How do I get more people to visit my new café?
Get found first, then give people a reason to try you. Set up your Google Business Profile before opening, post opening reels of your food and space, run small Instagram ads…
How do you do digital marketing for a restaurant?
Quick answer
Start with a complete Google Business Profile with your menu, photos and hours, because most diners find restaurants on Google Maps. Then post appetising food and behind-the-scenes content on Instagram, run small local ads for specific days or events, collect reviews, and build a WhatsApp list of regulars for offers and table bookings.
Where diners find restaurants
- “Restaurants near me” and cuisine searches on Google Maps
- Instagram and food creators
- Delivery and booking apps
- Friends’ recommendations
A practical plan
- Google Business Profile: menu, prices, fresh photos, hours, booking link and cuisine categories.
- Reviews: ask happy diners, reply to every review.
- Instagram: short videos of dishes being made, chef stories and specials.
- Local ads: target people within a few kilometres for lunch deals or weekend events.
- WhatsApp list: regulars who opt in for new menus and events.
- Direct bookings: a simple booking link on your profile and website to cut app commissions.
Key takeaways
- Google Maps is the main discovery channel
- Instagram content that shows the food
- A WhatsApp list of regular diners
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