How to Create a Website: A GUIDE FOR NEW RESTAURANTS

to help you get started

We answer the most common questions ON How to Create a Website

Want to get your restaurant online but not sure where to start? We’ve answered the top 5 questions restaurant owners like you have when building a website. From choosing the right website builder to simple ways to attract more customers, we’ll walk you through the essentials to get your restaurant online and growing.

1. How Do I Create a Website for My Restaurant?

Building a website for your restaurant doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start by defining your goals: What do you want your website to achieve? Do you need an online reservation system, a menu page, or just a way for customers to learn about your restaurant? Clarifying this will help you focus on the right features for your site.

Next, choose a user-friendly website builder. Look for platforms that offer customisable templates, so you can easily match your restaurant’s unique style without needing design expertise. Ensure the builder you choose is mobile-friendly, as many of your customers will likely browse your site on their phones.

Lastly, if you plan to offer online ordering, make sure your website builder includes e-commerce features like secure checkout and payment options. You can also start selling leftover meals right away on different marketplace apps, which works alongside your website as an additional sales channel.

By focusing on these key steps, you can build a website that helps grow your restaurant, all within an affordable budget.

Pro tip: Many website builders offer free trials or affordable monthly plans - try them out before committing!

2. What Features Should I Include on My Restaurant Website?

When building your restaurant website, there are a few key features you should focus on to make it effective and attract more customers. Start by clearly displaying your menu with descriptions and prices. A few great photos of your most popular items can go a long way in enticing customers and giving them a visual idea of what they’ll enjoy.

Make sure your contact information is easy to find—whether it’s your restaurant's address, phone number, or email. This makes it simple for customers to reach out with any questions or special requests. If you’re able to offer takeaway online ordering, that’s a huge plus. Even a simple system for reservations or delivery orders can help drive sales and convenience for your customers.

Finally, don’t forget to share your story. A short "About" section that explains why you started your restaurant and what makes your dishes unique helps build a connection with your audience. People love knowing the story behind the business, and it adds a personal touch to your website.

By keeping these features in mind—clear menu options, easy contact details, the ability to order takeaway food, and a personal touch—you’ll create a site that’s easy for customers to navigate and helps your restaurant grow.

Tip: Use a website builder with templates designed for restaurants. These templates already have the right features, like menus and contact forms, so you don’t have to start from scratch.

3. How Much Does It Cost to Build a REstaurant Website?

Building a website for your restaurant is more affordable than you might think and doesn’t require a big upfront investment. Most website builders like Wix and Squarespace offer all-in-one plans —covering things like templates, hosting, and customer support. These plans typically cost between £10 to £20 per month and provide everything you need to get your restaurant online quickly.

Adding a custom domain name (like localrestaurant.co.uk) can give your business a more professional appearance. A custom domain generally costs between £8 to £15 per year, though many website builders offer free domains for the first year, which can save you some money when you’re getting started.

To offer takeaway food from your website, you'll need an e-commerce plan. These plans include an online store, secure checkout, and payment processing, and are priced between £15 to £30 per month. The extra cost ensures you have all the tools to manage and grow your online sales.

All in all, for a restaurant website with a basic setup, you can expect to pay £10 to £25 per month, which covers everything from templates to hosting and basic features.

4. What's the best way for my restaurant to show up on Google?

If you want more people to find your restaurant online, using local keywords is one of the easiest ways to help Google show your website to customers near you. Local keywords are simply words or phrases that include the name of your city, neighbourhood, or area. For example, instead of just saying “Italian Pizza,” try something like “Best Italian Pizza in Bristol”. This helps Google understand where your restaurant is and connect you with customers searching for dining options nearby.

You can add these local keywords to the most important parts of your website, like your menu descriptions, your About page, and even in the titles of your pages. For example, if you're highlighting your restaurant’s specials, you could title the page “Handcrafted Sandwiches & Wraps in Manchester.” This helps Google understand what you offer and where you're located, making it easier for customers to find your restaurant when they search for meals nearby.

Lastly, include high-quality photos of your dishes, as Google ranks sites with clear images higher. Regularly updating your site with fresh content, like seasonal specials or behind-the-scenes looks, helps too. The more Google sees new content, the more likely your restaurant will appear in search results for local customers.

Bonus Opportunity: In addition to improving your website’s visibility, you can also increase local awareness by listing your unsold meals on different platforms. This allows you to reach new customers who may come in for a deal and end up discovering your full menu.

5. How Can I Use My Website to Get More Walk-Ins?

To attract more walk-ins, use your website to promote exclusive in-store-only offers, like “Show this page in-store for 10% off your meal” or “Claim a free starter when you visit us after booking online.” These types of promotions give customers an extra incentive to visit in person after discovering your restaurant online, making them feel like they’re getting something special just for walking through the door.

You can also use your website to showcase your restaurant’s unique atmosphere and story. Whether it’s about your passion for cooking or the local ingredients you use, share what makes your restaurant special. When customers connect with your story, they’re more likely to visit and experience it firsthand.

Encourage social sharing by offering a small reward, such as a discount on their next visit, for customers who share their experience online. This helps spread the word about your restaurant and creates a community of loyal customers, bringing even more foot traffic to your restaurant.

Pro Tip: You can also boost foot traffic by listing your surplus items on food waste apps, making it easier to attract local customers looking for great deals.