1. Showcase Behind-the-Scenes Content

Giving your audience a glimpse behind the curtain can create a sense of exclusivity and excitement. Share stories that feature:

• Kitchen preparations: Show your chefs in action, preparing ingredients, and crafting dishes.

• Menu creation: Highlight the thought process and creativity behind your menu items.

• Staff introductions: Let your audience meet the friendly faces that will serve them.

2. Highlight Signature Dishes

Your specialties are what will set your restaurant apart. Use Instagram Stories to:

• Feature daily specials: Post short videos or photos of your daily or weekly specials.

• Step-by-step recipes: Offer a quick tutorial on how some of your key dishes are made.

• Taste tests: Record reactions of people trying your dishes for the first time.

3. Engage with Your Audience

Instagram Stories offer several interactive features to engage your audience:

• Polls and questions: Ask your followers what they’d like to see on the menu or what their favorite dish is.

• Countdowns: Build anticipation for your opening day with countdown stickers.

• User-generated content: Encourage your followers to share their experiences and tag your restaurant.

4. Promote Special Events

If you’re planning events such as a soft opening, a tasting night, or a live music event, use Stories to:

• Announce the events: Share details and highlights leading up to the event.

• Live coverage: Post real-time updates and highlights during the event to create a sense of FOMO (fear of missing out).

5. Collaborate with Influencers

Partnering with local food bloggers and influencers can amplify your reach:

• Influencer takeovers: Let a well-known influencer run your Instagram Stories for a day.

• Reviews and shoutouts: Invite influencers to try your specialties and share their experiences.

6. Use Hashtags and Geotags

Make sure your Stories are discoverable:

• Relevant hashtags: Use popular and relevant hashtags like #NewRestaurant, #Foodie, or #YourCityEats.

• Geotagging: Tag your location to attract local customers.