Complete Guide to Build a Strategy That Drives More Sales
Good food matters, but it’s not enough. A modern restaurant should feel welcoming, run well, and keep in touch with guests. This guide has 16 simple yet effective ways to increase your restaurant sales.
1. Use tech to work smarter
Digital tools like POS systems, QR menus, and order screens make service quicker and more accurate. They keep things running smoothly and help staff work better. If your setup feels outdated, consider upgrading to save time and improve service. Choose tools that track sales in real time and link with your delivery services.
2. Train your team to upsell
Teach your staff how to suggest add-ons in a natural way. For example, if someone orders a burger, suggest fries or a drink. Good upselling doesn’t feel pushy—it feels helpful. Also, give your team regular training on menu knowledge and guest interaction so they can feel more confident when making recommendations. This is one of the easiest ways to increase restaurant sales without advertising.
3. Offer online ordering
People love convenience. Set up your own online ordering page so customers can place takeout or pickup orders directly. You’ll save on third-party delivery fees and build stronger connections with your guests. Make sure your online menu is easy to read, mobile-friendly, and includes mouth-watering photos of your top dishes.
4. Build simple and effective loyalty program
Give people a reason to come back. Use a digital loyalty app for restaurants like TurboPush to reward regulars. It is easy to use, works with both Apple and Google Wallets, and helps with boosting restaurant sales over time. A good loyalty program should be easy to join, offer clear rewards, and make guests feel appreciated.
5. Keep your menu fresh
Update your menu every few months. Offer fresh seasonal options, take off items that do not sell well, and highlight the ones that bring in more profit. This keeps customers interested and helps your bottom line. Try featuring local ingredients or running limited-time specials to create buzz.
6. Take good care of your google profile
Make sure your business shows up when people search for food nearby. Update your hours, post photos, and reply to reviews. This small step can go a long way in getting new customers in the door. Ask happy guests to leave a review and thank them publicly when they do.
7. Host small events
Live music, trivia nights, or cooking classes bring in new faces and give regulars a reason to return. These events are great for marketing for restaurants, especially on slower nights. You can also tie them to holidays or local happenings to get more interest.
8. Start emailing your guests
Ask for emails when people order online or book a table. Then send updates about new dishes, events, or special offers. A quick monthly email can remind guests to come back. Keep emails short, friendly, and include good visuals.
9. Let customers reserve tables online
Online reservations make things easier for both guests and staff. Use a simple system on your website or through your social media pages. It helps avoid long waits and shows that you’re organized. Let guests pick a time, party size, and even leave notes for special requests.
10. Add a catering option
Offering catering can bring in steady income from offices, parties, and events. A small menu and a clear delivery plan are enough to start catering. Let people know about it with online posts and printed promos.
11. Create a simple blog
Start a blog on your website and write about your food, staff stories, or local events. It helps your website show up in Google and gives people a reason to visit your site. It’s a low-cost restaurant growth service that works over time. Aim for one post per month that adds value or answers common customer questions.
12. Partner with local businesses
Team up with other businesses around you—like gyms, salons, or stores. Share promos, run events together, or give out mutual discounts. It's a smart way to bring in more customers without spending much.
13. Get more from your online reviews
Ask happy customers to leave a review. Put up a sign or add a note on receipts. Then respond to reviews—even the bad ones. It shows you care and helps attract new guests. Positive reviews can also be turned into social proof on your website or Instagram.
14. Highlight your best sellers
Make choosing easier by pointing out your best-sellers with a simple tag on the menu. This not only guides new customers but helps with how to boost restaurant sales naturally. If you know something sells well, lean into it with better placement or photos.
15. Offer drink or meal combos
Bundle a drink with an appetizer or dessert for a better deal. People love getting value, and it often increases the average check size. You can even offer combo upgrades during online checkout to raise ticket totals.
16. Try delivery on your own terms
If you don’t want to rely on apps, consider doing local delivery yourself. Set a small delivery zone and use your own staff. It helps you keep more profit and gives you more control over quality. This is a great example of how to increase restaurant delivery sales without giving away a big cut to third parties.
There are many ways to increase restaurant sales, and you don’t have to do everything at once. Start with a few small changes and build from there. These tips can help with both running things smoother and growing your business. Keep it simple, focus on your customers, and stay consistent. Try new ideas, pay attention to what works, and keep improving.
Get started with TurboPush to connect with your customers and keep them coming back!