Marketing

10 local restaurant SEO tips to boost restaurant revenue

Photo: Adobe

October 22, 2024 by Bhagwati Bhushan Mishra — Founder and CEO, Fleksa

Did you know that over 80% of consumers search online before deciding where to eat?

For independent restaurants and food trucks, standing out in the digital landscape is more crucial than ever. Competing with big chains and navigating the challenges of third-party delivery platforms can be daunting. However, a robust local SEO strategy can be a game-changer. Based on my experience working with over 2,000 restaurants, I've compiled 10 actionable tips to enhance your online visibility, attract more customers, and increase your revenue without relying heavily on third-party services.

1. Enhance Your Website's User Experience

Your website is often the first impression potential customers have of your restaurant. According to a study by Google, 57% of users won't recommend a business with a poorly designed mobile site. Ensure your website is mobile-friendly, easy to navigate, and visually appealing. A smooth user experience can turn casual visitors into loyal patrons.
Key Takeaway: Invest in responsive web design and intuitive navigation to keep visitors engaged and encourage them to choose your restaurant.

2. Integrate direct online ordering

Capitalize on the 60% of consumers who prefer ordering directly from a restaurant's website rather than through third-party platforms (Source: National Restaurant Association). By incorporating an online ordering system into your site, you can save up to 30% in commission fees and maintain full control over the customer experience.
Key Takeaway: Use third-party platforms to attract new customers but encourage them to order directly from your website by offering exclusive deals and a seamless ordering process.

3. Utilize a website builder with integrated tools

Simplify your operations by choosing a website builder that offers integrated tools for online ordering, reservations and loyalty programs. Restaurants using these features have seen repeat business grow by 18-25% in my experience. These tools help you streamline processes and provide a better customer experience.
Key Takeaway: Select a website platform that consolidates essential functions, making it easier to manage your restaurant's online presence.

4. Regularly update your site with fresh content

Keep your website dynamic by regularly adding blog posts, updating menus, and announcing promotions. Websites that frequently update content can see a 55% increase in web traffic (Source: HubSpot). Share stories about your team, highlight seasonal dishes, or post about upcoming events to keep customers engaged.
Key takeaway: Fresh content not only appeals to visitors but also signals to search engines that your site is active, improving your search rankings.

5. Optimize your website with local keywords

Local search optimization is vital, with 46% of all Google searches seeking local information (Source: GoGulf). Incorporate keywords like "best tacos in [Your City]" or "authentic Indian cuisine in [Your City]" throughout your site. Tag your menu images with descriptive, keyword-rich titles to enhance visibility in image searches.
Key takeaway: Use local keywords strategically to attract diners searching for specific cuisines or dining experiences in your area.

6. Fully optimize your Google My Business Profile

An optimized Google My Business profile is one of the most effective tools for increasing local visibility. Businesses with complete profiles are 2.7 times more likely to be considered reputable (Source: Google). Ensure your GMB listing includes accurate business hours, contact information, a detailed menu, and high-quality images.
Key takeaway: Regularly update your GMB profile with posts about specials, events, or changes in operations to stay connected with your audience.

7. Maintain Consistent Information Across All Platforms

Consistency in your restaurant's name, address, and phone number (NAP) across all online platforms boosts credibility and improves local search rankings by up to 71% (Source: Moz). Audit your listings on sites like Yelp, TripAdvisor, and social media to ensure all information matches exactly.
Key takeaway: Use tools or services that manage multiple listings to save time and maintain accuracy across the web.

8. Encourage and Engage with Online Reviews

Online reviews significantly influence dining decisions, with 88% of consumers trusting them as much as personal recommendations (Source: BrightLocal). A one-star increase on review sites can lead to a 5-9% increase in revenue (Source: Harvard Business School). Prompt satisfied customers to leave reviews and respond professionally to feedback.
Key akeaway: Actively managing your online reputation builds trust and shows customers that you value their opinions.

9. Stay active and engaging on social media

Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook are powerful tools for connecting with your audience. Regular posting can increase customer engagement by 18% (Source: Sprout Social). Share enticing photos of your dishes, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and updates about specials or events.
Pro Tip: Promote your direct online ordering options on social media. Highlight benefits like exclusive discounts or faster service to encourage followers to order directly from you.

10. Leverage Print Marketing and Direct Messaging

Don't underestimate the power of traditional marketing methods. Distribute flyers or menus in your local area and use SMS or email campaigns to reach customers directly. With 64% of consumers more likely to take action after receiving a text message from a business (Source: EZ Texting), direct messaging can significantly boost online orders and foster customer loyalty.
Key Takeaway: Combine digital and traditional marketing strategies to maximize your reach and reinforce your brand message.

While third-party platforms can introduce your restaurant to new customers, over-reliance on them can erode your profits. By implementing these local SEO strategies, you can increase your online visibility, build direct relationships with your customers, and grow your business sustainably. Focus on enhancing your online presence and providing exceptional experiences that encourage loyalty.

Ready to take control of your restaurant's online success? Start implementing these local SEO tips today and watch your customer base and revenue grow. Feel free to share your experiences or reach out with questions — together, we can thrive in the competitive food industry.

About Bhagwati Bhushan Mishra

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Bhagwati Bhushan Mishra is the visionary Founder and CEO of Fleksa, a trailblazer in digital restaurant solutions. With extensive expertise in tech innovation, Bhagwati has driven Fleksa’s growth, transforming the dining experience through advanced POS systems and AI-driven management tools. His leadership has established Fleksa as a global leader in restaurant technology.

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