I’ve run countless marketing campaigns for restaurateurs over the years, and I know exactly what works—and what doesn’t—when it comes to promoting a restaurant.
But here’s the thing: 59% of restaurant owners say marketing is one of their biggest challenges (UpMenu internal survey), especially when juggling daily operations, staffing, and rising costs.
That’s why I put together this guide to the best restaurant marketing strategies and ideas that actually work in 2025. Whether you’re opening a new spot or improving existing efforts, you’ll find proven ways to attract more customers, build loyalty, and grow your restaurant business—without breaking the bank.
Key Takeaways
- Best Marketing Strategy in 2025: In my experience, the most effective strategy is owning your digital platform—your website, online ordering system, and mobile app. Relying on third-party apps like Uber Eats or DoorDash won’t build loyalty and will eat into your profits with high fees.
- Know Your Customers: Understand your restaurant target market—whether it’s families, remote workers, tourists, or loyal locals—so you can tailor your marketing, menu, and messaging to meet their expectations and dining habits.
- Think Like a Guest, Not an Owner: View your restaurant experience from the customer’s perspective, focusing on what makes their visit easier, more enjoyable, and more shareable—not just what appeals to you personally.
- Use Market Research to Guide Decisions: Make data-informed choices by analyzing competitors, tracking customer feedback, and observing neighborhood trends instead of relying on gut feelings or assumptions.
- Focus on ROI, Not Vanity Metrics: Evaluate your marketing efforts based on meaningful results like increased sales, repeat visits, and customer lifetime value—not just likes, followers, or reach.
- Own Your Local Market First: Build a loyal customer base in your immediate area through community involvement, local restaurant partnerships, and targeted offers before trying to expand your reach.
- Build Consistent Marketing Systems: Develop repeatable marketing routines such as email campaigns, loyalty rewards, and social media calendars to keep your restaurant top of mind year-round.
- Align with Current Realities: Adjust your marketing and menu to reflect what’s happening in your customers’ lives—such as economic changes, cultural trends, or shifts in dining behavior.
What are Restaurant Marketing Strategies?
If you’ve run a restaurant for a while, you already know marketing isn’t just about posting on social media or handing out flyers. Restaurant marketing strategies are structured plans to help you attract new customers, keep regulars coming back, and grow your business in a competitive market.
Here’s a quick refresher:
- It’s all about getting the right message in front of the right people—online and offline.
- The main goals: more visibility, more online orders, more foot traffic, and stronger customer loyalty.
- The most effective strategies combine digital tools (like your website, Google ads, or social media) with real-life dining experiences.
- Think of local SEO, loyalty programs, email marketing, and influencer partnerships.
Restaurant Marketing Strategies and Ideas in 2025
There’s no shortage of restaurant marketing strategies out there—but only a few truly move the needle.
In this section, I’ll walk you through the best restaurant marketing ideas I’ve seen drive real revenue in 2025.
From low-cost tactics to scalable systems, each strategy here is designed to help you attract new customers, build loyalty, and grow your restaurant business.
1. Start selling online from your own platform
If you’re still relying solely on third-party apps like Uber Eats or DoorDash, you’re giving up profit and missing out on valuable customer data.
Building your own direct online ordering system gives you full control over branding, upselling, and repeat business. It doesn’t have to be expensive, as you can start from $49 per month.
It’s one of the most beneficial restaurant marketing strategies you can implement right now. Restaurants using UpMenu’s online ordering system see an average revenue increase of 27% within the first 3 months.
2. Create an intuitive restaurant website
Your website is the backbone of your restaurant’s marketing strategy. It’s often the first impression potential customers get, and if it’s slow, outdated, or hard to navigate—people will move on.
A clean, mobile-friendly restaurant website with a functional online menu, online ordering, and reservations can turn browsers into paying guests.
In fact, approximately 72% of restaurants have a website, and most restaurant searches now begin on mobile devices, so responsive design is no longer optional.
3. Build your own restaurant mobile app
A branded restaurant mobile app takes your marketing to the next level. It provides loyal customers with a direct way to order, earn rewards, and stay connected—without relying on third-party apps.
That means more control over your customer data and stronger relationships that drive repeat business. With UpMenu, you can create your mobile app starting at $49 monthly—an affordable solution for most restaurants.
Customers who order directly from the restaurant spend 35% more per transaction compared to those using third-party apps.
4. Create and optimize your Google Business Profile
In my experience, one of the easiest wins you can get is setting up and fully optimizing your Google Business Profile—and it’s completely free.
It helps people find your restaurant when they search “pizza near me” or check Google Maps for nearby options.
Ensure your profile is verified, updated with accurate opening hours, photos, a menu link, and online ordering information if applicable. A verified profile can boost physical visits by 58%, so it’s definitely not something to overlook.
5. Collect positive reviews on platforms like Yelp or TripAdvisor
Most potential customers check restaurant review sites before deciding where to eat—it’s just part of the process now.
That’s why I always recommend asking happy guests to leave a review on Google, Yelp, or TripAdvisor.
94% of diners say online reviews influence their dining decisions, so consistently collecting positive ones can directly impact foot traffic and online orders. Respond to both good and bad reviews—it shows you care and builds trust.
- TripAdvisor Restaurant Marketing (How-to Guide)
- Yelp Restaurant Marketing (How-to Guide)
- How to Get Customer Feedback in a Restaurant (6 Tips)
- Google Restaurant Reviews (How to Get More)
6. Build engagement on social media platforms
If you’re not using platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok to connect with your guests, you’re missing out on serious marketing opportunities.
Social media marketing is where you can show your personality, promote events, post food photos, and keep loyal customers engaged.
A strong presence can lead to a 22% increase in return visits, and 32% of people visit a restaurant’s website right after seeing it on social (Source: ElectroIQ). Focus on quality over quantity—consistent, authentic content beats overly polished posts.
- Restaurant Social Media Marketing (How-to Guide)
- Restaurant Social Media Post Ideas (20 Best)
- Restaurant Facebook Marketing Strategies (12 Best Ideas)
- Restaurant Instagram Marketing Strategies (20 Best Ideas)
7. Increase repeat sales with a loyalty program
Restaurant loyalty programs are one of the simplest ways to get more repeat business. When customers know they’ll earn points or rewards, they’re much more likely to come back.
In fact, loyalty program members visit 20% more often and spend 20% more per order than non-members.
I always suggest keeping it easy to join and use—whether through your app or directly at checkout.
8. Implement discounts and special offers
Limited-time deals are a proven way to drive urgency and attract new customers, especially during slower days.
Whether it’s a free meal for first-time app users or a midweek buy-one-get-one (BOGO) promo, ensure your restaurant promotion aligns with your food cost margins.
These kinds of marketing ideas are especially effective when promoted through email, SMS, or social media channels. Just don’t overdo it—too many discounts can hurt your brand long term.
9. Launch automated email and SMS campaigns
I always recommend automating your marketing efforts wherever possible, and email/SMS is a great place to start.
With tools like UpMenu, you can send personalized offers, birthday discounts, or reminders to repeat customers without lifting a finger.
Restaurants using automated campaigns see 19% more orders than those not using direct messaging—restaurant email marketing is one of the most effective ways to build customer loyalty and consistently boost revenue.
10. Enable online reservations
Making it easy for guests to reserve a table online is a no-brainer.
A smooth restaurant reservation process not only reduces missed opportunities but also helps with managing staff and prep.
Around 65% of diners go directly to a restaurant’s website to book a reservation, so if you’re still relying on calls or manual booking, you’re likely missing out. Add it to your website and Google Business Profile to keep things seamless.
11. Use QR code menus to streamline ordering
QR code menus exploded in popularity—and they’re here to stay. They speed up service, reduce paper waste, and give customers more control over their ordering experience.
Over 70% of restaurants now use QR codes, with 85% using them specifically for digital menus.
If you haven’t implemented one yet, it’s a simple way to modernize your guest experience and keep operations efficient.
12. Target the right customers with online ads
Running paid ads on Google or Meta (Facebook and Instagram) is one of the fastest ways to reach new customers.
I’ve seen restaurants boost visibility almost overnight with the right targeting—whether it’s promoting lunch specials, events, or online ordering.
The key is to focus on a local audience and track ROI, not just clicks. Start with a small budget and test what works best for your restaurant marketing efforts.
- Google Ads for Restaurants (How-to Guide)
- Facebook Ads for Restaurants (How-to Guide)
13. Invest in local SEO to increase visibility
If you’re not showing up in Google’s local 3-pack, you’re missing out on real business.
Listings in the top three positions receive 126% more traffic and 93% more actions (such as calls or website clicks) than those ranked lower.
That’s why optimizing your restaurant SEO—your Google Business Profile, online reviews, and restaurant website—is one of the most high-impact marketing strategies out there. It’s not flashy, but it works.
14. Advertise in local newspapers
While digital dominates, print ads in local newspapers still work—especially if your target audience includes older demographics or small-town diners.
A well-placed ad with a limited-time offer or event can bring in curious locals and build name recognition.
Just make sure it’s paired with a clear CTA, like a QR code or discount for bringing in the ad.
15. Order a broadcast on a local radio station
Local radio can be surprisingly effective if you’re promoting an opening, live music night, or community event.
Radio still reaches thousands of commuters and older listeners daily. Keep your message short, memorable, and include your website or social media handle for follow-up.
For many restaurants, it’s one of those underrated restaurant marketing ideas that works better than expected.
16. Hand out printed materials
Flyers, table tents, or local event handouts may seem old-school, but they still work—especially when you want to reach foot traffic or nearby offices.
I’ve used printed materials to promote online ordering, loyalty programs, and special events.
Just make sure the design is clean, your offer is clear, and there’s a QR code that connects people to your restaurant online or menu.
17. Take professional food photography
Nothing sells your food better than high-quality photos.
Whether you’re posting on social media, updating your online menu, or running ads, professional food photography helps build trust and makes your restaurant brand appear premium.
This is one of those restaurant marketing ideas that’s worth every penny—you’ll use the photos everywhere.
18. Set up cross-selling and up-selling at checkout
Upselling a dessert or premium drink during checkout is one of the easiest ways to increase average order value.
I always recommend setting up automated suggestions in your online ordering system and training staff to implement them in person as well.
A small nudge—like “Would you like fries with that?”—adds up quickly over time.
19. Collaborate with restaurant influencers
Restaurant influencer marketing can give you quick exposure to hundreds or even thousands of potential customers.
Just be picky—choose influencers whose audience matches your restaurant’s vibe and values.
A single well-crafted post on TikTok or Instagram can drive more traffic than a month of ads, especially in the restaurant industry, where visuals matter most.
20. Create a restaurant blog to tell your story
Blogging may not feel trendy, but it’s a powerful way to boost your local SEO, share your values, and build a connection with loyal customers.
You can write about your chef’s background, new menu items, behind-the-scenes stories, or community events. Plus, it gives you content to repurpose across email and social media—fueling your other marketing efforts too.
21. Respond promptly to reviews
Reviews can make or break a restaurant’s reputation, and how you respond matters just as much as the review itself.
Thanking guests for positive feedback and addressing negative reviews with professionalism shows you care about customer satisfaction. It also builds trust with potential customers browsing online reviews.
A little engagement goes a long way in shaping how your restaurant is perceived.
- How to Respond to Bad Restaurant Reviews (Actionable Tips & Examples)
22. Offer new or seasonal dishes
Introducing limited-time or seasonal menu items keeps things fresh and gives loyal customers a reason to come back.
It’s also a great way to test new ideas without permanently changing your menu.
Share these updates across your social media accounts and email marketing campaigns to build excitement. Seasonal marketing strategies like this can quickly boost interest and sales.
23. Engage with local community events
Participating in farmers markets, food festivals, or local fairs helps you connect with your local customers on a more personal level.
It’s one of my favorite restaurant marketing ideas because it boosts visibility and builds relationships outside your dining room.
You can hand out samples, promote your restaurant online, or just show your face in the community. That connection pays off in long-term loyalty.
24. Offer catering services
Adding catering to your restaurant business is a smart way to generate steady income, especially from corporate clients or event organizers.
It opens up a new revenue stream and helps attract customers who may not visit your physical location.
Promote it on your website, through social media, and via email marketing to get the word out. You can even package it with online ordering for extra convenience.
25. Organize charity events
Giving back doesn’t just feel good—it’s also a great way to get more customers engaged with your brand.
Charity events or donation-based promotions attract attention, media coverage, and goodwill from the local community.
It’s one of those marketing efforts that creates value beyond short-term revenue. Just make sure the cause aligns with your brand and values.
26. Show off your restaurant activities
Behind-the-scenes content is one of the easiest ways to build trust and humanize your restaurant brand.
Post short videos or photos of your team prepping food, celebrating birthdays, or participating in local events.
It helps keep your social media accounts active and your customers engaged. Authenticity goes a long way in today’s restaurant marketing strategies.
27. Create challenges and contests for customers
Contests are a fun way to drive engagement and reach more customers through shares and tags.
Ask guests to post food photos, name a new dish, or enter a raffle for a free meal. They’re great for user-generated content and give your loyal customers a reason to stay connected.
Don’t forget to promote it through email marketing and social media.
28. Build strategic partnerships
Partnering with other local businesses or nearby restaurants can help you attract new customers and cut marketing costs.
You could cross-promote menus, co-host events, or include each other’s flyers in takeout bags.
Strategic restaurant partnerships, like this one, are underrated yet highly effective marketing ideas that benefit both parties.
29. Offer private dining experiences
If you have the space, offering private dining adds an exclusive touch that many customers are looking for—especially for birthdays, anniversaries, or business meetings.
It’s a premium service that increases average order value and builds customer loyalty.
Promote it on your restaurant online and make booking easy via your online reservation tool.
30. Start selling gift cards
Gift cards are a simple way to boost cash flow and reach potential customers who haven’t tried your restaurant yet.
They work great during holidays, but I also recommend promoting them year-round on your website and checkout screens.
It’s one of those restaurant marketing ideas that continues to pay off long after the purchase.
How to Develop a Restaurant Marketing Strategy?
Creating an effective restaurant marketing plan isn’t just about posting on social media or running ads—it’s about having a clear, focused strategy.
Here’s how I usually break it down:
- Define your goals: Are you looking to increase online orders, boost foot traffic, grow your social media audience, or improve customer loyalty? Start with clear, measurable objectives.
- Understand your target market: Know exactly who you’re marketing to—families, remote workers, students, tourists, or loyal locals. This will shape your tone, promotions, and marketing channels.
- Analyze your competition: Look at what other restaurants in your area are doing—what’s working for them, and what gaps you can fill. This helps you position your restaurant marketing efforts more effectively.
- Choose the right marketing channels: Don’t try to do everything at once. Focus on platforms that match your audience—Google Ads, email marketing, Instagram, or local SEO.
- Build your restaurant’s brand identity: From your tone of voice to your visuals, everything should be consistent and reflect what makes your restaurant unique.
- Create a promotional calendar: Plan out key campaigns around holidays, seasonal dishes, events, and local opportunities. Consistency is key.
- Track and adjust: Use data, like customer feedback, email performance, or ad conversions, to fine-tune your strategy over time.
A strong restaurant marketing strategy isn’t about doing everything—it’s about doing the right things consistently.
Use these proven tactics to attract more customers, build loyalty, and grow your restaurant business sustainably.
