What Is GEO and Why Is It Important for Restaurants?

More and more people are using AI platforms like ChatGPT, Gemini and Perplexity to discover restaurants. Instead of only searching on Google, they're asking questions like: 'Where can I find a nice brunch spot in Amsterdam?' or 'What's a good Italian restaurant in Utrecht?'

But how can you make sure your restaurant can also be found through these AI platforms? That's where GEO comes in.

What Is GEO?

GEO stands for Generative Engine Optimisation. It focuses on improving your online visibility within AI platforms that generate answers and recommendations.

While traditional SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) focuses on visibility in search engines like Google, GEO focuses on how AI systems find, understand and use information about your restaurant in their responses.

The goal? To increase the chances of your restaurant being mentioned when someone asks AI for a restaurant recommendation.

What's the Difference Between SEO and GEO?

SEO and GEO have a lot in common, but they focus on different ways guests discover restaurants.

• SEO: Helps your restaurant become more visible in search results, for example when someone searches for 'Italian restaurant Amsterdam'.
• GEO: Focuses on visibility in AI-generated answers, for example when someone asks: 'What's a cosy Italian restaurant in Amsterdam for a date?'

A strong SEO foundation is also valuable for GEO. Both benefit from clear business information, relevant website content and a reliable online presence.

How Can You Improve Your Restaurant's GEO?

You don't need to be a technical expert to get started with GEO. A few practical steps can already help:

• Keep your business information clear: Make sure your name, address, opening hours and menu are up to date on your website and other relevant platforms.
• Describe what makes your restaurant unique: Highlight your cuisine, atmosphere, location and specific features, such as outdoor seating, a brunch menu or options for group dining.
• Strengthen your online reputation: Collect reviews and make sure your restaurant is also mentioned on relevant external websites and platforms.
• Make your website accessible: Use clear headings, relevant content and structured data (schema markup) to help search engines and AI systems understand your website.

Why Is GEO Important for Restaurants?

The way guests search for restaurants is changing. AI platforms offer new opportunities to be discovered, especially when guests have specific preferences.

A restaurant that clearly communicates what it offers online may be better positioned to match detailed search requests. Think of guests looking for a family-friendly restaurant, a romantic dinner spot or somewhere with vegetarian options.

GEO therefore offers an additional opportunity to reach potential guests, alongside traditional visibility on Google and Google Maps.

Improve Your Restaurant's AI Visibility with Toppi

Toppi helps restaurants become more visible on Google and AI platforms. From optimising your online business information and website to review management, we help make your restaurant easier to find online.

This means you're not only visible when guests search on Google, but also working towards better visibility across AI platforms.

Curious how visible your restaurant is on Google and AI?

Find out with Toppi's free visibility scan.