Making Restaurants Work Harder For You

Alternative Ways To Support Local Restaurants

Obviously, the easiest and most common way to support local restaurants is to simply dine at these restaurants rather than at larger, national chains. But some people don't want to go out to eat very often. Whether you're short on time or simply don't like the busy restaurant atmosphere, there are ways, other than dining in, to support local restaurants. Take a look at these alternatives.

Order takeout directly from the restaurant

A decade ago, only specific restaurants — usually very casual ones — offered takeout. But these days, even more upscale restaurants are offering takeout. The key is to call the restaurant directly and order takeout from them. There are a lot of third-party apps that order takeout and delivery for you, but they often take a cut of the profits, meaning that the restaurant does not make as much. The best way to support your local restaurant is to order directly from them.

Buy gift cards

Another great way to support local restaurants is to buy gift cards. This actually supports the restaurant in a few different ways. For one, you are spending your money at the restaurant. Assuming you give the gift cards to other people, you are also bringing those people into the restaurant and hopefully making new customers out of them. If they like the restaurant, you can expect them to return and help further support that restaurant.

Serve their food at gatherings

If you have a party or another gathering with people, consider ordering food from one of your favorite local restaurants. Make sure everyone at the party knows where the food came from. Mention it when you are welcoming people, put a little sign out, or just set the food out in boxes that are labeled with the restaurant's name. If the people at your party like the food, they are likely to go to the restaurant themselves, which will help boost the restaurant's profits.

Just talk about the restaurant

Finally, you can support local restaurants simply by talking about your favorite ones with your friends. Mention where you like to eat, and tell your friends what you like about the place and its food. Hopefully, some of your friends will stop in and support your favorite restaurants, too.

Dining out is not the only way to support your favorite restaurants. You can also help them keep their business going with the strategies above. Contact local restaurants to get more tips.