Singapore's F&B scene is brutal. With over 7,000 restaurants competing for diners, you need more than good food to survive. Here are proven marketing strategies that actually fill seats.
Digital Presence Essentials
Before any marketing, nail these basics:
- Google Business Profile - This is FREE and crucial. 46% of Google searches have local intent. Claim your listing, add appetizing photos, update your hours, and respond to every review.
- Professional Food Photography - Your food photos are your first impression. Invest in a professional shoot - it pays for itself many times over.
- Updated Menu Online - People want to see your menu before visiting. Make it easy to find and read on mobile.
- Clear Contact Info - Phone number, WhatsApp, address, and reservation links should be one click away.
Social Media Strategy
For restaurants, Instagram and TikTok are king:
- Post consistently - 4-5 times per week minimum. Show your food, behind-the-scenes, staff personalities.
- User-generated content - Repost customer photos (with permission). It's free content and social proof.
- Instagram Reels/TikTok - Short videos of food being prepared, plated, or eaten perform incredibly well.
- Engage locally - Comment on local food bloggers, nearby businesses, and community pages.
- Influencer collaborations - Invite food bloggers for complimentary meals in exchange for honest reviews.
Promotion Strategies That Work
- Happy hour specials - Fill slow periods with time-limited deals
- Lunch set menus - Attract the office crowd with quick, affordable options
- Birthday/anniversary perks - Free dessert or discount for celebrations (they'll bring friends)
- Loyalty programs - Simple stamp cards still work, or use digital options like Eber
- Cross-promotions - Partner with nearby businesses for mutual referrals
- Corporate catering - Tap into office lunch orders and meeting catering
Restaurant marketing isn't about one viral post - it's about consistent presence, excellent food photography, and making it ridiculously easy for people to find, choose, and visit you.