Social Media Marketing for Restaurants: Tips to Boost Engagement
- Kelvin Betances
- 1 hour ago
- 3 min read
Social media is a powerful driver of online orders, repeat business, and local discovery. Whether you're running a fast-casual taco spot or a multi-location brunch chain, social media marketing for restaurants can turn passive scrollers into loyal customers.
In this article, we’ll break down the platforms, content strategies, and engagement techniques that help restaurants thrive on social—and how to turn that engagement into real revenue.
Choose the Right Platforms (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok)
Not every platform fits every restaurant. Choosing the right ones depends on your audience and content style:
Instagram is ideal for beautiful food photos, daily specials, and behind-the-scenes stories. It’s a top platform for brand-building and visual identity.
Facebook helps with local discovery, events, and community engagement. It’s also great for boosting posts and running ads targeting specific neighborhoods.
TikTok works best for fast-paced content, fun videos, and trends. Show off your staff, food prep, or customer reactions in short, engaging clips.
Use geotags and hashtags to boost visibility and connect with nearby diners. The more localized your content, the more likely you are to attract new foot traffic and delivery orders.
Post Irresistible Food Content Regularly
Your food is your best marketing asset. Focus your content strategy on what your customers crave—visually and emotionally.
Tips:
Post during peak hunger hours (11am–1pm and 5–7pm)
Use natural lighting and close-up shots for visual appeal
Highlight menu items, limited-time offers, and specials
Share stories: your origin, your team, and your regulars
Showcase user-generated content from tagged photos and reviews
Consistency is key—aim for 3–5 posts per week to stay top of mind.
Engage with Followers & Encourage Reviews
Great content is only half the equation. Engagement builds community—and social proof.
Reply to comments and DMs within 24 hours
Repost customer photos and stories (with permission)
Use polls, stickers, and Q&A features in stories to start conversations
Encourage reviews via social captions or after-order messages
Offer small rewards (e.g., 10% off) for tagging your restaurant or leaving a review
Every comment, share, and tag increases your visibility—not just on social, but in local search as well.
1. What’s the best social media platform for restaurants?
Instagram is the go-to platform for most restaurants due to its visual nature, while Facebook is ideal for events and local ads. TikTok works well for casual, trend-based content.
2. How often should a restaurant post on social media?
3. What kind of content should restaurants post on social media?
4. How can social media help increase online orders?
5. Does Sauce help with social media marketing?
Turn Scrolls Into Sales
Done right, social media helps restaurants stay connected, visible, and top of mind—whether customers are walking by or ordering online.
By showing off your food, engaging your followers, and linking to your online ordering platform, you turn likes and comments into real business outcomes. Tools like Sauce make this even easier by integrating direct ordering links and promos into your digital presence.
