20 Inspiring Coffee Shop Lighting Ideas – Bar & Cafe

Do you want to attract more customers to your coffee shop, bar, or cafe and increase sales? Then this article is for you. 

You can do this in the most easiest way, only by brightening or decorating your coffee shop exterior and interiors. For this, you can attach neon signage or an illuminated name board that can catch the attention of the public from a distance. Also, a well-lit ambiance throughout your coffee shop is essential to capture the attention of customers. 

In this article, I have shared with you the top 20 inspiring coffee shop lighting ideas to gain popularity among consumers. Let’s take a look at them– 

Enhancing The Exterior Lighting Of Your Coffee Shop

You can create an inviting ambiance outside your coffee shop through effective exterior lighting to attract customers. Here, I have included some innovative ideas to enhance the outdoor lighting of your coffee shop– 

1. Display The Coffee Shop’s Name In A Pop-up

An illuminated name board for your coffee shop can increase the outdoor lighting display. For this, you can use LED neon flex, which offers an eye-catching glow for your shop’s name. Also, LED neon flex is incredibly flexible and lets you create letters or logos in different shapes by bending them at different angles. And the bright colors emitted by these lights ensure that your shop stands out from a distance. 

Besides, you can also use glass neon lights for this. Here is the distinction between the two of them- Glass Neon Lights vs. LED Neon Lights. This is the most appealing way to attract consumers from the street. Furthermore, you can install IP68-graded PU and silicone LED neon flexes for the coffee shop board. These neon flexes are basically designed to withstand harsh weather conditions such as strong winds, storms, and heavy rain. Plus, these lights are easy to install and require no professional assistance. They can be easily cut and mounted, saving you time and installation costs.

2. Illuminate Your Entrance With Focus Lights

As we all know, first impressions matter, so you can enhance your entrance with focused lighting. This way, consumers will notice the difference from other shops and feel welcome. For this, you can install spotlights, hanging fixtures, track lights, or even LED strip lights to illuminate the pathway to your shop.

3. Make Customer Interaction With Open Or Closed Signage

Another inspiring coffee shop lighting idea is to use creative open or closed signage to enhance customer interaction. Therefore, you can utilize LED neon flex to design and install these signs outside your coffee shop instead of a standard sign. 

A warm, glowing “Open” sign invites customers in and creates a welcoming atmosphere. On the other hand, a softly lit “Closed” sign signals the end of the day in a gentle way. These signs not only serve a practical purpose but also add personality and charm to your shop. This makes customers feel more connected to your brand and experience.

Coffee Shop Counter Lighting

The counter section of a coffee shop works like a billing, ordering, and barista station. Hence, this is the busiest area, with a cafe where each customer visits. For this reason, this section needs to be better illuminated. Here, I have mentioned some remarkable ideas for illuminating the coffee counter. 

4. Use Neon Signage On The Counter’s Back Wall

Besides using neon signage on the cafe’s board, you can also use it for the back wall of the counter. This is an effective branding strategy while elevating the overall ambiance of your cafe. By doing so, when customers capture photos at your establishment, the vibrant neon shop name becomes a clever marketing tactic. 

Furthermore, you can enhance the aesthetics by crafting your shop logo using LED neon flex. As a result, you will get a stunning visual impact. 

5. Increase The Coffee Station’s Illumination

Espresso machines and brewing stations are the most captivating areas in a coffee shop. 

There are numerous lighting options available to illuminate this section. For instance, consider incorporating small recessed or pot lights positioned above the station. Alternatively, you can explore the use of hanging halogen lights to create an aesthetically pleasing ambiance.

Also, installing LED strips underneath the shelf of your coffee station can add a touch of hidden lighting effect. Don’t forget to extend this lighting concept to your cup section as well.

However, it is crucial to ensure sufficient task lighting when illuminating coffee stations, as this is where the real magic happens. To achieve this, spotlights or track lights work best. Another great idea is to illuminate the menu and place it behind the Barista station, creating an appealing visual element.

6. Illuminate Your Space With LED Strip Accent Lighting

You can transform your counter station into a captivating focal point by using LED strips for accent lighting. Therefore, you can install these sleek strips along the edges of your counter table to create a stunning hidden lighting effect that exudes elegance. 

Consider placing them on the shelves of the counter or discreetly behind the computer screen in the ordering and billing section. For an added touch of style, consider complementing this lighting setup with small hanging pendant lights. The result will be a visually appealing ambiance that enhances your space.

7. Ambience Coffee Shops With Stylish Counter Lighting

Looking to elevate the appearance of your coffee shop? Consider installing stylish decorative lighting fixtures such as pendant lights or elegant smoked glass hanging lights. Adorning your countertop with multiple small decorative lights creates a captivating visual effect. 

Depending on the interior of your cafe, you can choose warm or cool light colors to complement the ambiance. At the same time, incorporating small lantern lights can infuse a charming vintage vibe into your establishment. Unleash your creativity by combining antique light fixtures with mirrored artwork, yielding stunning and enchanting results.

Enhancing Your Coffee Shop’s Menu With Creative Lighting

Using innovative lighting techniques in your coffee shop’s menu can add an extra touch of creativity and help customers easily peruse the offerings from a distance. To inspire you, here are some fantastic ideas for menu lighting in your cafe. 

8. Embrace Rainbow Lighting

If your coffee shop boasts a vibrant and colorful theme, incorporating rainbow lighting into the menu can create a stunning visual impact. LED strips are the ideal choice for this concept. You can select various colors of LED strips and arrange them in the order of the rainbow. While it’s not necessary to include all seven colors, using 3 to 4 strips in a gradient pattern can produce a captivating Ombre effect.

For the ultimate rainbow lighting experience, consider using an addressable LED strip. These strips have individual circuits that control different parts. As a result, they create dynamic multicolor lighting. Just like a rainbow, all the colors seamlessly flow from one section to the next within a single strip.

9. Choose An LED Display Menu

An LED display menu is a popular choice for cafes and fast food shops when it comes to menu lighting. It features a bright LED screen that effectively showcases the menu items. Even customers seated at a distance can easily read the food prices. 

Moreover, this type of menu is relatively easy to maintain. For an added touch, you can outline the display menu with an LED strip or neon flex positioned beneath it. This subtle addition creates a captivating floating effect, elevating the overall interior aesthetic of the cafe.

10. Hang Lights Above The Menu

If you own a coffee shop with a simple, traditional, or rustic aesthetic, consider adding a touch of charm by hanging lights above your menu. This clever design choice will beautifully complement the interior of your establishment. You have a range of options when it comes to selecting the perfect light fixture. Hanging lamps, small pendants, or even wooden-case halogen lights can create a wonderful ambiance. 

For a modern twist, you can also opt for spotlights, track lights, or angle-adjustable recessed fixtures to direct light precisely onto the menu. This arrangement will not only highlight the menu but also make it more visually appealing.

Dining And Seating Area Lighting

When it comes to lighting the dining and seating areas of coffee shops, simplicity and understated elegance are key. Unlike upscale restaurants, cafes typically steer clear of extravagant chandeliers or large light fixtures. To complement the relaxed ambiance of a coffee shop, here are a few fashionable coffee shop cafe lighting design suggestions for the seating section. Let’s take a look at them–

11. Natural Lighting

Emphasizing natural lighting should be a key consideration when illuminating your coffee shop. Take advantage of the exquisite daylight that filters through the café’s glass walls. By harnessing the beauty of natural light, you not only infuse your coffee shop with a captivating radiance but also reduce electricity expenses.

For this, you can use Large windows, skylights, or French doors to flood the area with warmth. And sheer curtains diffuse harsh rays, while mirrors amplify brightness in darker corners.

12. Coffee Shop’s Interior With Grand Hanging Lights

Illuminate your coffee shop by incorporating grand hanging lights that make a bold statement. Hence, you can choose large hanging fixtures above the tables to infuse your cafe’s decor with a touch of uniqueness. Also, explore a vast selection of hanging fixtures, including pendant lights, lanterns, smoked glass lights, and more, each offering its own distinct style. 

Delve into a variety of designs within these categories to find the perfect match for your coffee shop’s aesthetic. For a more artistic atmosphere, consider bamboo or paper-made decorative lights. This will undoubtedly enhance your coffee shop’s overall appeal and entice customers to come in.

13. Coffee Shop Ambience With Side Wall Lighting

While ceiling lighting typically takes precedence in coffee shop lighting, adding side wall lights can truly elevate the ambiance and set your cafe apart. So, install wall sconces on each side table to add a new dimension to your cafe’s interior design. Also, lantern-style side wall lights can create a charming vintage aesthetic. 

The warm hues emitted by these lights contribute to a cozy atmosphere, enveloping your space in a welcoming glow. However, if you prefer a more minimalist approach, a plain globe light can serve as a simple yet effective option. Nevertheless, I highly recommend embracing creativity and incorporating a touch of awe-inspiring lighting to entice customers towards your cafe.

14. Ambiance With Small Table Lamps

You can ambiance the cafe by incorporating small LED table lamps, which can create a delightful and romantic atmosphere. These captivating lighting fixtures are particularly well-suited for outdoor cafes. For instance, a serene moonlit night, an expansive sky, and the pleasure of savoring a hot cup of coffee with your cherished companion. 

Besides, introducing these delightful additions will undoubtedly contribute significantly to the success of your business. Additionally, consider complementing the table lamp arrangement by decorating your space with a love-themed motif. If desired, LED candles can be employed as an alternative to table lamps to achieve a similar effect. For an added touch of allure, you can install decorative string lights into your lighting repertoire as well!

15. Cafe’s Aesthetic With Stylish Pendant Lights

Transforming your humble cafe into a stunning space has never been easier. And you can choose exquisitely designed pendant lights to achieve the desired effect. Begin by selecting a theme or pattern that aligns with your cafe’s design concept, and then carefully choose the perfect light fixtures. 

For instance, if your cafe features wooden tables, consider incorporating wooden cut pendant lights that harmonize with the overall ambiance. Alternatively, for a captivating and eye-catching atmosphere, explore the possibilities of mirrored pendants or bamboo-made fixtures. These choices are sure to captivate the attention of photography enthusiasts and attract a diverse clientele.

16. The Relaxed Atmosphere With Circular Lighting

When it comes to selecting designer lights for your cafe, the possibilities are endless. You have the freedom to choose fixtures in various patterns to create a striking look for your cafe tables. For a unique touch, consider choosing cylindrical or circular hanging lights. 

And you can install multiple circular lights above the table, using different sizes to add visual dimension to your cafe space. Also, you can get creative and craft your lighting effect. Take hanging bulbs and enclose them with flexible plastic boards. 

Then paint both sides of the boards, using contrasting colors for the inner and outer surfaces. This will infuse your cafe with a vibrant atmosphere, as opposed to using the same color on both sides. 

By incorporating these DIY lighting hacks, you can save on decoration costs while cultivating a casual ambiance in your cafe. Undoubtedly, this cafe aesthetic will be perfect for enjoying coffee moments with friends, family, or even casual business meetings.

17. Adjustable Pendant Lights Over Tables

You can hang dimmable LED pendant lights with warm white bulbs (2700K – 3000K) at varying heights above tables. For this, choose industrial metal cages or smoked glass shades for a modern-rustic blend. Adjustable cords allow customization for high/low ceilings.

18. Elegant Atmosphere With Smoked Glass Lights

Looking to add a touch of elegance to your coffee shop? You can incorporate smoked glass lights into your design. These lights come in various options, such as black, golden, or colorful smoked effects. Hanging them in layers in your dining area will create a stunning visual impact. The gentle yellow glow that filters through the smoked glass will provide your cafe with a captivating ambiance. 

In addition to illuminating the tables, you can also install these fixtures on your coffee counter to enhance the overall aesthetic of your space. To complement the lighting, adorn the side walls with captivating mirror work pieces or eye-catching paintings.

19. Cozy Corner Lamps For Inviting Nooks

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, coffee shops often serve as sanctuaries where people come to relax, read, or engage in meaningful conversations. To cater to this need, creating cozy nooks with corner lamps can significantly enhance the customer experience. Table lamps and floor lamps are perfect for this purpose. They provide focused lighting that is gentle on the eyes, making these spots ideal for reading or working on a laptop.

20. Coffee House Ambience With LED Strips And Minimalist Style

Not only are LED strips a fantastic option for ceiling lighting, but they can also be used creatively to highlight your coffee house tables. By installing these strips on the side walls of your cafe, you can achieve a mesmerizing lighting effect. 

In addition, you can consider adding LED strips on all four sides of the walls for an even more dramatic impact. For a touch of uniqueness, place these fixtures discreetly underneath the seating sofas and tables in your cafe. This concealed lighting technique will greatly elevate the ambiance of your coffee shop. While warm lights are typically recommended for such lighting, you can choose cool lights to complement your cafe’s decor and furniture.

Conclusion

As you can see, numerous ideas are available to enhance your coffee shop. For instance, you can use the neon sign as a nameboard outside the shop. This sign will attract the passing consumers from a distance. Additionally, if you attract the entrance lighting, this will make the customer feel welcome and at ease. Along with artificial lighting, try to use natural lighting as much as possible. This will make the coffee shop brighter and softer. 

Whether you want strip lights or neon flex, contact Mylikeled for the best lighting option for your coffee shop. We offer a variety of lights to suit your specific needs. Along with lighting, we also offer controllers and drivers to fulfill your requirements. 

FAQs

What lights are used in cafes?

There are many lights that can be used in cafes. For instance, LED strip lights, recessed lights, pendant lights, spotlights, and more. As this lighting comes with unique features and advantages, the owner of the cafe should decide which to use. The cafe lighting is based on section, interior, exterior, and preference. 

What is the best light color for a cafe?

The best light color for a cafe is warm white (around 2700K–3000K). It creates a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that encourages customers to relax and stay longer. This soft lighting enhances food presentation and complements natural tones. Also, 4000K–4700K color is a good option for a brighter, clearer, and natural white look. 

How do you light a cafe?

Several ways can be followed while lighting a cafe. For instance, start with general lighting to cover the whole space. Then, add task lighting where needed, like over counters or tables. Finish with accent lights to bring out your cafe’s charm and personality.

Why is lighting important in a cafe?

Lighting sets the mood in a cafe, shaping how customers feel and interact. It highlights decor, makes food look inviting, and creates a cozy, welcoming vibe. Also, good lighting encourages guests to relax, stay longer, and return. The lighting helps the cafe attract consumers, makes it popular, and ultimately increases sales. 

What lighting looks best for food?

Natural light is best for food; soft, diffused daylight brings out true colors and textures without harsh shadows. If indoors, use a daylight-balanced LED near a window with a diffuser. Avoid overhead or yellow lighting, as it can distort colors and make food look unappetizing or dull.