5 Ways to Support Local Restaurants

Recent studies show that despite inflation, people are tipping 9% more at restaurants, meaning loyal customers are showing up for their local favorites. But restaurants are still facing several challenges, from higher food costs to supply chain issues and sky-high delivery commissions. Here are 5 things you can do as a customer to keep supporting your local restaurants.

1. Order takeout & delivery directly from the restaurant.

Challenge for restaurants:
Third-party delivery apps are very convenient and seem like an easy way to shop locally, but they take a big cut out of what you pay the restaurant.

Up to 30% off the top
Third-party delivery apps typically charge commissions from 15-30% per order. 1

What you can do:
Order directly from the restaurant’s website or Google page, where they can sell directly to you without the costly commissions.

2. Make your reservation directly from the restaurant.

Challenge for restaurants:
Delivery apps aren't the only ones charging commissions. Reservation apps and systems are too.

Up to $1.50 per diner
Restaurants can get charged between $1 and $1.50 for each person in your party when you make a reservation from a third-party site.2

What you can do:
Check the restaurant’s website for their preferred method. Some prefer phone reservations, while others use online reservation systems that are quick, easy, and much more cost-effective.

3. Embrace new tech experiences.

Challenge for restaurants:
Improving your experience as a guest and operating at full capacity, all despite staff shortages.

70% are understaffed
7 out of 10 operators reported not having enough employees to support demand at their restaurants.3

What you can do:
Put yourself in charge of ordering and payment with new restaurant technology like handheld devices and QR codes, so restaurant workers can focus on your food, your drinks, and your experience.

4. Write positive reviews.

Challenge for restaurants: Reaching new clients online.

59% read reviews
Most guests check out online reviews when choosing a restaurant.4

What you can do:
Besides visiting your favorite restaurants, one of the best things you can do as a loyal guest is helping them get discovered with positive reviews on sites like Yelp, Google, Facebook, and TripAdvisor. Be sure to also check out our guide to free guide to managing online reviews to maximize your potential for profit.

Get a free guide to online review management

5. Be patient and keep tipping well.

Challenge for restaurants (and guests):
Collectively, we've been through a lot in the last couple of years.

+50% of restaurateurs
More than half of restaurant operators say it will take at least a year before business conditions return to normal.5

What you can do:
If this situation taught us anything, it's to cherish our experiences together and support our communities. Remember to be patient and friendly to overworked restaurant staff, enjoy your time out, and share your appreciation.