Restaurant Opening Timeline from a Marketing Perspective
If you’re opening a restaurant, you’ve probably heard the phrase “you’re only new once.” It may sound cliché, but it’s true—you only get one chance to make a lasting first impression with your guests, community, and industry peers. That’s why it’s so important to invest in a strong marketing strategy before you open your doors. The right plan will build excitement, create awareness, and set you up for long-term success.
At Found Haus, we know that no two restaurant openings are alike. Every concept has its own story to tell, so we create tailored strategies designed to meet your unique goals. Still, there are key milestones every brand should keep in mind during the pre-opening phase.
Six months before opening:
Identify and engage a marketing partner to guide your pre-opening and launch strategy
Secure website URLs and social media handles
Develop a strong visual identity that informs your website, interiors, menus, and digital presence
90 days before opening:
Kick off work with your marketing partner to develop messaging, launch strategy, and press materials
Launch social handles with teaser content; build a simple splash page with key information
Begin sharing your story with the local community and targeted press to generate buzz
60 days before opening:
Hire a photographer to capture your space, team, and menu (and ensure you can use these assets across channels)
Plan your opening events—friends & family previews, soft opens, media nights, or launch parties
Prepare your leadership team with media and storytelling training to confidently represent your brand
30 days before opening:
Capture final photo and video assets of interiors, menus, and cocktails
Strategically announce your opening date across media and social channels to maximize attention
Share behind-the-scenes sneak peeks to grow your following and drive anticipation
Open reservations (if applicable)
Audit your digital presence to ensure accuracy across Google, social platforms, and maps
Opening week:
Launch your full website and activate paid digital campaigns
Host opening events designed to showcase your concept and connect with VIP guests
Train staff on how to create exceptional experiences for influencers, journalists, and community leaders
Open your doors—and celebrate the beginning of your brand’s story!
Of course, opening is just the start. A strong marketing partner ensures that the momentum doesn’t stop once the ribbon is cut. With a strategy in place, your buzz can continue to grow in the weeks and months after launch.
If you’re planning a new restaurant, bar, or hotel, let’s talk about how we can help you create a marketing plan that drives awareness, builds loyalty, and sets you apart from the competition.
Rum baba with roasted peaches, Madagascar vanilla gelato, and orange zest.