How to Increase Average Check Size with AI-Powered Upselling

Increasing the average check size is a key revenue driver for restaurants. Instead of relying on traditional upselling methods, AI-powered upselling uses customer data to make smart, personalized recommendations that drive sales without being pushy. By implementing AI-driven upselling, restaurants can increase guest spend while enhancing the ordering experience.

This guide breaks down how AI-powered upselling works, why it’s effective, and how to implement it in your restaurant’s digital ordering system.

What is AI-Powered Upselling?

AI-powered upselling uses artificial intelligence to analyze customer data—such as past orders, preferences, and real-time behaviors—to suggest additional menu items that complement their selections. Unlike traditional upselling, which often feels scripted or intrusive, AI makes tailored recommendations that feel natural and relevant.

For example, if a guest frequently orders a burger, the system may suggest a premium topping or a specialty drink pairing based on their previous choices. The goal is to add value to their meal while increasing the total spend per order.

Learn more about how AI shapes the guest journey and influences restaurant purchasing behavior.

How AI Upselling Boosts Revenue Without Hurting the Guest Experience

Guests are more likely to add items when they feel the recommendation is useful rather than just a sales push. AI-powered upselling optimizes this by:

1. Personalizing Recommendations: AI suggests items based on past orders, preferences, and even time of day. A customer who regularly orders iced coffee in the afternoon might be prompted to try a new seasonal cold brew.

2. Offering Smart Pairings: Instead of generic add-ons, AI highlights menu items that naturally complement the customer’s current selection. If they order a pasta dish, they might see a suggested wine pairing.

3. Enhancing Digital Ordering Efficiency: Whether through a mobile app, self-service kiosk, or online ordering platform, AI-driven upselling seamlessly integrates into the ordering process without slowing it down.

Read more on AI-driven restaurant strategies to see how top brands are using automation to maximize revenue.

How to Implement AI-Powered Upselling in Your Restaurant

Step 1: Use AI-Driven Digital Ordering Platforms

To maximize upselling potential, invest in an ordering system with AI capabilities. These platforms analyze customer behavior in real-time and adjust recommendations accordingly. Integration with your POS system ensures smooth operations without requiring additional manual work.

Step 2: Optimize Your Digital Menu

Your digital menu plays a big role in upselling success. Ensure that it:

• Features high-margin items in prominent spots.
• Uses high-quality images and enticing descriptions.
• Includes strategic placement of recommended add-ons without overwhelming customers.

Step 3: Train Staff to Work Alongside AI

Even with AI handling digital upselling, staff still play a crucial role in reinforcing recommendations. Train employees to:

• Reference AI-driven suggestions when interacting with guests.
• Use soft upselling techniques to complement automated recommendations.
• Explain why certain pairings enhance the meal experience.

Step 4: Continuously Optimize Based on Data

AI-powered upselling gets smarter over time, but it requires ongoing analysis. Review sales reports to understand:

• Which upsell items perform best.
• Customer preferences based on order history.
• Adjustments needed for seasonal trends or menu updates.

FAQs About AI-Powered Upselling

Q: Does AI-powered upselling replace human interactions?
A: No. AI enhances the ordering experience by providing relevant recommendations, but staff can still reinforce upselling efforts in a more personalized way.

Q: Will AI suggest the same items to everyone?
A: No. AI personalizes recommendations based on each guest’s past purchases, preferences, and order context.

Q: How quickly can AI-powered upselling impact revenue?
A: Many restaurants see an immediate increase in average check size as AI optimizes recommendations in real time.

AI-powered upselling is a game-changer for restaurants looking to increase revenue without disrupting the guest experience. By making smart, personalized recommendations, restaurants can increase sales while improving customer satisfaction.