Suddenly Quiet? 30 Ways to Promote Your Restaurant or Cafe in the Next 7 Days
In hospitality, we have to move fast, be agile and make rapid changes – it never stops. As a restaurant or cafe owner, you don’t always have the luxury of time or a big budget. With a dash of creativity and a shot of clever thinking, you can make a significant impact with urgent restaurant marketing. Here are dozens of ideas to quickly boost your business and attract more customers, all by mixing and matching the distribution methods with the promotional messages.
A strong Call to Action (CTA) in all of these promotions is essential. A compelling CTA is a bridge between your customer’s interest and their decision to take action, such as making a reservation or visiting your cafe. It gives a sense of direction and urgency, encouraging people to act now rather than later. Without a strong CTA, even the most enticing promotion could fail to turn into results – it can make urgent restaurant marketing very effective.
Examples of Calls to Action – Tell Customers to Do It Now!
– Book Your Table Today! Secure your spot for a great dining experience. – Order Now for Free Delivery! Enjoy your favourites without leaving home. – Join Our Loyalty Club! Sign up and earn rewards with every visit. – Limited Time Offer! Enjoy 20% off your next meal. – Visit Us This Weekend! Try our new menu and let us know your favourite. – Follow Us for Updates! Stay in the loop with the latest events and offers. – Reserve Your Spot! Our special dinner is just around the corner. – Share Your Experience! Tag us and show off your meal for a chance to win. – Gift Vouchers Available! Perfect for birthdays and special occasions. – Feedback Welcome! Let us know how we’re doing and how we can improve. – Share Your Thoughts! Leave a review and help others discover our flavours. – Loved Your Meal? Tell us about it! Leave a review on Google or Facebook.
The Top 30 List…
In putting these two lists together, we’ve worked on these principles:
Cut through the noise with a pattern interrupt or surprise
Don’t be too polite, but always be friendly
Sound enthusiastic but not desperate
Make it a genuinely valuable deal, not just 10% off
Do your costings – don’t give away the shop with profitless deals
Perfection is the enemy of progress – don’t worry about amazing graphics or a cutting-edge email system; no time for that! Good enough will be great… if you do it this week!
15 Promotional Channels for Urgent Restaurant Marketing
There are more you could use with time for planning and testing, but these are the ones you can do overnight when the need is urgent! Also suitable for cafes, bars, pubs and clubs!
Rev Up Your Social Media Advertising: Use platforms like Facebook and Instagram to promote special deals to local audiences. This is the fastest way to get in people’s faces! Create friendly messages that highlight your best food and drinks or new menu items. Make sure to include a good call to action, then put some money behind a campaign for the next few weeks. Test and measure the results – this is an important marketing skill to develop.
Re-engage With Local Facebook Groups: Every town or suburb has groups for people who share news and local issues, swap furniture and find photos from the past. If you’ve been fairly active in these groups, offer them something generous and juicy – maybe as a fundraiser for a local cause. But don’t start promoting if you’re new to the group – not a good look and you’ll probably be removed.
Introduce Some New Menu Items: Even if it’s just reworking food or beverages done before, it’s a chance to ‘share the good news’ and make some noise in your email, SMS or signage. This is not doing an entirely new menu – that will take too long.
Add a Promotion with Every Bill or Counter Sale: Use the postcards mentioned below and include them with all transactions, plus a smile and reminder from the person who hands it out.
Send a Friendly Feedback Survey: Just 3 questions, and (of course) use the results to make improvements in your service or menu. But the main purpose is to make contact with people and remind them that you’re still around with a great product! Offer a special deal for everyone who responds and a lucky prize draw. Send another email or text message to let them know about the results, and include a different promotion from the collection below.
Print and Share Post Cards: Design something catchy using one of the offers below – Canva is a great way to do quick and easy designs. Take the PDF to your local printer and ask for next-day delivery (hint – they’re probably quiet, too!). Use these for a handout to early morning or afternoon commuters at the local train station, or in a shopping street or for letterboxing.
Letterbox Leaflets: Design simple flyers with your menu, special offers, and contact details. Distribute them in the local area to reach potential customers who may not be aware of your business. Add a discount code or a special deal for first-time customers to encourage them to visit – a call to action. Don’t overthink the design, and use a Canva template with your colours and logo – the local printer can have these ready for you in 24 hours! Contract with some reliable locals to distribute them in areas you nominate. Or use a professional letterboxing company or the post office to send out ‘unaddressed mail’. Unless you need a lot of exercise, don’t pretend you and the family will do these in your spare hours – it’s not a good use of your time!
Go For a Walk! Connect personally with local businesses – hand out a card and a menu; they probably know who you are already. Resist any attempts to talk about ‘how tough it is’ – your job is to be cheerful and positive. Maybe they need catering for meetings, or didn’t know about your delivery service? People love to meet the owners of cafes and restaurants – many of them dream of doing this one day!
Partner with Local Businesses: such as gyms, salons, or retail stores, to offer joint promotions – they’re probably feeling the pinch too! For example, customers who show a receipt from the partnered business could get a discount at your restaurant or cafe – simple to organise! Put together a simple flyer with the offer (based on designs you’ve used already), and give them 50 to use. Test and measure, and repeat if it works.
Celebrate a Special Day: The chef’s birthday, a local anniversary or a day related to food… or just make it up! There are hundreds of these ‘official days’, and now it’s time to go a little crazy – look for the Days of the Year link in our Foodie Coaches Events & Promotions Page. Make a noise, look different.
Run a Surprise Night or Event: Organise something special such as live music, a trivia night, or a tasting event featuring new menu items – whatever can be done at short notice. Promote them through social media and local community boards. Check what’s available on the Events & Promotions Page – so much inspiration, it’s time to use these!
Send Emails to Customers and Suppliers: If you’re not doing this yet, don’t wait to set up Mailchimp or a complex service – that can be for next time! Send a friendly, plain-text email to as many people on your list as possible, using one of the offers below. Don’t worry about personalising it with their name – that’s later. You can group them 10 at a time and BCC the email addresses so you don’t share the contacts. Can you get the first batch out tonight?
Look through your email inbox and any communication you’ve had with people over the last 12 months—there are sure to be dozens, even hundreds. Who in your team or family can help you get this list together? You can also find customer emails in your booking or loyalty system, inquiry emails, the contact form on your website (do you know where these messages go?), or gaming and betting systems if that’s part of your business.
Contact Previous Group Booking Organisers: These people are gold! They’re often the person in an office, social or sporting group who arranges all the events, and maybe they’re looking to organise the next one. Throw in some ‘soft-dollar’ items to get a deal across the line – free room hire, a complimentary drink or canapes on arrival, or a lucky door prize (like a gift voucher).
Ask for Supplier Support: How they can support you with rock-bottom-priced stock or something about to go out of date? This will be used in the crazy-priced special you put together – maybe including the supplier’s name will help you get the deal across the line.
Urgent Staff Training: Make time to retrain your staff in upselling techniques – aim to add dollars to every single transaction. Don’t explain this to them as wanting to flog more sales, but adding to customer service and anticipating their wants (which it is). Teach them how to recommend add-ons or more expensive dishes to customers in a friendly and non-intrusive way. Do the training in small groups or pairs so you don’t have to wait for an all-hands meeting.
15 Special Restaurant, Cafe and Bar Promotions to Attract Customers.
Use these urgent restaurant marketing ideas to create a special ‘call to action’ with any of the distribution channels listed above…
Limited Time Offer! Subject: Your Exclusive Invitation to Indulge – This Weekend Only! “Hello [Name], we’re just rolling out the red carpet for you! Treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience this weekend with our special 2-for-1 deal on all main courses. It’s our way of saying thank you for being a valued part of our family. Don’t let this exclusive offer pass you by – reserve your table now and make this weekend a memorable one!”
Early Bird Special Subject: Be the Early Bird – Delicious Rewards Await! “Good news, [Name]! Our Early Bird Special is back by popular demand! Book your table between 5-7 PM this week and enjoy a complimentary meal on us – order one and get the second one free. It’s the perfect start to a great evening. Hurry, this special treat is just for our early diners – reserve your spot today!”
Sweet Tooth Alert! Subject: Flash Sale Alert: Decadent Desserts In the House! “Attention, sweet tooths! For the next 48 hours, indulge in our amazing desserts at half price. Whether our rich chocolate lava cake or the creamy lemon cheesecake, it’s a little slice of heaven waiting for you. Don’t miss out on this sweet deal – book your table now and end your meal on a high note!”
Special Customer Exclusive Subject: A Special Treat for Our Valued Customers – This Week Only! “Dear [Name], as a valued dining club member, we’re excited to offer you an exclusive 20% off your total bill this week. It’s our way of saying thank you for your continued support. Come and enjoy your favourite dishes or try something new – the choice is yours. Book your table now and enjoy your special discount!”
Don’t Miss Out! Subject: The Clock is Ticking on This Mouth-Watering Deal! “Hey [Name], ready for a taste adventure? Our chef’s special dish is making waves, and it’s available for a limited time only! Dive in before it’s gone and discover what everyone’s raving about. Book your spot now – this culinary journey waits for no one!”
Exclusive Invitation Subject: Be One of Our Special People – VIP Event This Sunday! “Dear [Name], you’re warmly invited to an exclusive VIP night at our restaurant this Friday. Indulge in a unique menu crafted just for the occasion, and enjoy a complimentary welcome drink on arrival. Space is limited, and this event is reserved for our most valued patrons. Secure your place today and be part of an unforgettable evening!”
Happy Hour Extended Promotion: “Double the Fun with Our Extended Happy Hour!” “Join us this week for an extra-long Happy Hour! From [Start Time] to [End Time], enjoy 2-for-1 deals on all our signature cocktails and selected beers. Bring your friends and make the most of these thirst-quenching savings. Cheers to good times and great drinks!”
Live Music Nights Promotion: “Sip to the Sound – Free Drink with Live Music!” “Experience the magic of live music at our bar this [Day]! With every purchase of a drink, get your second one on us during the performance. Sit back, relax, and let the rhythm of the night take you away. Reserve your spot now for an unforgettable evening.”
Celebrate Your Birthday with Us! Subject: [Name], Make Your Birthday Extra Special at Our Restaurant! “Hello [Name], is your birthday coming up? Or perhaps you’ve just celebrated? We believe every birthday deserves a grand celebration! As our gift to you, enjoy a complimentary dessert when you dine with us during your birthday month. No need to show proof, we trust you! Just mention this offer when you book your table. Let’s make your birthday (or belated birthday) a deliciously memorable one!”
Bring Your Mates Along! Subject: [Name], It’s Time for Mate’s Rates at Our Place! “Hello [Name], nothing better than a good meal shared with great mates! We’re introducing our ‘Mate’s Rates’ offer to celebrate friendship. When you bring a friend who’s new to our restaurant, both of you will enjoy a [Discount]% discount on your meals. It’s our way of saying thank you for spreading the word and bringing more smiles to our tables. Gather your crew, and let’s make it a night to remember!”
Last Chance Alert! Subject: Final Call: Your Favourite Dish is Saying Goodbye! “Hello [Name], it’s your last chance to savour the flavours of our beloved [Dish Name] before it bids farewell to our menu. Don’t let this opportunity slip away – come in this week and give it the send-off it deserves. Reserve your table now and let’s make it a meal to remember!”
Early Bird Special Subject: Early Birds Get the Best Deals – Limited Offer! “Good morning [Name]! Start your day on a high note with our Early Bird Special. From now until [Date], enjoy a [Discount]% discount on your breakfast when you dine with us between [Time] and [Time]. It’s the perfect way to kickstart your day – but hurry, this offer is as fleeting as the morning dew!”
We Miss You! Subject: It’s Been Too Long, [Name] – Let’s Catch Up! “Hello [Name], we’ve noticed it’s been a while since your last visit, and we’ve missed your presence! We’re offering a special [Discount]% off your next meal with us to welcome you back. Rekindle your love for your favourite dishes and discover what’s new on our menu. Let’s make new memories together – reserve your table now!”
Apologies for the Silence! Subject: [Name], We’ve Missed You… Really! “Dear [Name], we know it’s been too long since we’ve sent out our newsletter, and we’re truly sorry! To make amends, we’re offering you a heartfelt [Discount]% discount on your next visit. Let’s catch up on lost time and create some new special moments. Book your table now – we’re eagerly awaiting your return!”
Come Back and Be Surprised Subject: [Name], We’ve Got Something New for You! “Dear [Name], it feels like ages since we last saw you! We’ve been busy cooking up some exciting new additions to our menu, and we can’t wait for you to try them. As a valued patron, we’re offering you a complimentary [Special Offer] on your next visit. Come back and let us surprise you with our latest culinary creations!”
Your Table Is Waiting Subject: [Name], Your Table Has Been Lonely Without You! “Hey [Name], your favourite table at our restaurant has been feeling a bit lonely lately. We’d love to see you back, filling the room with warmth and laughter. Enjoy a [Special Offer] on us when you dine this week to make your return even sweeter. Let’s catch up on lost time and make it a meal to remember!”
How To Do Urgent Restaurant Marketing Without Looking Desperate!
It’s important to strike a balance between enticing customers and maintaining a confident image. Let your passion for your business and your excitement for the event come through in your promotions. Authenticity is attractive and can draw people in.
Focus on the Experience: Emphasise the unique and enjoyable experience customers will have at your event. Highlight the quality of your food, the ambience of your restaurant, and the fun of the event itself.
Limited Time Offers: Position your promotions as exclusive or limited. This creates a sense of urgency and makes the offer seem more valuable. FOMO works!
Customer Appreciation: Frame your promotions as a way of thanking people for their support. This shifts the focus from your need for more business to your desire to give back to your patrons.
Maintain Consistent Branding: Make sure that your promotional materials and messages are consistent with your brand. This helps to build trust and recognition with your customers.
In hospitality, we have to move fast, be agile and make rapid changes – it never stops. As a restaurant or cafe owner, you don’t always have the luxury of time or a big budget. With a dash of creativity and a shot of clever thinking, you can make a significant impact with urgent restaurant marketing. Here are dozens of ideas to quickly boost your business and attract more customers, all by mixing and matching the distribution methods with the promotional messages.
A strong Call to Action (CTA) in all of these promotions is essential. A compelling CTA is a bridge between your customer’s interest and their decision to take action, such as making a reservation or visiting your cafe. It gives a sense of direction and urgency, encouraging people to act now rather than later. Without a strong CTA, even the most enticing promotion could fail to turn into results – it can make urgent restaurant marketing very effective.
Examples of Calls to Action – Tell Customers to Do It Now!
– Book Your Table Today! Secure your spot for a great dining experience.
– Order Now for Free Delivery! Enjoy your favourites without leaving home.
– Join Our Loyalty Club! Sign up and earn rewards with every visit.
– Limited Time Offer! Enjoy 20% off your next meal.
– Visit Us This Weekend! Try our new menu and let us know your favourite.
– Follow Us for Updates! Stay in the loop with the latest events and offers.
– Reserve Your Spot! Our special dinner is just around the corner.
– Share Your Experience! Tag us and show off your meal for a chance to win.
– Gift Vouchers Available! Perfect for birthdays and special occasions.
– Feedback Welcome! Let us know how we’re doing and how we can improve.
– Share Your Thoughts! Leave a review and help others discover our flavours.
– Loved Your Meal? Tell us about it! Leave a review on Google or Facebook.
The Top 30 List…
In putting these two lists together, we’ve worked on these principles:
15 Promotional Channels for Urgent Restaurant Marketing
There are more you could use with time for planning and testing, but these are the ones you can do overnight when the need is urgent! Also suitable for cafes, bars, pubs and clubs!
Rev Up Your Social Media Advertising: Use platforms like Facebook and Instagram to promote special deals to local audiences. This is the fastest way to get in people’s faces! Create friendly messages that highlight your best food and drinks or new menu items. Make sure to include a good call to action, then put some money behind a campaign for the next few weeks. Test and measure the results – this is an important marketing skill to develop.
Re-engage With Local Facebook Groups: Every town or suburb has groups for people who share news and local issues, swap furniture and find photos from the past. If you’ve been fairly active in these groups, offer them something generous and juicy – maybe as a fundraiser for a local cause. But don’t start promoting if you’re new to the group – not a good look and you’ll probably be removed.
Introduce Some New Menu Items: Even if it’s just reworking food or beverages done before, it’s a chance to ‘share the good news’ and make some noise in your email, SMS or signage. This is not doing an entirely new menu – that will take too long.
Add a Promotion with Every Bill or Counter Sale: Use the postcards mentioned below and include them with all transactions, plus a smile and reminder from the person who hands it out.
Send a Friendly Feedback Survey: Just 3 questions, and (of course) use the results to make improvements in your service or menu. But the main purpose is to make contact with people and remind them that you’re still around with a great product! Offer a special deal for everyone who responds and a lucky prize draw. Send another email or text message to let them know about the results, and include a different promotion from the collection below.
Print and Share Post Cards: Design something catchy using one of the offers below – Canva is a great way to do quick and easy designs. Take the PDF to your local printer and ask for next-day delivery (hint – they’re probably quiet, too!). Use these for a handout to early morning or afternoon commuters at the local train station, or in a shopping street or for letterboxing.
Letterbox Leaflets: Design simple flyers with your menu, special offers, and contact details. Distribute them in the local area to reach potential customers who may not be aware of your business. Add a discount code or a special deal for first-time customers to encourage them to visit – a call to action. Don’t overthink the design, and use a Canva template with your colours and logo – the local printer can have these ready for you in 24 hours! Contract with some reliable locals to distribute them in areas you nominate. Or use a professional letterboxing company or the post office to send out ‘unaddressed mail’. Unless you need a lot of exercise, don’t pretend you and the family will do these in your spare hours – it’s not a good use of your time!
Go For a Walk! Connect personally with local businesses – hand out a card and a menu; they probably know who you are already. Resist any attempts to talk about ‘how tough it is’ – your job is to be cheerful and positive. Maybe they need catering for meetings, or didn’t know about your delivery service? People love to meet the owners of cafes and restaurants – many of them dream of doing this one day!
Partner with Local Businesses: such as gyms, salons, or retail stores, to offer joint promotions – they’re probably feeling the pinch too! For example, customers who show a receipt from the partnered business could get a discount at your restaurant or cafe – simple to organise! Put together a simple flyer with the offer (based on designs you’ve used already), and give them 50 to use. Test and measure, and repeat if it works.
Celebrate a Special Day: The chef’s birthday, a local anniversary or a day related to food… or just make it up! There are hundreds of these ‘official days’, and now it’s time to go a little crazy – look for the Days of the Year link in our Foodie Coaches Events & Promotions Page. Make a noise, look different.
Run a Surprise Night or Event: Organise something special such as live music, a trivia night, or a tasting event featuring new menu items – whatever can be done at short notice. Promote them through social media and local community boards. Check what’s available on the Events & Promotions Page – so much inspiration, it’s time to use these!
Send Emails to Customers and Suppliers: If you’re not doing this yet, don’t wait to set up Mailchimp or a complex service – that can be for next time! Send a friendly, plain-text email to as many people on your list as possible, using one of the offers below. Don’t worry about personalising it with their name – that’s later. You can group them 10 at a time and BCC the email addresses so you don’t share the contacts. Can you get the first batch out tonight?
Look through your email inbox and any communication you’ve had with people over the last 12 months—there are sure to be dozens, even hundreds. Who in your team or family can help you get this list together? You can also find customer emails in your booking or loyalty system, inquiry emails, the contact form on your website (do you know where these messages go?), or gaming and betting systems if that’s part of your business.
Contact Previous Group Booking Organisers: These people are gold! They’re often the person in an office, social or sporting group who arranges all the events, and maybe they’re looking to organise the next one. Throw in some ‘soft-dollar’ items to get a deal across the line – free room hire, a complimentary drink or canapes on arrival, or a lucky door prize (like a gift voucher).
Ask for Supplier Support: How they can support you with rock-bottom-priced stock or something about to go out of date? This will be used in the crazy-priced special you put together – maybe including the supplier’s name will help you get the deal across the line.
Urgent Staff Training: Make time to retrain your staff in upselling techniques – aim to add dollars to every single transaction. Don’t explain this to them as wanting to flog more sales, but adding to customer service and anticipating their wants (which it is). Teach them how to recommend add-ons or more expensive dishes to customers in a friendly and non-intrusive way. Do the training in small groups or pairs so you don’t have to wait for an all-hands meeting.
15 Special Restaurant, Cafe and Bar Promotions to Attract Customers.
Use these urgent restaurant marketing ideas to create a special ‘call to action’ with any of the distribution channels listed above…
Limited Time Offer!
Subject: Your Exclusive Invitation to Indulge – This Weekend Only!
“Hello [Name], we’re just rolling out the red carpet for you! Treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience this weekend with our special 2-for-1 deal on all main courses. It’s our way of saying thank you for being a valued part of our family. Don’t let this exclusive offer pass you by – reserve your table now and make this weekend a memorable one!”
Early Bird Special
Subject: Be the Early Bird – Delicious Rewards Await!
“Good news, [Name]! Our Early Bird Special is back by popular demand! Book your table between 5-7 PM this week and enjoy a complimentary meal on us – order one and get the second one free. It’s the perfect start to a great evening. Hurry, this special treat is just for our early diners – reserve your spot today!”
Sweet Tooth Alert!
Subject: Flash Sale Alert: Decadent Desserts In the House!
“Attention, sweet tooths! For the next 48 hours, indulge in our amazing desserts at half price. Whether our rich chocolate lava cake or the creamy lemon cheesecake, it’s a little slice of heaven waiting for you. Don’t miss out on this sweet deal – book your table now and end your meal on a high note!”
Special Customer Exclusive
Subject: A Special Treat for Our Valued Customers – This Week Only!
“Dear [Name], as a valued dining club member, we’re excited to offer you an exclusive 20% off your total bill this week. It’s our way of saying thank you for your continued support. Come and enjoy your favourite dishes or try something new – the choice is yours. Book your table now and enjoy your special discount!”
Don’t Miss Out!
Subject: The Clock is Ticking on This Mouth-Watering Deal!
“Hey [Name], ready for a taste adventure? Our chef’s special dish is making waves, and it’s available for a limited time only! Dive in before it’s gone and discover what everyone’s raving about. Book your spot now – this culinary journey waits for no one!”
Exclusive Invitation
Subject: Be One of Our Special People – VIP Event This Sunday!
“Dear [Name], you’re warmly invited to an exclusive VIP night at our restaurant this Friday. Indulge in a unique menu crafted just for the occasion, and enjoy a complimentary welcome drink on arrival. Space is limited, and this event is reserved for our most valued patrons. Secure your place today and be part of an unforgettable evening!”
Happy Hour Extended
Promotion: “Double the Fun with Our Extended Happy Hour!”
“Join us this week for an extra-long Happy Hour! From [Start Time] to [End Time], enjoy 2-for-1 deals on all our signature cocktails and selected beers. Bring your friends and make the most of these thirst-quenching savings. Cheers to good times and great drinks!”
Live Music Nights
Promotion: “Sip to the Sound – Free Drink with Live Music!”
“Experience the magic of live music at our bar this [Day]! With every purchase of a drink, get your second one on us during the performance. Sit back, relax, and let the rhythm of the night take you away. Reserve your spot now for an unforgettable evening.”
Celebrate Your Birthday with Us!
Subject: [Name], Make Your Birthday Extra Special at Our Restaurant!
“Hello [Name], is your birthday coming up? Or perhaps you’ve just celebrated? We believe every birthday deserves a grand celebration! As our gift to you, enjoy a complimentary dessert when you dine with us during your birthday month. No need to show proof, we trust you! Just mention this offer when you book your table. Let’s make your birthday (or belated birthday) a deliciously memorable one!”
Bring Your Mates Along!
Subject: [Name], It’s Time for Mate’s Rates at Our Place!
“Hello [Name], nothing better than a good meal shared with great mates! We’re introducing our ‘Mate’s Rates’ offer to celebrate friendship. When you bring a friend who’s new to our restaurant, both of you will enjoy a [Discount]% discount on your meals. It’s our way of saying thank you for spreading the word and bringing more smiles to our tables. Gather your crew, and let’s make it a night to remember!”
Last Chance Alert!
Subject: Final Call: Your Favourite Dish is Saying Goodbye!
“Hello [Name], it’s your last chance to savour the flavours of our beloved [Dish Name] before it bids farewell to our menu. Don’t let this opportunity slip away – come in this week and give it the send-off it deserves. Reserve your table now and let’s make it a meal to remember!”
Early Bird Special
Subject: Early Birds Get the Best Deals – Limited Offer!
“Good morning [Name]! Start your day on a high note with our Early Bird Special. From now until [Date], enjoy a [Discount]% discount on your breakfast when you dine with us between [Time] and [Time]. It’s the perfect way to kickstart your day – but hurry, this offer is as fleeting as the morning dew!”
We Miss You!
Subject: It’s Been Too Long, [Name] – Let’s Catch Up!
“Hello [Name], we’ve noticed it’s been a while since your last visit, and we’ve missed your presence! We’re offering a special [Discount]% off your next meal with us to welcome you back. Rekindle your love for your favourite dishes and discover what’s new on our menu. Let’s make new memories together – reserve your table now!”
Apologies for the Silence!
Subject: [Name], We’ve Missed You… Really!
“Dear [Name], we know it’s been too long since we’ve sent out our newsletter, and we’re truly sorry! To make amends, we’re offering you a heartfelt [Discount]% discount on your next visit. Let’s catch up on lost time and create some new special moments. Book your table now – we’re eagerly awaiting your return!”
Come Back and Be Surprised
Subject: [Name], We’ve Got Something New for You!
“Dear [Name], it feels like ages since we last saw you! We’ve been busy cooking up some exciting new additions to our menu, and we can’t wait for you to try them. As a valued patron, we’re offering you a complimentary [Special Offer] on your next visit. Come back and let us surprise you with our latest culinary creations!”
Your Table Is Waiting
Subject: [Name], Your Table Has Been Lonely Without You!
“Hey [Name], your favourite table at our restaurant has been feeling a bit lonely lately. We’d love to see you back, filling the room with warmth and laughter. Enjoy a [Special Offer] on us when you dine this week to make your return even sweeter. Let’s catch up on lost time and make it a meal to remember!”
See also: How to Start an Email Newsletter for Your Restaurant or Cafe
How To Do Urgent Restaurant Marketing Without Looking Desperate!
It’s important to strike a balance between enticing customers and maintaining a confident image. Let your passion for your business and your excitement for the event come through in your promotions. Authenticity is attractive and can draw people in.
Focus on the Experience: Emphasise the unique and enjoyable experience customers will have at your event. Highlight the quality of your food, the ambience of your restaurant, and the fun of the event itself.
Limited Time Offers: Position your promotions as exclusive or limited. This creates a sense of urgency and makes the offer seem more valuable. FOMO works!
Customer Appreciation: Frame your promotions as a way of thanking people for their support. This shifts the focus from your need for more business to your desire to give back to your patrons.
Maintain Consistent Branding: Make sure that your promotional materials and messages are consistent with your brand. This helps to build trust and recognition with your customers.
Check the other useful blog posts on the Foodie Coaches website…
Want to get some 1 on 1 help with your business? Talk to one of our coaches