Google Business Profile for Restaurants: The Ultimate Setup Guide

Unlock the power of Google Business Profile to drive diners to your door and boost your restaurant’s visibility in local searches.

Why Google Business Profile is a Game-Changer for Restaurants

If you’re looking to attract more diners in your local area, a fully-optimised Google Business Profile (GBP) is your secret weapon. It’s how you show up when people search for phrases like “best Italian restaurant near me” or “pub lunch in [Your Town].”

When set up correctly, your Google Business Profile improves your restaurant’s local SEO, gets you on the map (literally), and can drive reservations, reviews, and footfall. So, let’s break down exactly how to set up, claim, and optimise your profile—step-by-step.

Step 1: Create or Claim Your Google Business Profile

Before you can optimise your profile, you’ll need to either claim your restaurant’s existing listing or create one from scratch.

1.1 Check for an Existing Listing

• Go to Google Maps.
• Search for your restaurant name.
• If it appears, click “Claim this business” or “Own this business?”
• Follow the prompts to verify ownership.

1.2 Create a New Google Business Profile

If your restaurant isn’t already listed:

• Go to Google Business Profile Manager.
• Click “Manage now” and sign in with your Google account.
• Enter your restaurant name, address, and category (e.g., “Restaurant” or “Pub”).
• Confirm your location on the map.

Step 2: Verify Your Profile

Verification proves you own the restaurant and ensures accurate information appears in search results.

• Postcard Verification: Google sends a postcard with a verification code to your restaurant’s address.
• Phone Verification: Some businesses get an option to verify instantly via a phone call or text.
• Email Verification: Occasionally, Google allows verification through email.

👉 Tip: Make sure you check all your options—phone or email verification is faster than waiting for a postcard!

Step 3: Optimise Your Google Business Profile

Now the fun begins! Optimising your GBP is how you boost local SEO and encourage diners to choose you over competitors.

3.1 Complete Every Detail

Fill out your profile completely, including:

• Business Name: Match this to your official website and signage.
• Address: Ensure it’s consistent with all your online listings.
• Phone Number: Use a local number.
• Business Hours: Include regular, holiday, and special hours.
• Website: Link directly to your restaurant’s website.

3.2 Add Restaurant Categories and Services

Choose your primary category carefully—it has the most SEO impact. For example:

• Primary: “Italian Restaurant”
• Secondary: “Pizza Restaurant” or “Family Restaurant”

Under “Services,” add everything you offer—think dine-in, takeaway, delivery, or al fresco dining. This helps your restaurant appear in specific searches.

3.3 Showcase Stunning Photos

Did you know businesses with high-quality photos get 42% more requests for directions? Google loves visuals, and so do hungry customers.

• Add Exterior Photos to help diners recognise your location.
• Include Menu Photos to entice browsers.
• Show off your Best Dishes—think burgers piled high or beautifully plated desserts.
• Upload Interior Photos to highlight the ambience (cosy, family-friendly, stylish—whatever your vibe is).

👉 Tip: Refresh your images regularly to keep your profile looking current.

3.4 Add Your Menu

Google allows you to list your menu or upload it as a PDF. For local SEO, create a digital menu with clear headings like Starters, Mains, and Desserts. This makes your profile more engaging and keeps diners clicking.

3.5 Encourage and Respond to Reviews

Reviews are pure gold for local SEO. They boost trust and signal to Google that your restaurant is popular.

• Politely ask happy customers to leave a review after their meal.
• Respond to all reviews—good and bad. Thank customers for kind words and address any concerns professionally.

👉 Tip: Aim to include keywords in your responses, like “We’re so glad you loved our pizza!” (subtle but effective).

Step 4: Use Google Posts to Attract Diners

The Google Posts feature lets you share updates, offers, and events directly on your GBP.

What to Post:

1. Special Promotions: “20% off pizzas every Tuesday!”
2. Events: “Live music this Friday—book your table now.”
3. Seasonal Menus: Highlight new dishes or drinks.
4. Behind-the-Scenes: Share chef specials or fun staff moments.

Posts expire after 7 days, so keep them fresh!

👉 Tip: Add a clear Call-to-Action like “Reserve Now” or “Order Online.”

Step 5: Avoid These 5 Common Google Business Profile Mistakes

1. Incomplete Profiles: Missing hours, photos, or menu details lose you customers.
2. Ignoring Reviews: Respond to reviews—it builds trust and boosts SEO.
3. Incorrect NAP (Name, Address, Phone): Keep details consistent across all platforms.
4. Neglecting Google Posts: Regular posts keep your restaurant visible and engaging.
5. Forgetting to Update Hours: Nothing frustrates diners more than showing up to find you closed.

Step 6: Monitor and Update Regularly

Local SEO is an ongoing process. Keep your Google Business Profile fresh by:

• Adding new photos monthly.
• Posting weekly updates.
• Updating hours for holidays or special events.
• Tracking insights (views, clicks, and calls) through Google Business Profile Manager.

Boost Your Local SEO Today

Optimising your Google Business Profile is one of the most effective local SEO strategies for hospitality. It’s free, easy to manage, and can transform how diners find your restaurant.

Ready to put your restaurant on the map? At On the Map, we specialise in local SEO for restaurants. Whether you’re looking to optimise your Google Business Profile or overhaul your website’s SEO, we’re here to help.