Material Selection for Restaurant Interiors

Restaurant materials must work harder than residential ones. They face spills, heavy traffic, frequent cleaning, and constant use. Here's how we select materials that look beautiful and perform.

Flooring

Best Performers

• Porcelain tile: Our go-to. Durable, easy to clean, endless design options. We used large-format porcelain in Pixi for a seamless, modern look.
• Polished concrete: Industrial aesthetic, extremely durable. Works well in casual venues.
• Terrazzo: Making a comeback. Unique patterns, very durable, but requires professional installation.

Avoid

• Hardwood in dining areas (warps with moisture)
• Light-colored grout (stains quickly)

Wall Treatments

Top Choices

• Venetian plaster: Elegant, easy to touch up. We love it for Mediterranean concepts.
• Acoustic panels: Essential for comfort. We integrate them into the design as features, not afterthoughts.
• Tile wainscoting: Protects walls from chair damage while adding character.

Seating Materials

Upholstery

• Vinyl: The workhorse. Modern vinyls mimic leather beautifully.
• Performance fabrics: Stain-resistant, cleanable. More comfortable than vinyl.
• Leather: Premium option but requires maintenance.

Structure

• Metal frames: Most durable, support commercial warranties.
• Solid wood: Classic but heavier, can scratch floors.

The Belenko Approach

We never sacrifice aesthetics for durability — we find materials that deliver both. In Bella, we used custom terrazzo flooring with brass inlays. In Good Girl, industrial materials like concrete and steel create character while handling the abuse of a busy restaurant.

The right materials are an investment. They reduce replacement costs and maintain your aesthetic for years.