Chill Without the Grill: Delivery-Driven Strategies for a Laid-Back Father’s Day

On the third Sunday in June, dads across the country will be celebrating by hitting the links, catching a game, or enjoying nine innings of uninterrupted peace. But here’s the shift: not every dad wants to man the grill on his day off. In fact, more families are skipping the backyard BBQ and opting for hassle-free meals delivered straight to their door.

For restaurants, that’s a big opportunity. With the right specials, targeted marketing, and savvy promotions, your delivery service can be the hero of Father’s Day—offering indulgence without the prep, mess, or fuss.

Ready to crush it?

9 delivery-driven strategies for a laid-back Father’s Day

1. Cater to the “In” Crowd

Not everyone wants to dress up and dine out. Offer meal kits, family-style bundles, and à la carte delivery specials. Sweeten the deal with a complimentary side or dessert. If your local laws allow, throw in to-go cocktails or beer bundles.

2. Step Up Your Beer Game

A cold one still tops the charts—37% of dads prefer beer, and 28% say they’d skip alcohol altogether. Try:

• Partnering with a local brewery

• Offering beer flights or a "Dad’s Choice" craft pick

• Creating a beer-and-bites pairing menu

3. Get Into the Game

While many dads enjoy watching sports on Father’s Day, others might be down for a little friendly competition.

• Host trivia, cornhole, or karaoke

• Reward participation with loyalty points or future discounts

• Create a "Backyard BBQ," "Beer Garden," or "Cigar Lounge" theme for added flair.

4. Go Beyond Meat & Potatoes

While 32% of dads say steak is their top pick, younger and more health-conscious dads appreciate options. Offer pescatarian, gluten-free, and plant-based dishes to cater to a diverse range of dietary preferences.

Try these clever dad-themed menu items:

• Dad Pack (Delivery/Takeout Only): Includes: Big Poppa Burger, wings, fries, and your choice of 2 craft beers or root beers. Delivered with a free “Dad Joke of the Day” napkin.

• The Big Poppa Burger: Half-pound steak burger stacked with crispy bacon, cheddar, onion rings & smoky BBQ sauce. Comes with a side of “Dad Bod” fries.

• Grill Sergeant Ribeye: 12 oz. hand-cut ribeye grilled to perfection. Served with garlic mash and a side of swagger.

• Father Figure Wings: A dozen bold, saucy wings—choose from “Mild to Mirchi” (hot!). Comes with celery, blue cheese, and bragging rights.

• Frankly, My Dear… Hot Dogs: Two loaded dogs: one classic, one with chili & cheese. Perfect for the king of the cookout (without the grill cleanup).

• Breakfast for Champions: Steak & eggs, crispy hash browns, and bacon—because Dad wakes up hungry.

• The Daddy of ’Em All Platter: Built for legends, not lightweights. A meaty mountain of ribs, brisket, sausage, and wings—served with cornbread and coleslaw.

5. Run a “Dad Joke” Contest

Engage your audience with humor. Invite customers to submit their best dad jokes on social media. Offer a prize like a gift card or free meal, and feature finalists on your Stories or feed.

6. Make It a Weekend Affair

Many families celebrate multiple dads or want to avoid Sunday crowds. Launch your promos on Friday and run them through Sunday. Market it as a full Father’s Day Weekend celebration.

7. Offer Freebies

Limited freebies create urgency and value. Examples:

• Branded steak knives with your signature ribeye

• Custom beer mugs with draft orders

• "Dads Eat Free" with a paying guest

• Complimentary dessert or beer flight

• $25 gift card for future visits

8. Partner for a Purpose: “Dads for Dogs”

Team up with a local animal shelter for a puppy adoption event on your patio. Or donate a portion of Father’s Day proceeds to a local cause. This creates feel-good PR and may bring in diners who hadn’t heard of you before.

9. Be All-Inclusive and Expansive

Not all dads look the same. Promote your offerings as inclusive of:

• Stepdads, grandfathers, uncles, and moms who play dual roles

• Train your team to honor the deal for anyone who asks—no questions. You’ll expand your reach and grow community goodwill.

• Bonus: Promoting to expanded families can increase basket sizes.

Takeaway

Not all dads want the crowds, the wait times, or the fanfare of going out on Father's Day. Many, in fact, would prefer to kick back at home.

That's where restaurant delivery steps in as the Father's Day MVP. This year, give your customers the chance to skip the stress and the mess, but still make the day special. With a delivery-friendly menu built for comfort, convenience, and crave-worthy flavor, your restaurant can help dads chill without the grill... and love every bite.

By Eileen Strauss