Empty tables on a Tuesday cost money. A well-timed SMS about a lunch deal or a quiz night fills them, and booking and order updates cut down on phone calls during the busiest hours.
What to send
- Table booking confirmations and a reminder on the day.
- Order updates for delivery and takeaway: received, ready, on the way.
- Lunch and happy hour deals sent mid-morning to opted-in regulars.
- Event nights live music, quiz nights and match screenings.
- Loyalty rewards every tenth coffee free, birthday treats.
- Feedback a quick rating after a visit.
Example messages
- “Your table for 4 at Mama’s Kitchen is booked for Fri 7:30pm. Reply 2 to cancel.”
- “Lunch special today: any main + soda KES 650, 12–3pm. STOP to opt out”
- “Your order #88 is on its way. Rider: Kevin, 0712 345 678.”
Tips for better results
- Send lunch offers around 10–11am, before people decide where to eat — see best times to send SMS.
- Use two-way SMS so guests can confirm or cancel bookings by reply.
- Collect numbers for offers with consent at the till or via a QR code.
- Keep promotions short and clear with one call to action.
Related
SMS for retail · SMS templates · SMS reminders
Get started
Create a Connect Media account — SMS from KES 1.0, no minimum top-up, credit that never expires, and one account for Safaricom, Airtel and Telkom. Call +254 707 339 945 or email info@connectmedia.co.ke.
Frequently asked questions
How can restaurants use SMS?
For booking confirmations and reminders, order updates, lunch and event offers, loyalty rewards and feedback.
When should a restaurant send lunch offers?
Mid-morning, around 10 to 11am, works well because people are deciding where to eat.
Can guests cancel a booking by SMS?
Yes. With two-way SMS, guests reply to confirm or cancel and your team sees it in the inbox.