5 Mistakes Restaurants Are Making (Ep. 165)

Are you making these five costly restaurant mistakes?

Many independent restaurant operators are leaving money on the table by overlooking simple but essential strategies. In this episode, we break down five common mistakes and how to fix them right away.

Listen now to learn:

• Why tracking prime costs daily can improve profitability
• How collecting and using customer data effectively boosts sales
• The biggest mistake restaurants make with their online presence
• Simple ways to improve hospitality and customer experience

Your customers are paying attention—make sure you're giving them a reason to return.

 

Key Takeaways:

1. Not Tracking Prime Costs

• If you don’t track food and labor costs daily or at least weekly, you're leaving money on the table.
• Use spreadsheets or automated tools to monitor expenses in real-time.

2. Not Collecting Customer Contact Info

• Every day that passes without gathering emails or phone numbers is a lost opportunity.
• Implement QR codes, train staff to ask, and use POS integrations to build a database.

3. Poor Customer Communication

• Collecting data is useless if you’re not using it.
• Engage customers via email and text marketing with relevant, valuable updates.

4. Weak Online Presence

• Bad photos, outdated websites, and incomplete Google/Yelp listings drive customers away.
• Invest in professional photography, ensure online listings are accurate, and optimize online ordering systems.

5. Neglecting Hospitality & First Impressions

• Customers judge their experience from the moment they walk in (or order online).
• Maintain a clean environment, train staff to be welcoming, and improve packaging for takeout orders.

Pro Tip: Your restaurant is constantly being evaluated—by customers, delivery drivers, and even health inspectors. Make sure you’re always putting your best foot forward!