Diners are highly skeptical and place a premium on trust, not just great food. Research shows that around 94 percent of diners read online reviews before visiting a restaurant, and 72–79 percent trust them as much as personal recommendations. “Consumers now research menus, hygiene ratings, and reviews before choosing where to eat,” said Andrew Witts, Digital Marketing Expert at Studio 36. “Restaurants that demonstrate transparency, authenticity, and quality consistently outperform competitors, both in customer loyalty and online visibility. Positive reviews and credible online information directly affect bookings and revenue. Restaurants with higher review scores see higher customer conversion and repeat visits, according to Restaurant Intelligence Agency. Consumer trust influences selection intention and loyalty, with credibility shaped by consistent quality and genuine customer experiences. A 2024 Edelman Trust Barometer shows that 70 percent of consumers globally will avoid brands they perceive as untrustworthy.Trust is also directly tied to a restaurant's visibility online. With search engines like Google prioritizing Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness (EAT) guidelines, brands must ensure their content and digital presence are credible and reliable. “Trust isn’t just a nice-to-have for restaurants,” Witts said. “It drives repeat visits, positive reviews, and customer loyalty. Brands that invest in authentic authority stand out in a crowded market.” He offers a few strategies for restaurant brands to build credibility. Showcase Authentic Expertise Don’t just tell customers you serve great food—show them. Highlight the credentials of your chefs and your commitment to quality ingredients. For example, if your restaurant emphasizes farm-to-table dining, feature the farms…
