Restaurant social media management can mean very different things depending on the provider. One package may cover only scheduling posts supplied by the restaurant. Another may include strategy, graphic design, short-form video editing, captions, approvals, community responses, and monthly reporting.
Before comparing fees, make sure you know exactly what work is included.
Planning and content calendar
A useful service begins with the restaurant's priorities: current menu, locations, promotions, events, and brand voice. The content calendar should identify what will be posted, where, when, and who approves it.
The calendar should also leave room for changes. Restaurants regularly adjust specials, hours, and availability; outdated promotional posts can confuse customers.
Graphics, photography, and reels
Clarify whether the provider creates graphics from supplied photos, edits footage recorded by staff, or visits the restaurant to capture original material. These are different levels of service.
Ask how many static posts, stories, reels, and promotional variations are included. If one promotion must be adapted for multiple locations or platforms, confirm whether those versions count separately.
Captions, scheduling, and approvals
The provider should explain who writes captions, checks offer details, obtains approval, and schedules posts. Establish a deadline for the restaurant to confirm prices, dates, availability, and any required disclaimers.
A good approval process protects both the restaurant and the content team from publishing incorrect information.
Community management is a separate responsibility
Replying to comments, answering direct messages, handling complaints, and responding to reviews can require timely operational knowledge. Do not assume those tasks are included. Decide which messages the provider may answer and which must go directly to restaurant staff.
Reporting and ownership
Reports should explain what was published, how audiences responded, and what to adjust. Agree on the metrics that matter before work begins. Also confirm who owns the social accounts, source design files, edited assets, and access permissions.
Frequently asked questions
Does social media management include paid ads?
Not necessarily. Advertising strategy, creative production, ad spend, and campaign management may be separate.
Who supplies photos and videos?
It depends on the package. Confirm whether filming, staff-supplied footage, or stock assets are expected.
What should a monthly report show?
At minimum, published deliverables, relevant engagement and traffic indicators, lessons learned, and the next month's priorities.