TikTok has taken the food world by storm, transforming hidden gems into viral hotspots overnight. If you’re a restaurant owner looking to tap into this powerful platform, you’re in the right place! Let’s break down the latest TikTok food trends and how you can use them to get your restaurant noticed.
1. Leverage Viral Food Trends
Ever heard of the “Butter Board” or the “Smashed Burger Taco”? These viral food trends exploded on TikTok, drawing massive crowds to restaurants that jumped on board early.
How to do it:
- Stay updated – Follow popular food creators and hashtags like #FoodTok, #ViralEats, and #TikTokFood.
- Test new ideas – Incorporate trending dishes into your menu as limited-time specials.
- Record the process – Show behind-the-scenes footage of your chef preparing the trend with your own twist.
2. Make “Food Porn” Content
TikTok thrives on visually satisfying food porn content. Whether it’s gooey cheese pulls, slow-motion syrup drizzles, or ultra-crispy textures, making your food look irresistible is key.
How to do it:
- Focus on textures – Capture the crunch, sizzle, or ooziness of your food.
- Use natural lighting – Bright, well-lit shots make food pop on camera.
- Go for close-ups – Show every delicious detail of your dish.
3. Jump on Food Challenges
TikTok challenges aren’t just for dance moves. They’re for food, too! From the “Spicy Food Challenge” to the “Massive Pizza Slice” challenge, people love engaging with unique eating experiences.
How to do it:
- Create a signature challenge – Example: “Finish this XXXL Burger in 15 minutes and get it for free!”
- Encourage customers to participate – Offer incentives like discounts or a spot on your restaurant’s “Wall of Fame.”
- Use a catchy hashtag – Something like #SpicyBiteChallenge can boost your visibility.
4. Partner with Local Food Influencers
Influencers can put your restaurant in front of thousands (or even millions) of hungry eyes. A single post from a popular local food creator can drive foot traffic like never before.
How to do it:
- Find the right influencers – Look for TikTok foodies in your area with engaged audiences.
- Offer a free meal or special experience – Many influencers will feature your restaurant in exchange for a meal.
- Collaborate on unique content – Have them try your signature dish, take part in a challenge, or review a new menu item.
5. Tell a Story with Your Food
People love a good story! Whether it’s a family recipe passed down for generations or an unexpected inspiration behind your best-selling dish, storytelling makes your brand more relatable.
How to do it:
- Show your team in action – Feature your chef explaining a dish or your barista making a signature drink.
- Share customer experiences – Capture genuine reactions to your food.
- Use captions and voiceovers – Adding context makes your content even more engaging.
6. Use TikTok’s Features to Boost Engagement
TikTok isn’t just about posting videos, it’s about interaction. Using the right features can help your content reach more people.
How to do it:
- Duets and Stitches – React to viral food trends or customer videos featuring your food.
- Polls and Q&A – Ask your audience what new menu item they’d like to see.
- Use trending sounds – Popular audio clips can give your content an algorithmic boost.
7. Encourage User-Generated Content
One of the easiest ways to go viral is to get your customers posting about your restaurant!
How to do it:
- Create an Instagrammable experience – Think neon signs, unique plating, or over-the-top food presentations.
- Start a hashtag challenge – Example: #MyFirstBiteAt[YourRestaurantName]
- Feature customer videos – Repost the best ones on your own TikTok account.
8. Offer Exclusive TikTok Discounts
Want to drive more people to your restaurant? Give them an exclusive deal they can’t resist!
How to do it:
- Create a TikTok-only offer – “Show this video at checkout for 10% off!”
- Promote limited-time deals – Urgency encourages immediate visits.
- Highlight TikTok-only menu items – Secret off-menu dishes create buzz.
9. Post at the Right Times
TikTok’s algorithm favors engagement, so timing matters!
Best times to post for restaurants:
- Before mealtimes – 11 AM–12 PM (lunch crowd), 5–7 PM (dinner crowd)
- Weekends – When people are out and looking for new spots to try
- Late nights – Perfect for attracting night owls and foodies craving a midnight snack
10. Keep It Fun and Authentic
At the end of the day, TikTok is all about personality. Be creative, be yourself, and most importantly, have fun with it!
How to do it:
- Don’t overproduce – Authentic, casual videos often perform better than polished ones.
- Show behind-the-scenes moments – Customers love getting a sneak peek of kitchen life.
- Engage with your audience – Reply to comments and interact with your followers.
TikTok is a goldmine for restaurant marketing if you know how to use it right.
