If you own a restaurant in 2026, your most valuable digital asset isn't your Instagram, and it might not even be your website. It’s your Google Business Profile (GBP).

Think of GBP as your "digital storefront." Before a customer ever clicks your website link, they see your Google profile. They check your star rating, scroll through your photos, look at your hours, and read your reviews. For more than 60% of diners, the decision to eat at your place is made right there on Google.

If you aren't actively managing this profile, you are leaving money on the table.

The Visual First Impression

Humans eat with their eyes. When someone searches for "Thai food," Google shows a carousel of images.

• The Cover Photo: This needs to be your "hero shot." A high-resolution, well-lit photo of your signature dish or your bustling dining room.

• Customer Photos vs. Owner Photos: Google prioritizes photos uploaded by the owner. Upload new, professional photos weekly. Don't let a grainy photo from a customer in 2019 be the first thing people see.

• Video: Did you know you can upload 30-second videos? A clip of a steak sizzling or a cocktail being poured is incredibly engaging.

The "Posts" Feature: Your Free Billboard

Google allows you to create social-media-style updates called "Posts" that appear directly in your profile.

• Events: Promoting a Valentine's Day prix fixe? Create an Event post.

• Offers: Running a "Buy One Get One" deal? Use the Offer post type. It adds a "View Offer" button that drives clicks.

• Updates: "We are open for snow day delivery!"

These posts expire after 6 months (previously 7 days), keeping your content fresh. Active posting signals to Google that you are an active business, which can boost your ranking.

Managing the Q&A Section

There is a "Questions & Answers" section on your profile where anyone can ask a question and anyone can answer it. This is dangerous.

• Question: "Do they have gluten-free options?"

• Random User Answer: "I don't think so." (Even if you do!)

Pro Tip: You should preemptively ask and answer your own FAQs. Post the question "Do you offer gluten-free delivery?" and answer it officially as the owner. This ensures accuracy.

The Direct Ordering Button

Google has an "Order Online" button. Be careful—sometimes third-party apps like DoorDash hijack this button, meaning customers who find you on Google still end up paying a commission. Ensure your Town direct ordering link is set as the primary "Order" link in your profile settings. You want that traffic going to your commission-free site, not an intermediary.

Need Help Setting Up GBP? Read Our Guide

Reviews: The Social Proof Engine

Reply to every review. Yes, every single one.

• Positive Reviews: "Thanks, Sarah! We love that you enjoyed the lasagna." This encourages loyalty.

• Negative Reviews: "I'm sorry to hear that, Dave. We'd love to fix it." This shows future customers that you care.

Your Google Business Profile is a living, breathing entity. Treat it with the same care you treat your physical dining room, and Google will reward you with a steady stream of hungry locals.

Master Your Profile: Google My Business for Success