Choosing the Best LED Lights for Restaurants

Getting the lighting right in a bar or restaurant is essential for setting the tone and creating a great atmosphere. Romantic restaurants often use low lighting with task lights for eating, while family-friendly venues choose brighter options. Whatever style you want to achieve, LED lights are a brilliant choice for creating the right mood and saving on energy.

In this guide, we’ll look at the best types of lighting for restaurants, what LED options are available, and how you can control and position your lighting for the perfect effect. You’ll also find practical tips to help you choose the right products.

What type of lighting is best for restaurants?

LED lighting is popular in restaurants for good reason. LED bulbs are much more energy efficient than traditional halogen bulbs, using about 75% less energy. They’re safer too, as they don’t get too hot, and their long lifespan—often around 50,000 hours—means you’ll spend less on replacements.

LEDs are easy to maintain and available in various flexible options like flex lighting and LED strip lights, which can be cut to length and fitted where needed. They’re also more environmentally friendly than halogen or incandescent bulbs.

What types of LED lights can be used in restaurants?

There are several types of LED lighting suited for restaurants:

  • LED modules – Great for ceiling or general lighting, and perfect for backlighting large signs.
  • LED flex lighting – Flexible, can be bent into shape for signs or used as accent lighting around tables, booths, or bar areas. Available in various colours.
  • LED strip lighting – The most delicate option, easily cut to size and fitted into smaller spaces or along bends for ambient, accent, or even task lighting.

You can browse our full collection of LED lights on the WeLoveLEDs website.

Can I control the LED lights in my restaurant?

Absolutely—modern LED systems let you tailor the lighting to your needs. Choose RGBW controllers with remote for colour-changing lights, perfect for playful or themed spaces.

Dimmers are a great way to shift your restaurant from day to night, or to create different zones. See our range of LED dimmers to find the right fit.

Where can LED lights be placed in my restaurant?

LED lights are versatile and can be installed just about anywhere:

  • Under the bar for a standout centrepiece
  • Under tables and booths to guide diners in darker areas
  • On the floor to open up the space and guide guests
  • In ceiling fittings, especially with larger modules for general lighting
  • Shaped into bespoke signs for a unique look

For tailored advice, get in touch with our team.

Things to consider before choosing LED lights

  • Budget: Even though LEDs are cost-effective, work out your spend and running costs in advance.
  • Size: Measure the space before you buy—better to order what you need than to have excess.
  • Aesthetic: Match your lighting style to the atmosphere you want; for many restaurants, simple cool or warm white is all you need, but colour-changing options are available.
  • Natural light: The more natural light you have, the less artificial lighting you’ll need, especially in summer.

LED lights from We Love LEDs

At We Love LEDs, we offer modules, strip and flex lighting ideal for restaurants of all styles. Everything can be cut to size and tailored for your space.

Contact us today for more information or advice.

Related content