Can digital marketing for restaurants really fill your seats day after day? Ensure repeat business? And get everyone in your community talking about you?
Seems like a tall order. You’ve been searching for a way to build your business, and the online world is filled with promises. But up until now, you haven’t cracked the code. You’ve tried a few techniques, but you’re still searching for the solution.
We understand. The right strategy can help you show up in local searches and build customer loyalty. Building the right strategy takes time.
Why Digital Marketing for Restaurants Matters
How do you decide where to eat? Do you ask a friend for a recommendation? Do a search? Trust an online review?
Studies show 90 percent of restaurant visitors are there because of a trusted recommendation. And if they’re in a place where friends and family can’t make a recommendation, an online review is the second choice, with 72 percent of customers relying on it to finalize their decisions.
You’ve probably experienced this yourself. You’re in a new place. You’re hungry. So you head to Google to start the search. “Best pizza near me” will get you going. Then, you scroll through listings, check Google reviews, and even check out photos on social media feeds before committing.
This is a strong online strategy in action. It helps you:
- Attract new customers through local visibility
- Showcase your food, atmosphere, and brand personality
- Build relationships with repeat guests
- Encourage positive reviews and social proof
And the best part? It works for all restaurant types—fast casual, fine dining, food trucks, and everything in between.
Start with Local SEO
Local SEO (search engine optimization) is how you get found by people in your neighborhood. If someone searches “pizza in [your city],” local SEO ensures your restaurant shows up in those results. How do you get there?
- Claim and optimize your Google Business Profile with accurate details, photos, menu links, and business hours.
- Use location-based keywords on your website, such as “[city] Thai food” or “best pizza in [location].”
- Encourage reviews, especially on Google or Yelp. A steady flow of positive feedback builds credibility and helps search engines trust your business.
- Create local content, like blog posts about community events you’re involved in or seasonal menus that highlight local ingredients.
Make the Most of Social Media
Ask a friend. That’s how you get the best solution for whatever ails you. Need a new restaurant? Want someone to clean your carpets? Looking for a new car? Friends will always lead the way.
Social media marketing was created on that idea. It’s the new word-of-mouth. Diners love to share where they’re eating. People love showing off their favorite meals. They love sharing with their networks. This gives you the perfect opportunity to amplify your presence.
Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok are all popular platforms for foodies. But instead of trying to do everything at once, start where your ideal guests are spending time—and where you are willing to put your energy. Then, stay consistent using these content ideas:
- Behind-the-scenes stories in the kitchen
- Weekly specials or seasonal menu announcements
- User-generated content—repost photos your guests share
- Staff spotlights to show personality and build connections
And remember, engagement is a two-way street. Reply to comments. Like and comment on other local posts. Build a community, not just a following.
Prioritize Online Reviews
We’ve mentioned it before, and we’ll say it again: What people say online matters. How they say it also matters. Over three-quarters of US consumers watch video content when looking for information about local businesses.
Your reputation is always on display. But this isn’t about chance: You can control the narrative.
- Encourage happy guests to leave reviews on Google, Yelp, or TripAdvisor
- Respond to every review—thank people for positive comments and address concerns with professionalism
- Use great reviews as marketing—highlight them on your website or share them in stories
Reviews are part of your digital footprint. Handle them well, and they’ll become one of your biggest trust signals.
Use Paid Advertising to Drive Real Results
Organic reach is powerful; it’s a reason so many restaurants use digital marketing tools to get started. But sometimes, you want to boost visibility even further. That’s where targeted advertising comes in.
With just a small budget, you can reach new customers based on their location, dining preferences, or recent behavior. Options include:
- Facebook and Instagram Ads—Great for showcasing your menu, promoting events, or offering limited-time discounts
- Google Search Ads—Ideal for people actively looking for food in your area. This is how you create ads triggered by keywords like “best Italian food near me.”
- Geofencing Ads—A hyper-local strategy that targets mobile users when they’re near your location or a competitor’s.
The key to paid advertising is precision. You don’t need to reach everyone. Just the right people at the right time. Using strong visuals and compelling offers will convert interest into visits.
Don’t Forget Email Marketing
Email is still one of the most cost-effective tools in your digital marketing toolkit for restaurants. While social media algorithms come and go, your email list is something you own. And that makes it incredibly valuable.
Start by collecting email addresses through your website, online ordering system, or events. Then send updates your subscribers actually want to receive, like:
- Weekly specials or new menu items
- Event announcements or holiday hours
- VIP promotions or birthday discounts
- Behind-the-scenes content or chef notes
Email builds relationships. It reminds past customers you’re still here and gives them a reason to come back.
Serve Great Food … And Great Content
People don’t just choose restaurants; they connect with them. That’s why storytelling matters.
Use digital marketing to share what makes your restaurant different. Maybe it’s using your grandmother’s recipes. Or your sustainable sourcing practices. Or your late-night live jazz. Whatever your story is, weave it through your content on social, on your site, in videos, and beyond.
Start small. Pick one or two areas to focus on—maybe improving your Google profile or posting more regularly on Instagram. Then expand as you go. The goal is to create an online experience that reflects the great service you deliver in person.
Need help getting your digital strategy in order? We’re here to give you a hand. Let’s get more guests in your seats, one click at a time.
