5 Ways to Support Local Restaurants

Julio Neves
December 14, 2024

Local restaurants are more than just places to grab a bite—they’re vibrant hubs of culture, creativity, and connection within our communities. These establishments often reflect the unique identity of a neighborhood, showcasing diverse culinary traditions and offering a personal touch you won’t find in large chain operations.

However, the past few years have brought significant challenges to local eateries, from the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic to inflation and rising operating costs. Supporting local restaurants not only helps keep their doors open but also strengthens the local economy and fosters a sense of belonging in your community.

If you’re wondering how to make a meaningful impact, here are five powerful ways to support local restaurants.

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

The most straightforward way to support a local restaurant is to eat their food! Whether you dine in, pick up a meal, or order delivery, your patronage directly contributes to their bottom line. However, the way you place your order can make a difference.

Why it matters:
Third-party delivery apps like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub often take significant commissions—sometimes as high as 30%—from each order. This cuts deeply into the restaurant’s revenue. Whenever possible, order directly through the restaurant’s website or call them. Many local businesses have their own delivery services or offer curbside pickup as a more cost-effective alternative.

Tips to make an impact:

• Make it a regular habit to support a local restaurant, even if it’s just once a week.
• Try new dishes or explore cuisines you’ve never tasted before to expand your palate and keep things exciting.
• Share your experience on social media to inspire others to visit.

2. Buy Gift Cards

Purchasing gift cards is an excellent way to provide immediate financial support to local restaurants, even if you’re not planning to dine out right away. Gift cards also make great presents for friends, family, and colleagues, introducing others to your favorite spots.

Why it matters:
Gift cards help businesses manage cash flow, especially during slower months. They’re essentially a mini loan that the restaurant repays by providing food and service in the future.

Tips to make an impact:

• Stock up on gift cards for holidays, birthdays, or special occasions.
• Consider them as a thoughtful gesture for teachers, co-workers, or service providers.
• Use gift cards as incentives for your workplace or community events to promote local businesses.

3. Spread the Word

Word-of-mouth is one of the most powerful marketing tools for small businesses, and you can play a big role in amplifying a local restaurant’s reach.

Why it matters:
Many small restaurants operate on tight budgets, leaving little room for advertising and promotional efforts. By sharing your positive experiences, you help them attract new customers.

Tips to make an impact:

• Leave reviews: Post glowing reviews on platforms like Yelp, Google, or TripAdvisor. Highlight specific dishes or aspects of the service you enjoyed.
• Social media shoutouts: Share photos, stories, or videos of your meals on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok. Tag the restaurant and use location-based hashtags to boost visibility.
• Personal recommendations: Tell your friends and family about your favorite local spots and organize group outings.

Supporting restaurants doesn’t always require financial contributions—your voice is a powerful tool for promoting their success.

4. Attend Special Events and Promotions

Many local restaurants host special events, such as themed dinners, cooking classes, live music nights, or seasonal promotions. Participating in these events not only supports the business but also enriches your social life and strengthens community ties.

Why it matters:
Special events often require significant preparation and investment from restaurants. Your attendance shows appreciation for their efforts and helps ensure these events remain viable in the future.

Tips to make an impact:

• Follow your favorite restaurants on social media or sign up for their newsletters to stay informed about upcoming events.
• Bring friends or family to boost attendance and create a shared experience.
• Engage with staff during events and express your gratitude—it makes a difference to those working behind the scenes.

5. Advocate for Policies That Support Small Businesses

Beyond individual efforts, systemic changes can make a lasting impact on the success of local restaurants. Advocate for policies that address the challenges small businesses face, such as high taxes, labor shortages, or burdensome regulations.

Why it matters:
Your voice can influence local governments to create a more supportive environment for independent restaurants. Advocacy efforts often lead to programs or grants that help businesses thrive.

Tips to make an impact:

• Join or support local business associations that lobby for small business interests.
• Attend city council meetings or community forums to voice your support for small business-friendly policies.
• Vote for candidates and initiatives that prioritize the needs of small businesses.

The Bigger Picture: Why Supporting Local Restaurants Matters

Supporting local restaurants is about more than just enjoying great food. These establishments contribute to the cultural richness of a community, provide jobs, and stimulate the local economy. According to a report by the American Independent Business Alliance, when you spend money at a local business, about 48% of that revenue stays within the local economy, compared to just 14% at chain stores.

In addition to economic benefits, local restaurants foster a sense of belonging and community pride. They’re the places where memories are made—whether it’s a first date, a family celebration, or a casual lunch with friends.

By taking small, consistent actions to support local eateries, you play a vital role in preserving these valuable spaces and ensuring their success for years to come.

Final Thoughts

Supporting local restaurants doesn’t require grand gestures. Simple actions, like ordering a meal, buying a gift card, or leaving a positive review, can make a significant impact. When we collectively choose to invest in our local dining scene, we help create vibrant, resilient communities.

So, the next time you’re deciding where to eat, skip the chains and show some love to your neighborhood favorites. They’ll appreciate it more than you know—and your community will be better for it.