relaySocial media for restaurants: what to post and how to stop doing it at midnight
People often pick where to eat by scrolling Instagram a few minutes before. A restaurant that posts today’s special, its hours and its events fills tables others leave empty. The catch is time: nobody in the kitchen has ten minutes to write a caption.
What brings people in
- Today’s special, posted before lunch and before dinner service
- This week’s menu in one readable image, pinned to the profile
- Short behind-the-scenes clips: plating, the grill, the team
- Customer reviews, quoted with permission
- Practical info, repeated often: address, hours, how to book
A typical week
Four posts a week keep you visible without eating your evenings.
- Monday: the week’s menu
- Wednesday: one dish close up, with its price
- Friday at noon: the weekend special or live music night
- Sunday: a full room or a customer review
What you tell Relay
- “Here’s today’s special, post it on Instagram and Facebook at 11 am with the price: $16.”
- “Make a poster for Friday’s live music night and schedule it Wednesday and Friday at noon.”
- “Turn this list into this week’s menu as one square image.”
An example post Relay prepared
“Short rib is back 🍽️ Slow-braised for eight hours, mashed potatoes, gremolata. $24, tonight only while it lasts. Book at the link in bio or call (555) 010-0000.”
Frequently asked questions
Should a restaurant be on TikTok?
It isn’t required, but short cooking clips get a lot of local views there. Start with Instagram and Facebook, where people check your hours and menu, then add TikTok once you post regularly.