More than one in three people turn to Google when searching for a restaurant, making your GBP one of your most powerful marketing tools. It’s not just about being visible—it’s about being chosen when hungry customers are comparing their options.
And with Google’s latest updates, competition has only gotten tighter.
Two Key Types of Google Searches
Before we dive into optimization tips, it’s important to understand how diners find you on Google:
Direct Searches
Discovery Searches
7 Ways to Optimize Your Google Business Profile
1. Craft a Keyword-Rich Business Description
Your GBP description is valuable real estate. Use it to highlight:
- Local keywords: “downtown Vancouver brunch” or “gastropub in Calgary”
- Unique offerings: “outdoor patio,” “late-night bar menu,” “kid-friendly,” “vegan options”
- Services: “dine-in,” “takeout,” “delivery,” “online ordering”
These small additions can help your listing show up in more searches.
2. Ensure NAP Consistency
Your Name, Address, and Phone Number (NAP) should be identical across your GBP, website, social media profiles, and all online directories.
Even slight differences like “Ave.” vs. “Avenue” can affect your local SEO rankings.
3. Keep Your Hours Accurate
Standard hours are great—but what about long weekends, holiday closures, or special events?
Be sure to update your “Special Hours” section in Google Business to reflect any temporary changes. It prevents frustrated customers—and lost sales.
Always ensure your website has up to date hours also!
4. Choose the Right Categories
Most restaurants select a single primary category (e.g. “Mexican Restaurant”), but Google lets you add up to 9 more subcategories.
For example:
- Primary: Italian Restaurant
- Subcategories: Lunch Restaurant, Takeout Restaurant, Event Venue, Wine Bar
These extra tags help Google better match your business to more customer searches.
5. Upgrade Your Menu Listings
Don’t rely on a blurry photo of your menu tacked onto your GBP, or rely on guests to upload photos of your menu (ick!) for you.
Instead:
- Upload clear, readable PDF versions
- Use structured menu tools if available
- Link to your online menu
- Include pricing, dietary tags (vegan, gluten-free), and special features
The easier it is for diners to browse your offerings, the more likely they are to book.
6. Manage Reviews Proactively
Online reviews now appear front and center in Google search results and your star rating isn’t just vanity, it’s conversion power.
To stay ahead:
- Respond to every review (positive and negative)
- Thank happy customers and resolve issues with unsatisfied ones
- Canvas new reviews by
- using follow-up emails or SMS to ask for reviews after a visit
- adding a review QR code on your receipts, at the table, or at the exit
- remind your front of house to ask for reviews from happy tables
- Monitor feedback trends to spot areas for improvement
7. Enable Reserve with Google
If your restaurant accepts reservations, integrating with Reserve with Google is a game-changer.
It lets customers:
- See real-time availability
- Book directly from Google Search or Maps
- Skip third-party reservation apps
This streamlined process reduces friction and increases the chance they’ll choose your restaurant over a competitor.