Eatery Success Stories On Social Media
We have seen a lot of changes for cafes, restaurants and take-out over the last six years since the economic down-slide in 2008. When there was less expendable income, more people starting eating at home instead of dining out. Those food establishments who maintain fresh and innovative ideas, along with their good menus and customer service, are the ones that stay on top in a world of word-of-mouth marketing. Social media has a big role to play in attracting loyal customers who will want to come back for more.
Today there are many dining venues who are creatively utilizing social networking as way to communicate with their fans and followers on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Here are a few who not only have used online marketing to become trusted brands; and who continuously inspire us with their great use of social media.
1. Applebees
This family-oriented restaurant and sports bar is not only a favorite place for people to gather all around the the United States, but also a fan favorite on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Applebees’s social media team engages well with their followers on all platforms, and encourages their customers to share their dining experiences and photos. With this restaurant you will find quick replies, answered questions, prompt customer service, and fun posts like this one from their Instagram account:
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Applebees goes way beyond selling delicious American food to its customers. What makes this brand appealing is the commitment to their fans and followers both online and offline while encouraging people to let others know about their menu experience. And this is especially prominent on their Facebook Page where they share delicious photos, offer a meetup app where people can join together at their various locations, and include a signup for special events and promotions. This is truly a neighborhood experience realized both in their restaurant and on social media.
2. Starbucks Coffee
Are you searching for a quick pick-me-up drink? This popular brand has it all. From its specialty coffee to their imported tea, desserts and lunch items Starbucks Coffee has become a top spot for business and pleasure all over the world. But the enormity of this household name brand does not stop them from connecting with their customers and online fans. This company loves to celebrate its customers, and introduces this in a powerful way on their YouTube channel in a video called, Meet Me At Starbucks. Followers on Twitter are often recognized by Starbucks, and your tweet just might show up as a retweet on their account: 
And for those who are connected to Tumblr, Starbucks will post photos and comments right from their stores like this one taken at the Pike Place Market in Seattle, Washington: 
As the company continues to grow and expand around the world its social media team stays connected with the people who work at and visit Starbucks. There is a human connection that is made through their active engagement and interaction with their community online.
3. The Cheesecake Factory
This restaurant also offers much more than its name suggests. Sure you’ll find a book list of amazing cheesecakes on their menu, but you can also enjoy amazing chef-inspired dishes. While the company started small in the early 1970s, it has grown to become a national sensation in the United States. Customers not only love coming to this popular venue, but they are encouraged to interact with The Cheesecake Factory on social media as well. Take a look at this delicious and mouth-watering post on their Facebook Page, and you’ll get the idea on how much this company loves getting feedback from their Fans: 
A great strategy for brand marketing is to build a high level of expectation with a new product announcement, event, giveaway or news. The Cheesecake Factory does very well with this, and followers on their Instagram account just can’t wait to try their next flavor of cheesecake or a new menu item:
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What you’ll find with this company is an elegant style, yet very personal and inviting to its audience. This keeps fans of The Cheesecake Factory coming back for not only the good food, but great engagement.
4. Taco Bell
This popular fast-food chain started in 1962 in California, and has developed into an online sensation. The company is definitely geared more toward the younger generation, but that’s what’s so smart about their marketing. Taco Bell knows how to reach its target market on social media and run with it. Not only are they constantly improving their Mexican inspired menu, but they stay in touch with their audience.
Promotions and giveaways are very effective for this company, as recently seen for the National Taco Day sweatshirt social media giveaway as seen here on their Twitter page:
The youth-oriented persona works very well for this brand, which actively shares and engages on Facebook and Instagram with its customers and audience. And while running a fast-food chain can be challenging experience, especially online, Taco Bell responds to its customers complaints by reaching out for an offline conversation at times, a smart move for any business handling these types of issues. It’s good practice not to take discussions into your social media feeds, which can bring a negative image your brand.
Even though this company does operate from a franchise setup, the social media team is there to respond, as seen on their Facebook Page:
While many company pages become sounding boards that aren’t managed, Taco Bell does a great job of interacting with loads of Fans and customers each day.
The social media lesson learned here is that restaurants and other businesses can get on the same level as their customers and audience whether they are a small organization or a global brand. These top companies are not only communicating well with their communities on social media, but they are changing and adapting to the needs of their customers while keeping their interest with news, promotions, events, great images, and videos.
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