The restaurant industry has undergone a digital revolution, with online food ordering surging in popularity.
Restaurant online ordering systems, also known as online ordering platforms, provide restaurants with a solution to capture this growing market.
These online ordering systems offer various features to streamline the process, from online menus and secure payment processing to kitchen display systems and real-time order tracking.
Choosing the right online ordering system, whether a free option or a monthly subscription service, depends on your restaurant's needs. Factors to consider include features like digital ordering for quick service, party ordering capabilities, and integration with your existing POS system.
Ultimately, the best online ordering system will enhance the customer experience, boost online sales, and help you build customer loyalty through features like loyalty programs and automated marketing tools.
The Rise of Online Ordering: A Boon for Restaurants and Customers
The restaurant industry has witnessed a seismic shift in recent years, driven by the meteoric rise of online food ordering. Gone are the days of relying solely on phone calls and walk-in customers. Today, online ordering systems (OS), also known as online ordering platforms (OPs), have become an indispensable tool for restaurants of all sizes. These innovative solutions offer a convenient and efficient way for customers to place orders through a user-friendly online interface, often integrated seamlessly with a restaurant's website or a dedicated restaurant app.
This surge in online food ordering can be attributed to several factors. Customers, increasingly tech-savvy and time-constrained, crave the convenience of browsing restaurant menus, customizing orders, and securely processing payments from the comfort of their homes or on-the-go. Digital ordering has become the norm, particularly for quick-service fulfilment restaurants, where speed and efficiency are paramount.
Furthermore, online ordering systems provide valuable customer data for restaurants, allowing them to gain insights into customer preferences and tailor their offerings accordingly.
However, the benefits of online ordering systems extend far beyond just convenience for customers. Restaurant owners stand to reap a multitude of advantages. Online sales can experience a significant boost, reaching a wider customer base and capturing those who might not have otherwise considered dining at the establishment. Additionally, online ordering systems streamline the ordering process, minimizing errors and improving kitchen efficiency. Features like kitchen display systems (KDS) ensure orders are communicated clearly to kitchen staff, leading to faster order fulfilment.
Choosing the right online ordering system is crucial for restaurant owners.
A plethora of options exist, ranging from free online ordering solutions to monthly subscription services with a wider range of features. Key features to consider include online menu management, integration with existing POS systems, curbside pickup options for contactless service, party ordering capabilities for large groups, and customer loyalty programs to foster repeat business. Integration with popular delivery apps like Uber Eats can further expand reach, though commission fees and potential loss of control over the delivery experience are factors to weigh.
Ultimately, the best online ordering system will enhance the overall customer experience. This includes offering a user-friendly online ordering process, secure payment processing, and real-time order tracking capabilities.
Mobile apps provide an additional layer of convenience, allowing customers to place orders and manage their accounts with ease.
The future of online ordering systems for restaurants is brimming with exciting possibilities. Integration with technologies like QR codes can allow for contactless ordering at tables, while automated marketing tools can leverage customer data to send targeted promotions.
Voice ordering and AI-powered recommendations are on the horizon, further revolutionizing the way customers interact with restaurants. By embracing the power of online ordering systems and staying abreast of evolving trends, restaurants can ensure they remain competitive and thrive in the digital age.
Conquer Online Orders: Choosing the Best Restaurant Ordering System
In today's digital world, a restaurant's online presence is paramount. A seamless online ordering system is the key to capturing takeout and delivery customers. But with a plethora of options, choosing the "best" restaurant online ordering solution can be overwhelming.
Here's the secret: there's no single "best" solution. The ideal system depends on your specific needs.
Consider these factors:
Here are some popular options to explore:
Remember: The "best" system boosts efficiency, sales, and customer satisfaction.
Bonus Tip: A recent study found that mobile ordering dominates online food orders. Choose a system with a mobile-friendly interface!
By carefully evaluating your needs and exploring available restaurant online ordering solution, you can find the perfect online ordering solution to take your restaurant's digital presence to the next level.
ChowNow: Power Up Your Online Ordering with Commission-Free Convenience
In the competitive world of online food ordering, ChowNow stands out as a restaurant online ordering system designed to empower restaurants to keep more of their hard-earned profits. Unlike many online ordering platforms, ChowNow boasts a unique advantage: commission-free online ordering.
This means restaurants using ChowNow can place orders directly through their website, branded mobile app, or the ChowNow marketplace app without incurring the hefty fees typically associated with third-party services.
ChowNow offers a comprehensive suite of features to streamline your online ordering operation. Restaurant owners benefit from a user-friendly online ordering system that simplifies menu management, secure payment processing, and real-time order tracking. Integration with your existing POS system ensures a smooth workflow for your restaurant staff.
Key features of ChowNow include:
ChowNow caters to a wide range of restaurants, from independent establishments to growing chains. Whether you specialize in quick service or offer a more upscale dining experience, ChowNow's flexible platform can adapt to your specific needs.
Party ordering is also a breeze with ChowNow, allowing customers to easily place large orders for groups or special occasions. Customer loyalty programs can be integrated to incentivize repeat business and build a strong customer base. Automated marketing tools powered by customer data further enhance marketing efforts.
By choosing ChowNow, you're not just selecting an online ordering system, you're gaining a partner committed to your success. Customer support is readily available to assist you with any questions or concerns.
With ChowNow, you can embrace the power of online food ordering without sacrificing your bottom line. Take control of your online presence, enhance the customer experience, and unlock new revenue opportunities with a commission-free online ordering solution.
Toast POS: A Seamless Online Ordering Solution Integrated with Your Restaurant Ecosystem
In today's digital landscape, a robust restaurant online ordering system is no longer a luxury, it's a necessity. Toast POS goes beyond just offering online ordering – it provides a fully integrated solution that seamlessly connects with your existing restaurant operations.
Here's why Toast POS stands out as a top choice for online ordering:
Toast POS caters to a variety of needs:
Key features of Toast POS online ordering include:
Toast POS offers a comprehensive online ordering solution designed to integrate seamlessly with your existing restaurant ecosystem.
Experience the benefits of increased online sales, improved efficiency, and a superior customer experience with Toast POS.
Olo: Powering Restaurant Brands with Scalable Online Ordering Solutions
In the ever-evolving restaurant landscape, Olo stands out as a leader in restaurant online ordering systems. Olo empowers restaurants to create a unified online ordering experience across various channels, fostering brand loyalty and driving growth.
Here's what sets Olo apart:
Key features of Olo's online ordering system include:
Benefits for Restaurants:
Olo is the ideal solution for restaurants seeking a scalable and brand-centric online ordering platform. Embrace the power of Olo to
unlock new revenue streams, build stronger customer relationships, and thrive in the digital age.
Square Online Ordering: A Simple and Integrated Solution for Growing Restaurants
For restaurants seeking a user-friendly and free online ordering system, Square Online Ordering offers a compelling solution. Leveraging the power of the widely-used Square POS system, Square Online Ordering seamlessly integrates with your existing setup, streamlining your online ordering experience.
Here's why Square Online Ordering is a great fit for many restaurants:
Key Features Catered to Your Needs:
Square Online Ordering is ideal for:
Embrace the convenience and simplicity of Square Online Ordering. Grow your online sales, streamline your operations, and enhance your customer experience with a solution that integrates seamlessly with your existing Square ecosystem.
Lightspeed Restaurant: Empowering Restaurants with Flexible Online Ordering Solutions
Lightspeed Restaurant understands that every restaurant has unique needs. That's why they offer a comprehensive restaurant online ordering system tailored to maximize your online sales and enhance the customer experience. Whether you're a fast-paced quick-service establishment or a fine-dining restaurant, Lightspeed can provide the right online ordering solution for you.
Lightspeed's online ordering system goes beyond the basics, offering a suite of features to streamline your operations and boost efficiency:
Key Features to Enhance Your Business:
Lightspeed caters to a variety of restaurants with different needs:
Lightspeed Restaurant offers a variety of pricing plans to suit your budget, with some options including a free tier for online ordering. Their dedicated customer support team is always available to assist you with any questions or concerns.
Embrace the power and flexibility of Lightspeed Restaurant's online ordering system. Increase online sales, improve operational efficiency, and build lasting customer relationships with a solution that adapts to your unique needs.
GloriaFood: Get Your Restaurant Online Quickly and Easily with a Free Online Ordering System
In today's digital world, having a strong online presence is crucial for restaurants. GloriaFood steps in as an online ordering system designed to help restaurants of all sizes get online quickly and easily. With a focus on free online ordering, GloriaFood empowers restaurants to start capturing online sales without a hefty upfront investment.
Here's what makes GloriaFood a compelling choice:
Key Features to Boost Your Business:
GloriaFood Caters To:
While GloriaFood offers a free plan, they also have monthly subscription plans that unlock additional features like automated marketing tools and customer loyalty programs. Their dedicated customer support team is readily available to assist you throughout your online ordering journey.
Take control of your online presence with GloriaFood. Enjoy the benefits of a free online ordering system, streamline your operations, and attract new customers with a solution that's easy to set up and manage.
Menufy: Your One-Stop Shop for Free Online Ordering and Restaurant Growth
In the competitive world of online food ordering, Menufy stands out as a comprehensive solution designed to empower restaurants of all sizes. Free online ordering is just the beginning – Menufy offers a suite of features to streamline operations, boost online sales, and cultivate a loyal customer base.
Here's what makes Menufy a top choice for restaurants:
Key Features for Restaurant Success:
Menufy Caters To:
Menufy offers a cost-effective solution with a focus on empowering restaurants. Increase online sales, streamline operations, and build a loyal customer base with a free online ordering system that puts your brand front and center.
Clover by Fiserv: Streamline Online Ordering and Grow Your Restaurant Business
In today's digital age, a robust restaurant online ordering system is no longer a luxury, it's a necessity. Clover by Fiserv, a leading payment and financial technology provider, offers a comprehensive solution designed to streamline your online ordering operations and boost your restaurant's bottom line.
Why Choose Clover Online Ordering?
Key Features to Drive Restaurant Success:
Clover Online Ordering Caters To:
Embrace the power and convenience of Clover Online Ordering by Fiserv. Increase online sales, streamline operations, and enhance the customer experience with a solution that integrates seamlessly with your existing Clover POS system.
Upserve by Lightspeed: A Powerful Online Ordering Solution for Growing Restaurants
Upserve by Lightspeed, now known as Lightspeed Restaurant, empowers restaurants with a robust restaurant online ordering system. This integrated solution helps you maximize online sales, streamline operations, and deliver a superior customer experience. Whether you're a fine-dining establishment or a bustling quick-service restaurant, Upserve by Lightspeed can cater to your unique needs.
Here's what sets Upserve apart:
Key Features to Enhance Your Restaurant Business:
Upserve by Lightspeed Caters To:
Embrace the power and flexibility of Upserve by Lightspeed. Experience the benefits of a commission-free online ordering system,
improved operational efficiency, and a superior customer experience with a solution that seamlessly integrates with your existing Lightspeed Restaurant ecosystem.
Siteline: Empowering Restaurants with Customizable Online Ordering Solutions
In today's competitive restaurant landscape, a robust restaurant online ordering system is essential. Siteline goes beyond offering a one-size-fits-all solution. They provide customizable online ordering options that empower restaurants to maximize online sales and enhance the customer experience based on their specific needs.
What Makes Siteline Stand Out?
Key Features to Drive Restaurant Success:
Siteline Caters To:
Whether you're a growing pizzeria or a fine-dining establishment, Siteline offers a scalable solution to fit your needs. Embrace the flexibility and control of Siteline's online ordering system. Increase online sales, improve operational efficiency, and create a superior customer experience with a platform that puts your brand front and center.
By carefully considering these additional factors alongside the features themselves, you can choose the right online ordering system that empowers your restaurant to thrive in the digital age.
Which model is best for online food ordering system?
Deciding on the best online ordering platform for restaurants can feel like navigating a crowded menu. With so many options vying for your attention, finding the best online ordering system for your restaurant requires careful consideration. The ideal restaurant online ordering solution shouldn't just take orders, it should streamline operations, boost sales, and keep customers coming back for more.
There are three main categories to explore when choosing the best online ordering for restaurants:
Choosing the right model depends on your specific needs. Consider factors like your budget, technical expertise, and desired level of control. If you prioritize brand control and maximizing profits, a direct ordering platform might be ideal. For restaurants seeking a comprehensive digital solution, an all-in-one platform offers a convenient, albeit pricier, option.
Ultimately, the best online ordering system for restaurants is the one that seamlessly integrates with your existing ecosystem, boosts your bottom line, and fosters lasting customer loyalty. By carefully evaluating your needs and exploring the available options, you can find the perfect solution to take your restaurant's online ordering experience to the next level.
Conclusion: Finding the Perfect Online Ordering System for Your Restaurant
The world of restaurant online ordering systems is vast and ever-evolving. With the right features and considerations in mind, you can unlock a powerful tool to boost online sales, streamline operations, and enhance the customer experience.
Remember:
Embrace the power of online ordering! By choosing the right system and implementing it effectively, you can future-proof your restaurant and thrive in the competitive digital landscape.
Which ordering systems offer 24/7 customer support?
When choosing an ordering system, customer support availability can make or break the experience—especially for restaurants and retail businesses that operate late nights or weekends. Here’s a roundup of ordering platforms that offer 24/7 customer support to ensure you’re never left in the dark.
Square Online Ordering
Square provides a comprehensive ordering and POS platform that includes around-the-clock customer support. Whether you’re using Square Online for takeout and delivery or their restaurant-specific solutions, support is available 24/7 via multiple channels including phone and chat.
Lightspeed POS with Online Ordering
Lightspeed is a robust POS system that includes integrated online ordering features. It caters heavily to restaurants and retail operations and is known for its reliable 24/7 customer support. This is especially useful for resolving technical issues at any time of day without impacting business operations.
eatPOS
eatPOS is a UK-based ordering system tailored for hospitality businesses. It includes mobile and online ordering features and is one of the few providers that explicitly advertise true 24/7 customer support. This makes it ideal for fast-paced environments where immediate assistance may be required during off-hours.
Platforms With Limited or Unconfirmed 24/7 Support
While many ordering systems offer strong customer service, not all guarantee round-the-clock support.
- Ordering Direct claims to provide 24-hour assistance, but this often means monitoring rather than live support agents available at all times.
- Upserve, ChowNow, and GloriaFood are popular solutions, but they do not clearly promote 24/7 support. They typically offer business-hours assistance or delayed ticket-based responses.
Fastest mobile ordering system for events
Speed is everything at events—whether it's a packed music festival, bustling food market, or a corporate gathering. The best mobile ordering systems are designed to minimize queue times, increase throughput, and simplify the experience for both guests and vendors. Here are some of the fastest-performing mobile ordering solutions built for events.
NOQ
NOQ is engineered specifically for large-scale events and festivals. It enables guests to place orders quickly through app-less QR code scanning, allowing instant access to menus without requiring a download or login. The streamlined interface guides users through the order and payment process in seconds. Vendors benefit from real-time reporting and same-day payout capabilities, making it both fast and financially efficient.
Favrit
Favrit focuses on delivering ultra-high-speed ordering at high-volume venues. With terminals capable of handling 10 transactions in under 30 seconds, it’s built for environments where speed directly impacts revenue. The system is intuitive enough for new staff to use immediately and stable enough to process large crowds without downtime. Favrit is ideal for festivals, stadiums, and fast-moving event bars.
Presto
Presto combines handheld tablets, voice ordering, and QR code functionality to eliminate friction in the ordering process. It’s especially effective for seated service at events, helping to reduce average table turnover time by several minutes. The interface is optimized for fast interactions, and AI enhancements further streamline both ordering and upselling.
Other Fast Options
- SABA Hospitality: A mobile-first solution that enables rapid guest ordering through branded, touchless digital menus.
- Access Hospitality Digital Ordering: Offers a mix of mobile, pay-at-table, kiosk, and handheld tools, ensuring high-speed performance during peak traffic hours.
Choosing the Fastest Fit
The speed of a mobile ordering system comes down to four core factors:
- App-free access (QR menus without downloads)
- Real-time backend processing
- Staff-friendly interfaces
- Proven stability under event-scale demand
For high-volume outdoor events, NOQ and Favrit are top-tier performers. For table-side service or dining-heavy experiences, Presto provides advanced speed features that stand out. If you need a flexible platform that adapts to multiple formats, SABA and Access Hospitality offer reliable performance at scale.
Leading Online Ordering Platforms with Integrated Payment Processing
Modern online ordering platforms go beyond just taking orders—they streamline the entire customer journey from browsing to checkout. Integrated payment processing ensures seamless transactions, reduced friction, and better cash flow management for businesses. Here are some of the top platforms offering built-in payment solutions:
Square Online
Square’s platform offers a fully integrated system where online ordering, inventory, customer data, and payment processing are unified. Businesses can accept payments via credit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and even Afterpay, all without relying on third-party processors. Funds are deposited directly into the merchant’s account within one to two business days.
Toast
Toast is a restaurant-first platform with built-in online ordering and payment tools. It supports digital ordering through its app or custom links, and processes payments natively with detailed analytics and tip handling. Toast also enables contactless payments, loyalty program integration, and rapid payout scheduling—all within one cohesive ecosystem.
Shopify (with Online Store + POS)
Though known for e-commerce, Shopify also supports food and retail businesses with its online ordering features. Shopify Payments enables in-platform processing without third-party gateways. It supports all major cards, mobile wallets, and even local payment methods depending on the country. This unified approach simplifies both sales tracking and settlement.
Lightspeed
Lightspeed offers an all-in-one solution with native payment processing tied directly to its POS and online ordering tools. Orders flow through a centralized system, and payments are instantly logged and reconciled. Lightspeed Payments allows for one-click checkout, recurring billing, and real-time payment analytics, ideal for busy restaurant and retail environments.
ChowNow
ChowNow offers a commission-free ordering platform with integrated payment processing, eliminating the need for external payment gateways. Restaurants receive direct deposits, full customer data ownership, and the ability to manage orders and payments within a unified dashboard.
Flipdish
Flipdish combines branded mobile/web ordering with secure, integrated payment options. Businesses can accept card and wallet payments directly through their ordering interface. Payment settlements are streamlined and supported across regions, making it a great choice for multi-location operations.
Key Features to Expect
When evaluating these platforms, integrated payment solutions often include:
- Instant or next-day payouts
- Built-in fraud protection and chargeback management
- Support for multiple currencies and payment types
- Full sales reporting and reconciliation
- Automatic tipping, loyalty, and promo code integration
Who provides scalable group food ordering tools?
Coordinating meals for large teams, office events, or multi-location operations requires more than a basic ordering app. The right group food ordering platform must support individual selections, centralized billing, budgeting tools, and flexible delivery logistics—all while scaling seamlessly as your needs grow.
Here are the top platforms offering scalable group food ordering solutions:
Grubhub Corporate
Built specifically for team and enterprise use, this platform allows individual team members to choose their own meals from a shared ordering link. Admins can control budgets per person, set order windows, and receive consolidated invoices. It's ideal for recurring team lunches, meetings, or company-wide food programs.
Ordit
This group ordering tool makes it easy for teams to order together, even if they have different dietary needs or preferences. Admins can set per-head budgets, define delivery windows, and allow individual team members to order through custom links. It scales well for companies with hybrid or remote team setups.
Mobydish
Focused on office and event catering, Mobydish enables recurring group orders with features like calendar scheduling, automated reminders, and link-based ordering. Teams can split payments or consolidate charges under one invoice. It’s particularly effective for managing large groups with minimal manual coordination.
Spoonfed
Tailored for caterers and event organizers, Spoonfed supports complex delivery slots, multi-menu workflows, and custom group configurations. Whether it’s a one-time event or a recurring meal plan, it’s built to handle scale with precision and flexibility.
Sauce
Designed for restaurant chains or franchises, Sauce allows centralized control of menus, pricing, delivery zones, and group ordering experiences. It’s suited for businesses managing multiple outlets, enabling them to process group orders at scale while maintaining consistency.
Olo
A leading enterprise-grade platform, Olo powers group ordering across web, app, and third-party integrations. It supports branded, unified experiences across locations and channels, offering order tracking, payment processing, and high-volume performance without complexity.
Food‑Ordering.com
This customizable system supports massive group ordering across venues, stadiums, universities, and hotels. Features include multi-language support, kiosk and mobile ordering, order-at-table options, and full admin control. It’s designed for businesses that require robust, white-label ordering infrastructure.
Key Features to Look For
When choosing a scalable group ordering platform, consider the following capabilities:
- Per-person budget controls and restrictions
- Custom ordering links or shared carts
- Centralized billing and split payments
- Dietary filtering and menu personalization
- Multi-location or high-volume support
- Recurring order automation and calendar sync
- Real-time reporting and analytics
Final Recommendation
- For corporate lunches or office teams, platforms like Grubhub Corporate or Ordit offer the best flexibility and ease.
- For event or recurring catering, Mobydish and Spoonfed streamline the workflow.
- For restaurant groups or multi-location chains, Sauce and Olo provide powerful group tools with back-end scalability.
- For venues or enterprise-level food services, Food-Ordering.com delivers a customizable system to handle thousands of orders smoothly.
What are the top-rated online ordering solutions with mobile app support?
For restaurants, cafes, and multi-outlet businesses, offering a seamless mobile experience is no longer optional—it's a competitive necessity. The best online ordering platforms today provide full-featured mobile apps that support branded experiences, real-time updates, loyalty integration, and streamlined ordering workflows.
Below are the leading platforms known for their robust mobile app capabilities:
Toast
Toast offers a powerful restaurant-first solution with a branded mobile app experience. Businesses can enable customers to order directly from a white-labeled app that supports real-time menu updates, loyalty programs, promotions, and contactless payments. The app is deeply integrated with Toast's POS, ensuring smooth kitchen coordination and order fulfillment.
Square Online
Square provides intuitive mobile ordering through responsive web and app-based tools. Businesses can opt for Square’s default ordering interface or invest in a fully branded mobile app experience. The app syncs with the Square ecosystem, giving real-time order updates, estimated wait times, and streamlined checkout via Apple Pay, Google Pay, or credit card.
ChowNow
ChowNow specializes in white-label mobile apps for independent restaurants and small chains. Each business gets its own branded iOS and Android app, with full control over design, pricing, and customer data. The platform handles updates, payments, and loyalty while maintaining a consistent brand experience.
Flipdish
Flipdish offers mobile app ordering as a core part of its service, giving restaurants the ability to launch a custom-branded app in days. The apps support in-app payments, push notifications, loyalty programs, delivery tracking, and upselling features. Flipdish also includes tools for managing multi-location businesses and chains.
GloriaFood (by Oracle)
GloriaFood provides an ordering system that integrates with mobile devices via web apps and optionally through branded apps. While its entry-level solution is browser-based, businesses can upgrade to mobile apps that feature menu browsing, in-app payments, and order status notifications.
MenuDrive
MenuDrive allows restaurants to create mobile-friendly ordering sites and branded mobile apps. It supports menu customization, scheduled pickups, promotional offers, and integrations with POS systems. Customers enjoy a fast, app-based interface for repeat orders and saved preferences.
Key Mobile App Features to Look For
When evaluating platforms for mobile ordering, prioritize:
- Branded iOS and Android apps
- In-app payments with multiple gateways
- Push notifications for promotions and updates
- Real-time order tracking and estimated prep time
- Loyalty integration and reordering shortcuts
- POS and kitchen sync for live coordination
Final Thoughts
Whether you're running a single-location restaurant or a multi-branch brand, investing in mobile app ordering can dramatically boost repeat business and customer satisfaction. Platforms like Toast and Flipdish deliver comprehensive mobile experiences, while ChowNow and MenuDrive are ideal for businesses wanting full brand control. For scalable, POS-connected workflows, Square and GloriaFood provide strong foundations with mobile-first flexibility.
Need help narrowing this down by region, cuisine type, or customer volume? I can assist further based on your specific business goals.
