08/25/2026
Google Maps just launched a new AI update that impacts your restaurant.
With the new Ask Maps, a customer can tell Google what they want to eat, include things like dietary preferences, ask for something that’s open and on their route, and Google can help take them from that request all the way to having the food sitting in their cart.
For restaurant owners, I’d focus on making sure Google has the best possible information about your restaurant.
Thinks to be looking at:
• When was the last time you really audited your Google Business Profile? Not just your hours. Categories, links, photos, website, ordering options — all of it.
• Take a look at your online menus. Are the dishes, descriptions, prices and availability accurate? Does your website clearly explain what you actually serve?
• Don’t forget about Google Posts. Post to your Google Business Profile regularly, and be specific. If your restaurant is known for a certain dish, talk about it by name. If you’re known for your lobster roll, don’t just post “Come check out our new summer menu.” Talk about the lobster roll. Make it easy for Google to understand what you’re actually known for.
• Check your ordering links and providers on your Google Business Profile & make sure they’re current and sending customers where you actually want them to order. Maybe you currently have a link to your Uber Eats listing off your Google Profile, but recently just launched direct online ordering. Make sure your personal channels are promoting the direct link VS the 3rd party deliver services.
Get the fundamentals right. Your website. Your Google profile. Your menus. Your hours. Your ordering. Your reviews.
All the little pieces that tell Google and your customers, who you are, what you offer and how to do business with you.
Google is making the path between “What should I eat?” and “Order placed” a whole lot shorter. Make sure your restaurant is part of the answer.
