- Why Email Marketing Is A Must For Your Restaurant?
- Build Your Email List: The Foundation Of Your Strategy
- 1. Crafting A Warm Welcome: Start With The Right First Impression
- 2. Capturing Lost Sales With Cart Abandonment Emails
- 3. First-Time Customer Follow-Up: Building Loyalty from the Start
- 4. Repeat Order Incentives: Keep Your Regulars Coming Back
- 5. Win-Back Campaign For Inactive Customers: Reignite Their Interest
- Measuring Success: How to Track Campaign Impact
- Pro Tips For Email Marketing For Restaurants
- Getting Started With Orders.co
- FAQ
Key Takeaways
- Automated email campaigns are a low-effort, high-reward way to drive repeat business.
- Email marketing can deliver a $36 return for every $1 spent, making it one of the most profitable channels for restaurants.
- Welcome emails, cart abandonment reminders, and win-back campaigns help maximize customer engagement and loyalty.
- Personalized email strategies can boost repeat orders and keep your restaurant top-of-mind.
- With automation tools, you can easily set up and manage effective email campaigns without constant oversight.
If you’re a restaurant owner, you already know that every customer who walks through your door is valuable. But how do you bring them back?
The secret is in your inbox. Email marketing is one of the most powerful tools to drive repeat business, build lasting relationships, and keep your tables full without huge investment in time or resources. On average, email marketing generates $36 in return for every $1 invested.
Yet here’s a surprising trend: the most successful restaurants aren’t sending endless emails—they’re using smart, automated campaigns to bring customers back at just the right moments.
This “set it and forget it” approach keeps your brand at the top of your mind, increasing orders without needing constant management.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through five essential email strategies every restaurant should have. These campaigns don’t just bring customers back—they boost your revenue and deepen customer loyalty.
Ready to turn email into a reliable revenue engine for your restaurant?
Let’s dive in.
Why Email Marketing Is A Must For Your Restaurant?
Before we dive into the strategies, let’s take a moment to understand what makes email marketing so effective.
Unlike social media or other channels that shift with every new algorithm update, email is a direct line to your customers—one that you control. It’s steady, unaffected by trends, and allows you to connect in a personalized, relevant way.
Source: Zerobounce
And here’s why this is huge: Imagine reaching them in their inbox to:
- Bring back regulars
- Encourage bigger orders
- Turn one-time customers into loyal fans
The best part? Automated email marketing for restaurants is simpler than you think. With just a few well-timed campaigns, you can set up impactful emails that work for you, giving you time to focus on running your restaurant.
Let’s explore five essential campaigns that can elevate your customer engagement and drive consistent growth.
Also read:
- A Complete Restaurant Marketing Checklist
- 10 Restaurant Loyalty Program Ideas
- The Power of Storytelling in Your Restaurant Marketing
- Strategies for Restaurant Marketing to Reach Gen Z
Build Your Email List: The Foundation Of Your Strategy
An effective email campaign starts with a solid list of contacts. Without a robust email list, even the most compelling campaigns won’t reach their potential. To start building (or strengthening) your list, consider these straightforward yet powerful tactics:
- Gather emails at checkout – Whether online or in person, ask customers if they’d like to stay updated on promotions or exclusive offers.
- Leverage your POS system – Many modern POS systems allow you to collect customer information easily. Train your staff to invite customers to join your email list during every visit.
- Offer incentives for sign-ups – Discounts or special offers (like 10% off their next order) can be a great motivator.
- Use table tents or QR codes – Encourage guests to scan a QR code to sign up, especially for perks like loyalty rewards or birthday offers.
Think You Can’t Do All At Once?
Orders.co’s AI-assisted restaurant marketing solution can streamline these efforts, integrating seamlessly with your online ordering and POS system and making it easy to build a list that’s as strong as your customer base.
A well-crafted list ensures that when you send a message, it’s hitting the inboxes of people most likely to engage. Once you’ve started growing your list, you’re ready to set up campaigns that drive real results.
Schedule a FREE, 15-minute Demo
Now that you know one of the best restaurant email marketing solutions for your needs, let’s dive into 5 effective strategies to maximize its restaurant business potential.
1. Crafting A Warm Welcome: Start With The Right First Impression
The welcome email introduces new subscribers to your brand, setting the tone for future interactions and explaining what they can expect from your emails.
Why It’s Effective: This first customer interaction builds excitement and loyalty. Customers who receive a warm welcome will likely open future emails and engage with your brand.
Think of it as your way of inviting customers to feel like part of your family from the very first interaction.
Here’s how to make the most of this initial email:
- Timing: Send immediately after a customer subscribes.
- Personalize the Greeting – Address customers by name for a personal touch that resonates.
- Set Clear Expectations – Let them know what types of updates they’ll receive, whether it’s exclusive promotions, events, or seasonal menu highlights.
- Offer a First-Time Incentive – Give a small perk like 10% off their next order or a free appetizer, making it irresistible to come back soon.
- CTA: Use a clear CTA, such as “Order Now,” to make it easy for them to take action.
For Example
Subject Line: “Welcome to [Restaurant Name]! 🎉 Here’s a Treat to Start Your Journey with Us”
Hi [Customer Name],
We’re thrilled to welcome you to [Restaurant Name]. As a thank-you, enjoy 10% off your next visit! Just show this email when you come in.
Why you’ll love our emails: Get exclusive deals, menu updates, and first access to events, all designed to enhance your dining experience.
See you soon!
[Your Restaurant’s CTA Button: “Claim Your Welcome Offer”]
Subject Line: “You’re Officially In! Welcome to the [Restaurant Name] Family 🎉”
Hello [Customer Name],
Thank you for joining! Here’s what you can expect from us: mouth-watering menu updates, exclusive invites, and a special surprise every now and then.
As a welcome gift, enjoy a free appetizer on your next visit!
[Restaurant’s CTA Button: “Get Your Free Appetizer”]
When done right, a welcoming email can increase engagement rates and get customers excited about your future messages—keeping your restaurant top of mind from day one.
2. Capturing Lost Sales With Cart Abandonment Emails
Every abandoned cart is a missed opportunity.
Why It’s Effective: With over 70% of online restaurant carts abandoned before checkout, these emails can recover significant lost revenue.
Source: Baymard
Whether it’s a late-night craving or a distraction that pulled the customer away, cart abandonment emails can bring them back to complete their order.
These gentle reminders are especially powerful for restaurants with online ordering, as they nudge customers to take that final step.
Here’s how to make your cart abandonment emails effective:
- Timing: Send the first email within 30 minutes of abandonment and a second reminder within 24 hours.
- Personalization: Address customers by their first name and include the specific items left in their cart.
- Visuals: Use high-quality images of the cart items to tempt customers to return.
- CTA: Make it easy to finish the purchase by including a clear, prominent button like “Complete Your Order.”
For Example
Subject Line: “Your [Dish Name] is Waiting! Complete Your Order Now 🍕”
- Body:
- Hi [Customer Name],
- It looks like you left something delicious behind! Your [Dish Name] is just a few clicks away.
- *Finish your order now and get 15% off as our treat. Don’t let your cravings go unsatisfied!
- [CTA Button: “Complete My Order”]
Subject Line: “Your Cart’s Still Here! Ready to Savor Something Amazing? 🌮”
- Body:
- Hey [Customer Name],
- Looks like life got in the way of your order! Let’s get you back to the good stuff. Reclaim your cart now and enjoy your meal in minutes.
- *Order soon, and your next drink’s on us!
- [CTA Button: “Get Back to My Order”]
3. First-Time Customer Follow-Up: Building Loyalty from the Start
When a customer visits your restaurant for the first time, you’ve got a golden opportunity to turn that one-time experience into a lasting connection.
Why It’s Effective: Following up on first-time orders within the first 24 to 48 hours shows you value feedback, turning a one-time visitor into a returning customer. It also provides an opportunity to resolve any issues before they turn into negative reviews.
- Gather Feedback – Ask them to rate their experience or offer a quick survey. Showing that you care about their feedback builds trust and gives you insight into what’s working (or needs work).
- Encourage a Return with a Small Perk – Consider offering a little incentive, like a discount on their next order or a complimentary appetizer. Sometimes, all it takes is a nudge to bring them back.
- Suggest Something New – Tailor your follow-up by recommending a dish they haven’t tried yet. Personalizing the message lets them know you’re paying attention, not just sending a generic email.
For Example
Subject Line: “How Was Your First Visit? Let Us Know & Enjoy 10% Off Next Time! 🌟”
Hi [Customer Name],
Thanks for dining with us! We’d love to hear your thoughts on your experience. Complete this short survey, and you’ll get 10% off your next visit as a thank-you.
[CTA Button: “Share Feedback & Get 10% Off”]
Subject Line: “Thanks for Dining with Us, [Customer Name]! Here’s a Little Extra for Next Time 🍲”
Hello [Customer Name],
We hope you loved your first meal at [Restaurant Name]. To make your next visit even better, here’s a 15% discount on us. Can’t wait to see you again!
[CTA Button: “Redeem My 15% Off”]
A thoughtful follow-up shows first-time customers that their experience matters to you, and it’s a simple yet effective way to encourage repeat visits.
4. Repeat Order Incentives: Keep Your Regulars Coming Back
Turning first-time customers into regulars is one win, but keeping those regulars engaged is where the magic really happens. That’s where repeat order incentives come in.
Why It’s Effective: Small incentives, like a discount or loyalty points, can make a huge difference for customers deciding where to order next.
Consider these effective approaches:
- Timing: Send after a certain number of orders (e.g., 3 or 5).
- Personalization: Reference the number of previous orders and thank them for their loyalty.
- Tiered Discounts: Offer escalating rewards, like 5% off after their third order and 10% off after their fifth. This builds excitement and keeps customers coming back to unlock each new level.
- Surprise Perks: Delight customers with a complimentary dessert, drink, or early access to a new menu item. Unexpected rewards can make them feel valued and appreciated.
- Automated Loyalty Programs: With Orders.co, set up automated customer loyalty programs that trigger based on customer activity, ensuring consistent engagement without adding to your workload.
For Example
Subject Line: “Our Treat to Our Favorite Foodie: 10% Off Your Next Order 🍜”
Hi [Customer Name],
Because we appreciate your loyalty, enjoy 10% off your next order! Just our way of saying thanks for choosing [Restaurant Name].
[CTA Button: “Order with 10% Off”]
Subject Line: “Back Again? You Deserve Something Extra! 🥂”
Hello [Customer Name],
We’re thrilled to see you again! As a valued regular, enjoy a free dessert or appetizer with your next order.
[CTA Button: “Claim My Free Treat”]
By rewarding loyalty, you can transform one-time diners into long-term regulars eagerly anticipating their next visit.
5. Win-Back Campaign For Inactive Customers: Reignite Their Interest
Even your most dedicated customers might need a nudge to return, and that’s where a win-back campaign shines.
Why It’s Effective: These emails help to revive relationships with lapsed customers. A well-timed win-back email can remind them of their favorite dishes and reignite their interest.
Here’s how to make your win-back campaign irresistible:
- Personalized Offer: Address them by name and reference their past favorite items or orders. A “We miss you!” paired with a special discount on their favorite dish can feel like a warm welcome back.
- Limited-Time Discount: Create urgency with a discount that’s available only for a short time. Phrases like “24-Hour Comeback Deal” or “This Weekend Only” can motivate quick action.
- Highlight New Additions: Update them on any exciting changes they may have missed, like new menu items, events, or improved dine-in experiences, to remind them why they loved your restaurant in the first place.
For Example
Subject Line: “We Miss You! Enjoy 20% Off to Welcome You Back 🍽️”
Hi [Customer Name],
It’s been a while, and we’d love to see you again! To welcome you back, enjoy 20% off your next visit. We’ve missed serving you your favorites!
[CTA Button: “Redeem 20% Off”]
Subject Line: “It’s Been Too Long! Here’s a Sweet Deal to Come Back 🍔”
Hello [Customer Name],
Life gets busy, but our delicious meals are still here waiting for you. To make your return easier, enjoy a free appetizer with your next order. See you soon.
[CTA Button: “Claim My Free Appetizer”]
With a win-back campaign, you’re not just reminding them to return; you’re rekindling their enthusiasm for your restaurant and showing that they’re missed and valued.
Measuring Success: How to Track Campaign Impact
Once your email campaigns are up and running, measuring their success is key to maximizing impact. Tracking performance ensures that your efforts are driving results so you can refine your approach over time.
Source: Klaviyo
Here are essential metrics to watch:
- Open Rate: This shows how many recipients opened your email, indicating the effectiveness of your subject lines.
- Click-Through Rate (CTR): The percentage of people who clicked on a link within your email. A high CTR means your content is compelling and actionable.
- Bounce Rate: This tells you how many emails failed to reach inboxes, often due to incorrect email addresses. Reducing bounce rates keeps your list healthy and your emails out of spam folders.
- Repeat Order Rate: Measuring repeat orders gives insight into customer loyalty and how well your emails encourage return visits.
- Customer Lifetime Value (CLV): This metric reveals the long-term revenue generated by each customer, helping gauge the overall profitability of your email marketing for restaurants.
Core Metrics to Track
- Open Rate: Target 30-40%
Boost with engaging subject lines and ideal send times. - Click-Through Rate: Aim for 1-2%
Entice clicks with appealing images and clear buttons. - Bounce Rate: Keep below 1%
Maintain a clean, up-to-date email list.
For more advanced targeting, consider using the RFMA model:
✅Recency
✅Frequency
✅Monetary Value
✅Action
Segment customers based on how recently they ordered, how often, how much they spent, and specific actions (like signing up for promotions).
This approach allows you to tailor emails more precisely, ensuring each message resonates with the right group.
Pro Tips For Email Marketing For Restaurants
To make the most of your email marketing, a few pro tips can take your engagement to the next level and keep customers excited to see your name in their inbox. These small but powerful adjustments can increase your open rates, drive more clicks, and build a loyal customer base:
- Include Tempting Food Images: Great visuals are key. Mouth-watering images of your top dishes remind customers why they love your restaurant and make it easy for them to picture their next order.
- Personalize Subject Lines: Simple personalization, like using the customer’s first name in the subject line, can increase open rates by up to 26%. It’s a small tweak but adds a personal touch that stands out.
- Optimize Timing and Frequency: Timing can make or break your campaigns. Data shows weekends are the best for restaurant email engagement, so schedule campaigns for high-impact days and avoid sending too frequently—about once a week is ideal for keeping your brand top-of-mind without overwhelming.
- Segment for Relevance: Segment your email lists based on customer behavior, such as recent orders or favorite items, so you’re sending the most relevant offers to each group.
Following these tips improves email performance and creates a more enjoyable and personalized experience for your customers.
Getting Started With Orders.co
Implementing these email strategies doesn’t have to be complicated. With tools like Orders.co, setting up automated, engaging campaigns becomes a simple, time-saving process.
Imagine having personalized welcome emails, win-back campaigns, and tempting promotions all running in the background—keeping your customers engaged while you focus on what matters most: running your restaurant.
If you’re ready to take your restaurant’s email marketing to the next level, explore how Orders.co can support you to save time, boost customer loyalty, and drive sales.
Start creating connections that last and watch your business grow.
Direct Ordering Website
Orders.co provides a branded, direct ordering website that gives you direct control over the ordering experience. The website is optimized for mobile and desktop, capturing orders and valuable customer data directly. With a seamless ordering process, customers are more likely to place higher-value orders and come back for repeat visits.
AI-Assisted Marketing Solution
Orders.co’s AI-powered marketing solution takes the guesswork out of email strategy. By analyzing customer behaviors, order history, and engagement metrics, the AI determines optimal times to reach out with personalized offers, re-engagement campaigns, and targeted promotions. It automates the customer journey, saving you time and effort while driving more consistent repeat orders.
Loyalty Reward Program
Keep customers coming back with a points-based loyalty rewards program designed to drive repeat visits. With Orders.co, customers earn points for purchases, which can be redeemed for discounts or free items designated by your restaurant. Customers are notified when they earn points and receive reminders to use them before they expire. This program encourages return visits, builds long-term loyalty, and increases per-visit spending.
Detailed Reporting
Orders.co provides in-depth reporting on your restaurant’s performance—from sales metrics and repeat order rates to campaign-specific results. This detailed view allows you to track what’s working and adjust marketing efforts in real-time, empowering you to make data-driven decisions that align with your growth goals and improve your bottom line.
Guest Feedback Monitoring
Orders.co’s guest feedback monitoring feature helps you stay informed about customer concerns with email alerts for negative reviews. These notifications prompt you to respond swiftly and resolve issues, demonstrating your commitment to customer satisfaction. Addressing feedback proactively can turn challenges into opportunities to build loyalty and improve the guest experience.
Ready to see how Orders.co can transform your restaurant’s marketing and sales?
Schedule a free demo today, and let us show you how our tools can drive repeat business, boost loyalty, and simplify your daily tasks.
FAQ
1. How often should I send email marketing for restaurants without overwhelming customers?
For most restaurants, once-a-week or biweekly emails work well to keep customers engaged without overloading them. Always track open rates and unsubscribe data to find your ideal frequency for restaurant email marketing.
2. What types of offers work best in restaurant email marketing?
Offers like exclusive discounts, loyalty rewards, or limited-time specials usually perform well. Many restaurants see strong results from personalized offers based on past orders. Testing different offers can help you see what resonates most with your audience.
3. How can I grow my email marketing list quickly and effectively for my restaurant?
Encourage sign-ups at checkout (in-person and online) and through loyalty programs. Table tents with QR codes, website pop-ups, and social media links are also great ways to build your email marketing for restaurant list organically.
4. Are there specific days or times that work best for sending restaurant email marketing campaigns?
Generally, weekends and weekday afternoons tend to perform best for email marketing for restaurants, especially for promotional content. Experiment with times to see what maximizes open rates for your restaurant.
5. Can email marketing for restaurants be integrated with POS systems?
Yes, many POS systems support integrations that streamline customer data collection, making email marketing for restaurants easier and more targeted. Orders.co, for example, offers integrations with popular POS systems to help automate these processes.
6. What’s the benefit of automated restaurant email marketing campaigns?
Automated campaigns like welcome emails, cart abandonment reminders, and loyalty rewards emails work continuously in the background, driving engagement with minimal effort on your end—especially valuable for busy restaurant owners.
7. How can I measure if my restaurant email marketing is successful?
Key metrics include open rate, click-through rate, bounce rate, and customer lifetime value. Analyzing these lets you adjust your email marketing for restaurant strategy for better results.
8. How can email marketing help turn one-time customers into regulars?
Follow-up emails, personalized offers, and loyalty incentives all help convert one-time visitors into regular patrons. Restaurant email marketing can nurture customer relationships, making them more likely to return and recommend your restaurant.
9. Is there a way to bring back customers who haven’t ordered in a while?
Yes, win-back campaigns in restaurant email marketing, which offer limited-time discounts or reminders of popular menu items, can effectively re-engage past customers.
10. Can restaurant email marketing help drive online orders?
Absolutely. By sending promotions or re-engagement emails, you can encourage more online orders directly through your website, especially if you feature easy-to-click links and clear calls to action.
