Marketing a restaurant to families with children requires a focus on convenience, affordability, and creating a welcoming, fun environment. Families with kids are a valuable demographic, and catering to their needs can lead to repeat visits and positive word-of-mouth referrals. Here are 20 proven strategies to attract families to your restaurant, including why each method works.
1. Create a Dedicated Kids’ Menu
Offer a kids’ menu with smaller portions, healthy options, and fun presentations. Include classics like chicken tenders, pasta, and mini pizzas, but also add creative or healthier choices like veggie sticks or fruit salads.
Why It Works:
A National Restaurant Association study found that 91% of parents say a kids’ menu influences their decision to dine out. Tailored options make dining easier and more enjoyable for families.
2. Host “Kids Eat Free” Nights
Promote special nights where kids eat free with the purchase of an adult meal. This is a great way to attract families during slower weekdays.
Why It Works:
Value-driven promotions are highly appealing to budget-conscious families. According to Technomic, 60% of families prioritize affordability when dining out.
3. Add a Play Area or Entertainment Zone
If space allows, create a safe play area with toys, games, or even a small playground. Alternatively, provide coloring books, crayons, or tablets with kid-friendly apps.
Why It Works:
A Technomic study found that 70% of parents say activities for kids are a key factor in choosing a restaurant. Play areas keep children entertained, giving parents a chance to relax.
4. List Your Restaurant on www.kidfriendlynearme.co.uk
Add your restaurant to family-focused directories like www.kidfriendlynearme.co.uk, which helps parents find child-friendly venues in their area.
Why It Works:
Parents actively search for family-friendly options online. Being listed on a trusted platform increases your visibility and credibility among your target audience.
5. Offer Family Meal Deals
Create discounted family meal packages or combo deals that include meals for both adults and children. Highlight the value and convenience in your marketing.
Why It Works:
Nielsen research shows that 60% of families look for value when dining out. Family meal deals simplify ordering and appeal to budget-conscious parents.
6. Host Family-Friendly Events
Organize events like storytelling sessions, craft workshops, or themed nights (e.g., superhero or princess nights). These events create a fun atmosphere that encourages repeat visits.
Why It Works:
Eventbrite reports that 78% of millennials (now parents) prefer spending money on experiences. Family events build community and make your restaurant a destination.
7. Partner with Local Schools and Sports Teams
Collaborate with schools, sports teams, or community groups to sponsor events or offer discounts to members. This builds goodwill and positions your restaurant as family-oriented.
Why It Works:
The National Restaurant Association highlights that community involvement increases brand loyalty. Families are more likely to support businesses that give back.
8. Promote Health and Safety Measures
Highlight your restaurant’s cleanliness and safety practices, such as regular sanitization, clean play areas, and food safety certifications.
Why It Works:
A PwC survey found that 65% of consumers consider cleanliness a top factor when choosing a restaurant. Reassuring parents builds trust and confidence.
9. Use Social Media to Showcase Family-Friendly Features
Post photos and videos of kids’ meals, play areas, and family events on platforms like Instagram and Facebook. Engage with parents by responding to comments and messages.
Why It Works:
eMarketer reports that 90% of parents use social media, and 70% have made purchasing decisions based on social media ads. Engaging content helps you connect with your audience.
10. Encourage Online Reviews
Ask satisfied customers to leave positive reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, and TripAdvisor. Highlight your family-friendly amenities in these reviews.
Why It Works:
A BrightLocal survey found that 87% of consumers read online reviews, and 79% trust them as much as personal recommendations. Positive reviews boost your reputation.
11. Offer Loyalty Programs for Families
Create a loyalty program that rewards families for repeat visits. For example, offer a free kids’ meal after a certain number of visits or discounts for dining during off-peak hours.
Why It Works:
Bond Brand Loyalty found that 77% of consumers are more likely to continue doing business with brands that offer loyalty programs. Rewarding families encourages repeat visits.
12. Provide High Chairs, Booster Seats, and Kid-Friendly Utensils
Ensure your restaurant is equipped with child-friendly essentials like high chairs, booster seats, and plastic utensils.
Why It Works:
Parents appreciate restaurants that make dining with kids easier. A welcoming atmosphere increases the likelihood of repeat visits.
13. Advertise on Parenting Blogs and Websites
Partner with popular parenting blogs or websites to promote your restaurant. Offer exclusive discounts or host giveaways to attract families.
Why It Works:
Parents trust recommendations from parenting influencers and websites. Advertising on these platforms helps you reach your target audience effectively.
14. Create a “Birthday Club” for Kids
Offer a free meal or dessert for kids on their birthdays when their family dines at your restaurant. Promote this program on your website and social media.
Why It Works:
Birthday promotions create excitement and encourage families to celebrate special occasions at your restaurant. It’s a memorable way to build loyalty.
15. Offer Healthy and Allergy-Friendly Options
Include gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free options on your menu to accommodate children with dietary restrictions.
Why It Works:
A Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) study found that 32 million Americans have food allergies. Catering to these needs makes your restaurant more inclusive and appealing.
16. Run Family-Friendly Contests on Social Media
Host contests where families can win free meals or event tickets by sharing photos of their dining experience at your restaurant.
Why It Works:
Contests generate engagement and user-generated content, which increases your restaurant’s visibility and attracts new customers.
17. Offer Takeaway or Delivery Options for Families
Provide family-sized takeaway or delivery meals, especially for busy parents who prefer dining at home.
Why It Works:
The convenience of takeaway and delivery appeals to families with young children. According to Statista, 60% of consumers order takeout at least once a week.
18. Train Staff to Be Family-Friendly
Ensure your staff is trained to be patient, friendly, and accommodating to families. Small gestures, like offering crayons or helping with strollers, go a long way.
Why It Works:
A Harvard Business Review study found that customer-centric businesses grow revenue 4-8% above the market average. Excellent service ensures families feel valued.
19. Collaborate with Local Family Influencers
Partner with local parenting influencers to promote your restaurant. Invite them to dine with their families and share their experience on social media.
Why It Works:
Influencer marketing is highly effective, with 49% of consumers relying on influencer recommendations. Local influencers can help you reach families in your area.
20. Create a “Family of the Month” Program
Highlight a local family each month on your social media or website, offering them a free meal or special discount. Encourage families to nominate themselves or others.
Why It Works:
This program builds community engagement and creates a sense of belonging, making families feel connected to your restaurant.
Conclusion
Marketing a restaurant to families with children requires a mix of thoughtful amenities, engaging events, and targeted promotions. By creating a welcoming environment, offering value, and building trust, you can position your restaurant as a go-to destination for families. Implementing these 20 strategies will not only attract families but also foster long-term loyalty, ensuring your restaurant thrives in a competitive market.
