Introduction
The foremost contributing factor to a good dining experience at a restaurant is undoubtedly the food, the service, and the ambiance.
However, if you wish for your customers to keep returning to your restaurant, a little more than a good dining experience is required, and that is customer connect.
Granted, the dining experience doesn’t really allow you time to build a connection with the customer, but you can definitely utilize the time before and after the customer enters your restaurant to foster a better connection with them.
The tool that will help you facilitate this connection is the good ‘ole SMS.
Why SMS? Many studies have repeatedly shown that customers prefer texting as their mode of communication with businesses. Over 89% of customers say they prefer texting over any other mode for business communication.
Text message marketing for restaurants is beneficial because:
List of Restaurant SMS Templates
To get started with texting for restaurants we have compiled a list of templates that you can simply copy at the click of a button. These restaurant SMS templates are ordered according to the customer journey.
Please note that customer communication through text requires the customers’ explicit consent. We will talk about this and other important details later in the article. For now, let’s jump into the restaurant SMS templates.
- Inquiry response
- Reservation confirmation
- Reservation reminder
- Reservation update
- Reservation Cancellation SMS
- Thank you for dining
- Subscribed to text messaging updates
- Restaurant opening hours
- New restaurant opening soon
- Order through text
- Order confirmation
- Order ready for pick up
- Promotional sms
- Discount offer
- New item on menu
- Delivery available
- Order on the way
- Order delivered
- Request for feedback
- Request for Review
- Event invitation
- Happy hour deals
- Loyalty program offer
- Payment Processes Notification SMS
- Payment Failed Notification SMS
- Birthday SMS
- Post Anniversary/Birthday Celebration SMS
Some more specific scenario templates:
Inquiry Response
“ Hi [Customer Name], thank you for contacting [Restaurant name]. We are open from [Opening Time] to [Closing Time].”
“ Hi [Customer Name], we do have a table available for [Date] at [Time]. You can make a reservation.”
Reservation Confirmation
“ Hi [Customer Name], greetings from [Your Restaurant Name]! This is to inform you that you reservation for [Number of customers] on [Date] at [Time] is confirmed!”
“Hello! Your reservation at [Restaurant Name] for [Date] at [Time] has been successfully confirmed. We look forward to hosting you. If you have any special requests or need to make changes, please let us know.”
Reservation Reminder
“ Friendly reminder: Your reservation at [Restaurant Name] is tomorrow at [Time]. We’re excited to serve you. If your plans change, please let us know. See you soon!”
“Don’t forget, your reservation at [Restaurant Name] is just around the corner, scheduled for [Date] at [Time]. We’re ready to make your dining experience memorable. If anything comes up, please inform us”
Reservation Updates
“Hi [Customer Name], this is to update you that your table for [Number of customers] is ready. Looking forward to hosting you soon.”
“ Important update! Your reservation at [Restaurant Name] has been rescheduled to [New Date] at [New Time]. If this suits your plans, great! If not, please reach out so we can assist you further.”
Reservation Cancellation SMS
“We’re sorry to hear you won’t be able to make it to [Restaurant Name] for your reservation on [Date] at [Time]. If you need to reschedule or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.”
“Unfortunately, your reservation at [Restaurant Name] for [Date] at [Time] has been canceled. If you’d like to rebook or have any concerns, feel free to reach out. We hope to serve you in the future.”
Thank You for Dining
“We hope you had a wonderful dining experience at [Restaurant Name]! Your satisfaction is our priority. Please share your feedback, and we can’t wait to welcome you back soon.”
“Thank you for choosing [Restaurant Name] for your dining pleasure. We hope you enjoyed your meal. Your feedback means the world to us. See you again soon!”
Subscribed to Text Messaging Updates
“Welcome to [Restaurant Name]’s exclusive text messaging updates! Get ready for mouthwatering offers, event invites, and more. Stay tuned for exciting news!”
“Thanks for joining [Restaurant Name]’s text messaging club! You’re now in the loop for exclusive deals and special announcements. Prepare for a delightful journey with us.”
Restaurant Opening Hours
” Hi [Customer Name], Here are our restaurant hours:
Monday to Friday: [Opening Time] – [Closing Time]
Saturday and Sunday: [Opening Time] – [Closing Time]
We can’t wait to serve you!”
“Planning your visit? Our restaurant hours are as follows:
Monday to Thursday: [Opening Time] – [Closing Time]
Friday to Sunday: [Opening Time] – [Closing Time]
We look forward to seeing you soon!”
New Restaurant Opening Soon
“Exciting news! [Restaurant Name] is opening a brand-new location in [Location]. Stay tuned for an unforgettable dining experience. We can’t wait to welcome you!”
“Big news! [Restaurant Name] is expanding! We’re thrilled to announce a new restaurant opening in [Location]. Get ready for deliciousness like never before!”
Order Through Text
“Ordering your favorite dishes at [Restaurant Name] is now as easy as sending a text! Simply reply with your order, and we’ll take care of the rest. Enjoy!”
“Craving our cuisine? You can now place your order through text! Just send us what you’d like, and we’ll make sure it’s hot and ready for you.”
Order Confirmation
“Hi there! Your order #[Order Number] from [Restaurant Name] has been confirmed. Your estimated pickup time is [Time]. We’ll have your delicious meal ready for you shortly. Thank you for choosing us!”
“Great news! Your order at [Restaurant Name] is set. Confirmation #: [Order Number]. You can expect it to be ready for pickup by [Time]. Get excited for a tasty treat!”
Order Ready for Pick Up
“Your order #[Order Number] is now ready for pickup at [Restaurant Name]. Head over whenever you’re ready, and enjoy your meal. Thanks for choosing us!”
“Your delicious order from [Restaurant Name] is hot and ready! Come by at your convenience and show #[Order Number] to pick up your meal. Bon appétit!”
Promotional SMS
“Don’t miss out on our latest promotion! Enjoy [Discount Percentage]% off your next meal at [Restaurant Name]. Use code [Promo Code] when ordering. Valid until [Expiry Date].”
“Exciting news! We’re offering a limited-time promotion at [Restaurant Name]. Get [Discount Percentage]% off your order using promo code [Promo Code]. Hurry, offer ends on [Expiry Date]!”
Discount Offer
“Exclusive offer alert! Get [Discount Percentage]% off your bill today at [Restaurant Name]. Show this message to your server to redeem. Enjoy your meal!”
“We’ve got a special treat for you! Enjoy a [Discount Percentage]% discount on your next visit to [Restaurant Name]. Just present this message when you dine with us.”
New Item on Menu
“Exciting news from [Restaurant Name]! We’ve just added a mouthwatering new item to our menu: [New Menu Item]. Come in and try it today!”
Guess what? We’ve introduced a delectable new addition to our menu at [Restaurant Name]: [New Menu Item]. Swing by soon to savor this delicious creation!
Delivery Available
“Good news! [Restaurant Name] now offers delivery service. Enjoy your favorite dishes from the comfort of your home. Order now at [Order Link] and savor the flavors!”
Exciting announcement! You can now have [Restaurant Name]’s delicious food delivered to your doorstep. Place your order at [Order Link] and indulge in a culinary delight tonight.
Order on the Way
“Great news! Your order from [Restaurant Name] is on its way! Our delivery driver, [Driver Name], is en route to deliver your tasty meal. Get ready to dig in!”
“Your eagerly awaited order from [Restaurant Name] is in transit! Expect delivery by [Estimated Delivery Time]. We hope you’re as excited as we are. Enjoy!”
Order Delivered
“Your order from [Restaurant Name] has been successfully delivered to your address. We hope you enjoy your meal! If you have any feedback, please let us know. Thanks for choosing us!”
“Delivery complete! Your delicious meal from [Restaurant Name] has arrived. We hope it’s everything you hoped for. If you have a moment, share your thoughts with us. Bon appétit!”
Request for Feedback
“We value your opinion! How was your recent dining experience at [Restaurant Name]? Please take a moment to provide us with your feedback. Your input helps us improve.”
“Your feedback matters! We’d love to hear your thoughts on your recent visit to [Restaurant Name]. Share your experience with us, and help us serve you better.”
Request for Review
“Had a great time at [Restaurant Name]? We’d be honored if you could leave us a review on [Review Platform]. Your review helps others discover our amazing food and service.”
“We hope you enjoyed your visit to [Restaurant Name]. Would you be kind enough to share your thoughts on [Review Platform]? Your review can make a difference.”
Event Invitation
“Join us for a special event at [Restaurant Name]! We’re hosting [Event Name] on [Event Date] at [Event Time]. Reserve your spot now by replying “RSVP” or call us at [Reservation Number]. We can’t wait to see you there!”
“You’re invited! [Restaurant Name] is hosting an exclusive event, [Event Name], on [Event Date] at [Event Time]. To secure your spot, reply with “YES” or call us at [Reservation Number]. Don’t miss out on a memorable evening!”
Happy Hour Deals
“It’s that time of day again! Join us for Happy Hour at [Restaurant Name] from [Happy Hour Start Time] to [Happy Hour End Time]. Enjoy discounted drinks and appetizers. See you soon!”
“Cheers to a great evening! Happy Hour is on at [Restaurant Name] from [Happy Hour Start Time] to [Happy Hour End Time]. Swing by for special deals on your favorite drinks and snacks.”
Loyalty Program Offer
“As a valued guest, we’re excited to introduce our loyalty program. Earn rewards points with every visit to [Restaurant Name]. Get started today and enjoy exclusive perks!”
“You’re in for a treat! Join our loyalty program at [Restaurant Name] and start earning rewards on every visit. Your loyalty deserves to be rewarded. Enroll now!”
Payment Process Notification SMS
“Your payment of [Amount] for your recent order at [Restaurant Name] has been successfully processed. Thank you for choosing us. Enjoy your meal!”
“Payment complete! Your transaction of [Amount] for your order at [Restaurant Name] has gone through without a hitch. Your satisfaction is our priority.”
Payment Failed Notification SMS
“We’re sorry, but your payment for order #[Order Number] at [Restaurant Name] has failed. Please review your payment details and try again. If you need assistance, call us at [Customer Support Number].”
“Oops! It looks like there was an issue processing your payment for order #[Order Number] at [Restaurant Name]. Please double-check your payment information or contact us at [Customer Support Number] for assistance.”
Birthday SMS
“Happy Birthday, [Customer Name]! 🎉🎂 Celebrate your special day with us at [Restaurant Name]. Come in for a complimentary dessert on us. Make your day even sweeter!”
“Wishing you a fantastic birthday, [Customer Name]! 🎈🎁 Enjoy a complimentary birthday treat at [Restaurant Name] today. We’re honored to celebrate with you!”
Post Anniversary/Birthday Celebration SMS
“Thank you for celebrating your special day with us at [Restaurant Name]. We hope you had a wonderful time. Your continued support means the world to us.”
“We’re thrilled you chose [Restaurant Name] for your recent anniversary or birthday celebration. We hope it was filled with joy and delicious moments. Looking forward to serving you again soon.”
Empty Tables
“Free appetizers today at [Restaurant Name]!
Show this to your server before 6 PM to receive a free appetiser of your choice. Limit 1 per person. ”
” [Food Item] at [Price] only for today!
Get a [Price] [Food Item] with an Entree purchase before 7PM. Limit 1 Person.”
Overstock / Expiring goods
[Price] [Food Item] – [Restaurant Name]
For today only, come on in for $20 all-you-can-eat shrimp. Get here early before they’re all gone.
Opt-out reply STOP
” [Food Item] at [Price] only for today!
Get a [Price] [Food Item] with an Entree purchase before 7PM. Limit 1 Person.”
General Promotions
🌟 Indulge in Exquisite Dining at [Restaurant Name]! 🌟
🍽️ Discover a Culinary Adventure at [Restaurant Name]! 🍷
Join us at [Restaurant Name] and experience the ultimate feast for your senses! From tantalizing flavors to impeccable service, we invite you to savor every moment in our delightful ambiance.
🍝 [Restaurant Name] Specialties: Indulge in our chef’s signature dishes, meticulously crafted to tantalize your taste buds. From sizzling steaks to fresh seafood and delightful vegetarian options, we cater to every palate.
Stay tuned for our upcoming events, featuring live music, wine tastings, and themed nights. Don’t miss out on our exclusive offers and promotions – there’s always something special cooking at [Restaurant Name]!
How to Get Started With SMS Texting for Restaurants?
As we mentioned at the beginning of the article, SMS texting with customers should be done only by obtaining explicit permission from them to receive communication. So how can restaurants go about receiving these consents from their customers?
Have Customers Opt-In Through Keywords
Keywords are predecided words that you can reserve for the purpose of customer list building. For example, you can reserve a keyword like “FOOD” and have customers text your number with this keyword.
By doing this, the customers will be automatically added to your text marketing list.
If customers are hesitant to sign up you can try offering discounts or a free dessert on sign up.
Try Customer Segmentation for Better Engagement
Segmentation allows you to categorize your customers based on their behaviors or preferences so you can deliver more targeted restaurant promotions.
The messages that you send to these customers can cater to this specific preference. It’s a great way to increase customer engagement.
Send Short and Concise Messages
Make sure that the messages you send to your customers are not too long. Short and to-the-point messages will go a long way! They will keep the customers’ attention and compel them to take action. This brings us to the next point which is establishing a clear CTA.
Make the CTA Prominent
A CTA or call to action, lets the customer know the action they must take to avail mentioned services/offers sent in the text.
For example, if you send a reservation update to customers, you can add a simple “reply C to confirm” to ensure that the customer keeps up with the reservation, or add “ reply R to reschedule” to allow customers to reschedule their reservation if needed.
Allow Opt-Out
Text message campaign can have overall success only if the customer list it caters to is active. If customers no longer want to receive text communication from you, they must have the option to opt-out. Maybe a customer no longer resides in the city. The text messages will just end up becoming spam to them.
You can add a simple, “Reply with STOP to unsubscribe” to your messages to allow an opt-out option for your customers.
A business texting software such as Emitrr will help you create a segmented customer list and send mass text messages whilst also allowing personalization. Let’s see how you can create a text message campaign on Emitrr.
How to Send Your First Text Message Campaign Through Emitrr?
You can follow these steps to send your first mass texting campaign on Emitrr:
- Navigate to “Send >> New message” on the top right navigation panel.
- Add recipients by either searching your contact list or directly adding the number in the recipient box. You can also select “lists” that you have segmented based on customer preference here.
- When you add more than two recipients you will receive a prompt asking you whether you would like to send a group text or message recipients individually. Select the latter to send mass text messages.
- Add the recipient to the box.
- Add the message.
- Send the message immediately or schedule it for later.
Frequently Asked Questions
SMS templates for restaurants are pre-written messages that you can customize as per the message that you want to send to your customers. SMS templates for restaurants can be for sharing new offers or discounts, event updates, etc.
You can implement a software like Emitrr if you wish to send messages to multiple people at once for your restaurant-related updates. Emitrr comes with a number of useful features for this such as two-way messaging, bulk/mass texts, link sharing, file sharing, and more.
Conclusion
Restaurants can leverage the power of texting to obtain maximum engagement from their customers and have them coming back for more. It’s a great method to keep customers updated every step of the way! Use a Restaurant Texting Service as it can make communication more streamlined and easy to handle. Ready to get started with text messaging? Schedule a demo with Emitrr today to learn how 1000+ businesses have improved their customer interaction and engagement.
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