Restaurant ad budgets typically range from $200–$400 per platform, per campaign, depending on duration, goals, and platforms used. Start with one campaign, to test what works, and scale your budget as you grow.
Minimum Recommended Budget: $200–$400 per Campaign
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — your ad budget depends on how many campaigns you're running, which platforms you use, how long the campaigns run, and how aggressive your goals are.
That said, here’s a reliable rule of thumb:
Expect to spend $150–$400 per platform, per campaign, depending on duration and objectives.
Factors that affect your budget:
1. Campaign Type
Grand opening? New menu launch? Ongoing brand awareness? Each goal requires a different level of spend.
2. Number of Platforms
Ads on Meta (Facebook/Instagram), TikTok, and Google each need their own budget to perform effectively.
3. Duration
A short, high-impact campaign (5–7 days) needs more daily budget. A month-long campaign allows for a more gradual spend.
4. Ad Variations & Testing
Running A/B tests or multiple creatives (images/videos/offers)? You’ll need extra budget to collect meaningful data.
Example Budget Ranges
| Campaign Type | Duration | Platform(s) | Suggested Budget |
| Grand Opening (multiple campaigns ) | 4–5 weeks | Facebook + Instagram + TikTok + Google | $1000–$3000 total |
| New Menu Item Launch | 1–2 weeks | Instagram only | $150–$500 |
| Ongoing Brand Awareness | Monthly | Google + Meta | $300–$1,000/month |
| Weekend Event Promo | 5–7 days | TikTok or Facebook | $100–$250 |
These ranges reflect minimum effective budgets. Higher spend = better reach, stronger frequency, and more impact — especially in competitive markets.
Scaling as You Grow
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Start smart and scale based on your budget:
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✅ If you're working with a lower budget, begin with one platform to keep your spend focused.
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🔁 If your budget allows, run split tests across multiple platforms or ad types to see which yields the best results.
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➕ Add more platforms or increase spend once you identify what’s working.
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📆 Boost budget during peak periods like holidays, weekends, or local events.
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⚠️ Disclaimer:
Running ads does not guarantee immediate customers. Advertising is a tool to increase your restaurant’s visibility, get in front of your target audience, and drive potential interest. Results may vary based on budget, offer, creative, competition, and timing.
Final Thought
Your budget isn’t just a number — it’s a tool to help you hit real goals: more customers, more orders, more buzz.
Start smart, spend with purpose, and grow your way to consistent success.