Digital Marketing for Restaurants
The restaurant industry is fiercely competitive. In Southern California alone, there are tens of thousands of restaurants vying for diners’ attention. Digital marketing has become the primary way diners discover new restaurants and decide where to eat.
Google Business Profile Is Your Most Important Asset
When someone searches “restaurants near me” or “best Italian food in [city],” your Google Business Profile determines whether you show up. Keep your profile updated with current hours, menu, photos, and special events. Post updates regularly and respond to every review.
Add your menu directly to Google. Upload high-quality food photos weekly. Use Google Posts to promote specials, events, and seasonal menus.
Instagram Is Your Digital Menu
Instagram is the most powerful social platform for restaurants. Food is inherently visual, and diners regularly check Instagram before choosing where to eat. Post professional food photography, behind-the-kitchen content, staff features, and user-generated content from happy diners.
Use Instagram Stories for daily specials, Reels for recipe snippets and kitchen action, and maintain a cohesive, appetizing feed aesthetic.
Online Ordering and Delivery
If you’re not offering online ordering, you’re leaving revenue on the table. While third-party platforms like DoorDash and UberEats provide exposure, direct ordering through your website preserves margins. Invest in a user-friendly online ordering system.
Email and SMS Marketing
Build a customer database and use email and SMS to drive repeat visits. Birthday offers, loyalty rewards, seasonal promotions, and new menu announcements keep your restaurant top-of-mind.
Local SEO Strategy
Target keywords like “best [cuisine] restaurant in [city],” “[cuisine] catering [city],” and “private dining [city].” Create landing pages for catering, private events, and specific cuisines or dishes you’re known for.
Reputation Management
Restaurant reviews on Google, Yelp, and TripAdvisor directly impact foot traffic. Train staff to encourage reviews, respond professionally to negative reviews, and use feedback to improve service.
Ready to Fill More Tables?
Brandastic helps restaurants across Southern California build their digital presence and attract more diners. Get a free restaurant marketing consultation.
