class="tag"Posts Tagged ‘restaurant’
No Comments This Restaurant Sign Needed a Passport Stamp of Approval
Dimensional Restaurant Signs
Last year the owner of PASSPORT SIPS + TAPAS contacted us after being inspired by our barn board signs post and wanted something similar but with a few minor changes to fit their brand. Their visual marketing strategy is to connect their branding to the “passport stamp” within their logo using a dimensional restaurant sign to make it very eye-catching. In order to accomplish this, the sign makers here at The Sign Depot created this exterior sign from two different materials to create the style that Passport Sips + Tapas was looking for.
Creating the Passport Sips + Tapas Custom Sign
This sign was mix of pine wood and outdoor PVC. The first step was to create a pine wood backer, then distress the wood. Two different hues were used when finishing the wood to give it more dimension. Next the individual PVC letters and logo were cut out on our CNC router table and given an outdoor paint finish with minor distressing done to the paint. As you can see in the image below the letters were prepared for pin mount installation on to the wood sign backer.
The last part of the sign project was to insert the passport stamp image into the letter “O” in the word passport to make it the focal point of the sign.
Next the sign was assembled and prepped for shipping, which included a custom made wood case to ensure the sign arrived safely.
The Passport That Crossed The Border
Here at The Sign Depot, we manufacture many signs that are shipped into the United States. We just thought it was such a fun play on words that we were fabricating a sign with the word PASSPORT that would be crossing border. Now it is great to see from their Instagram page that their restaurant is in full swing and the sign provides a welcoming entrance-way to the establishment.
With more that 25 years experience creating custom restaurant signs, we look forward to assisting with your upcoming sign projects. Visit our CONTACT US page to connect with us!
3 Dimensional Social Signs For Sociable Kitchen + Tavern
Refreshing The Restaurant
If you are familiar with the Moose Winooskis Restaurant in Brantford Ontario, you may want to stop by soon to see their rebranded restaurant. The Charcoal Group of Restaurants have made a lot of changes to the location and it is now known as Sociable Kitchen + Tavern. The new concept is inspired by a sea can shipping container and they wanted to incorporate 3 dimensional signs that would represent the new image for the establishment.
Sociable Signage Step By Step
The idea behind this signage project was to create the look of a vintage metal marquee sign. It began with a refurbished metal structure which would be large enough to carry all the extras that would be added to the sign.
The PVC was cut to look like the sides of a sea can shipping container
Then dimensional can letters were applied to the textured PVC backer that was carved on CNC router table.
Next metal directional arrows were fabricated and given a Modern Masters Rust Finish. Then clear acrylic rounds were cut to represent lit light bulbs and added to the arrows.
All of these pieces were layered on to the metal structure and then wired with LEDs to light up the sign.
The next step was to transport the sign to Brantford for installation.
The final part of this project was installation on the building. The images and video below are courtesy of The Charcoal Group.
Sociable Sign Installation Video Click This Link
(you may have to click the link twice for the video to begin)
Get Sociable
Be sure to follow the Sociable Kitchen + Tavern feeds
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sociabletavern
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sociabletavern
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sociabletavern/
Website: http://www.sociabletavern.ca/
and while you’re at it be sure to follow our handles as well
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSignDepot
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheSignDepot
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/TheSignDepot
Or leave a comment at the bottom of this post with how we should connect with you!
3 Dimensional Signs Score Big With Shoeless Joes
Restaurant Signs For Hockey Fans
Shoeless Joes North Bay opened it’s doors just in time for hockey season and wanted the atmosphere to reflect Canada’s Game.
This meant creating unique signage to match the hockey theme of this restaurant. The sign requirements for this project included a hockey stick maple leaf and a hockey lace framed sign. Both projects had several steps to acheive a proper 3 dimesional look for the signs.
Hockey Lace Sign
The LACE UP dimensional sign had several components to it. It began with individual cnc cut letters that were finished red and then wrapped with actual hockey laces.
Next the metal frame was also painted red and the hockey lace was threaded through the frame to create a web.
Then the sign was assembled and installed in the restaurant’s interior.
Maple Leaf Hockey Stick Sign
The hockey stick sign was created to be 3 dimensional as well. It started with a variety of stacked hockey sticks cut to form the half maple leaf.
They were then attached to a plywood backer.
Once assembled it was mounted on to clear acrylic with a scratched ice look. The scratched ice look was created by applying vinyl frosting behind the acrylic piece. Then the full sign was installed inside the restaurant.
Adding To The Atmosphere
Both of these signs have a very different looks but blend well with the surrounding atmosphere of the restaurant. They are themed pieces that are noticable, but will not distract from the sports being played on their television screens. Together they enhance the patrons’ experience of being immersed in the hockey world.
For more information about 3 Dimensional signs or other signage that we fabricate be sure to visit our CONTACT US page to set up a quote for your business. Now is a great time to get set for the new year!
Sculptural Signs – Taverna Mercatto Restaurant Toronto
Ornamental Exterior Sign
Next time you are between two Toronto landmarks, Rogers Centre (formerly known as Skydome) and the Air Canada Centre, be on the look out for our latest work at Taverna Mercatto. Working with the design firm Office Bureau the restaurant exterior signage was manufactured to replicate ornamental metal. Unlike the mystery tunnel builder in Toronto, we know that you require permission and permits before you can begin building anything.
After approval from the Toronto Sign Bylaw Unit, the sign design for Taverna Mercatto was finalized and manufacturing of this ornamental sign began. Sculptural signs are eye-catching for both pedestrian and vehicle traffic and it was decided that a free standing sign would be a great focal point for this high traffic area.
3 Dimensional Projection Sign
The Taverna Mercatto sign was finished in black with 23K gold leaf highlights on this 3 dimensional sign and LED lit so it would shine both day and night.
Projecting off a lamp post, it is a very unique sign on the street. Choosing sculptural signs as a way to differentiate a business from other companies is a great choice especially in an area where there are several restaurants to choose from. It is very inviting looking and that is important when attracting customers to a restaurant in a central tourist area.
Be On The Look Out For Additional Mercatto Signage
In addition the Taverna Mercatto sign we have been involved in other design elements for that location as well as some of their other locations.
Window graphics and interior signage upgrades are also part of their signage package, all with the artistic look to match their current architecture.
Choosing to work with a custom sign shop for both your interior and/or exterior signs allows for a lot of choice. From size to materials to paint colours your business signs are a great way to take your branding to the next level. For more information on how we can elevate your brand visit our CONTACT US page to connect with one of our expert signmakers.
Gold Leaf Gilding Gilt
Although the above terms are the same by definition according to Wikipedia
The term gilding covers a number of decorative techniques for applying fine gold leaf or powder to solid surfaces such as wood, stone, or metal to give a thin coating of gold. A gilded object is described as “gilt”.
Here at The Sign Depot it meant we would be Gilding a Sign for Gilt Restaurant with Gold Leaf.
Getting Ready To Glisten
The dimensional sign for Gilt Restaurant began with CNC cutting the structure for the custom sign
and then the gilded finish was applied to the sign give it the shine that can only be acheived by 23 karat gold leaf.
Not only does gold leaf attract the attention of passers-by, it is an finish that withstand the elements which makes it a great choice for an outdoor sign.
Additionally the custom sign for Gilt Restaurant was equiped with LEDs to ensure that the sign would glisten both day an night.
Once assembled the exterior sign was prepped for installation
After the sign was affixed to the building exterior, temporary signage was displayed in the window to build buzz about the restaurant for downtown core.
For more examples of the types of signs we make for dining establishements, be sure to visit our Restaurant Signs gallery. If you are looking for gold leaf sign then contact us first! I think you’ll take a shine to us!
Thanks @TheSignDepot we absolutely love our sign! #amazing #kwawesome #openingsoon pic.twitter.com/zxbavv6mVq
— Gilt Restaurant (@giltrestaurant) August 26, 2014Del Dente To Dels Dimensional Signs
Adding Dimension To The Dels Enoteca Pizzeria
If you have visited Kitchener Waterloo Ontario there is a very good chance you have noticed the Charcoal Restaurant dimensional signs on the exterior of their building.
The Charcoal Group, known for their foreward thinking in the food industry, made the decision to rebrand their Del Dente Restaurant to Dels Enoteca Pizzeria. As described on their website the new logo was born out of the idea that our cuisine is an art form. The shape behind the word dels is a graphic representation of a hand-made pizza dough as well as a spot of sauce that might have splashed onto the chef’s coat when they took the first taste-test. Or, it is the splash of paint from an artist’s paintbrush. The customized font to represent ‘dels’ reminds us of spaghetti or linguine noodles and it exudes a fun and approachable feeling. The logo and identity will embrace that feeling that will flow into all touch points that the guest might see or touch. To bring the brand identity to the forefront during the establishment’s renovations, our expert sign-makers created dimensional signs to reflect the restaurant refresh.
Rebrand, Remove, Renew, Refresh and Repurpose During Restaurant Renovations
There were several steps involved in the Dels Enoteca Pizzeria Signage Package. Once the rebranding renovations began, time was of the essence to change over the Del Dente dimensional sign to #TheNewDels signs.
Removal of the iconic sign
Installation of temporary signage
Construction of new dimensional signs
Refurbishing of previous sign pieces 
Installation of the new signage package 
If you check out the video below you will see that several artistic signs were fabricated for Dels as well as some of their other signs were repurposed for the project.
Although they are no longer in their original spots they have been installed in new locations around the building. If you happen to see any of these dimensional signs while you are at the restaurant, be sure to tweet us a pic!
An Artistic Sign For Director Ivan Reitman’s Montecito Restaurant
Need An Artistic Sign? Who You Gonna Call?
We were thrilled to get the call that we had been chosen to manufacture an artistic sign for Ghostbusters director Ivan Reitman’s Montecito Restaurant in Toronto Ontario.
As mentioned in the Ottawa Citizen article Montecito, it is named after his production company, and can be found in the heart of Toronto’s entertainment district. It will be located close to the Toronto International Film Festival hub the TIFF Bell Lightbox. With TIFF releasing their 2014 film lineup earlier today the timing is just right for the opening of Montecito.
Bringing Something Unique To The Area
Restaurant co-owner Jonathan Waxman took a unique approach to the fare being served and will focus the menu around Canadian sourced ingredients. We also took a creative approach and created a sign as unique as the restaurant itself. Finding a way to bring artistic elements to a metal sign can be quite a challenge, but by using a few creative sign-making techniques the project came together nicely. It began with a metal sign with a dark distressed-look finish to resemble patina (otherwise know as a weathered material).
The restaurant’s graphic logo resembles the trees in this ariel shot of Montecito California
and in order to make it a focal point for the sign the image was hand engraved into the metal sign.
Additionally the name Montecito was cut out of the sign to leave room for the amber lit LEDs to shine through. The sign was then installed on the exterior of the building to let customers know that they are now open for business.
Recipe For Success
The upscale atmosphere for the restaurant in the artistic entertainment distric of Toronto will be a great fit, but they aren’t taking themselves too seriously. See what we mean in the Toronto Star article where you can see a Ghostbusters inspired recipe for a Staypuff dessert.
Looking for an artisitc sign for your business? Be sure to visit our CONTACT US page and let us know we have peaked your interest! By sending us the size, shape, text you require we can get a custom sign quote off to you right away!
Sign Depot Business Client Spotlight – The Bauer Kitchen’s Amandah Wood
Get To Know Amandah Wood
1. Amandah can you tell us about your role at The Bauer Kitchen?
As New Media Culturalist for the Charcoal Group, I manage The Bauer Kitchen’s online community through their Twitter account @thebauerkitchen and their Facebook page. In addition I was brought on to update the overall online presence of TBK, by developing a new website, that functions on every device and represents the TBK brand more effectively. The new site reflects TBK’s upbeat, soho image and allows guests to make reservations, browse food and drink menus and check out upcoming events. I love being able to interact with TBK’s guests online everyday, the restaurant has a vibrant community and loyal regulars which makes my job really rewarding.
2. What drew you to this role?
I was originally recommended to Jody Palubiski (Managing Partner of the Charcoal Group) and Cindy Perri (Brand Guardian) by a friend on Twitter who had been following the stuff I had been working on during my Bachelor’s degree. I reached out to Jody and Cindy and we discussed how my experience might make me the kind of person they were looking for. I was about to graduate from the New Media program at Ryerson University and was overjoyed at the possibility of working for a group that had been such a huge part of my life growing up in Kitchener-Waterloo region. Time and again the group has proved not only their excellence in service and food but they truly believe in supporting local, and hand crafting every possible element of the dining experience. They also embrace new technology and innovation and try to think outside of the box. I knew I would have no trouble representing a restaurant that aligned so perfectly with things I care so deeply about. This is what really drew me to the role.3. The restaurant industry has a lot of competition. What do you do to make sure that The Bauer Kitchen stands out?
The short answer to this is that the incredible team at TBK makes it easy. Conrad and his team are consistent when it comes to attention to detail, positivity, and passionate service. Chef Brian leads a culinary team as equally passionate in their craft and supporting the local food community surrounding them.
4. What do you think are some of the deciding factors that keep customers coming back to The Bauer Kitchen?
Consistency & passion. Business folks bring their clients for meetings because they know they’ll get the same great experience every time. Friends come back because they love the diverse selection of cocktails and the upbeat environment that makes it ideal for socializing. Wine lovers know they’ll always find something they like as our sommelier Jake keeps the extensive wine list ever changing and of course the delicious, delicious food. Together, this team exudes this passion that all of the Charcoal Group restaurants have, and that, is truly magnetic.
5. How do you attract new clientele to the establishment?
By always thinking two-steps ahead. We use technology to our advantage. the maegan™ platform is a good example of this by introducing new ways for a guest to use the restaurant experience. We are always asking ourselves “what’s next?”.We also love socializing events like Cinq a Sept, that reflect the casual and social nature of The Bauer Kitchen and the community surrounding it. Every Thursday between 5pm to 7pm we encourage people to join us around the bar for drinks and good conversation, we also provide complimentary appetizers that offer a sample of our menu. Teaming up with other local businesses is such a great way to build connections and introduce us to new markets. For example, using local suppliers like the Bauer Butcher and Caudle’s Catch on our menus, Promotional Elements for parts of our employee’s uniforms and retail program in the Bakery, Sign Depot for signage needs, local contractors for architectural elements, offer in restaurant promotion like our last one with Goliger’s travel, Centre in the Square and Spike Mobile for additional promotions, and supporting local arts and technology (ie. maegan and Communitech) in events. That’s just a few off the top of my head, there’s too many to mention but we are always interested in connections.Mostly we reach out into the community and leverage word of mouth via regular guests and those who have enjoyed their experiences in the past.
Great Custom Signs Get To Share The Spotlight
Creating A Custom Sign For A Vintage Landmark
It’s hard to believe that 2 years have already gone by from when we created the custom sign for the exterior of Gusto101 in Toronto. The Going For The Gusto post was a step by step look at how the sign was created and given a custom faux rust finish to match the vintage building it where it would be situated, but there is much more to the story of Gusto101.
Adding To The Atmosphere
When it comes to custom restaurant signs we know that signage plays a big part in creating an atmosphere around a location from the exterior of the building to the architectural interior. Gusto101 took it one step further and made their vintage look sign part of their brand. They choose to celebrate the former car garage location and keep reminders of days gone by while adding modern day touches like a retractable patio roof. The mix of traditional vs modern works in there favour and they chose to celebrate their unique establishment with a video.
I’m sure you can see why we really like this video. Seeing the Gusto101 sign go from day to night gives a great representation of how important your custom sign is. It is a 24 hour advertisment for your business and it can elevate your company’s brand.
Finding The Right Fit
When it comes to finding the right sign to fit both your business and your budget , our professional sign makers can assist you with several choices to streamline the sign design, permit, manufacturing and installation processes. Being a full service sign shop our sign experts can suggest ways to customize the look of your sign and give it the unique style your business deserves. Be sure to visit our Contact Us page to request your quote for your own custom crafted sign.
Custom Wood Signs Created From Reclaimed Barn Board – Cheeses Murphy
A New Business Signs With A Vintage Look
Our latest installation has brought us to a new area of Downtown Kitchener Ontario. Just blocks away from the new court house is where you can find the newest location for Cheeses Murphy. Just like the concept of this grilled cheese restaurant, the custom business sign for it needed to be unique and tasteful.
Reclaimed barn board with individual cutout letters were used in this framed sign. The fabrication took several steps.
The wood was given a custom finish to give it a distressed look and enhanced the wood grain of the boards. The barn board would serve as a sign backer for the business name. Individual letters were created by CNC cutting half inch PVC on our router table and they were then prepped for pin mounting. A handcrafted wood frame was constructed to surround the sign backer and painted to match the cut out letters. Together these pieces would create a modern sign with a vintage look.
Assembly And Installation
After all the various components of the Cheeses Murphy sign had been manufactured and finished it was time to assemble the sign and install it above the establishment.
The pin mount letters were flush mounted to the barn board backer to add dimension to the sign and the finished wood frame completed the look.
The custom wood sign was installed above the entrance-way and an additional vinyl decal was added to front door to attract the attention of both vehicle and pedestrian traffic.
Photo Courtesy of Cheeses Murphy. Click the image to visit the Cheeses Murphy Facebook page
Photo courtesy of Andrew Coppolino of Waterloo Region Eats. Click the image to follow him on twitter
What Will Be Next?
What will be next? Be sure to watch our Sign Depot Blog for updates on what else is to come from this developing area in Kitchener otherwise known as the Duke St. Food Block. For more examples of 3 dimensional restaurant signs be sure to visit our portfolio page. There you will find a variety of sculptural signs that are sure to grab your attention!
