5 Ways Reels Can Bring More Customers to Your Restaurant

If you own a restaurant, you already know, your food is amazing, your team is amazing… but getting new customers in the door? That’s a whole different recipe.

Here’s the thing: these days, people aren’t just walking by and deciding to stop in, they’re scrolling, tapping, and saving posts for “that place I want to try.”And right now, Instagram Reels are one of the BEST ways to catch their eye and make them crave what you’re serving.

We’ve helped restaurants across the Central Valley turn quick, engaging videos into full tables ,and here’s how Reels can do the same for you.

1. Show Off Your Signature Dish

Everyone has that one menu item customers can’t stop talking about.Why not make it the star of the show? We’re talking sizzling close-ups, that slow-motion cheese pull, the cocktail pour that makes you want to order two. A Reel like this is scroll-stopping.

Pro tip from us: Add trending audio + a short, punchy caption and you’ll have people tagging friends with “We HAVE to go here.”

2. Let Them Feel the Vibe

Your food matters, but your atmosphere seals the deal. Is your place cozy and romantic? Fun and energetic? Patio-perfect on summer nights?A 15-second Reel of clinking glasses, smiling guests, and that golden-hour lighting will have people picturing themselves there instantly.

3. Put a Face to the Name

Your staff is part of your magic. Whether it’s your chef plating a work of art, your bartender shaking up the perfect margarita, or your server sharing a favorite dish — people love connecting with the humans behind the food.These Reels make your brand feel approachable, authentic, and worth coming back to.

4. Hype Your Specials & Events

Running a taco Tuesday? Live music this weekend? Dropping a new seasonal menu?Reels are perfect for building excitement quickly — and they’re pushed out to new people who don’t already follow you. That’s how you turn a slow Tuesday into a packed one.

5. Hop on Trends (Without Feeling Cringe)

You don’t have to dance in the kitchen (unless you want to), but using the right trending audio or format can put your content in front of thousands of fresh eyes. The trick is to make it your own so it still feels like your brand.

Bottom line:

Reels aren’t just “fun videos” — they’re a tool to get your food, your people, and your story in front of the customers you want most. And the best part? We handle the filming, editing, and posting-ready content so all you have to do is… well, serve great food.

Don't believe us? Try it out yourself, or hire us!