Google Business Profile for restaurants: 8 things to get right

When someone searches for “restaurants near me” or your name, the first thing they often see is your Google Business Profile: opening hours, photos, reviews and buttons. If there is an error there, a guest may go to the neighbours without even opening your website.

1. Accurate opening hours – including public holidays

Outdated opening hours are one of the most frustrating mistakes: a guest arrives to find the door closed. Make sure to add special opening hours for public holidays too.

2. A link to your website

The “Website” button should lead to your website’s homepage – not an old blog post, Facebook page or a non-existent address.

3. A link to your menu

You can add a menu link to your profile. Ideally, it should lead to a text-based menu on your website, rather than a PDF file or image. Why.

4. A booking option

If you accept bookings, add a link that leads directly to booking – so guests do not have to search for a button at the bottom of the page.

5. Fresh photographs

Add good, bright photographs: food, the dining area, terrace and façade. Guest photos are useful, but your own photos shape the first impression.

6. Responses to reviews

A short, polite response – including to criticism – shows that the restaurant cares about its guests. Future guests will see it.

7. The right category and attributes

Choose a precise main category (for example, “Pizzeria”, rather than simply “Restaurant”) and select relevant attributes: terrace, takeaway food, child-friendly.

8. Consistent information everywhere

Your name, address, telephone number and opening hours should be the same on your Google profile, website, Facebook and delivery platforms. Differences confuse both guests and Google.

When we build a website, we also help you organise your Google profile and update its links. Get in touch.