A grand opening gives you one big chance to get attention. Done well, it fills your first weeks and gives you a base of regulars. Done poorly, you open to empty tables and spend months catching up. Here’s how to promote a restaurant grand opening, broken into a simple six-week plan.
Six weeks out: get the basics live
- Claim your Google Business Profile with your address, expected opening date and photos of the build. Our GBP checklist covers the details.
- Set up Instagram, Facebook and TikTok with your logo, bio and opening date.
- Create a simple website or landing page with the menu, location and a sign-up form for opening news.
Four to five weeks out: start building hype
- Post behind-the-scenes content: the fit-out, the chef testing dishes, the team in training.
- Share sneak peeks of signature dishes.
- Start collecting emails and phone numbers with an offer, like early access to the opening or a free dessert on the first visit. Make sure you follow the consent rules: email and SMS rules explained.
Three weeks out: reach the neighborhood
- Run local Facebook and Instagram ads to people within a short drive, announcing the date and the sign-up offer. Here’s how: Facebook ads for restaurants.
- Introduce yourself to nearby businesses, offices and community groups.
- Contact local food bloggers, creators and community pages.
Two weeks out: soft launch
Run a soft opening for friends, family, neighbors and local creators. It helps your team practice before the crowds arrive, and it creates photos, videos and early buzz. Ask guests for honest feedback.
Opening week: make it an event
- Plan a reason to come on opening day: a limited menu item, live music, a ribbon cutting or a giveaway for the first guests.
- Post throughout the day with stories and short videos.
- Have staff ask happy guests to leave a Google review.
- Keep ads running to locals all week.
After opening: turn first visits into regulars
The opening crowd won’t come back on its own. Follow up with your sign-up list, launch a weekday special, and keep posting. Our list of restaurant marketing ideas for slow days is a good next step.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Opening before your Google listing is live
- Announcing too late to build a list
- Inviting creators before the kitchen is ready
- Spending everything on opening week and nothing after
The bottom line: If you promote a restaurant grand opening early and follow up after, the opening crowd becomes your regulars.
Further reading: Google’s guide to improving your local ranking.
Want help to promote a restaurant grand opening?
Our restaurant marketing services cover pre-launch content, local ads and guest follow-up. Get in touch.