Restaurant Marketing Strategies: How to Attract More Customers
Introduction
In today’s digital age, running a restaurant is more than just serving delicious food—it’s about attracting customers, building a brand, and maintaining a strong online presence. With 80% of diners researching restaurants online before visiting, having a solid marketing strategy is essential for success.
Whether you own a small café, fine dining restaurant, or a fast-food joint, the right marketing strategies can increase foot traffic, boost online orders, and drive long-term customer loyalty.
At Brand Markety, we specialize in helping restaurants grow their brand with result-driven marketing. In this blog, we’ll explore top restaurant marketing strategies to help you attract more customers and increase sales.
1. Optimize Your Google My Business (GMB) Listing
Did you know that 46% of all Google searches are for local businesses?
A well-optimized Google My Business (GMB) profile makes it easier for potential customers to find your restaurant when they search for:
🔍 “Best Italian restaurant near me”
🔍 “Affordable breakfast places in delhi”
How to Optimize Your GMB Profile:
- Complete Business Information – Add your name, address, phone number, website, and hours.
- Upload High-Quality Photos – Showcase your menu, food, ambiance, and staff.
- Encourage Customer Reviews – More positive reviews = higher trust and ranking.
- Use Google Posts – Share special offers, events, and seasonal menu updates.
- Enable Online Reservations – Allow customers to book tables directly.
2. Leverage Social Media to Engage with Customers
Social media is a powerful tool for attracting new customers and engaging with existing ones.
Best Social Media Platforms for Restaurants:
- Instagram – Best for food photography, Reels, and Stories.
- Facebook – Ideal for event promotions, offers, and customer engagement.
- TikTok – Great for viral food trends and behind-the-scenes content.
- Pinterest – Perfect for recipe sharing and aesthetic food inspiration.
Social Media Marketing Tips for Restaurants:
- Post High-Quality Food Photos – 90% of customers decide where to eat based on food photos.
- Use Local Hashtags – Example: #NYCBrunch, #ChicagoEats, #VeganFoodLover.
- Run Contests & Giveaways – Example: “Tag 3 friends & win a free meal!”
- Collaborate with Food Influencers – Invite local bloggers for a food review.
- Go Live – Show behind-the-scenes cooking or interact with customers in real time.
3. Invest in SEO for Your Restaurant Website
Your website should be easy to find on Google when people search for local restaurants.
How to Optimize Your Website for SEO:
- Use Relevant Keywords – Example: “Best pizza in Los Angeles”, “Romantic restaurants in Mumbai”.
- Write Blog Content – Example: “Top 5 Italian Dishes to Try in 2025”.
- Ensure Mobile-Friendly Design – Over 60% of restaurant searches come from mobile.
- Improve Website Speed – Slow-loading sites lose 40% of potential customers.
- Add an Online Menu & Ordering Option – Make it easy for customers to place orders.
4. Run Targeted Google & Facebook Ads
Paid advertising helps restaurants attract new customers quickly.
Best Ad Strategies for Restaurants:
- Google Search Ads – Appear on top of local food searches (e.g., “best sushi near me”).
- Facebook & Instagram Ads – Promote special offers & new menu items.
- YouTube Ads – Showcase your restaurant ambiance & signature dishes.
- Geo-Targeted Ads – Target people nearby for quick conversions.
5. Encourage Customer Reviews & Online Reputation Management
95% of diners read online reviews before choosing a restaurant.
How to Get More Positive Reviews:
- Ask Happy Customers for Reviews – Train staff to request reviews after meals.
- Respond to All Reviews – Thank customers for positive reviews & address negative feedback professionally.
- Use QR Codes – Place QR codes on tables for easy review submission.
- Run a Review Contest – Offer a discount for customers who leave a review.
6. Offer Online Ordering & Delivery Services
Online food delivery is booming! If your restaurant isn’t offering online ordering, you’re missing out on huge revenue potential.
How to Optimize Online Ordering:
- Partner with Food Apps – List your restaurant on Zomato, Swiggy, Uber Eats, and DoorDash.
- Enable Direct Ordering – Offer commission-free orders via your website.
- Promote Delivery Discounts – Example: “Order online & get 10% off your first meal!”.
- Use SMS & Email Marketing – Send personalized offers to past customers.
7. Host Events & Collaborate with Local Businesses
Hosting events & partnerships can attract new customers and build brand loyalty.
Event Ideas for Restaurants:
- Live Music Nights – Feature local musicians to attract crowds.
- Themed Food Nights – Example: “Taco Tuesdays”, “Vegan Fridays”.
- Cooking Workshops – Teach customers how to make a signature dish.
- Charity Events – Partner with local organizations for community support.
- Happy Hour Specials – Offer exclusive discounts during off-peak hours.
8. Implement a Loyalty Program to Retain Customers
Loyal customers are 5x more likely to return and spend more.
Best Restaurant Loyalty Program Ideas:
- Points-Based Rewards – Earn points for every dollar spent.
- Birthday & Anniversary Discounts – Offer exclusive deals for special occasions.
- Referral Bonuses – Give discounts for referring friends.
- VIP Memberships – Exclusive perks for repeat customers.
9. Use Email & SMS Marketing for Customer Engagement
Best Email & SMS Marketing Strategies for Restaurants:
- Send Personalized Offers – Example: “Your favorite dish is 20% off today!”
- Share New Menu Updates – Keep customers informed about special dishes.
- Remind Customers to Reorder – Example: “Haven’t had our pizza in a while? Order now!”
- Offer Limited-Time Discounts – Urgency drives higher conversions.
Conclusion
With the right digital marketing strategies, your restaurant can attract more customers, increase brand awareness, and drive sales.
At Brand Markety, we specialize in restaurant marketing—from SEO and social media to PPC and influencer collaborations.