Introduction
The influence of social media on small businesses can be profound, and a recent event in Chicago serves as a perfect example. A struggling restaurant in the Lakeview area witnessed a dramatic turnaround thanks to a popular TikTok food reviewer, Keith Lee. His visit and subsequent review led to an overwhelming response from his followers, turning the restaurant’s fortunes around almost overnight.
The Initial Struggles
The restaurant, opened just ten months ago, was facing a dire situation. The owner admitted that business was very slow, raising concerns about whether they could make it through the year. Desperate for a change, his daughter suggested leveraging social media to attract more customers. She posted a video on TikTok, tagging Keith Lee, a well-known online food critic with over 16 million followers.
Keith Lee’s Visit
Keith Lee responded to the tag and visited the restaurant to try their handmade Italian jerk chicken. His visit was not just any ordinary drop-in; it was documented and shared with his vast audience on TikTok. Lee’s review, posted on his account, praised the restaurant’s offerings and highlighted the Italian jerk chicken, which caught the attention of his followers.
Immediate Impact
The impact of Keith Lee’s review was almost immediate. Within hours, and sometimes even minutes, people began flocking to the restaurant to experience the food for themselves. The restaurant saw an unprecedented surge in customers, with lines forming out the door. The once-struggling establishment was now bustling with activity.
Sold Out Success
One of the most popular items, the fried rice balls, sold out within hours of opening. The owner expressed amazement at the sudden influx of customers and the swift depletion of their food supplies. Tiana Jackson, a customer who saw the review, visited the restaurant only to find it sold out. However,
