How to choose a restaurant name

Selecting the right restaurant name requires thoughtful consideration of multiple factors. Your name should:

• Be memorable and unique
• Be simple, short, and easy to remember
• Be easy to imagine the business
• Be easy to read and pronounce
• Use characters that are easy to input and on a smartphone (easier searching)

Here's a step-by-step approach to finding the perfect restaurant name.

Understand your brand identity

Before brainstorming restaurant names, take time to clearly define your brand identity. Ask yourself:

• What type of food will you serve?
• What's your price and dining atmosphere?
• What feelings do you want to evoke in your customers?
• What's your unique selling point?

Understanding these elements will help you create a name that accurately represents your restaurant concept. For example, a high-end Italian restaurant might benefit from an authentic Italian name that conveys sophistication, while a casual burger joint might opt for something playful and memorable.

Know your target audience

According to a study by the National Restaurant Association, 70% of diners consider a restaurant's name when deciding where to eat. Different demographics respond to different naming styles, so it's crucial to understand who your ideal customers are.

Are you targeting young professionals seeking Instagrammable dining experiences? Families looking for affordable meals? Business executives in need of impressive client dinner locations? Each group will respond differently to various naming approaches.

For instance, research shows that millennials are often drawn to restaurant names that feel authentic and have a story behind them, while families with children might prefer names that sound approachable and friendly.

Research your competitors

Before settling on a restaurant name, research what's already out there in your market. This serves two purposes:

• It helps you avoid legal issues by ensuring you're not using a name that's already trademarked
• It allows you to differentiate yourself from competitors

Make a list of restaurant names in your area and within your cuisine category. Look for patterns and common elements, then think about how you can stand out. If most Italian restaurants in your area use traditional Italian words, perhaps you could take a more modern approach or vice versa if the market is saturated with contemporary names.

Brainstorm name categories

There are several approaches to naming your restaurant. Consider these categories:

• Location-Based Names: Referencing your street, neighborhood, or city (e.g., "Hudson & Charles," "The Chicago Diner")
• Personal Names: Using your own name or a family member's (e.g., "Gordon Ramsay Steak," "Ruth's Chris Steak House")
• Food-Focused Names: Highlighting signature dishes or ingredients (e.g., "The Cheesecake Factory," "Olive Garden")
• Descriptive Names: Communicating the type of establishment (e.g., "Fine & Rare," "The Capital Grille")
• Conceptual Names: Abstract terms that evoke a feeling (e.g., "Catch," "Eleven Madison Park")
• Cultural References: Drawing from literature, music, or art (e.g., "Babette's Feast," "Blue Plate Symphony")

Consider SEO and digital marketing

In today's digital world, your restaurant name needs to work well online. Consider:

• Searchability: Will people be able to find you when searching for restaurants in your area?
• Domain availability: Can you secure a domain name that matches your restaurant name?
• Social media handles: Are usernames available across platforms?

Avoid these common mistakes

When choosing restaurant names, be careful to avoid these pitfalls:

• Names that are too long or complicated: They're harder to remember and may get shortened by customers
• Highly trendy words: What's cool now might seem dated in a few years
• Cultural appropriation: Be respectful when drawing from cultures outside your own
• Similar names to existing restaurants: This can lead to confusion and potential legal issues
• Limited names: Avoid names that might limit your growth or menu changes in the future

List of restaurant names

Italian restaurant names

Asian restaurant names

American restaurant names

Fast casual restaurant names

Fine dining restaurant names

Pub and bar names

Popular restaurant names for inspiration

Some restaurant names have become iconic in the industry, creating powerful brands that resonate with customers. Studying these successful examples can provide valuable insights for your own naming process. Here are some popular restaurant names across different categories and what makes them effective:

• Olive Garden: This name evokes images of Mediterranean dining while being simple and memorable. It creates a clear image of Italian cuisine without using Italian words that might be difficult for some customers to pronounce.
• Shake Shack: Short, alliterative, and descriptive of what they offer. The name is casual and approachable, perfectly matching their concept.
• Chipotle: Named after a key ingredient in their cooking, this single-word name is distinctive and authentic.
• The Cheesecake Factory: Directly communicates their famous offering while the word "factory" suggests abundance and variety—which perfectly aligns with their extensive menu.