The Top 10 Overlooked Marketing Tactics for Restaurants

1. Google My Business Optimization

Many restaurants claim their Google My Business (GMB) profile but don’t optimize it. Ensure your profile includes high-quality photos, detailed service descriptions, and links to your menu and reservation system. Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews and respond promptly to both positive and negative feedback. Regular updates to reflect seasonal hours or new offerings can also make your listing more appealing. Regularly update your GMB with new photos, respond to reviews, and ensure your hours, location, and menu are accurate. This boosts your local search visibility and builds trust with potential customers.

2. Partner with Local Influencers

Micro-influencers—those with smaller, but highly engaged followings—can drive significant foot traffic. For instance, a local bakery collaborated with a fitness influencer who showcased their healthy treats, leading to a 30% increase in weekday visits. Case studies like these demonstrate the power of targeted influencer partnerships. Invite them for a tasting in exchange for social media posts or blog features. Local food bloggers and Instagrammers often have a more direct connection to your target audience.

3. Email Marketing

Building an email list might seem old-fashioned, but it remains one of the most effective ways to engage customers. Platforms like Mailchimp, Constant Contact, or HubSpot can simplify the process, offering templates, automation, and analytics to optimize your campaigns. Send out weekly or monthly newsletters with exclusive offers, updates on new menu items, and stories that connect emotionally with your audience.

4. Leverage UGC (User-Generated Content)

Encourage your customers to share photos of their meals on social media. Run contests where diners can win discounts or free meals by tagging your restaurant and using a branded hashtag. Feature the best submissions on your profiles to foster a sense of community and engagement. Create a branded hashtag and feature their posts on your profiles. Rewarding them with discounts or small perks for participation can spark enthusiasm and loyalty.

5. Host Events or Classes

Offer events such as cooking classes, wine pairings, or themed nights. These experiences not only drive revenue but also generate word-of-mouth marketing and give people a reason to visit your restaurant beyond the usual dining experience.

6. Optimize Your Website for SEO

A mobile-friendly website is a must, but don’t stop there. Focus on local SEO by including keywords like “best pizza in [city]” or “farm-to-table restaurant near me” on your site. Add a blog section to share recipes, staff spotlights, or behind-the-scenes stories, which can further enhance your SEO efforts.

7. Collaborate with Other Businesses

Team up with nearby businesses to cross-promote each other. For example, a brewery could collaborate with your restaurant for a beer-pairing dinner, or a nearby gym could offer a discount to members who dine with you after a workout.

8. Celebrate Niche Holidays

Beyond Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day, consider hosting events or promotions for lesser-known holidays like National Pizza Day, Taco Tuesday, or even local festivals. These moments provide unique opportunities to stand out and attract customers.

9. Loyalty Programs

Many restaurants overlook the power of a strong loyalty program. Reward returning customers with points, discounts, or exclusive perks. Digital loyalty apps make it easy to track and incentivize repeat business.

10. Emphasize Sustainability and Community

Modern diners value businesses that care about their community and the environment. For example, some restaurants have implemented "zero waste" initiatives by repurposing kitchen scraps into compost or creating entirely new menu items. Others have partnered with local charities to donate meals or host community events, demonstrating their commitment to making a positive impact. Highlight your sustainable practices, such as sourcing local ingredients, reducing waste, or donating to local charities. Share these stories on your website and social media to build a deeper connection with your customers.

These often-overlooked tactics can be game-changers when implemented effectively. Restaurants that go beyond traditional marketing strategies and tap into these innovative approaches will not only attract more diners but also build lasting relationships with their community.

Which of these strategies are you excited to try for your restaurant? Let us know in the comments!