Couple Picnics on The Highway—Brave!

2025 has been quite a year, for instance this couple decided to have a picnic in the grassy median of the North way (Interstate 87). Videos/Pics of their quirky yet eye catching picnic spread, complete with blankets and food, were shared online, with drivers stopping to watch and film. The unusual location made them a local sensation, with social media users commenting and sharing their adventure.

While this couple chose an unconventional spot, picnics are typically enjoyed in parks, gardens, or by lakes for fresh air and relaxation. Their act was seen as a fun, memorable, and unique date idea—even if it was on a highway.

However, this activity is illegal and extremely dangerous. New York State law prohibits pedestrians from being on interstate highways, including medians and shoulders, except in emergencies. The median is intended for traffic separation and safety, not as a recreational area.

Whether you’re a restaurant owner looking to revamp your dining experience or an aspiring consultant wanting to help eateries innovate, thinking outside the box is key.

Why Unique Dining Experiences Matter

Restaurants today face fierce competition, and diners crave memorable experiences—not just meals. Studies show that unusual or Instagram-worthy moments can:

• Increase customer engagement

• Boost social media visibility

• Create lasting brand loyalty

• Open new revenue streams through events or partnerships

Lessons for Restaurant Owners

Even if you don’t want to turn a highway median into a picnic spot, there are ways to make your restaurant stand out:

1. Outdoor and Pop-Up Dining: Use unique locations like rooftops, gardens, or waterfronts.

2. Themed Events: Host unusual dining nights, seasonal pop-ups, or interactive chef experiences.

3. Social Media Moments: Encourage shareable experiences with creative plating, décor, or entertainment.

4. Menu Innovation: Add surprise dishes or limited-time offerings to spark curiosity.

Restaurant owners often underestimate the impact of novelty. Consulting with experts can help identify these opportunities while staying safe, legal, and profitable.

Advice for Aspiring Restaurant Consultants

If you’re drawn to helping restaurants grow, this is a golden moment. Consultants play a key role in:

• Designing unique dining experiences

• Optimizing operations for profitability

• Training staff to deliver exceptional service

• Advising on marketing strategies that capture attention

Steps to start your consulting career:

1. Gain industry experience in operations, marketing, or management

2. Study case studies of successful and viral dining concepts

3. Build a portfolio of ideas and strategies

4. Network with restaurant owners and industry professionals

FAQ

Q1: Can unusual dining experiences increase revenue for restaurants?A1: Yes, unique experiences can attract more customers, enhance social media presence, and increase repeat visits.

Q2: What skills are essential for a restaurant consultant?A2: Industry knowledge, creativity, business strategy, and strong communication skills are crucial.

Q3: How can restaurant owners safely implement unconventional ideas?A3: Work with consultants to ensure compliance with safety, health, and legal standards.

Q4: Are pop-up restaurants a good testing ground for new concepts?A4: Absolutely. They allow owners to experiment with minimal risk while attracting curious customers.

Q5: How can aspiring consultants gain clients?A5: Networking, creating a strong online presence, and offering free workshops or insights can build credibility.

Conclusion

From viral roadside picnics to rooftop dinners, creativity in dining can transform restaurants and careers. For restaurant owners, thinking outside the box drives growth, engagement, and profit. For aspiring consultants, helping businesses implement innovative concepts offers a rewarding path full of opportunity.

Start exploring new strategies and consulting opportunities today with The Restaurant Company—where restaurant transformation meets career growth.

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