Don't just add flavor to your food, add flavor to your website

A Strong Website Brings Hungry Customers to Your Kitchen

As a restaurant owner,  your daily to-do list can sometimes seem never-ending. With many tasks to accomplish, a website design might be the last of your worries but we’re about to share helpful information that may change your mind. Did you know that a successful website can help increase sales by 60%? This generation of consumers are more tech-savvy than ever before. For example, it’s estimated that 89% of customers will visit the online profile of a store or restaurant before even making a reservation. Thanks to online review sites like Yelp and Google, the online presence of a restaurant relies heavily on online marketing to grab the attention of consumers and ensure the sale before the consumer ever enters the door.

First impressions make a difference

Just as your cuisine separates you from competitors, a strong website will do the same pre-visit! Modern consumers need a seamless introduction to your unique preparations and highlights of the restaurant's ambiance. Potential customers want a pre-sense of what their experience will be.

First things first

Simplifying your website can be easy and inexpensive. It needs to be informative, engaging, and reflective of your restaurant’s best features. Maybe you have a unique style that sets it apart, this is a perfect venue to showcase it. 

Your virtual restaurant should easily feature:

• hours of operation
• menu with prices
• location
• payment methods 

Baobab did an excellent job on their navigation. The menu and how to contact them are clear easy to find.

Avoid playing hide and seek Make sure the contact information is easily accessible no matter what page the customer is on. Your customer should never have to spend more than 1 minute searching for anything. Always promote local businesses but avoid web-host ads on your homepage, this can be distracting.

Engage!

Interactive websites allow customers to experience your business in real-time, underlining convenience once again. Features that allow guests to book a reservation, view menu items/pricing and order online will benefit not only your customers but also your own productivity. 


Showcase images and social media posts to reflect your popularity. 

Map your location

Parking details, mention surrounding business that will lead customers to your door.


Blog

Keep an updated blog on your site to promote upcoming events or new happy hour specials. It is important to be active on blog posts to build your online following of foodies, bloggers, travelers or return customers. Consumers buy the story just as much as they buy the product.

In conclusion

Your online presence is important to this generation of consumers. Think of your website like a screen door into your restaurant. It should reflect the elements that set your restaurant apart from others and introduce your customers to the styles and flavors revolving around your kitchen.