5 Meaningful Ways to Support Local Restaurants

Julio Neves
November 10, 2024

The restaurant industry has always been a vibrant part of local communities, providing not only meals but also spaces for gatherings, celebrations, and relaxation. From local diners and family-owned bistros to upscale eateries, these establishments contribute greatly to our social lives and local economies. However, recent years have presented numerous challenges for restaurants, from pandemic restrictions and supply chain disruptions to rising costs and labor shortages. Supporting these beloved places isn’t just about helping business owners; it’s also about maintaining the unique character and culture of our neighborhoods.

If you want to make a meaningful difference in the restaurant world, here are five impactful ways to support your favorite eateries and keep the dining scene alive and thriving.

1. Dine In, Take Out, or Order for Delivery

The most direct way to support any restaurant is by purchasing meals, whether you choose to dine in, order takeout, or have your food delivered. Each option benefits the restaurant in different ways. When you dine in, especially during slower hours, you’re helping maintain the atmosphere and energy that make the restaurant appealing to others. Plus, it allows servers and staff to keep their skills sharp while receiving tips that contribute to their income.

Takeout and delivery orders are equally beneficial, as they allow you to enjoy restaurant-quality food at home. Many restaurants now have their own in-house delivery systems to avoid high fees from third-party apps, which can claim up to 30% of the total bill, significantly cutting into restaurant profits. When possible, ordering directly from the restaurant’s website or calling in helps ensure that a larger portion of your payment goes to the business.

For those seeking convenience, third-party apps are still a valid choice but be mindful that restaurants lose a chunk of profit when using these services. If you use a third-party app, consider tipping generously or adding a donation if the platform allows it.

2. Engage with Restaurants on Social Media

In today’s digital age, social media platforms are crucial for restaurants to reach new customers and keep existing ones engaged. Following a restaurant on social media, liking posts, sharing content, and leaving comments are simple yet effective ways to increase their visibility online. Algorithms on social platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok favor posts that receive high engagement, which means that even a few likes and shares can help a restaurant reach a broader audience.

Posting your own photos or reviews of meals and tagging the restaurant can be incredibly helpful too. These tags not only show your appreciation for their service but also serve as testimonials that encourage others to visit. Remember to include specific details about what you enjoyed; did you love the seafood risotto, the attentive service, or the cozy ambiance? Such insights make your post more engaging and may inspire friends and followers to give the restaurant a try.

Positive reviews are valuable as well, especially on platforms like Google, Yelp, and TripAdvisor. Take the time to write thoughtful reviews that highlight what makes the restaurant unique. Whether it’s a special dish, a memorable experience, or the friendliness of the staff, genuine praise can influence potential customers who rely on these reviews to decide where to eat.

3. Buy Gift Cards or Merchandise

Purchasing a gift card is a fantastic way to support restaurants, especially if you want to contribute financially but don’t have time to dine in or order food. Gift cards provide immediate cash flow to the restaurant, allowing it to cover expenses, pay staff, and invest in maintaining quality during challenging times. As a bonus, gift cards encourage recipients to visit the restaurant and potentially become repeat customers if they enjoy the experience.

Many restaurants also offer merchandise, such as branded T-shirts, mugs, caps, or aprons. Some even sell products like their own sauces, spice blends, or house-made jams. Purchasing these items helps support the restaurant financially while giving you a keepsake to remember your favorite spot by. Merchandise sales can be especially helpful to smaller, local establishments that may rely on additional revenue streams.

Another creative way to use gift cards is by purchasing them for local teachers, healthcare workers, or first responders as a thank-you gesture. Not only does this benefit the restaurant, but it also spreads goodwill in the community, creating positive word-of-mouth for the establishment.

4. Attend Special Events and Promotions

Restaurants often host events, themed dinners, or special promotions to engage their community and attract patrons. From wine tastings and chef’s table experiences to seasonal menu launches and holiday celebrations, these events are a fantastic way to enjoy unique dining experiences while supporting your favorite establishments.

Many restaurants also participate in community events like farmers’ markets, food festivals, or charity fundraisers, which showcase their dishes to a wider audience. Attending these events gives you a chance to sample new offerings and often learn more about the restaurant’s culinary vision and commitment to quality ingredients.

Signing up for the restaurant’s email list is another smart way to stay informed about upcoming promotions, discounts, or special events. Restaurants often reward loyal customers with exclusive deals or early access to reservations for popular events. Supporting restaurants by attending these special occasions not only provides financial support but also strengthens your connection to the establishment.

Additionally, some restaurants have adapted by offering virtual cooking classes, wine-pairing tutorials, or tasting kits that can be enjoyed from home. Purchasing tickets or kits for these virtual events is a great way to support restaurants while enjoying a fun and interactive experience, even if you’re not dining in.

5. Be Patient and Understanding

Supporting restaurants goes beyond financial transactions; it’s also about showing empathy and understanding. Restaurant staff have faced unprecedented challenges, including labor shortages, supply chain disruptions, and changing regulations. Being patient when it comes to wait times, menu changes, or staff limitations shows that you appreciate their efforts in trying circumstances.

During peak times, you might encounter longer waits, limited menus, or staff shortages. Instead of seeing these as negatives, consider them as part of the current dining landscape and recognize the dedication of the people who make your dining experience possible. A kind word to the staff or a thank-you note can go a long way in lifting spirits.

Consider leaving a generous tip as a way of showing appreciation for the hard work of restaurant employees, many of whom work behind the scenes to ensure your meal is perfect. If a dish isn’t quite right, offer constructive feedback respectfully. The way you interact with staff can contribute to a positive environment that supports both the team and the restaurant’s long-term success.

Supporting restaurants requires a mix of practical actions, digital engagement, and community spirit. Dining in, ordering takeout, or buying gift cards provide immediate financial support, while social media engagement and word-of-mouth help keep the restaurant visible to potential customers. By participating in events, sharing positive feedback, and showing patience and understanding, you contribute to a thriving, resilient dining scene. Whether it’s a beloved neighborhood café, an innovative fusion spot, or a classic family-owned restaurant, every act of support plays a role in preserving the unique flavors and experiences that enrich our communities.