Your guest book is your best marketing list
The people who already ate with you are the easiest guests to bring back. A few thoughtful emails a year are enough.
Staff1 min read
Advertising finds strangers. Your guest book already knows the people who loved your food. They are the easiest guests to bring back, and the cheapest.
Ask, clearly, once
Only email guests who said yes. A simple, unticked box when they book is enough: "Send me news and offers from the restaurant." It keeps you on the right side of the rules and of your guests.
Send less, but better
Four to six emails a year is plenty for most restaurants:
- the new seasonal menu
- a special evening or a guest chef
- gift vouchers before the holidays
- a "we miss you" note to guests who have not been back for a while
Make it personal
Use the guest's first name and write like the person who greets them at the door. A short note from the chef beats a glossy flyer.
Watch what happens
The point is bookings, not opens. Look at who booked after each email, and do more of what works.
