3.2× direct bookings in one quarter

Marea opened to full houses on weekends and survived Tuesday through Thursday. Every platform booking paid a commission, the Google profile had photos from 2023 and an outdated menu, and the reviews — decent on average — had gone unanswered for months.

The chef wanted a full room without cutting prices or becoming a full-time content creator. A reasonable request.

First, the local foundation: the Google profile rebuilt — correct categories, a complete menu with prices, 60 new photos from a half-day session — and a review flow that invites guests who left happy, with every review answered within 48 hours.

Then, the direct channel: a WhatsApp booking button and an owned engine on the website with automatic confirmation. The commission platforms stayed, but stopped being the front door.

Finally, demand for the slow days: short-radius geotargeted campaigns featuring seasonal dishes, running Monday through Thursday only. The monthly content — one session, twelve pieces — is produced in one block and looks the way the restaurant actually is.

In one quarter, direct bookings multiplied by 3.2 and Tuesday-to-Thursday occupancy rose from 34% to 61%. Google Maps directions grew 41% and the rating went from 4.6 to 4.8 stars across 612 reviews. Commissions paid to platforms dropped 57% — money that now stays in the kitchen.