Right now, someone in your city is searching for a place to eat. They’re scrolling through results, scanning star ratings, and reading what other diners have to say. If your restaurant doesn’t have enough recent, glowing reviews, they’re clicking past you—and walking into your competitor’s door instead.Below we’ve put together a guide full of expert-approved strategies that’ll bring your restaurant more reviews.  Read more below!

Train Your Staff to Ask

Coach your staff to ask when a guest seems genuinely pleased, usually right after a compliment or as they settle the bill. A simple line works best:”We’re so glad you enjoyed your meal! If you have a moment, we’d love a quick review on Google. It really helps us out.” Keep it natural and never pushy. Make asking for reviews part of your regular training so it becomes second nature for the whole team.

Make It Easy With QR Codes

Create a code that links directly to your Google or Yelp review page. A guest simply scans, and the review page opens on their phone. Fewer steps mean more completed reviews. This one change alone can noticeably boost your numbers.

Send Follow-Up Emails or Texts

If you collect guest contact details through reservations, loyalty programs, or online orders, use them wisely.  A short follow-up message a day or two after a visit keeps your restaurant fresh in their memory.Keep it warm and brief: “Thanks for dining with us! We’d love to hear about your experience.  Leave us a review here.”Include a direct link so there’s no searching involved. Space these messages out and never spam. One thoughtful reminder often does the trick.

Use Your Restaurant’s Social Media

Your followers already like you enough to hit “follow.” That makes them prime candidates for leaving reviews.Post occasional, friendly reminders inviting your audience to share their thoughts. Feature a great dish, thank your community, and add a call to review. You can also share positive reviews in your stories or posts, which does two things at once: it thanks the reviewer and it nudges others to do the same. User-generated content works in your favor here. When guests tag your restaurant, engage with them and gently encourage a review too.

Don’t: Offer “Free” Items in Exchange

It’s tempting to offer a free dessert or discount in exchange for reviews. Resist that urge. Platforms like Google and Yelp prohibit incentivized reviews, and violating those rules can get your reviews removed or your listing penalized.

Instead, focus on genuine reminders. A great meal, warm service, and a simple ask are far more effective and completely within the rules. Authentic reviews carry more weight with readers anyway.

Need More Help With Your Restaurant? Contact Avery Restaurant Consulting Today!

 Visit us on our website or call us at (617) 970 – 8566.