In an industry where word of mouth drives success, online reviews are the modern-day equivalent of a glowing recommendation. But how do you turn satisfied diners into vocal advocates for your restaurant? Here’s how to encourage more reviews and grow your venue’s reputation.

In this article:

• Why reviews matter for restaurants
• How to encourage more reviews from diners
• Building a culture of feedback

Why reviews matter for restaurants

Reviews are one of the most powerful marketing tools for restaurants. They help potential customers decide where to dine, build trust in your brand, and improve your visibility on platforms like Google and First Table. The more positive reviews your venue has, the better your chances of attracting new guests and retaining loyal ones.

How to encourage more reviews from diners

Creating an effortless review process and offering subtle incentives can significantly boost the volume of customer feedback.

Deliver an exceptional dining experience

Ask at the right moment

Timing is key when requesting reviews. Encourage feedback when the experience is still fresh, such as when guests are settling their bill. A polite prompt from your team, like “We’d love to hear your feedback online,” can nudge diners to leave a review.

Make it easy to leave reviews

Simplify the process for your customers. Use QR codes on receipts, table tents, or menus that link directly to your preferred review platform. Include clear instructions and encourage customers to share their thoughts with just a few clicks.

Platforms like First Table make collecting and showcasing reviews even easier. With First Table, diners can leave reviews directly through the platform after dining at your restaurant. First Table also sends reminders and incentives to diners to leave reviews that are then pulled through to Google can can help your restaurant become more discoverable online. These reviews not only enhance your profile on the platform but also help attract new diners looking for standout dining experiences.

Leverage email and social media

Follow up with diners after their visit through email or social media. Send a thank-you message and include a direct link to your review page. A personalised touch can increase the likelihood of guests sharing their feedback. Reservation and POS systems can help you collect valuable marketing data like email addresses, visit times and food preferences. Platforms like Me&u connect to help send targeted emails to your customers following their visit.

Incentivise reviews thoughtfully

While it’s essential to avoid offering rewards in exchange for positive reviews (as this can violate platform guidelines like Google, Trip Advisor, and Yelp), you can encourage reviews with general incentives. For instance, running a monthly draw for all reviewers with a chance to win a meal voucher is a great way to encourage participation.

Respond to reviews, both positive and negative

Engaging with reviews shows that you value customer feedback. Thank diners for their positive reviews and address any issues raised in negative ones. This demonstrates your commitment to improving the guest experience and can encourage others to leave reviews.

Building a culture of feedback

Encouraging diners to leave reviews isn’t just about gaining online recognition—it’s about creating a feedback culture where your restaurant can thrive. By delivering memorable experiences, asking at the right time, and making the process simple, you can harness the power of reviews to grow your business.

Conclusion

Reviews are more than words on a screen—they’re a powerful way to connect with your diners, improve your offerings, and attract new customers. By implementing these strategies, you’ll create an environment that not only encourages feedback but also celebrates it.