Why Your Restaurant Isn’t Ranking on Google – And How to Fix It

Is your restaurant buried in Google search results while competitors dominate the top spots? If customers can’t find you, they won’t book a table. Local SEO for restaurants is crucial, and if you’re not ranking, it’s time to fix the problem.

In this guide, we’ll explore why your restaurant isn’t ranking on Google and exactly what to do to climb the rankings.

1. You Haven’t Optimised Your Google Business Profile

Google Business Profile (GBP) is the foundation of local SEO. If your profile isn’t optimised, Google won’t prioritise you.

Fix It:

• ✅ Ensure your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) match your website.
• ✅ Upload high-quality photos of food, interiors, and menus.
• ✅ Post weekly updates about promotions, new dishes, or events.

2. You Don’t Have Enough Google Reviews

Google ranks businesses with more positive reviews higher in search results. If your restaurant lacks reviews or has negative ones, it affects rankings.

Fix It:

• 💬 Ask customers to leave reviews after their meal.
• 📱 Use QR codes on receipts linking to your review page.
• 📩 Send a follow-up email requesting feedback.

Want more details? Read how reviews impact Local SEO.

3. Your Website Isn’t Optimised for Local SEO

If your website doesn’t include local keywords, Google doesn’t know where you’re located. Missing key SEO elements can keep you off page one.

Fix It:

• ✅ Add location-based keywords to H1 titles and meta descriptions.
• ✅ Use schema markup to tell Google your business type and location.
• ✅ Ensure your site loads in under 3 seconds (use Google PageSpeed Insights to check).

4. You’re Not Ranking in Google’s Local Pack

Google’s Local Pack (top 3 results in Google Maps) drives the most local search traffic. If you’re missing from it, you’re losing bookings.

Fix It:

• ✅ Get listed on local directories like Restaurantji.
• ✅ Build local citations with consistent NAP details.
• ✅ Ensure your Google Business Profile is 100% complete.

For a deep dive, check out how to rank in Google’s Local Pack.

5. Your Competitors Are Doing SEO – And You’re Not

Other restaurants are actively optimising their SEO, leaving you behind.

Fix It:

• ✅ Conduct competitor research using Ahrefs or Moz.
• ✅ Start a blog with high-value Local SEO content.
• ✅ Earn backlinks from hospitality websites.

Final Thoughts: Fix Your Rankings & Get More Customers

If your restaurant isn’t ranking on Google, don’t wait to fix it. Optimise your Google Business Profile, encourage reviews, improve your website SEO, and build local citations to move up the rankings.

➡️ Need expert help? Click on the menu above to claim your free Local SEO audit.