How to Get More Restaurant Reviews on Google
Updated: Sep 5
Google reviews can make a big difference in how potential customers choose where to eat. When someone searches for “restaurants near me,” “best restaurants in [city],” or a specific type of cuisine, your rating and reviews can influence whether they click on your restaurant or keep scrolling.
The good news? Getting more Google reviews doesn't have to be complicated.
1. Ask Customers for a Review
The simplest way to get more restaurant reviews is to ask.
After a positive dining experience, train your staff to make a quick, natural request:
“We’re glad you enjoyed everything. We’d really appreciate a Google review if you have a minute.”
You can also ask through post-visit emails, SMS messages, or loyalty communications.
2. Make Leaving a Review Easy
Don't make customers search for your restaurant on Google. Create a direct Google review link and share it wherever customers interact with your brand.
Consider adding it to:
Email follow-ups
Digital receipts
Your website
SMS campaigns
Takeout packaging
Table cards or QR codes
The fewer clicks required, the better.
3. Use a Google Review QR Code
A QR code can make it incredibly easy for diners to leave feedback while the experience is still fresh.
Place one on your check presenter, receipt, table tent, or takeout packaging with simple messaging like:
Enjoyed your meal?Leave us a review on Google.
Keep the request focused on honest feedback rather than specifically asking for a five-star review.
4. Respond to Your Reviews
Getting reviews is only half the job. Respond to them, too.
Thank customers for positive feedback and respond professionally to negative reviews. Your responses are visible to potential customers, so they can influence how people perceive your restaurant.
And no, responding to a one-star review with an equally furious paragraph probably isn't the reputation management strategy you're looking for.
5. Make Reviews Part of Your Local SEO Strategy
Reviews are just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to showing up in local search.
Your restaurant should also have an optimized Google Business Profile, accurate business information, relevant website content, location-focused pages, and a strong overall restaurant SEO strategy.
Consistently earning authentic reviews while improving your broader online presence can help your restaurant compete for valuable local searches and attract more customers.
Want More Customers Finding Your Restaurant on Google?
Reviews are important, but they're only one part of restaurant SEO. Our Restaurant SEO Services are designed to help restaurants impr
ove their visibility, attract more qualified traffic, and turn local searches into real customers.
