How to Get More Google Reviews for Restaurants
Turn satisfied customers into 5-star reviews with proven scripts and strategies designed specifically for restaurants.
When to Ask for Reviews
Timing is everything. Asking at the right moment dramatically increases your review conversion rate.
Best Moment to Ask
Right after a guest compliments their server, bartender, or a specific dish. The energy is high, they're engaged, and they've already verbalized their satisfaction. This is your golden window-especially with regulars who love what you do.
Worst Moment to Ask
When they're clearly in a rush, waiting for their check, or when service was slower than usual. Even if they enjoyed the meal, asking during a stressful moment creates friction and reduces the likelihood they'll follow through.
Table Tent QR Code + Check Mention Strategy
Place QR code table tents near the condiments or at the edge of every table, leading directly to your Google review page. Then, when dropping the check, servers casually mention: "If you loved your meal tonight, we'd be so grateful if you'd scan that QR code and let us know." This two-touch approach is subtle, non-pushy, and incredibly effective because it plants the seed early and reinforces it at the perfect moment.
Restaurants have a unique advantage: multiple touchpoints during a single visit. Unlike most businesses where you get one chance to ask, restaurants can prime guests with signage, remind them at the table, and follow up via email-all without feeling aggressive. The key is making the ask feel like part of the hospitality experience.
Getting reviews is only half the battle.
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Start your free trialCopy-Paste Scripts to Ask for Reviews
Use these word-for-word scripts to ask happy customers for reviews. Customize the [bracketed] details for your business.
In-Person Script
I'm so glad you enjoyed everything! If you have a moment, we'd really appreciate a quick Google review-it helps us keep doing what we love. There's a QR code right here on the table, or I can text you the link if that's easier.
Email Script
Subject: Thanks for dining with us at [Restaurant Name]!
Hi [Customer Name], Thank you so much for joining us recently! We hope you loved your meal as much as we loved serving you. If you have 60 seconds, we'd be incredibly grateful if you could share your experience on Google. Your feedback helps us improve and helps other diners discover us. [Google Review Link] Thanks again, and we can't wait to see you again soon! [Your Name] [Restaurant Name]
SMS / Text Script
Hi [Customer Name]! Thanks for dining with us at [Restaurant Name]. If you enjoyed your meal, we'd love a quick Google review: [Google Review Link]. Hope to see you again soon!
Who Should Ask
Servers and hosts should both be trained to ask for reviews, but servers are the frontline. They've built rapport during the meal and can read the table's mood. Hosts can reinforce the ask at the door for guests who are raving on their way out.
Training Tip
Role-play the ask during pre-shift meetings. Many servers feel awkward asking at first, so practice makes it natural. Emphasize that they're not begging-they're giving happy customers an easy way to support the restaurant they already love.
Follow-Up Timing
Send the email or SMS within 24 hours while the experience is still fresh. Wait longer than 48 hours and the memory fades, along with their motivation to write a review.
Where to Place Review Reminders
Make it easy for customers to leave a review by placing reminders where they already look.
Physical Placements
Table Tents with QR Codes
Small, attractive cards placed on every table with a direct QR code to your Google review page. Include a friendly message like "Loved your meal? Scan to share!"
Bottom of Receipt
Print a short message on every receipt: "Leave us a Google review!" with a shortened URL or QR code. Guests see it when signing their bill.
Host Stand Signage
A small, elegant sign at the host stand thanking guests and inviting reviews. This catches guests on their way out when they're still glowing from a great meal.
Bathroom Mirror Decals
Creative placement! A tasteful decal or small sign in the restroom with your Google review link. People check their phones in there anyway.
Digital Placements
Post-Visit Email Campaign
Automated email sent 12-24 hours after their reservation or order, thanking them and including a direct link to leave a review.
SMS Follow-Up
Text message sent same-day or next-day if you collected their phone number during reservation or for a waitlist. Keep it short and friendly.
Google Business Profile Posts
Regularly post on your Google Business Profile encouraging happy customers to share their experiences. Include a direct call-to-action.
Social Media Bio Links
Add your Google review link to your Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok bios. Fans who engage with you online are likely reviewers.
Getting Reviews Is Only Half the Battle
Once the reviews come in, you need to respond - fast and on-brand. Reply Champion uses AI to write personalized responses to every review automatically.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about getting more Google reviews for your restaurants business.