5 Strategies to Increase Average Ticket in Your Restaurant

One of the main challenges for any restaurant is increasing the average ticket per customer. It's not just about attracting more diners, but getting each one to spend more without feeling pressured. The key lies in using smart strategies that enhance the customer experience while driving sales. Here are five effective tactics to achieve this.

1. Use AI-powered intelligent recommendations

Artificial intelligence can help you suggest strategic dishes and combinations. With a smart menu like RECO, customers receive personalized recommendations based on their tastes and consumption habits.

For example, if a customer orders a pizza, RECO can suggest a perfectly paired beverage or a dessert with a discount if they add another product to their order. This type of recommendation increases the likelihood that customers will add more items to their order.

2. Implement combos and customization options

Customers value flexibility and the ability to customize their orders. Offering attractive combos or the option to add extra ingredients is an effective way to increase consumption.

For example:

• A burger combo with fries and drink at an attractive price
• The ability to add premium ingredients to a dish for an additional cost
• Offers for larger portions, like a medium coffee for just 5 pesos more

The key is making the customer feel they're getting more value for their money.

3. Highlight high-margin products

Not all dishes generate the same level of profit. Some products, like beverages, desserts, and appetizers, have higher profit margins. A smart menu with RECO allows you to strategically highlight these products, increasing their visibility.

For example, if a customer orders pasta, RECO can show them a wine option that pairs perfectly. This not only enhances the gastronomic experience but also drives consumption of more profitable products.

4. Offer strategic promotions

Well-designed promotions can make customers spend more without realizing it. Some effective strategies include:

• Volume discounts – "Get 3 beers and pay for only 2"
• Happy hours – Offers during certain times to increase consumption during low-demand periods
• Free desserts or appetizers with minimum purchase – "Order more than $300 and get a free dessert"

These tactics not only incentivize purchases but also create a sense of opportunity and urgency in the customer.

5. Enable frictionless digital payments

A quick and simple payment process can make customers order more without worrying about wait times. With RECO, customers can pay directly from their phone, reducing payment friction and improving table turnover.

Additionally, the platform allows for digital tipping, which can increase the perception of good service and improve server income.

Increasing average ticket doesn't mean pressuring customers to spend more, but offering them a better experience that motivates them to try more products.

With tools like RECO, you can implement these strategies simply, highlighting the right products, personalizing recommendations, and offering a frictionless experience.

Ready to increase your sales? Create your smart menu with RECO and implement these strategies today.