Using AI to Write Engaging Guest Emails for Your Restaurant in the UK

Email marketing is one of the most cost-effective tools available to UK restaurants. And with AI, writing and personalising those emails is easier than ever.

According to the Toast Consumer Preferences Survey 2025, 55% of UK diners prefer to receive updates and promotions via email over other forms of communication. It's also the second most effective marketing channel, behind social media.

What Makes a Good Restaurant Email?

For your email campaigns to succeed, they need to deliver value. That could be a limited-time offer, a behind-the-scenes video from your head chef, or a story about your new seasonal menu. It's all about relevance.

AI tools can help by analysing customer data and recommending the best time to send messages, the right offers to promote, and even which subject lines are most likely to be opened.

Toast’s blog on restaurant marketing strategies outlines how personalisation and automation go hand in hand—AI helps restaurants scale their email efforts without losing their human touch.

How UK Diners Feel About Email Content

According to the Toast Consumer Preferences Survey 2025:

• 44% of diners are more likely to open an email that includes a loyalty offer or reward.

• 32% say behind-the-scenes content helps them feel more connected to the restaurant.

• 39% would like to see seasonal menu updates and specials via email.

These preferences show that email campaigns should mix utility and storytelling. Use AI to group customers by past behaviour or preferences, then tailor content accordingly.

Smart Timing and Frequency

Email timing matters. You don’t want to overwhelm your guests, but you also don’t want them to forget about you.

The Toast Voice of the Restaurant Industry UK Report reveals that increasing guest demand is a top priority for 28% of operators, and 1 in 4 are investing in tech like marketing automation to help achieve this.

AI can help you find your sweet spot. Tools like predictive send-time optimisation ensure each subscriber gets your message when they’re most likely to engage.

Staying Compliant with UK Regulations

UK restaurants must comply with GDPR and the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR). That means you need clear, opt-in consent before sending marketing emails, and you must provide a simple way to unsubscribe.

Always keep a record of how and when consent was given. The ICO provides clear guidance to help you stay compliant.

Get Started Today

Email marketing doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about keeping in touch with your guests in a way that’s helpful, warm, and relevant. AI can do the heavy liftingnso you can focus on what you do best: delivering great food and great experiences.