How to Support Local Restaurants in Australia
Local restaurants are the heart and soul of many Australian communities. They provide jobs, create vibrant social spaces, and offer unique culinary experiences. However, they often face challenges, especially with increasing competition from larger chains and the ever-changing economic landscape. Here are some practical ways you can support your local restaurants and help them thrive.
1. Order Directly from Restaurants
One of the most impactful ways to support local restaurants is to order directly from them. This means bypassing third-party delivery apps and placing your order via phone, their website, or in person.
Why Order Directly?
Reduces Fees: Third-party delivery apps charge restaurants significant commission fees, often ranging from 15% to 30% per order. By ordering directly, you ensure that the restaurant keeps a larger portion of the revenue.
Better Control: Ordering directly allows restaurants to have more control over the entire process, from food preparation to delivery (if they handle their own deliveries). This can lead to better quality control and customer service.
Supports Local Jobs: When restaurants rely less on third-party apps, they are more likely to hire their own delivery drivers and support staff, creating more local jobs.
How to Order Directly
Check the Restaurant's Website: Many restaurants have online ordering systems on their websites. Look for a clear "Order Online" or "Takeaway" button.
Call the Restaurant: A simple phone call is often the easiest way to place an order. You can ask questions about the menu and specials, and the staff can provide personalised recommendations.
Visit in Person: If you're nearby, consider visiting the restaurant to place your order in person. This allows you to browse the menu, chat with the staff, and enjoy the atmosphere.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Assuming All Restaurants Offer Direct Ordering: Not all restaurants have the infrastructure for direct online ordering. Always check their website or call to confirm.
Forgetting to Check for Specials: Restaurants often offer exclusive deals and discounts for direct orders. Be sure to ask about any current promotions.
Using Outdated Contact Information: Double-check that you have the correct phone number and website address for the restaurant.
2. Leave Positive Reviews Online
Online reviews play a crucial role in a restaurant's reputation and visibility. Positive reviews can attract new customers and boost their overall ranking on search engines and review platforms.
Why Leave Reviews?
Increases Visibility: Positive reviews help restaurants rank higher in search results and on review platforms like Google, Yelp, and TripAdvisor.
Builds Trust: Potential customers often rely on reviews to make informed decisions. Positive reviews can build trust and encourage them to try a new restaurant.
Provides Valuable Feedback: Reviews offer valuable feedback to restaurant owners and staff, helping them identify areas for improvement and understand what customers appreciate.
How to Write Effective Reviews
Be Specific: Instead of simply saying "Great food!", describe what you enjoyed about the meal. Mention specific dishes, ingredients, or flavours.
Highlight the Service: Comment on the quality of the service you received. Did the staff go above and beyond to make your experience enjoyable?
Include Photos: If possible, include photos of the food or the restaurant's atmosphere. Visuals can make your review more engaging and informative.
Be Honest and Fair: Provide an honest and balanced assessment of your experience. If there were any issues, mention them constructively.
Where to Leave Reviews
Google: Google reviews are highly visible and influential. Make sure to leave a review on the restaurant's Google Business Profile.
Yelp: Yelp is a popular platform for restaurant reviews, particularly in urban areas.
TripAdvisor: TripAdvisor is widely used by tourists and travellers. If you're visiting a restaurant while travelling, consider leaving a review on TripAdvisor.
Facebook: Many restaurants have Facebook pages where customers can leave reviews and recommendations.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Writing Vague or Generic Reviews: Provide specific details and examples to make your review more helpful.
Leaving Negative Reviews Without Contacting the Restaurant First: If you have a complaint, try contacting the restaurant directly to resolve the issue before leaving a negative review.
Writing Reviews When You're Angry: Take some time to cool down before writing a review if you're feeling upset or frustrated. This will help you write a more balanced and constructive review.
3. Spread the Word on Social Media
Social media is a powerful tool for promoting local restaurants. Sharing your positive experiences on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter can help them reach a wider audience.
How to Promote Restaurants on Social Media
Share Photos of Your Meals: Take mouth-watering photos of your food and share them on your social media accounts. Tag the restaurant in your posts and use relevant hashtags like #supportlocal, #eatlocal, and #foodie.
Write Positive Posts: Share your positive experiences with your followers. Mention what you enjoyed about the food, service, or atmosphere.
Engage with the Restaurant's Social Media Accounts: Like, comment on, and share the restaurant's posts to help increase their visibility.
Run Contests and Giveaways: Consider running a contest or giveaway to promote a local restaurant. For example, you could offer a gift certificate to one of your followers who shares a photo of their meal from the restaurant.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using Poor Quality Photos: Make sure your photos are well-lit and visually appealing.
Forgetting to Tag the Restaurant: Tagging the restaurant ensures that they see your post and can share it with their followers.
Using Irrelevant Hashtags: Use hashtags that are relevant to the restaurant and the type of food they serve.
4. Attend Local Food Events
Local food events, such as farmers' markets, food festivals, and restaurant weeks, are a great way to discover new restaurants and support local businesses. These events often feature special menus, discounts, and entertainment.
How to Get Involved
Research Local Events: Check local event listings, community calendars, and social media pages for upcoming food events in your area.
Attend the Events: Make an effort to attend these events and try different restaurants and food vendors.
Spread the Word: Share information about local food events with your friends and family.
Benefits of Attending Food Events
Discover New Restaurants: Food events provide an opportunity to try new restaurants and cuisines that you might not otherwise discover.
Support Local Businesses: By attending these events, you're directly supporting local restaurants and food vendors.
Enjoy a Fun and Social Experience: Food events are often lively and social gatherings, providing a fun way to spend time with friends and family.
5. Buy Gift Cards
Purchasing gift cards from local restaurants is a great way to provide them with immediate financial support. Gift cards can be used later, providing a guaranteed future sale.
Why Buy Gift Cards?
Provides Immediate Revenue: Gift card sales provide restaurants with much-needed cash flow, especially during slow periods.
Encourages Future Business: Gift cards encourage recipients to visit the restaurant and spend money.
Makes a Great Gift: Gift cards make thoughtful and practical gifts for friends, family, and colleagues.
How to Purchase Gift Cards
Visit the Restaurant: Many restaurants sell gift cards in person.
Check Their Website: Some restaurants offer online gift card purchases.
Ask About Special Promotions: Restaurants sometimes offer discounts or promotions on gift card purchases.
6. Be Patient and Understanding
Running a restaurant is challenging, and sometimes things don't go as planned. Being patient and understanding with restaurant staff can make a big difference.
Why Patience Matters
Reduces Stress: Patience and understanding can help reduce stress for restaurant staff, leading to better service.
Encourages Positive Interactions: A positive attitude can foster a more pleasant and enjoyable dining experience for everyone.
Builds Loyalty: Showing empathy and support can build loyalty and encourage restaurants to go the extra mile for their customers.
How to Show Patience and Understanding
Be Kind and Respectful: Treat restaurant staff with kindness and respect, even if there are issues.
Communicate Clearly: Clearly communicate any concerns or issues you have, but do so in a calm and respectful manner.
Offer Constructive Feedback: If you have suggestions for improvement, offer them constructively and politely.
Supporting local restaurants is an investment in your community. By following these tips, you can help your favourite eateries thrive and continue to provide unique and enjoyable dining experiences. Remember to learn more about Hungry and how we support local businesses. We believe in fostering a strong community by connecting people with great food and experiences. Check out our services to see how we can help you discover and support local restaurants. If you have any questions, please visit our frequently asked questions page. And don't forget to tell your friends about Hungry!