For the last two years, I have been a co-owner of a pizza restaurant in my neighbourhood. During that time, I have tried a variety of strategies to promote the business and increase customers and turnover.

I’ve distilled many of those restaurant marketing ideas, plus a few I still haven’t tried, into this blog post. Whilst it may have the title of clever restaurant marketing ideas, you can pretty much replace the word restaurant for any local based business that targets consumers; wine bars, retail stores and the like.

Many of these ideas are free or low cost, however some of these cost money in various degrees. In this case, I always recommend trying anything on a small scale first, and ensure that you find a way to measure the results.

So let’s dive in and take a look at 70 clever ways to promote your restaurant. I’ve broken them down first by Offline and Online.

Here are the 38 offline restaurant marketing ideas we will cover in this article. You can jump to any of them by clicking the link, or scroll down to read the article in full.

See the article below, to jump into it.

Online Restaurant Marketing Ideas

Here are the 32 online restaurant marketing ideas we will cover in this article. You can jump to any of them by clicking the link, or scroll down to read the article in full.

OK, so let’s dig into these different restaurant marketing ideas in more detail. You can always jump back to the list above, by clicking the ‘back to top’ link at the end of each section.

Offline Restaurant Marketing Ideas

Below, I’ve collated 38 great restaurant marketing ideas that are all based offline.

Meet local business owners

Promoting your restaurant through relationships with other community members can be highly effective, and a great way to do this is by meeting and working with local business owners.

A good way to do this is to literally walk around your neighborhood, and pop into nearby shops and offices and introduce yourself. You can often build great relationships by just saying hello.

Another excellent way to build relationships with other businesses is by featuring these local business stories on your social media accounts. It helps you in having content, and helps the highlighted business with increasing visibility. Ultimately, these efforts not only attract customers but also strengthen relationships within the local business ecosystem.

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Flyers and posters

Another method of promoting your restaurant effectively is by using flyers and eye-catching posters. These materials can be strategically placed outside your restaurant, or in high-traffic areas, such as community centres and local businesses, to attract potential customers.

Incorporating enticing images of signature dishes along with special offers or happy hour details can capture the attention of passersby.

Flyers are fantastic to send by direct mail to your local area. Printing a few thousand A5 or DL sized flyers tends to be really cost effective. Additionally, including a QR code on the artwork can lead consumers directly to your restaurant’s website or social media pages for easy access to menus and promotions.

Consistency in branding across these promotional materials helps create a memorable identity, ensuring that your restaurant stands out in the minds of potential diners.

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Restaurant marketing with merchandise

Restaurant marketing with merchandise

Branded merchandise

Promoting your restaurant through branded merchandise can be a fantastic way to create word of mouth awareness, and have your biggest fans become walking advertising for you. Items like t-shirts, hoodies or cups and mugs featuring your restaurant’s logo or a saying can become quite collectable by some of your customers.

Releasing special limited-edition merchandise can also create a sense of urgency and exclusivity, encouraging customers to purchase them when having a meal. Additionally, you can also offer these items as prizes in any contests you may run.

Branded merchandise not only enhances your visibility but also fosters a sense of community among loyal patrons.

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Celebrate international food days

One of the fun restaurant marketing ideas is to celebrate the various international food days throughout the year.

There are plenty spaced out throughout the year. You can find ones that overlap with your menu. There’s around 10 days that feature pizza and pasta, for example, and then others such as World Cheese Day (27 March) and World Salami Day (7 September).

There are plenty of different ways to celebrate these days. You can just mention them across your social media, or you can offer a discount for dishes that match them, or indeed organise a special menu for that one day. You could do something like “Join us on International Sushi Day for a masterclass in sushi-making”, or ‘Indulge in bottomless pasta to celebrate National Pasta Day, complete with live Italian music!”.

Themed events not only provide a delicious dining experience, but they can also foster a sense of community as food lovers and your fans to celebrate their favorite dishes.

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Charity events

Promoting your restaurant through charity events not only boosts visibility but also strengthens community ties. Hosting a charity dinner or food drive allows patrons to enjoy great meals while contributing to a worthy cause. It’s one of those clever restaurant marketing ideas that really gives back.

There’s a few different ways to do this. Have a weekend or an evening where a percentage of sales goes to a specific charity, or you could partner with a local non-profit to arrange a specific event.

There’s those national events like morning teas and similar, or arrange one with a local charity, which then provides an opportunity for cross-promotion, as both your restaurant and the charity can share the event across their networks.

By donating a portion of the proceeds or hosting special menu items for the event, you can feel good doing your bit for the community, and your restaurant can attract new customers who are passionate about giving back.

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Street Posters

Most people think of street posters as advertising nightclubs and concerts, however there’s no reason you can’t use the same medium to promote your own restaurant.

By designing visually striking posters with either bold type or high-quality images of your best dishes, you can catch attention from passers by. Remember to include your restaurant’s name, logo, and location prominently to ensure it’s easily remembered.

Keep it simple! Most people are driving or in vehicles, and don’t have time to read an entire paragraph of text. Use bold headlines and easy-to-read fonts for key messages, such as “Authentic Italian Cuisine” to keep the messaging precise.

If the poster is going to be stuck up in a high walk traffic area, then consider adding a QR code linking to your menu or reservation page for convenient, instant engagement.

Including eye-catching offers, such as discounts or special events, can further incentivise people to stop by. Strategically placing the posters in high foot traffic areas will maximise visibility and reach a wider audience.

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Collaborate with other small businesses

Another one of the clever restaurant marketing ideas in this list is by co-promoting your restaurant with another local business. Cross-promotional marketing, such as sharing each other’s social media posts or bundling special offers, can effectively expand your restaurant’s reach to new customer bases.

For example, you could team up with a local hotel or homestay, and offer a meal and stay deal. Another idea is to have a discount meal, drink and movie ticket deal.

Look around your immediate local area to brainstorm ways in which local businesses can collaborate on specials or joint events or themed nights, to attract new customers to both businesses, and foster a sense of local community.

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Host tasting events

Hosting tasting events at your restaurant is a fantastic way to engage potential customers and showcase your culinary offerings. These events provide a unique opportunity for guests to sample a variety of dishes, allowing them to experience the diverse flavours your menu has to offer.

One way to do this, is have a theme for the evening. For example, do vegan versions or offer only vegetarian, or perhaps push part of the menu. You can offer a pairing experience, such as wine or craft beer pairings, that can also enhance the dining experience and make it memorable.

By inviting local influencers and food bloggers, you can generate buzz and attract attention from the community.

Promoting these events through social media and targeted advertising can help increase restaurant visibility and drive foot traffic.

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Restaurant marketing using packaging

Restaurant marketing using packaging

Branded takeaway packaging

Branded takeaway packaging is an essential marketing tool for any restaurant looking to grow their customer base. By incorporating your logo and phone or web address onto boxes, bags, or cups, restaurants can ensure their brand is recognised even when customers are on the go.

You can include QR codes or social media handles on the packaging, to further encourage your customers to engage online, fostering loyalty and potential repeat visits.

It doesn’t need to cost a fortune either. We use 5cm square stickers and traditional rubber stamps to add our branding and messaging to our containers and pizza boxes.

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Cooking classes

You may think cooking classes don’t belong on a list of restaurant marketing ideas, but they’re a great way to build rapport with customers and get them talking in the local community.

Offering unique cooking classes can create an engaging and interactive experience for guests, allowing them to connect with your culinary team.

By offering hands-on lessons in signature dishes, participants can deepen their appreciation for your restaurant’s food and culinary philosophy.

Additionally, sharing the experience on social media encourages participants to showcase their culinary creations, amplifying your restaurant’s reach and visibility.

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Gift vouchers

Offering gift vouchers can be a fantastic way to reach new customers and encourage existing customers to return.

You can also consider distributing digital gift vouchers to save costs, and help customers be able to print at home when they need to.

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Customer referral program

A customer referral program is an excellent way to promote your restaurant by leveraging the power of word-of-mouth marketing. By incentivising existing customers to refer friends and family, you can reach new customers, while also rewarding loyal patrons for their support.

Campaigns for example, could be “bring a friend and get 20% off on Tuesdays”. Offering discounts or exclusive deals for successful referrals can encourage customers to share their dining experiences with others.

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Restaurant colouring in competition

Restaurant colouring in competition

Colouring in competitions

Another interesting restaurant marketing method is to run a colouring-in competition for children and families. Participants can either download or come and collect special branded colouring sheets featuring your logo and details.

Winners could receive gift vouchers for free meals, encouraging families to visit and enjoy your tasty offerings. You can then showcase the best entries on your social media, creating content and a little fame for the winners.

This initiative not only entertains children but also fosters a personal connection with your restaurant as a family-friendly destination.

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Direct mail

Direct mail is another one of the restaurant marketing ideas that can really reach potential customers in your local area. By designing eye-catching postcards that feature mouthwatering images of signature dishes, you can entice recipients to visit your establishment.

Offering exclusive discounts or promotions, such as a dine-in coupon or a special deal for first-time visitors, can further encourage engagement. Including a well-crafted message that highlights your restaurant’s unique atmosphere and exceptional service will help create a personal connection with your audience.

Finally, incorporating a QR code that links to your menu or an online reservation system makes it easy for interested diners to take the next step and plan their visit.

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Offer catering

Offering party or corporate catering can significantly increase your bottom line, as well as provide an opportunity reach new customers. We catered for 20 employees at a local manufacturing firm, and now a number of those emaployees come in with their families after being introduced to our food through their workplace.

By offering tailored catering packages for corporate events, parties, meetings and other events, your restaurant can showcase its diverse menu and culinary expertise.

Remember, providing exceptional service and high-quality food during corporate events can lead to strong word-of-mouth referrals and positive reviews.

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Community boards

Promoting your restaurant through community boards can be an effective way to engage local

patrons. By posting colourful flyers that highlight special menus, events, or promotions, restaurants can attract the attention of community members.

Additionally, participating in local events and showcasing these on community boards fosters a sense of connection and loyalty among residents. Engaging visuals, such as photos of signature dishes, can make a lasting impression and spark interest.

Lastly, encouraging customer feedback and testimonials on these boards can create a positive buzz, inviting new visitors to experience your restaurant firsthand.

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Treat your local hairdressers

Promoting your restaurant can take a creative turn by inviting your local hairdressers to experience your culinary offerings. Think about it. Barbers and Hairdressers are constantly speaking to customers within the community, and their audiences are stuck in a chair for 20 minutes to hours. They can spread the word about your restaurant easily, and all it takes is a free meal or discounted offerings.

You could even consider hosting a special tasting event just for them, showcasing some of your unique dishes. Alternatively, you could offer exclusive discounts for their clients on selected days, encouraging them to recommend your restaurant during their appointments.

By building a relationship with local hairdressers, this clever restaurant marketing idea can create a buzz that brings in new patrons eager to try your food.

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Food truck

Promoting your restaurant through a food truck can create an exciting and dynamic dining experience that brings cuisine directly to the community. By showcasing signature dishes in a mobile format, the food truck can attract new customers who may not have visited the brick-and-mortar location.

Hosting events at local festivals or popular hangout spots allows your restaurant to increase its visibility and engage with potential diners face-to-face. Utilising social media to announce the food truck’s location and special menu items can also boost interest and drive foot traffic.

Ultimately, a well-promoted food truck can serve as an effective marketing tool, enhancing your restaurant’s brand and fostering a loyal customer base.

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Support local P&C groups

Promoting your restaurant is a delicious way to support the local school P&C and strengthen community ties.

By partnering with the P&C, we can host fundraising events where a portion of the night’s sales is donated directly to local educational programs. Our menu will feature special dishes inspired by the students, fostering a sense of pride and ownership in their school’s initiatives.

We can also offer exclusive discounts to families involved with the P&C, encouraging them to dine with us regularly. Together, we can create a vibrant community space that not only serves great food but also invests in the future of our children.

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Free samples

Another clever restaurant marketing idea is free samples. Let me explain. We have a monthly special pizza, where a percentage goes to charity. An effective way for us to entice potential customers to buy these pizzas, is to bake one when we’re busy, and offer each table a slice or two with their meals.

This is a fantastic method to showcase the quality of your offerings, to an already captivated audience.

By providing small tastings of signature dishes, diners can experience the flavours and presentation without commitment. This strategy not only piques interest but also fosters positive word-of-mouth as satisfied guests share their experiences with friends and family.

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Happy hour specials

Happy hour specials don’t just need to be for drinks. As a restaurant marketing idea, why not choose some quiet evenings or times, and create a happy hour special for that period?

For example, we’ve done half price glasses of wine on weeknights, free garlic bread with two pizzas on Sundays and the like.

You can promote them via social media accounts, posters in your windows or a sign at the counter.

We have a pegboard that we use to change specials frequently. That way, we aren’t paying for printing or wasting paper and ink.

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Local markets

Many places, such as our local area, have local monthly or weekly markets. Holding a stall there occasionally is a great way to create a strong community presence and attract new customers. By setting up a booth at these farmers’ markets or local markets, your restaurant can showcase some of your dishes through offering samples, or by handing out menus and showing a friendly face.

Also, collaborating with local vendors for ingredient sourcing not only enhances your menu, but also highlights your restaurant’s commitment to supporting the community. Engaging with customers through being at these community events is a good way to foster a deeper connection with your brand.

Finally, leveraging social media to share local market experiences, along with delicious photos, can further amplify your restaurant’s visibility and appeal.

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Window signage

Your windows and exterior are a fantastic spot to promote your specials or unique offerings. By using great graphics with bold, eye-catching typography, you can draw attention from passersby.

Remember to include clear call-to-actions like “Dine with us tonight!” or “Reserve your table now!” to inspire immediate engagement.

Promote exclusive deals or limited-time offers such as “Happy Hour 5–7 PM” to create a sense of urgency.

A well-designed window sign can transform curious pedestrians into happy customers!

By incorporating appealing images of food or engaging slogans, window signage can stimulate appetites and curiosity among passersby. Additionally, displaying open hours and contact information ensures that customers are well-informed and more likely to stop in.

Overall, a well-designed window display not only enhances your restaurant’s visibility but also establishes a welcoming atmosphere that invites patrons to explore the dining experience inside.

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Seasonal promotions

To attract more customers and enhance their dining experience, your restaurant is excited to introduce seasonal promotions that celebrate the flavours of each season.

This fall, we are offering a special menu featuring locally-sourced ingredients, such as pumpkin and squash, to create comforting dishes that resonate with the season. Customers can also enjoy a limited-time deal on our signature warm beverages, perfect for cozying up on chilly evenings.

As winter approaches, we plan to host themed events that highlight holiday traditions, complete with festive decor and exclusive discounts for large groups. By embracing seasonal promotions, we aim to foster a sense of community while enticing guests to return for unique culinary experiences throughout the year.

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Local print media

Promoting your restaurant through local print media, such as newspapers and community magazines, can effectively reach a target audience in your local area. By placing visually appealing ads that highlight signature dishes, special offers, or unique dining experiences, restaurant owners can catch the attention of potential customers.

Vouchers and promotional inserts in print publications encourage readers to visit your restaurant, providing a tangible incentive.

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Sponsor sports teams

Promoting your restaurant by sponsoring your local sports teams is an effective way to build community engagement and brand recognition.

By providing uniforms or gear emblazoned with your restaurant’s logo, you create visibility not only during games but also in everyday life as players and fans wear them proudly. Hosting post-game meals or fundraisers at your restaurant can further strengthen relationships with the team and its supporters.

Additionally, featuring special discounts for team members and their families can entice more visitors and foster loyalty. Overall, this grassroots approach not only supports local sports but also draws in new patrons eager to support businesses that invest in their community.

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Loyalty cards

We’ve all seen those “buy 9 coffees, get the 10th free” loyalty cards. The reason they are so popular, is that they work! Loyalty cards are an effective way to cultivate a dedicated customer base for your restaurant, by offering rewards for repeat visits, such as discounts or free menu items.

Digital loyalty cards can also help track customer preferences, allowing you to personalise their dining experience. Promoting your loyalty program through social media and in-house signage can attract new customers eager to take advantage of exclusive benefits.

Ultimately, a well-structured loyalty program fosters a sense of community and connection, making diners feel valued and appreciated.

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Networking events

You may think of networking events as sleazy affairs only for sales people, but it isn’t true. They can actually serve as an excellent platform for promoting your restaurant by allowing owners to establish meaningful connections with other local businesses and community members.

Additionally, hosting a networking event at your restaurant itself not only showcases the venue but also allows potential patrons to experience the ambiance and cuisine firsthand. Providing complimentary appetisers or signature drinks during these events can create a lasting impression and entice attendees to return.

Don’t forget, collecting contact information from attendees for future marketing efforts ensures ongoing engagement and promotes loyalty to your restaurant.

By actively participating in these groups, your restaurant can build valuable relationships and trust within the community, ultimately driving more foot traffic and repeat customers.

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Send press releases

Do you have something truly news-worthy? Press releases only work if there’s something of interest. A new chef probably won’t cut interest, however to announce you’ve now sold 10,000 cakes or 5,000 pizzas, or the like is interesting.

Promoting your restaurant effectively can involve an engaging press release, however it has to be interesting. Grab all the local media outlets you can, and find out where to send your press release. Then make sure to follow up afterwards as well.

Include details about any special events, promotions, or events that can further enhance the appeal. Distributing the press release to local newspapers, blogs, and food reviewers ensures maximum visibility among potential customers.

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Participate in food festivals

Participating in food festivals is another interesting addition to this list of restaurant marketing ideas. By setting up a booth or food truck, your restaurant can attract a diverse crowd eager to try new dishes.

Engaging with attendees through sampling and live cooking demonstrations creates memorable experiences that encourage word-of-mouth marketing. Collaborating with other local businesses at these events can further expand your restaurant’s reach and build community ties.

Ultimately, food festivals provide an excellent platform for building brand awareness and attracting new loyal customers.

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Sponsoring local events is a fantastic way for your restaurant to enhance its visibility within the community. By partnering with local kids sports teams, art shows, events or charity fundraisers, you can showcase your delicious food to a wider audience and attract new customers.

Offering special promotions or free samples at these events can leave a lasting impression and encourage attendees to visit you later. Additionally, your brand will be associated with positive community experiences, building goodwill among potential patrons.

Overall, event sponsorship not only helps your restaurant grow but also strengthens your ties to the local community.

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Fridge magnets

Fridge magnets are a fun and effective way to promote your restaurant, serving as a daily reminder of your delicious offerings. By designing eye-catching magnets that feature your logo, contact information and maybe a QR code to your online shop, you can engage potential customers right in their homes.

Distributing these magnets with each takeaway meal, at local events or via direct mail can create a lasting impression that keeps your restaurant top-of-mind.

With a simple yet creative approach, fridge magnets can enhance your restaurant’s visibility and foster community loyalty.

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Host art classes

Another method to attract a diverse clientele is for your restaurant to host art classes every now and then. It could be monthly, it may be every weekend, however it’s very trendy at the moment to merge culinary delights with creative expression.

Participants can enjoy a delicious meal while unleashing their inner artist, making for a unique dining experience. Local artists can be invited to lead the sessions, guiding attendees as they create their own masterpieces in a vibrant and inspiring setting.

You could create an unforgettable evening of food, fun, and artistry that will leave you craving both the palette and the plate!

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Promoting a restaurant using street signs

Promoting a restaurant using street signs

Street signs

Street signs are a dynamic way to capture the attention of potential customers and promote your restaurant’s unique offerings. Eye-catching designs with vibrant colours and creative graphics can entice passersby to stop and take a closer look at the menu. Highlighting daily specials or unique dishes on these signs can stimulate curiosity and encourage spontaneous visits.

Additionally, positioning the signs at strategic locations can effectively draw in foot traffic from nearby neighbourhoods or busy intersections. Ultimately, well-placed street signs serve as a direct communication tool, making it easier for diners to discover and appreciate what your restaurant has to offer. A cost effective addition to this list of restaurant marketing ideas.

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Local radio ads

Promoting your restaurant through local radio ads can effectively reach a targeted audience in the community. Engaging radio spots can showcase your restaurant’s unique menu offerings, seasonal specials, and special events, enticing listeners to visit.

Sharing customer testimonials and chef interviews in the ads can build credibility and foster a connection with potential patrons. Additionally, incorporating catchy jingles or memorable slogans will help your restaurant stand out in listeners’ minds.

By partnering with local radio stations for promotional giveaways, such as free meals or discounts, your restaurant can further drive interest and increase foot traffic.

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Table ads

Table ads are an effective way to capture the attention of patrons while they enjoy their meal. By showcasing mouthwatering photos of signature dishes and special promotions, these ads can entice guests to order more. Additionally, including QR codes on table ads allows customers to easily access your restaurant’s online menu or loyalty program.

Creative designs and engaging messages can create a lasting impression, encouraging repeat visits. Finally, table ads can also highlight upcoming events or themed nights, fostering a sense of community and excitement around your restaurant.

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Trade shows and expos

Participating in trade shows and expos is an excellent one of the clever restaurant marketing ideas in this list. It’s an interesting way to promote your restaurant, as it allows for direct engagement with potential customers and industry professionals. By setting up an eye-catching booth, restaurants can showcase signature dishes and unique culinary experiences that set them apart from competitors.

Offering samples or live cooking demonstrations can attract attendees and create memorable encounters, encouraging them to visit your restaurant. Additionally, leveraging social media during the event can amplify exposure, as visitors share their experiences in real-time.

Networking with other businesses and influencers at these events can lead to valuable partnerships and further promotional opportunities.

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Vehicle branding

Vehicle branding is an innovative way to promote your restaurant while on the move. By wrapping delivery vehicles with eye-catching graphics showcasing your restaurant’s logo, signature dishes, and vibrant colours, you can capture the attention of potential customers on the road.

This method not only increases brand visibility but also serves as a mobile advertisement that reaches diverse audiences in various neighborhoods. As your delivery drivers traverse the city, they become walking billboards, sparking curiosity about your culinary offerings.

By combining vehicle branding with enticing promotions, you can turn every drive into a chance to attract new diners to your establishment.

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Online Restaurant Marketing Ideas

Here are 32 creative ways to promote your restaurant online:

Build a website

Building a website is essential for promoting your restaurant and reaching a wider audience.

An engaging site can showcase your menu, ambiance, and special events, enticing potential customers to visit. By incorporating high-quality images and customer testimonials, you can create an inviting online presence that reflects the unique experience your restaurant offers.

Additionally, integrating an online reservation system makes it easy for customers to book a table, increasing foot traffic. Lastly, optimising your website for search engines will help attract local diners searching for dining options in your area.

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Google my business

Promoting your restaurant using Google My Business is essential for enhancing online visibility and attracting local customers. By creating a well-optimised profile that includes engaging photos, updated hours, and a detailed menu, restaurants can captivate potential diners.

Encouraging satisfied customers to leave positive reviews boosts credibility and improves search rankings, making it easier for new patrons to discover your establishment. Regularly posting updates about special events or promotions keeps the audience engaged and informed, fostering a loyal customer base.

Additionally, Utilising the Questions & Answers feature allows prospective diners to gain valuable insights, further enhancing their overall dining experience.

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Social media

Promoting your restaurant through social media is an effective way to engage with potential customers and showcase menu offerings. Eye-catching visuals of beautifully plated dishes can entice followers, encouraging them to visit your restaurant.

Regular posts highlighting special promotions, events, and customer testimonials can foster a sense of community and excitement around your brand. Utilising platforms like Instagram and Facebook allows for targeted advertising, reaching specific demographics, and boosting visibility.

Additionally, running interactive campaigns, such as contests or polls, can enhance customer participation and loyalty, turning followers into regular patrons.

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Online reviews

Promoting your restaurant through online reviews is essential in today’s digital age, as potential diners often rely on these opinions before making dining decisions. Encouraging satisfied customers to leave positive reviews on platforms such as Google, Yelp, and TripAdvisor can enhance your restaurant’s visibility and credibility.

Engaging with both positive and negative reviews demonstrates to customers that you value their feedback and are committed to improving their experience. Showcasing glowing testimonials on your restaurant’s website and social media can also help attract new patrons and build a loyal following.

Finally, leveraging online reviews in promotional campaigns can create a powerful narrative around your restaurant, highlighting unique dishes and exceptional service that sets you apart from the competition.

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Blog regularly

A blog about food can be an incredibly effective tool for promoting your restaurant, allowing you to share tantalising stories about your dishes and the passion behind their creation.

By highlighting seasonal ingredients or unique cooking techniques in your blog posts, you can engage readers and spark their curiosity about dining at your establishment.

Including mouthwatering photographs of your signature dishes and behind-the-scenes actions in the kitchen can entice customers to visit your restaurant and experience the flavours firsthand.

Lastly, incorporating interactive elements, such as polls or recipe challenges, into your food blog encourages reader participation and helps build a loyal community around your restaurant brand.

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Food photography

Captivating food photography is essential for promoting your restaurant, as mouthwatering images can entice potential diners and create an immediate connection with the cuisine.

High-quality visuals not only highlight the artistry of each dish but also showcase the fresh ingredients and unique presentation that set your restaurant apart. By sharing these stunning photographs on social media platforms, your restaurant can engage with a wider audience, encouraging followers to visit and experience the flavours firsthand.

Collaborating with food photographers or influencers can further amplify your restaurant’s reach, as their established audiences are often eager to discover new dining experiences.

Ultimately, strategic use of food photography can create a visual narrative that boosts your restaurant’s brand and drives foot traffic.

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Collaborate with food bloggers

To effectively promote your restaurant, consider collaborating with local food bloggers who have established audiences and a passion for culinary experiences. Inviting these influencers for exclusive tastings can generate buzz and provide authentic reviews that resonate with their followers.

By encouraging them to share visually appealing content on social media, you can reach potential customers who may not have discovered your restaurant otherwise. Additionally, hosting a special event or themed night for food bloggers can create an immersive experience that they will be excited to share with their audience.

Ultimately, these collaborations foster a sense of community and can significantly enhance your restaurant’s visibility in a competitive market.

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Restaurant profile on Bing Maps

Restaurant profile on Bing Maps

Be on all the maps

People are regularly using maps to discover new places to eat – I know I do – and therefore you must be there to be discovered.

There’s the three main maps to appear on, which are Google Maps, Apple Maps and Bing Places. Then there’s a number of others, the ones that drive GPS platforms and others.

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Engage with followers

To effectively promote your restaurant, it’s essential to engage with followers on social media by responding promptly to comments and messages. Sharing behind-the-scenes content, such as the preparation of signature dishes, invites followers into our world and builds a sense of community.

Hosting interactive polls or questions in stories can spark conversations and gather customer preferences for future menu items.

Encouraging guests to share their dining experiences and tagging us creates a vibrant online presence and showcases our culinary delights. By celebrating our followers and featuring their posts, we create a loyal fan base that feels personally connected to your restaurant.

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Email marketing

Email marketing is an effective strategy for promoting your restaurant by reaching out directly to customers with personalised offers and updates.

By collecting email addresses through reservations or loyalty programs, restaurants can build a targeted mailing list to inform subscribers of special events, new menu items, and exclusive promotions.

Engaging content, such as mouth-watering photos and chef recommendations, can entice recipients to visit your restaurant. Regular email newsletters can help cultivate a sense of community, encouraging customers to share their dining experiences and spread the word.

Ultimately, well-crafted email campaigns can drive customer loyalty and increase foot traffic, ensuring your restaurant thrives in a competitive market.

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Facebook ads

Promoting your restaurant through Facebook ads is an effective way to reach a targeted audience and increase foot traffic. By crafting visually appealing ads featuring mouth-watering images of signature dishes, restaurants can capture potential diners’ attention.

Utilising Facebook’s targeting options allows you to tailor your ads to specific demographics, ensuring they resonate with local food enthusiasts. Incorporating compelling calls-to-action, such as special discounts or limited-time offers, can encourage users to make a reservation or visit in person.

Regularly analysing ad performance and engagement metrics helps refine your strategy and maximise your restaurant’s visibility on the platform.

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Loyalty programs

Loyalty programs are an effective way to promote your restaurant by encouraging repeat visits from customers. By offering rewards such as discounts, free meals, or exclusive access to special events, restaurants can create a sense of community and belonging among their patrons.

These programs not only incentivise customers to dine more frequently, but they also provide valuable data that can help restaurants tailor their marketing strategies.

Furthermore, promoting the loyalty program through social media and local advertising can attract new customers who are enticed by the benefits of signing up. Ultimately, a well-structured loyalty program can enhance customer satisfaction and drive long-term business growth.

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Feature user-generated content

Promoting your restaurant effectively can greatly benefit from featuring user-generated content across social media platforms. Encouraging diners to share their photos and experiences not only builds a sense of community but also serves as authentic endorsements for your establishment.

Highlighting these user submissions on your website and social media pages adds a personal touch and showcases the genuine joy your restaurant brings to customers.

Additionally, running contests that reward diners for sharing their content can further amplify engagement and visibility. By tapping into the creativity and experiences of your patrons, you create a vibrant narrative that attracts new visitors and keeps your current guests returning for more.

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Join delivery platforms

Most delivery platforms charge 30% of the price to pick up and deliver. That’s a huge investment, however it’s worth ensuring you are there, just to cover all the channels your potential customers may be shopping at.

What most restaurants do is build the cost into the items you sell. For example, a $25 pizza in-store would sell for 30% more on these delivery platforms. This way, you aren’t losing precious margin, but you are still visible. We appear on all three platforms available in our area, Uber Eats, Menulog and Doordash.

Many of these delivery services also offer promotional opportunities that can give your restaurant increased exposure through featured listings or discounts. Embracing these platforms not only boosts sales but also allows for valuable customer feedback, helping you continually improve your offerings.

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Host social media contests

Promoting your restaurant through social media contests is an effective way to engage customers and increase visibility. By hosting fun and creative giveaways, such as a free meal for the best food photo, you can encourage your followers to share their experiences.

Additionally, incorporating local hashtags into the contest can attract new customers who discover your restaurant through social media. Regular contests not only boost interaction with your current audience but also help to build a sense of community around your brand.

Ultimately, these contests can enhance customer loyalty and draw in new diners eager to join the fun.

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Create short videos

The growth of TikTok shows how important short video is nowadays. Promoting your restaurant through short videos, such as Instagram Reels and TikTok, can showcase your unique ambiance and delicious dishes on offer.

Also, filming behind-the-scenes clips of chefs preparing signature meals gives your customers a sense of the personality in the business, and potential customers can gain an authentic glimpse into the dining experience.

Try always using engaging visuals and upbeat music, these videos can highlight special events, themed nights, or seasonal menus, enticing viewers to visit. Instagram and TikTok also allow you to find trending audio, so you can be found by the music you choose.

If you can, sharing customer testimonials or just videos of a busy dining area adds further trust in your restaurant’s quality.

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Use programmatic SEO

Promoting your restaurant effectively can be significantly enhanced through programmatic SEO, which automates the optimisation of content to target specific keywords and audience segments.

By creating a dynamic website with location-based landing pages, restaurants can capture the attention of potential diners searching for cuisine in their area. Utilising this structured data and web templates can help search engines better understand your restaurant’s offerings, leading to improved visibility in local searches.

Let’s say you offer Indian food, and deliver to surrounding areas. You can create a page for each of the 20 suburbs nearby with the headlines and titles of ‘Indian food delivery in [SUBURB NAME].

One of the bonuses with programmatic SEO is that it allows for rapid adjustments to content based on analytics, ensuring that promotion strategies are continually optimised for seasonal trends and customer preferences.

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Offer online reservations

Often overlooked as one of your restaurant marketing ideas, online reservations are a great feature to help people reserve a spot, and for you to collect all important contact details. Online reservations enhances convenience for diners but also allows for better management of seating and wait times.

By enabling customers to secure their tables in advance, restaurants can attract more patrons, especially during peak hours. Asking patrons if you can add them to your email mailing list is a great way to build an email audience easily.

A seamless booking experience can lead to higher customer satisfaction and repeat visits.

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Promote specials

Promoting specials is an effective way to attract new customers and retain loyal patrons at your restaurant. For example, offering a limited-time discount on popular menu items can entice diners to try something new while providing excellent value.

Additionally, promoting seasonal specials can create a sense of urgency and excitement, encouraging guests to visit before the offerings change. Utilising social media to highlight these specials, complete with mouthwatering images, can significantly boost visibility and engagement.

Finally, consider partnering with local influencers to share your specials, expanding your reach and drawing in a wider audience.

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Embrace TikTok

Promoting your restaurant on TikTok is a dynamic way to reach potential customers through engaging visual content. By creating short, appetising videos of signature dishes being prepared, you can showcase the unique culinary skills of your chefs and the freshness of your ingredients.

Utilising trending sounds and hashtags can help your content go viral, attracting a wider audience. Additionally, consider collaborating with local influencers who can share their dining experiences and amplify your restaurant’s reach.

Lastly, encourage user-generated content by inviting customers to share their own TikTok videos while dining, turning them into brand ambassadors.

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Write guest posts

Promoting your restaurant through guest posts is an excellent strategy to reach a wider audience and showcase the establishment’s unique offerings. By collaborating with food bloggers or local influencers, your restaurant can gain credibility and attract new customers through authentic reviews and experiences.

There are a number of benefits of guest posts, including highlight signature dishes, special events, or chef interviews, creating engaging content that resonates with readers. Additionally, sharing these posts on social media platforms can amplify their reach and drive traffic to your restaurant’s website.

Ultimately, well-crafted guest posts can enhance your restaurant’s online presence and build a loyal customer base.

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Work with influencers

Inviting guest bloggers, such as local food critics or satisfied patrons, to share their experiences can further enhance your restaurant’s reputation and broaden your audience reach.

Promoting your restaurant can greatly benefit from collaborating with influencers who resonate with your brand’s identity. By partnering with food bloggers and local social media personalities, you can tap into their established audiences and boost your restaurant’s visibility.

Influencers can create engaging content, such as mouthwatering photos and videos of your signature dishes, enticing their followers to visit. Hosting exclusive tasting events for influencers not only generates buzz but also allows you to gather authentic reviews and testimonials.

Ultimately, using influencers as part of your promotional strategy can drive traffic to your restaurant and cultivate a loyal customer base.

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Run retargeting campaigns

To effectively promote your restaurant, we can run retargeting campaigns aimed at visitors who have previously browsed our website or social media pages. By displaying enticing advertisements featuring our signature dishes or special promotions, we can remind potential customers of the dining experience they might have missed.

Tailoring these ads based on user behavior—such as highlighting items they viewed—ensures a personal touch that can significantly increase engagement. Additionally, incorporating eye-catching visuals and enticing call-to-action buttons can encourage these past visitors to make a reservation or order online.

Ultimately, retargeting campaigns can transform casual interest into loyal patronage, driving consistent traffic to your restaurant.

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Engaging in Facebook groups

Engaging in Facebook groups

Engage in local Facebook groups

Promoting your restaurant through local Facebook food groups can significantly enhance community engagement and visibility. By joining these groups, restaurant owners can share mouthwatering photos of their dishes, enticing potential customers to visit.

Engaging with group members through comments and responding to feedback fosters a sense of connection and loyalty. Hosting exclusive promotions or events for group members can create buzz and encourage word-of-mouth referrals.

Additionally, sharing stories about your restaurant’s history or special ingredients can resonate with locals, making them more likely to support a neighborhood establishment.

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Search engine optimisation

Promoting your restaurant effectively through search engine optimisation (SEO) can significantly enhance its online visibility and attract more customers. By optimising your restaurant’s website with relevant keywords, such as “best Italian restaurant in [location]”, it can rank higher on search engine results pages.

Additionally, creating engaging content, such as blog posts about seasonal menus or special events, can draw in potential diners while improving organic traffic. Utilising local SEO strategies, like listing your restaurant on Google My Business and encouraging customer reviews, can further boost local discovery.

Finally, ensuring the website is mobile-friendly and loads quickly will enhance user experience, making it more likely visitors will make a reservation or order online.

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Content marketing

Promoting your restaurant through content marketing involves creating engaging and relevant materials that highlight the unique aspects of the dining experience. This can include mouth-watering blog posts featuring seasonal menu items, chef interviews, and behind-the-scenes kitchen stories that immerse readers in your restaurant’s atmosphere.

Eye-catching social media visuals, such as tantalising food photography and short video clips of meal preparation, can effectively engage potential customers and encourage them to share their experiences. Additionally, email newsletters offering exclusive promotions or upcoming events help keep your restaurant top-of-mind for loyal patrons.

By consistently delivering valuable content, your restaurant can build a strong online presence and foster a community of food lovers eager to visit.

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Online directories

Promoting your restaurant through online directories is an effective way to increase visibility and attract new customers. By ensuring your restaurant is listed on popular platforms like Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Google My Business, potential diners can easily discover its offerings.

Positive reviews and high ratings on these directories can significantly enhance your restaurant’s reputation and credibility. Regularly updating the listing with photos, menus, and special promotions can engage users and encourage them to visit.

Additionally, leveraging the insights and analytics provided by these platforms can help restaurants tailor their marketing strategies to better meet customer preferences.

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Link building is an essential strategy for promoting your restaurant online, as it enhances visibility and credibility. By collaborating with local food bloggers and influencers, your restaurant can gain high-quality backlinks from reputable websites, driving targeted traffic to its site.

Participating in community events and sponsoring local charities can also help in building backlinks to your website. Additionally, creating engaging content, such as blog posts about unique menu offerings or chef interviews, can entice other sites to link back as a source of information.

Ultimately, a well-executed link-building strategy not only boosts search engine rankings but also fosters a loyal customer base by establishing your restaurant as a recognised entity in the local dining scene.

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PPC advertising

Promoting your restaurant through PPC advertising can significantly increase its online visibility and attract more customers. By targeting specific keywords related to the cuisine and local area, your restaurant can ensure its ads reach people actively searching for dining options.

Utilising compelling ad copy and enticing images of menu items can entice potential diners to click through to your restaurant’s website. Additionally, leveraging seasonal promotions or special events in PPC campaigns can create urgency and drive more reservations.

Monitoring and optimising the ads based on performance metrics allows your restaurant to maximise its return on investment and attract loyal patrons.

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Collaborative campaigns

Collaborative campaigns can significantly amplify your restaurant’s visibility and reach by partnering with local businesses and influencers. For example, teaming up with a nearby bakery for a dessert night can attract customers who are fans of both establishments.

Social media collaborations with food bloggers can showcase your restaurant’s signature dishes, drawing attention from their followers. Additionally, hosting joint events with local breweries can create a unique dining experience and foster a sense of community.

By leveraging the networks of partners, your restaurant can tap into new audiences and create buzz that resonates beyond its immediate customer base.

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Forums and communities

Promoting your restaurant through forums and online communities can be an effective way to build a loyal customer base. By actively engaging with local food enthusiasts on platforms like Reddit or Facebook groups, restaurant owners can share updates, special offers, and unique dishes to generate buzz.

Encouraging satisfied customers to post their experiences and reviews in these spaces can create authentic word-of-mouth marketing. Additionally, participating in discussions about local dining trends or events can position your restaurant as a go-to destination in the community.

Leveraging user-generated content and feedback from these forums can also help refine menu offerings and improve overall customer satisfaction.

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Analytics and testing

Promoting your restaurant effectively requires leveraging analytics to understand customer preferences and behaviors. By analysing data from previous marketing campaigns, restaurants can identify which promotions lead to increased foot traffic and sales, ad then they can further optimise for better results.

A/B testing different marketing strategies, such as social media ads or email campaigns, allows owners to determine which message resonates best with their target audience. Furthermore, collecting feedback through online reviews and surveys provides valuable insights that can guide menu adjustments and service improvements.

Ultimately, combining analytics with testing ensures that marketing efforts are data-driven and tailored to maximise engagement and drive repeat business.

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Conclusion

As you can see, there are plenty of restaurant marketing ideas out there to try. The best strategy is to try a few at a time on a small scale, and expand your efforts or budget on the strategies that seem to get the best traction.

In 2025, restaurant margins are tighter than ever. It is so important to only send money on areas that bring in a good return. Test and refine, test and refine is the best solution for all restaurant marketing campaigns and tactics. All the best of luck!

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