How to Support Local Restaurants & Taprooms
A big part of my work involves listening to the real-world challenges faced by business owners and their teams. The food and beverage industry has seen significant changes over the past five years. Many of these changes are visible but easy to overlook.
When people ask me how they can best support our local dining scene (which is truly world-class), I usually offer a few quick suggestions. However, I would like to take this opportunity to share a more comprehensive list that reflects what I’ve been told directly from those in the industry.
Here are 10 meaningful ways you can help support the restaurants and taprooms defining our neighborhoods:
1. Dine In When You Can
Dining in often leads to ordering drinks, appetizers, or dessert, which helps increase revenue and supports servers directly.
2. Pay with Cash or Debit When Possible
Credit card processing fees may seem small, but they add up fast. When profit margins are razor-thin, using cash or debit makes a bigger impact than you might think.
3. Avoid Third-Party Delivery and Pick Up Instead
Third-party delivery services take a significant cut, which means less money for the restaurant. Take the extra time to pick up your order directly.
4. Tip Generously (If You’re Able)
Many restaurant workers, both front and back of house, rely on tips as a meaningful part of their wages. A little extra goes a long way.
5. Buy Gift Cards
Gift cards provide immediate cash flow and serve as a great reminder to visit again. They also make thoughtful gifts and easy introductions to your favorite spots. Another option to support local is to buy West Michigan Community Cash.
6. Share Positive Feedback & Promote on Social Media
Posting about your dining experiences, specials, or new menu items helps spread the word. It’s a powerful, authentic, and completely free form of support.
7. Purchase Merch
Wearing a restaurant’s hat, hoodie, or tee is excellent advertising and helps generate extra revenue. It’s also a fun way to show your local pride, and makes for a cool gift.
8. Be Kind, Patient, and Cool
Staffing shortages are real. During busy times or service delays, kindness and patience go a long way. Don’t be deterred by a longer walk or navigating around construction; those are likely the places that need you the most, and it will be worth it.
9. Give Constructive Feedback Privately
A bad review might feel satisfying in the moment, but it can cause lasting harm. If you have a concern or a less-than-ideal experience, please speak directly with the staff or owner. Thoughtful, respectful feedback is far more helpful.
10. Understand Rising Costs
Inflation has impacted the entire food supply chain – from ingredients to utilities to labor. A slight increase in menu prices reflects these realities. Paying a bit more helps keep these beloved places thriving for future date nights, celebrations, and everyday meals. Our local restaurants and taprooms do more than serve food. They create spaces for connection, culture, and community. When we support them with intention, we help preserve the character and flavor of the neighborhoods we love.
I challenge you to support local at least once a week!
Rich App
Retail Retention & Attraction Specialist
Grand Rapids Chamber