The sound of a French Bistro

The first person to arrive gets to choose the music

The biggest hits of the 2000s blast from the speakers. The cutlery is placed meticulously on the checkered tablecloths. And in an hour, Silberbauers Bistro will open its doors to the first lunch guests. The choice of music is a prime example of how the bistro uses music to set the mood in the restaurant - all day long. The music is only turned off when the staff meal is served and when the staff resets before opening the doors – and switches to a playlist that matches the restaurant's atmosphere.

The staff at Silberbauer's are a good and strong team, and this is reflected in the music selection. Everyone wants the best for the restaurant, and they all have a sense of what it takes. Therefore, anyone can take turns playing music – usually, it's the first person who arrives that sets the stage with their choice of music. But everyone contributes during their shift. This is possible because everyone has a good feel for the restaurant's atmosphere.

Quality on the plate - and in the speakers

Although music plays a huge role, it is, of course, the food that takes center stage at the French bistro. The music has another, but no less important, task: to support the concept, which is good and simple food. There is quality on the plate and the same in the speakers.

"We think that the guests should not concern themselves too much with the music. They should pay attention to what's happening on the plate. Like a good fish with butter – that's how the music should be," explains Caroline about the concept at Silberbauer's Bistro, which emphasizes the simple meal.

Caroline explains that the music contributes to set a fundamental mood, which the guests might not consciously notice – but simply enjoy along with the wine and the food. The music shouldn't stand out too much, but rather act as an acoustic backdrop to the overall experience. That being said, the music should always be present. The music makes the guests feel more secluded, and ensures they can't hear what is being said at the next table.

Parent-friendly hip hop and French kitsch hits

But how does one choose music for a French bistro without getting lost in French musical heroes? At Silberbauer's, they have no intention of playing strictly French records. The staff would go crazy and tired of hearing the same songs over and over.

Caroline herself has a 20-hour playlist that includes a good mix of French kitsch songs, unknown French 80's hits, and what she likes to call 'parent-friendly, mellow hip-hop'. The French songs are a way to bring a touch of France into the bistro without overdoing it.

And even though the staff understands the music style, it doesn't happen without a sense of awe. "It's very nerve-wracking to be the one choosing the music because you set the mood for the entire restaurant. But none of us have ever disagreed about the choice of music," says Caroline.

With the significant rotation in music before, during, and after service, Silberbauer's makes great use of the extensive repertoire available through a music license. They have the opportunity to select music that puts the staff in a good mood while also delving into niche genres that complement the checkered tablecloths in the bistro.

Get inspiration for your next playlist

Caroline has shared 10 of the music tracks that help create a good atmosphere in the restaurant.