Complaints
On the flip side, gray skies can cast a psychological shadow on your entire operation. When it’s cold, windy, or raining sideways, guests are more likely to feel irritable, anxious, or just plain “off.” That cranky couple at Table 6? They’re not mad at you. They’re mad at February.
And yet, those subconscious mood shifts still influence how guests perceive your food, your staff, your ambiance—even your table placement (yes, apparently being near the door on a rainy day is a personal affront).
So… what’s the solution? Become a meteorologist?
No. But with a basic understanding of how the weather influences your guests’ experiences, you can be more intentional about how you can counter those gray skies. Here are four simple ways to do that:
1. Acknowledge the obvious. A warm, empathetic “We’re glad you braved the storm to join us tonight” goes a long way.
2. Adjust the atmosphere. Cold outside? Amp up the warmth inside—literally and emotionally. Cozy lighting, comfort foods, and hot drinks win big.
3. Create your own sunshine. Even on gloomy days, a sunny disposition from your team can counteract the clouds. Emotional contagion is real—your staff’s energy sets the tone.
4. Offer little luxuries. Complimentary hot tea, a coat check, a cozy blanket for patio guests… these small touches become memorable when they meet a timely need.
The Bottom Line: Weather Happens. Hospitality Heals.
You can’t control the forecast, but you can control the feeling your guests leave with.
Because here’s the thing: Rainy days come and go. But people remember how they were treated—especially when the world outside felt a little less friendly.
Hospitality, at its heart, is about creating comfort, connection, and care. And when you do that well? Even a thunderstorm can’t dampen the experience.
Dr. Melissa Hughes is a keynote speaker, author, and Human Potential Alchemist. She is the author of Happy Hour with Einstein, and Happier Hour with Einstein: Another Round. Dr. Hughes combines extensive research in neuroscience, behavioral science, and psychology to help restaurateurs and hoteliers apply science to create exceptional guest experiences.
Learn more at MelissaHughes.rocks.