Restaurant launch marketing plan: the 60 days before and after opening
A restaurant launch needs about 30 days of build-up and 30 days of follow-through. Set up Google and Instagram early, tease the space and menu, run a soft launch for neighbours and creators, open with a clear event, then spend the first month collecting reviews and turning first visits into regulars.
The plan
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| Day -30 | Name, positioning, menu, price points; Instagram handle and Google profile created |
| Day -21 | Teaser reels: construction, chef, ingredients; WhatsApp waitlist with QR on hoardings |
| Day -14 | Photo and video shoot of dishes and space; creator and media list |
| Day -7 | Soft launch for neighbours, residents' associations and nearby offices |
| Day -3 | Creator and media tasting; collect first reviews |
| Day 0 | Opening night or weekend with a clear theme and limited bookings |
| Day +1 to +14 | Post every day: guests, dishes, events; reply to every review |
| Day +15 to +30 | Introduce the first named weekly night; start local ads on best reels |
| Day +30 | Review covers, ratings, best dishes; plan month two |
Common launch mistakes
- Opening without a Google profile and photos.
- Inviting creators before the kitchen is ready.
- Spending the whole budget on opening night and nothing after.
- No way to capture guests' numbers for the next visit.
With India's food services market heading to ₹7.76 lakh crore by 2028 (NRAI), new openings face more competition every year. A planned launch matters.
Key takeaways
- Start 30 days before opening.
- Soft launch before creators and media.
- Keep budget for the first 30 days after opening.
Frequently asked questions
How do you promote a new restaurant opening?
Tease it on Instagram for three to four weeks, build a WhatsApp waitlist, run a soft launch, host creators once the kitchen is ready, open with a themed event and post daily in the first two weeks.
Should a new restaurant invite influencers?
Yes, but after a soft launch so service and food are consistent. Choose local creators whose followers live nearby.
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