How American Restaurants Cater to Local Tastes in 2024

In 2023, the dining landscape in the United States witnessed a post-pandemic shift in consumer preferences, with restaurant searches reflecting a desire for specific qualities related to restaurants near that person. Local establishments have a unique opportunity to cater to these needs and elevate their visibility within their communities.

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One of the biggest visibility-sapping issues we see with restaurant clients is a lack of highlights in their ads and on their website about particularly desirable qualities their restaurant has, BEYOND the menu.

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Have a patio? Don't assume they'll find out based on pictures alone.

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Are you near the person searching? They may not realize this or even know it's walkable to you.

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Is your view amazing? Again, don't assume photos in your review or on your website will be enough.

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You have to SAY so. If not, you're missing warm customers who want exactly what you have.

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Let's explore how American restaurants can effectively promote these qualities to attract diners and ensure they're visible when a person nearby makes that search.

The best part about the trends below is that if your properties already have them, gaining more sales from them requires only a few tweaks to your advertising and content strategy.

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"To Eat Near Me" - Highlight Your Accessibility

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Advertising angle: "Right Around the Corner: [Restaurant Name] - Your Ultimate Local Dining Spot."

Platform: Google and Bing Search

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Emphasize locality in marketing materials. Optimize online listings and ensure the restaurant's website is mobile-friendly, making it easy for potential customers to find and access essential information quickly.

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"Outdoor Seating" - Have a Patio? Make Sure They Know

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Advertising angle: "Dine Under the Open Sky: [Restaurant Name]'s Outdoor Oasis."

Platform: Google and Bing Search

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Showcase outdoor seating areas in visuals and descriptions. Use social media platforms to share images of patrons enjoying the outdoor ambiance, encouraging others to experience it for themselves.

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"With Soup" - Sell Soup? Then Highlight This!

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Advertising angle: Soul-Soothing Soups: [Restaurant Name]'s Comfort in Every Spoonful."

Platform: Google and Bing Search

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Highlight a diverse and delicious soup menu. Feature seasonal specials and engage with the community through social media, inviting them to warm up with a bowl of your restaurant's signature soups.

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"On the Water" - Have a Water View? Then Say So!

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Advertising angle: "Seaside Serenity: [Restaurant Name]'s Waterside Delights."

Platform: Pinterest and Instagram

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Emphasize the restaurant's proximity to water bodies. Use picturesque images of waterfront dining to evoke a sense of relaxation and tranquility.

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"For Kids" - Family-Friendly Without the Stigmas

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Advertising angle: "Where Little Tummies Smile: [Restaurant Name] Welcomes Families."

Platform: Google and Bing Search

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Highlight kid-friendly menu options, play areas, or themed nights. Leverage online advertising targeting parents and families to showcase the restaurant as a welcoming space for all generations.

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"With a View" - Not Just the Food That Looks Good

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Advertising angle: "Feast for the Eyes: [Restaurant Name]'s Culinary Views."

Platform: Google and Bing Search, Pinterest and Instagram

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Prominently feature the restaurant's scenic views in online content. Utilize Instagram-worthy shots to capture the attention of potential diners seeking not just a meal but a visual experience.

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"Like Olive Garden" - Be Their Go-To for Comfort Food

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Advertising angle: "Inspired by Tradition: [Restaurant Name]'s Homage to Italian Flavors."

Platform: Google and Bing Search, Pinterest and Instagram

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Leverage the comparison positively. Highlight similarities in cuisine or atmosphere and use online advertising to target those searching for experiences akin to well-known establishments.

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"Walking Distance" - Are You Close By? Tell Them!

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Advertising angle: "Step Out and Savor: [Restaurant Name] - Your Culinary Journey Awaits."

Platform: Google and Bing Search, Pinterest and Instagram

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Emphasize proximity to popular local landmarks or neighborhoods. Optimize website content for local SEO to ensure the restaurant appears in searches for nearby dining options.

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As restaurant-goers seek tailored dining experiences, American restaurants have the chance to capture the hearts and taste buds of their local communities.

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By optimizing their online presence, embracing unique qualities, and actively promoting these features, restaurants can not only meet but exceed the expectations of their diners, fostering lasting connections and becoming integral parts of the community's culinary tapestry.

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Stay ahead of the curve, meet the unique needs of your guests, and position your restaurant as the way to fill their bellies easily, and close by.

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