Launching a restaurant is about more than opening the doors and calling it a day. It’s about creating buzz, building excitement, and giving people a reason to stop by. From bold banners waving outside to interactive displays inside, the right grand opening signage can transform your launch day into a must-visit event.
Whether you’re opening a brand-new concept or a second location, here are the five types of signs every restaurant needs to draw crowds, boost foot traffic, and make a memorable first impression.
1. Eye-Catching Exterior Signage
Your exterior signs are often the first impression you make. They should be bold, visible from a distance, and instantly communicate that something new and exciting is happening.
Grand Opening Banners
Large, vinyl banners are a classic choice for a reason. They’re one of the easiest and most effective ways to announce your restaurant’s arrival. Hang them above your storefront, across a patio, or on a nearby fence to capture attention from passing cars. Keep the design simple: bold fonts, high-contrast colors, and clear messaging like “Grand Opening – [Date]!” work best.
Feather Flags
Tall, vertical feather flags are excellent at grabbing attention from afar and adding movement to your storefront. Use short, punchy phrases like “Now Open,” “Grand Opening Today,” or “Free Tasting” to create urgency and curiosity. Position them near sidewalks, parking lot entrances, or intersections to guide people toward your restaurant.
Yard Signs or Directional Signs
Not every potential customer knows exactly where to go, especially if your restaurant is tucked into a plaza or near a busy street. Directional yard signs with arrows and parking instructions can make the arrival process smooth and stress-free. They’re also helpful for guiding guests to takeout pickup or valet areas.
2. Window and Storefront Signs
Once people are close to your restaurant, your storefront becomes your best marketing space. Use it to build anticipation and share essential details.
Window Decals and Clings
Window Decals and Clings are perfect for teasing your opening before the big day. Decals can feature countdowns, sneak peeks of the menu, or messages like “Opening This Weekend!” After launch, update them with store hours, promotions, or QR codes linking to your website or reservations page.
Business Hours Signs
New customers will often check your hours before deciding to stop in. A professional, easy-to-read hours sign near the entrance helps set expectations and communicates reliability. You can also include delivery or takeout hours if they differ from dine-in times.
Promotional Posters
Use posters to highlight opening-week specials, soft-launch tasting menus, or happy hour promotions. A well-designed poster with compelling offers can encourage undecided customers to walk through the door.
3. Street-Level Signage
Street-level signage helps you connect with people already walking by and convince them to step inside. Think of these as your final nudge to turn passersby into paying guests.
Sidewalk A-Frame Signs
These foldable, freestanding signs are perfect for placing right outside your door or along a busy pedestrian path. Use A-Frame Signs to feature your opening day offers, promote a free appetizer with a meal, or invite people to “Try Our Signature Dish Today.”
Menu Boards
Displaying your menu upfront reduces hesitation and piques curiosity. A beautifully designed menu board, whether printed or chalkboard-style, lets people see what you serve before they commit. Add a QR code for online orders or detailed menu browsing.
Tabletop or Counter Signs
Smaller countertop displays near entrances, host stands, or pickup counters are ideal for highlighting specials, loyalty programs, or limited-time offers. They’re easy to update weekly or seasonally.
4. Photo-Worthy Signage
Social media can make or break your grand opening. Give guests a reason to snap and share by creating visually engaging spaces worth posting about.
Step & Repeat Backdrop Banners
Set up a branded photo wall where customers can take selfies and group shots. Include your logo, restaurant name, and a launch-day hashtag to boost your online visibility organically.
Branded Wall Murals or Vinyl Backdrops
Transform a blank wall into an eye-catching mural or feature wall. Beyond being Instagrammable, custom backdrops reinforce your restaurant’s personality and give people a reason to share their experience online.
Tabletop Photo Props
Add a playful touch with branded props like cut-out speech bubbles, foodie puns, or themed frames. These low-cost additions can significantly boost online engagement.
5. Interior Signage
Once guests step inside, signage still plays a crucial role by guiding their experience, reinforcing your brand, and encouraging return visits.
Indoor Hanging Signs
Use overhead signage to direct guests to seating, restrooms, or pickup areas. Clear, attractive signs help improve flow and make the dining experience feel seamless.
Table Tents and Inserts
These small but powerful signs are perfect for promoting seasonal dishes, happy hour specials, or loyalty programs directly at the table. Because they’re easy to swap out, you can keep messaging fresh long after opening week.
Thank You Sign
End the customer journey on a positive note with a “Thank you for celebrating our opening!” message near the exit. It’s a simple, thoughtful way to build goodwill and encourage repeat visits.
Your restaurant’s launch is more than a single event. It’s your first chance to make a lasting impression. With the right mix of grand opening signs — from bold outdoor banners to social-media-ready backdrops and welcoming thank you posters — you’ll attract attention, boost foot traffic, and set the tone for long-term success.
Ready to start designing? Explore all the customizable signage solutions for your restaurant’s big day at Signs.com.
