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47+ Best Restaurant Marketing Strategies & Ideas (2024 Update)

Content

A strong marketing strategy is essential for attracting and retaining customers in the restaurant industry. 

This article provides over 47 of the most effective marketing strategies and ideas for restaurants in 2024, drawn from the latest industry trends and expert insights.

Key Takeaways

  • Build a Strong Brand Identity: Establishing a distinctive brand voice and visual identity helps differentiate your restaurant and attract loyal customers.
  • Embrace Technology and Digital Tools: Implement online ordering systems and use digital restaurant marketing tools to enhance customer convenience and increase revenue.
  • Engage with Customers: Actively respond to reviews and interact with customers on social media to foster community and enhance brand visibility.
  • Offer Unique Experiences: Creating memorable dining experiences can set your restaurant apart and encourage repeat visits.
  • Optimize for SEO: Implement effective restaurant SEO strategies to improve your website’s visibility in search engines, driving more traffic to your restaurant.
  • Leverage Social Media and Paid Advertising: Use social media platforms to promote your restaurant, and consider paid advertising to expand your reach.

What are Restaurant Marketing Strategies?

Restaurant marketing strategies are a set of techniques and tactics that restaurants use to promote their business, attract customers and increase revenue. 

These strategies can range from traditional restaurant advertising methods like print food ads, billboards, and radio spots to more modern techniques like social media marketing, influencer collaborations or paid online advertising. 

Effective restaurant marketing strategies often involve a combination of both online and offline tactics tailored to the specific needs and goals of the business. 

Ultimately, the goal of restaurant marketing is to create a strong brand identity and build a loyal customer base that will keep coming back and recommending the restaurant to others.

Illustration of RestaurantMarketingStrategy-examples

How to Build a Restaurant Marketing Strategy?

Building a successful restaurant marketing strategy involves several key steps. Here’s a general framework to help you get started:

  • Define your restaurant target audience: Identify your ideal customer, create buyer personas, and understand their needs, preferences, and behaviors.
  • Conduct a restaurant SWOT analysis: Evaluate your restaurant’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. 
  • Set specific and measurable goals: Establish clear objectives for your marketing activities, such as increasing sales, or boosting online reviews.
  • Develop a unique brand identity: Create a brand voice, visual identity, and messaging that reflects your restaurant’s personality, name, and values.
  • Choose effective marketing channels: Select the most appropriate channels and tactics for your target audience and restaurant goals
  • Create compelling content: Develop high-quality content that engages and informs your audience, such as blog posts, social media posts, and digital newsletters.
  • Monitor and analyze your results: Use restaurant analytics and metrics to track your progress, measure your success, and adjust your strategy.
  • Build positive relationships: Foster positive relationships with your customers, employees, and local community through excellent restaurant service, outreach programs, and community involvement.
  • Adapt to changing trends: Monitor industry trends and consumer preferences, and adapt your strategy to stay relevant and competitive.

By following these steps, you can build a strong marketing strategy that attracts and retains customers, builds brand loyalty and drives revenue and growth for your restaurant business.

Don’t have time for marketing? Check our restaurant marketing agency services

47+ Restaurant Marketing Strategies & Ideas to Increase Revenue

In this list, we’ve compiled over 47 restaurant marketing strategies and ideas to enhance visibility, engage customers, and increase sales. 

From establishing an online presence to hosting events and offering promotions, these strategies will help you stand out and succeed in the competitive food industry.

1. Start Selling Online From Own Website

Starting to sell online directly from your restaurant’s website can be a great way to boost restaurant revenue and increase your customer base. 

With the convenience of an online ordering system, customers can easily place their orders, choose their desired pick-up or delivery time and pay for their meals, all without leaving their homes. 

Benefits of own online ordering system

  • Take back control of your business: With your own online ordering system, you have full control over online presence, marketing, and customer relationships.
  • No commission fees: If you already sell on services like UberEats, you can save thousands on commission fees selling from your own website.
  • Improved Marketing: Collect valuable customer data to create your own targeted promotions and marketing campaigns without limits. 
  • Labor Cost Savings: Save costs associated with taking orders over the phone, such as staff time and phone bills.
  • Increased customer loyaltyCustomers who order directly from your website are more likely to remain loyal to your brand and return for future orders.
  • More customization options: You can customize your online ordering system to match your brand.

Find out more in our article about the benefits of online ordering for restaurants.

Offering this service can not only help you reach a wider audience but also improve the overall customer experience and satisfaction. 

By implementing an efficient online ordering system, your restaurant can stand out from competitors and enhance its bottom line.

Online Ordering System
Start selling food online
Set up commission-free ordering for your restaurant's website in minutes. Boost revenue while saving on third-party fees

Learn more with our guide on how to set up online ordering system.

RestaurantMarketingStrategies - Example of online ordering system in action

2. Create a Restaurant Website with Online Ordering

A dedicated restaurant website with online ordering capabilities can greatly benefit your business by providing a platform to showcase your menu and allowing customers to place orders conveniently.

Restaurant Marketing Tips

You should consider these elements in your restaurant’s marketing strategy when building a website:

  • Add high-quality images.
  • Make sure there are no misspellings.
  • List your competitive advantages.
  • Inform about news, promotions, and discounts.
  • Integrate with analytics tools to measure valuable data.
  • Use the same colors and fonts to fit your brand identity.

Learn more with our guide on how to create a restaurant website.

3. Build your own Restaurant Mobile App (No-Code)

With your own restaurant mobile app, you can provide a seamless ordering experience for your customers, offer restaurant loyalty programs and promotions, and send push notifications to keep them engaged.

You can use our restaurant app builder to create a functional mobile app for customers and publish it on App Store or Google Play.

Why does your restaurant need a branded mobile app?
  • Outperform your competition in the crowded food delivery app market.
  • Send personalized push notifications to your customers.
  • Increase diner’s loyalty to your brand.
  • Send direct promotions and discounts straight to customer’s pocket.

Learn more with our guide on how to create a food delivery app

4. Create and Optimize Google Business Profile

Enhance your restaurant’s Google Business Profile to improve your online visibility and attract new customers searching for local restaurants in your area. 

By optimizing your profile with accurate information, including hours, location, and menu, you can increase your chances of appearing in Google’s Local Pack and Maps listings.

Well-optimized Google Profile should have
  • Added images and a logo.
  • Contact and location details.
  • Button to direct online ordering.
  • Links to website, menu, and online reservation.
  • Selected categories based on restaurant type.
  • Recently published posts.

Additionally, Business Profile allows customers to leave Google restaurant reviews, which can help build your restaurant’s reputation and credibility. 

Regularly monitor and respond to reviews to show your customers that you value their feedback and are committed to providing exceptional service.

Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example of restaurant’s Google Business Profile

5. Take Advantage of Review Platforms like Yelp and TripAdvisor

If you’re looking to build a strong online reputation and attract more customers to your restaurant, it’s important to use online restaurant review sites like Yelp rating system and TripAdvisor for restaurants

Actively managing your restaurant’s presence on review sites allows you to respond to feedback, address restaurant complaints, and highlight your restaurant’s unique qualities. 

Positive reviews can enhance your visibility and credibility, increasing the likelihood that new customers will choose to dine with you.

Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Examples of restaurants listed on Yelp and TripAdvisor

6. Build engagement with Social Media Platforms

Restaurants can reach a wider audience and build a community of engaged followers by creating and regularly posting content on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Restaurant social media marketing also allows for two-way communication, giving restaurants the opportunity to engage with customers and receive feedback. 

There are a variety of restaurant marketing ideas like posting user-generated content, running contests, and promoting specials and events are all effective ways to increase engagement and attract new customers.

Here you can check some restaurant social media post ideas.

Why should you use social media in your restaurant marketing strategy?
  • Reach thousands of customers entirely for free.
  • Reach younger audiences who are most active here.
  • Build loyalty and engagement by interacting with customers.
  • Forward potential diners directly to your website with online ordering.
  • Improve your online visibility among the local community.

Facebook

Facebook for restaurants is a powerful platform for engaging with customers and promoting your business. 

With features like Pages and Groups, restaurants can showcase menus, events, and promotions while connecting through comments, messages, and live videos. 

Additionally, Facebook provides advertising options to target specific audiences and boost brand awareness.

Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example of restaurant’s Facebook Page profile

Instagram

Instagram is a visual platform that enables restaurants to showcase their food and ambiance through photos and videos. 

It’s ideal for building a visual brand and engaging customers through hashtags, contests, and influencer partnerships. 

Instagram for restaurants also provides business tools for performance analysis and advertising to reach a broader audience.

Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example of restaurant’s Instagram profile

TikTok

TikTok is a video-sharing platform where users can create and share short-form videos.

Popular among younger generations, it offers restaurants a unique opportunity to showcase their brand, menu items, and behind-the-scenes content.

By creating TikTok videos with relevant restaurant hashtags, you can boost visibility, attract new customers, and build a loyal following.

Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example of restaurant’s TikTok profile

7. Create Restaurant Loyalty Program

By creating a restaurant loyalty program, you can encourage customers to return and continue ordering from your restaurant. 

With UpMenu, you can set up your own loyalty program with custom rewards and point or stamp systems that align with your brand and diner’s preferences. 

Offer incentives like restaurant discounts, free items, or exclusive access to boost customer retention and sales. 

Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Examples of UpMenu’s loyalty programs

You can also provide additional benefits to customers by encouraging them to use a dedicated app for ordering instead of third-party delivery services, thus avoiding extra fees and commissions.

8. Implement Discounts and Special Offers

As a restaurant owner, offering discounts and promotions is a great way to attract new customers and keep your current ones coming back. 

One effective way to manage your discounts and promotions is using a restaurant management system like ours. 

With UpMenu, you can easily create and manage promotions such as percentage-based discounts, buy-one-get-one-free deals, and many more. 

Most popular and effective restaurant promotions
  • Offer a percentage discount
  • Offer a personalized discount based on order history
  • Create a limited-run menu item
  • Offer a happy hour special
  • Offer a special menu

Find out more restaurant promotion ideas.

It’s important to keep in mind that while discounts and promotions can increase traffic to your restaurant, it’s also important to ensure that your promotions are sustainable and won’t negatively impact your bottom line. 

You should also consider targeting specific groups of customers with your promotions, such as loyal customers or those who haven’t visited in a while.

Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example promotions created in UpMenu

9. Create Automated Email Marketing Campaigns

Automated restaurant email marketing campaigns are an effective way for restaurants to build a loyal following and increase customer engagement. 

You can create and automate campaigns triggered by specific customer behaviors or events using our email marketing platform.

For example, you can create a welcome email series to incentivize new subscribers, target customers who haven’t visited in a while with a special promotion, or send a birthday email campaign to celebrate with customers and encourage them to visit your restaurant.

Check out more restaurant email marketing ideas.

Email Marketing Tips
  • Use professionally designed email templates.
  • Add a link or button to the restaurant website with online ordering to allow customers to order directly from their inbox.
  • Write short, catchy email titles.
  • Include promotions or discount coupons to increase conversion rate.
  • Use automated campaigns to increase retention in customers who haven’t ordered in a long time.

        By streamlining the process with UpMenu, you can efficiently manage your email campaigns, track engagement metrics, and segment your email list based on various criteria.

        Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example of Email Marketing Campaign

        10. Send Text Messages via SMS Marketing

        Restaurant SMS marketing is an effective way for restaurant owners to engage with their customers and drive sales. 

        By collecting customer phone numbers through your online ordering system or loyalty program, you can use an SMS marketing platform to send targeted text messages.

        This strategy is particularly effective for time-sensitive promotions or events, as customers are likely to see and respond to text messages quickly. 

        Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example of SMS Marketing Campaign

        Overall, SMS marketing can be a powerful tool for restaurants to increase customer engagement and drive sales. 

        11. Enable Google Ordering

        Enabling Google Ordering is a simple and effective way for restaurants to reach a wider audience and increase sales. By allowing customers to place orders directly through Google, you can make it easier for them to discover and order from your restaurant. 

        To set up Google Ordering, create an account with a Google-approved platform like UpMenu, Toast, Olo, or ChowNow, and connect your restaurant’s menu and ordering system. 

        Customers can then order from your restaurant via Google Search, Google Maps, and Google Assistant. 

         Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example of Email Marketing Campaign

        12. Enable Online Reservations

        Enabling online table reservations is a valuable strategy for restaurants looking to improve customer experience and increase sales. 

        By offering an easy-to-use online reservation tool like UpMenu, you provide customers with a convenient way to book a table at your restaurant. 

        Customers can view available tables, choose a date and time, and receive a reservation confirmation. Additionally, you will be able to optimize your staffing and restaurant seating arrangements, enhancing the overall experience.Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example of Table Reservation in UpMenu

        13. Collect Customer Feedback

        Collecting customer feedback is a critical marketing strategy for restaurants to improve their menu, service, and overall customer experience. 

        One effective way to collect customer feedback is by using an online feedback system, such as the one built-in with UpMenu. 

        This system lets customers leave feedback and rate their experience directly on your website or mobile app. 

        Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example of Email Marketing Campaign

        You can also use email surveys or social media polls to gather feedback from a wider audience.

        14. Offer Tableside Ordering

        Offering tableside ordering can enhance the dining experience for customers and increase efficiency for restaurants. 

        Customers can browse the menu and place orders directly from tables using their own mobile phones. This reduces wait times and improves accuracy, resulting in a better overall experience. 

        Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example of use UpMenu tableside ordering feature

        Our user-friendly tableside ordering system is easy to implement, allowing for a seamless customer ordering experience without extra investment in restaurant technology or staff training. 

        15. Use QR Code Menus

        Using QR code menus is an effective way for restaurants to enhance the dining experience while providing a touchless option. 

        Customers can scan a QR code at their table to access the online menu, reducing contact with physical menus and eliminating the need for printing and sanitizing.

        Implementing QR code menus is an easy and cost-effective solution. With a menu management platform like UpMenu, you can create and update menus online, generate unique QR codes for each table, and track customer engagement to identify popular items.

        Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example of UpMenu qr code menu

        16. Build Relationships with Restaurant CRM System

        Collect customer data and ordering history with a restaurant CRM system and a restaurant CDP. 

        Building relationships with a restaurant CRM system is a valuable strategy for restaurants to improve customer retention and increase sales. 

        By using a CRM platform like the one included in UpMenu’s restaurant management system, you can track customer behavior and preferences, personalize promotions and offers, and provide a better overall experience without any additional costs.

        Why does your restaurant need a CRM system?
        • No more dozens of spreadsheets to keep all the restaurant data.
        • Increase retention and loyalty by rewarding the most engaged customers.
        • Create personalized campaigns based on your restaurant data.
        • Track and measure the most important restaurant metrics.
        • Analyze top-selling products to improve your menu offerings.

          Implementing UpMenu’s CRM system is a cost-effective solution for restaurants. 

          By tracking customer behavior and preferences, you can provide personalized experiences, such as targeted promotions and loyalty rewards. This data also helps generate new marketing ideas.Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example of restaurant CRM data from UpMenu system

          17. Consider Paid Online Advertising Strategies

          Paid advertising is an effective way for restaurants to increase visibility, drive traffic to their website, and ultimately increase sales. 

          Using various online advertising platforms, you can target specific audiences and promote your restaurant to potential customers. 

          In the following sections, we will explore two types of paid online advertising that can help your restaurant grow.

          Google Ads

          Google Ads for restaurants is a powerful tool to enhance visibility and drive traffic to online ordering platforms. 

          By creating targeted local ads and bidding on relevant keywords, restaurants can display their campaigns across search results, Google Maps, Gmail, and YouTube, reaching a broader audience.

          With high ROI (Return on Investment) as a highly targeted and cost-effective marketing channel, one of our clients increased revenue by 30% in just a month after implementing paid advertising.

          Restaurant Marketing Strategies - GoogleAds campaign results from one of UpMenu’s clients

          Facebook Ads

          With Facebook advertising, restaurants can display their ads in user’s news feed, video, reels, and stories, providing a wide range of options for reaching their target audience. 

          Also, restaurants can display their ads on Instagram as part of a Facebook ecosystem.

          Facebook ads for restaurants offer plenty of possibilities for reaching potential customers. In total, restaurants can use 34 different types of ad formats, including image ads, video ads, carousel ads, and more. 

          18. Increase Website Visibility with Restaurant SEO

          Increasing website visibility with SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is an effective way to improve search rankings and drive more traffic to your site. 

          Unlike Google Ads, SEO doesn’t require payment for each click on the ad. Instead, SEO improves the website’s ranking in local search results, increasing brand visibility and sales. 

          By optimizing content with relevant keywords, improving website speed and navigation, and building quality backlinks, restaurants can attract more potential customers searching for food to order.

           Illustration how SEO works in search results

          Restaurant SEO is a highly effective marketing strategy that can skyrocket sales for restaurants. 

          One of our clients who tried SEO saw a 20% increase in website traffic and a 69% increase in revenue within three months of implementing a local SEO strategy. 

          By optimizing its website for relevant keywords and improving its overall search engine ranking, the restaurant was able to attract more potential customers and increase sales. 

          These results speak for themselves and demonstrate the powerful impact that local SEO for restaurants can have.

          Restaurant Marketing Strategies - SEO results from one of UpMenu’s clients

          19. Advertise in Local Newspapers

          Using local newspapers is an effective restaurant marketing strategy for promoting events, specials, and new menu items, especially to attract older customers. 

          Advertising in local papers helps restaurants connect with the nearby community and enhance brand awareness.

          Local newspapers also provide both traditional offline and online advertising options, allowing restaurants to reach a broader audience through their websites and attract customers who may not have discovered them otherwise.

          Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example of newspaper advertising

          20. Order a Broadcast on Local Radio Station

          Advertising on a local radio station is an effective way to reach a broader audience with your restaurant’s message, particularly those who spend time driving near busy roads or highways. 

          This strategy increases brand awareness and attracts new customers.

          Radio advertising is a cost-effective option that allows restaurants to target specific demographics, enabling them to create personalized messages that resonate with their audience and drive traffic to their establishment.

          Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Radio advertising

          21. Print Marketing Materials

          Printed materials are an affordable way to promote your restaurant and attract new customers. 

          By creating stickers, leaflets, and posters, restaurants can enhance brand awareness and drive traffic, especially when combined with online marketing.

          Incorporating printed materials with promo codes or product information in each order can enhance sales and customer retention. Additionally, collaborating with local bars or businesses to showcase these materials can significantly expand your reach and complement your overall marketing efforts. 

          Restaurant Marketing Strategies-leaflet

          22. Take Professional Food Photography

          Taking professional food photos is an essential restaurant marketing strategy for showcasing your menu and enticing customers to dine with you. 

          High-quality images are important in attracting customers with appetizing dishes and can significantly increase the likelihood of customers visiting your restaurant.

          Food pictures can be used on restaurant websites, social media pages, and online and print marketing materials to showcase your restaurant’s offerings. 

          Restaurant Marketing Strategies-food-photography

          23. Combine Cross-Selling and Up-Selling Techniques

          Combining cross-selling and up-selling techniques can significantly increase revenue and improve customer satisfaction. 

          Cross-selling involves offering complementary products or services to customers, while up-selling involves encouraging customers to upgrade to a higher-priced product or service. By combining these techniques, restaurants can maximize revenue while improving the customer experience.

          For example, a restaurant might cross-sell by suggesting a side dish to go along with a customer’s order or by recommending a dessert to finish off their meal. 

          Additionally, restaurants might up-sell by suggesting a premium dish or wine to customers or by offering larger portion sizes.

          Most popular and effective cross & up-selling examples
          • If you sell burgers, offer to each of them an option to get an extended set with fries and drink
          • If you sell pizza, encourage customers to order a bigger size for a little higher price
          • Offer additional positions such desserts, drinks, and snacks before proceeding checkout

            Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example of Cross-selling and up-selling in restaurant

            24. Use the Power of Influencer Marketing

            Restaurant influencer marketing has become a powerful opportunity for restaurants to reach a wider audience and increase brand awareness. 

            By partnering with social media influencers with a large following, restaurants can leverage the influencer’s credibility and popularity to promote their offerings and attract new customers.

            Influencer marketing can take many forms, from sponsored posts and reviews to hosting events and collaborations. 

            By carefully selecting the right influencer to work with and crafting a targeted marketing campaign, restaurants can increase their online visibility and ultimately drive more traffic to their restaurant.

            List of most popular food influencers

            Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example of influencer marketing

            25. Create a Blog Based on Your Food Niche

            Start a restaurant blog to highlight your expertise and attract food enthusiasts. Sharing stories about your culinary approach, recipes, cooking tips, and industry trends can help build a loyal customer following.

            Invite food bloggers to contribute and expand your content’s reach, introducing your restaurant to their audience. This collaboration can attract new customers and foster loyalty among their followers.

            Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example of food blog

            26. Respond Promptly to Reviews

            Responding to reviews shows customers that you value their feedback and are committed to providing excellent service. 

            Positive reviews and well-handled negative feedback can build your restaurant’s reputation and encourage more customers to try your food.

            When responding to bad restaurant reviews, remember to be polite and professional, addressing any concerns or feedback that the customer has provided. 

            27. Keep Your Menu Updated

            Keeping your menu fresh, and up-to-date is key in a restaurant marketing plan for keeping customers interested and returning for more. 

            Updating your menu can showcase new offerings and highlight your restaurant’s unique culinary approach.

            With UpMenu, managing your menu is effortless. You can quickly update photos, descriptions, and menu pricing in minutes, ensuring your offerings are always current. 

            This flexibility allows you to respond to customer feedback and adjust your menu based on their preferences.

             Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example of managing menu in UpMenu system

             28. Offer New Dishes

            Introducing new dishes is an effective strategy to keep your menu fresh and attract new customers. It showcases your restaurant’s culinary creativity and gives customers a reason to return.

            New dishes also provide an opportunity to leverage social media and marketing channels. By posting enticing photos on social media or sending email newsletters, you can generate buzz and encourage customers to try your latest offerings.

            29. Engage with Local Community Events

            Engaging with local community events is one of the most effective restaurant marketing ideas for building your restaurant’s brand and connecting with potential customers. You can showcase your restaurant’s offerings and demonstrate your commitment to the local community by participating in local events.

            There are many ways to engage with local events, including sponsoring events, participating in food festivals, or catering to local gatherings. By connecting with other businesses and community organizations, you can tap into their networks and reach new customers who may not have heard of your restaurant before.

            Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example of restaurant engaging with local community

            30. Organize Charity Events

            Hosting charity events is an effective restaurant marketing strategy that gives back to the community and builds goodwill. By supporting local charities or causes, you demonstrate your commitment to making a positive impact.

            These events benefit both your restaurant and those in need, attracting new customers who appreciate socially responsible businesses. Organizing charity events showcases your dedication to making a difference beyond just serving great food.

            Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example of restaurant charity event

            31. Show off Your Restaurant Activities

            Sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of your restaurant’s activities, you can give customers a sense of what it’s like to dine at your restaurant and create a more personal connection with your brand.

            On social media, you can share photos and videos of your restaurant’s kitchen, staff, and funny moments to give customers a glimpse into the day-to-day operations of your business. This can help you build a loyal following of customers who feel connected to your restaurant on a more personal level.

            Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example of showing of restaurant activities

            32. Create Challenges and Contests for Customers

            A creative and engaging restaurant marketing ideas are to create challenges and contests for customers. 

            By offering interactive experiences, you can generate buzz and excitement around your brand, as well as encourage customers to share their experiences with their social media followers.

            Examples

            Challenges:

            • Eat 10 burgers in less than 30 minutes and don’t pay for it.
            • Eat the world’s most spicy pizza and earn $1000.
            • Beat a record of 12 eaten pizzas and eat an entire month for free.

            Contests:

            • Gift Card Giveaway.
            • Like, Follow, and Tag to Win.
            • Leave a Review to Win.

            Challenges and contests, such as food-eating or photo contests, can enhance restaurant branding by aligning with your values and creating memorable experiences for customers. 

            This generates buzz, fosters a personal connection with your audience, and can lead to increased customer loyalty and word-of-mouth referrals. 

            Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example of restaurant that offerings challenges

            33. Expand Brand Awareness with Food Truck

            An innovative way to expand a restaurant’s brand identity is to use a food truck as one of the marketing strategies. 

            A food truck supports your restaurant location strategy by enabling you to bring your brand to different locations, reaching new customers and expanding your brand beyond your physical location. 

            Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example food truck

            34. Build Strategic Partnerships

            As a restaurant owner, tap into existing networks and reach new customers who may not have heard of your restaurant by collaborating with other businesses. 

            Strategic partnerships can take many forms, from collaborating with local hotels or attractions to offering special promotions with other businesses. 

            By creating mutually beneficial partnerships that align with your restaurant’s brand and values, you can create a unique and memorable experience for your customers while driving restaurant expansion and increasing your business’s reach. 

             Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Partnership

            35. Offer Catering Services

            Offering catering services is a lucrative way to expand your business and reach new customers, including corporate events, weddings, and private parties. 

            Catering allows you to showcase your restaurant’s menu in a unique way while providing a convenient experience. 

            By offering customized menus and tailored packages, you can create memorable dining experiences that leave a lasting impression.

             Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Catering

            36. Use Video Marketing

            Using video marketing can be one of the best restaurant marketing ideas for engaging customers and showcasing your restaurant’s offerings.

            Restaurant video marketing allows you to create visually appealing and informative content that can be shared across various platforms, including social media and your restaurant’s website.

            Creating videos showcasing your restaurant’s menu, atmosphere, and unique offerings can increase repeat customers and attract new ones. 

            Video marketing also allows you to demonstrate your restaurant’s values and personality, creating a personal connection with your audience and leaving a lasting impression.

            37. Create Interactive Experiences

            Offering interactive experiences can be a great way to engage customers, provide a memorable dining experience, and build customer loyalty. 

            By offering interactive experiences such as cooking classes, wine tastings, or themed events, you can give customers a unique and personalized experience that aligns with your restaurant’s values and personality.

            Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Restaurant interactive experiences

            38. Implement Contactless Payments & Delivery

            Offering contactless payments and delivery provides customers with a safe and convenient dining experience, especially during the pandemic. 

            As customers prioritize minimizing contact and reducing transmission risks, providing these options can help address their concerns.

            Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Contactless delivery

            39. Offer Private Dining Experiences

            Offering private dining experiences is an excellent strategy for creating a unique and personalized dining experience for your customers. 

            By offering private dining options, you can provide customers with a sense of exclusivity and intimacy while offering them a chance to enjoy a customized menu and atmosphere.

            Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Private dinning

            40. Start Selling Gift Cards (Gift Vouchers)

            Selling gift cards or gift vouchers is a smart restaurant marketing strategy that increases revenue and encourages repeat business. Customers can buy them as gifts or for their own future visits, providing a convenient way to enjoy your restaurant while incentivizing return visits.

            Gift cards can be sold in-store, on your restaurant’s website, or via your mobile app. You can also use UpMenu’s ordering system to facilitate easy purchasing and redemption through your online platform.

            Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example of gift card

            41. Offer Delivery and Takeout

            Delivery and takeout are vital to restaurant operations, helping you reach a wider audience and generate more revenue. 

            As customers increasingly seek the convenience of enjoying their favorite meals at home, offering these options allows you to tap into this growing market and provide a convenient way for them to enjoy your offerings.

            Most popular delivery services
            • Stuart
            • MealShift
            • Shippr
            • Uber Eats
            • DoorDash
            • GrubHub

            42. Create Newsletter

            Keep customers informed about your restaurant’s offerings and events through restaurant newsletters, which deliver exclusive content, promotions, and updates directly to their inboxes.

            These newsletters can include new menu items, seasonal promotions, and upcoming events. By providing valuable content, you strengthen your relationship with customers and encourage repeat business.

            Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example restaurant newsletter

            43. Get Listed on Third-Party Delivery Services

            Getting listed on third-party delivery services is a popular strategy that can help you reach a wider audience and attract new customers. 

            By using online food delivery apps like UberEats, DoorDash, and Grubhub, you can expand your online reach and provide customers with a convenient way to order from your restaurant.  

            However, it’s important to note that this solution may have some downsides, such as high commissions and less control over the ordering and delivery process. 

            3rd-party ordering service
            Commission
            UberEats15%-30%

            GrubHub15%-25%
            DoorDash15%-40%

            Learn more about high fees in our article about UberEats commissions.

            44. Create Virtual Restaurant (Ghost Kitchen)

            Creating a virtual restaurant or ghost kitchen is an innovative way that can help you expand your menu offerings and reach new customers. 

            Unlike a traditional restaurant, a virtual restaurant operates on a delivery-only basis, which means you can offer a wider range of menu items without the costs of a physical storefront.

            With a virtual restaurant, you can also test new brands or concepts without the high expenses of opening a new physical location. 

            Learn more about how to start a ghost kitchen.

            Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example ghost kitchen

            45. Build a Franchise

            Franchising your restaurant can offer numerous benefits, including increased brand recognition, access to new markets, and revenue generation through franchise fees and royalties. 

            Moreover, franchising enables you to delegate operational responsibilities to franchisees, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your business while expanding your franchise restaurants.

            Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Example of restaurant franchise

            46. Turn on Online Payments

            Online payments, including the option to pay at the table, have gained popularity in the restaurant industry, providing benefits such as convenience, security, loyalty programs, mobile payments, and data collection.

            These advantages can serve as a marketing strategy to attract new customers, especially younger ones, enhance loyalty, and differentiate your restaurant from competitors. 

            By highlighting the benefits of your online payment system, you can create a powerful marketing tool to help achieve your business goals.

            Restaurant Marketing Strategies - Online payments configuration in UpMenu

            47. More Restaurant Marketing Ideas (Bonus List)

            • Highlight Local Ingredients: Many customers value locally sourced ingredients and environmentally friendly practices. Highlighting these aspects of the restaurant on the menu and social media can attract these customers.
            • Provide Exceptional Customer Service: Word of mouth is a powerful marketing tool, and providing exceptional customer service can lead to positive reviews and repeat business.
            • Create a Referral Program: A referral program can incentivize current customers to refer their friends and family to the restaurant, helping to increase word-of-mouth marketing.
            • Create a Signature Dish: Creating a signature dish that is unique and memorable can help create buzz and attract new customers.
            • Participate in Restaurant Week: Participating in Restaurant Week or other food-focused events can help restaurants attract new customers and drive business during slower periods.
            • Encourage User-Generated Content: Encouraging customers to share photos and reviews of their experience at the restaurant on social media can help generate buzz and attract new customers.
            • Collaborate with Local Farms: Collaborating with local farms and featuring seasonal ingredients on the menu can help attract customers who value fresh, local ingredients.

            Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

            The 5 suggestive selling techniques for restaurants include: 

            1. Upselling: Encouraging customers to order additional items or upgrades, such as a larger size, extra toppings, or a dessert.
            2. Cross-selling: Suggest complementary items that pair well with the customer’s current order, such as a drink or appetizer.
            3. Menu optimization: Highlighting menu items that are popular or profitable for the restaurant or creating signature dishes that showcase the restaurant’s unique offerings.
            4. Daily specials: Featuring daily specials or limited-time offers that create a sense of urgency and encourage customers to try something new.
            5. Personal recommendations: Providing personalized recommendations based on the customer’s preferences or previous orders, such as suggesting a vegetarian option or a dish with spicy flavors. 

            Here are some effective strategies for a restaurant to attract more customers:

            • Enhance Online Presence: Create a user-friendly website and maintain active social media profiles to showcase offerings.
            • Leverage Online Reviews: Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews on platforms like Yelp and Google to build credibility.
            • Offer Promotions and Discounts: Implement special deals, happy hour promotions, or loyalty programs to entice new customers.
            • Engage with the Community: Participate in local events and collaborate with nearby businesses to increase visibility.
            • Host Events: Organize themed nights or cooking classes to create unique experiences for patrons.
            • Implement SEO Strategies: Optimize your website for local search results to improve visibility.
            • Use Targeted Advertising: Invest in online ads and local print marketing to reach specific demographics.

            The 4 P’s of local restaurant marketing are:

            1. Product: This refers to the menu offerings and overall dining experience, ensuring they meet the preferences of your target audience with quality ingredients and unique dishes.
            2. Price: Pricing strategies should reflect the value of your offerings while remaining competitive, including promotions and discounts that appeal to different customer segments.
            3. Place: This encompasses your restaurant’s physical location and accessibility, as well as the ambiance and layout that influence the customer experience.
            4. Promotion: This involves marketing strategies to reach your target audience, including advertising, social media, and community engagement efforts that highlight your restaurant’s unique features and offers.

            Focusing on these elements helps local restaurants develop effective marketing strategies that drive customer engagement.

            Picture of Dominik Bartoszek

            Dominik Bartoszek

            8+ years Digital Marketer driven by data & AI. Helping restaurants grow more through online orders.

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