The restaurant landscape has undergone a seismic shift. In 2025, a robust online ordering system isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s the lifeblood of a thriving restaurant business. Customers have come to expect the convenience of seamless digital ordering, whether they’re craving a quick takeout meal, planning a relaxed dine-in experience, or scheduling a crucial catering business event. Gone are the days of solely relying on phone calls and walk-ins. To further enhance your online presence and sales, consider utilizing tools like a restaurant menu creator. A well-designed menu can entice customers and increase sales effectively, making it an essential part of your digital strategy.
The modern diner seeks instant gratification, browsing online menus, placing delivery orders with a few taps on their mobile ordering page, and tracking their food’s journey in real-time. Choosing the right online food ordering system can be the difference between struggling to stay afloat and achieving record-breaking online sales.
This shift presents both a challenge and an incredible opportunity for restaurant operators. The challenge lies in navigating the complex world of online ordering solutions, each boasting a unique set of features and pricing models. The opportunity, however, is immense. A well-chosen best online ordering system can unlock a treasure trove of benefits: attracting more customers, boosting customer satisfaction, streamlining operations, and, ultimately, driving significant revenue growth.
You don’t need coding skills to start selling online; these systems are designed to be user-friendly. Positive customer reviews online are the new word-of-mouth, and a smooth mobile ordering experience is key to earning them. Whether you have your own delivery drivers or utilize delivery drivers from integrated services, efficient order management is crucial. Sending targeted push notifications about specials or new menu items can also be a powerful way to drive repeat business.
This article delves into the top 10 best online ordering systems for restaurants in 2025, providing a detailed analysis of their strengths, weaknesses, and unique features. We’ll explore everything from AI-powered platforms that optimize your online presence to free online ordering systems perfect for startups. By the end of this guide, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to choose the perfect system to propel your restaurant to new heights of success, a system your customers love. In addition to investing in an effective online ordering system, enhancing communication with your customers is pivotal. One way to boost your customer service is by implementing a robust phone system designed specifically for restaurants. This can streamline inbound calls, manage reservations, and improve overall satisfaction. For insights on effectively improving customer calls, check out this informative post about a reliable restaurant phone system.
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10 Best Online Ordering System for Restaurants
1. Owner.com
Best for AI-Powered Growth and Cost Savings
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Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✔️ AI-powered website for improved Google rankings. | ❌ Pricing details are customized and not explicitly stated upfront. |
✔️ Flat-fee delivery management. | ❌ May require some learning curve for those unfamiliar with AI-driven platforms. |
✔️ Commission-free online ordering. | ❌ Might not be suitable for restaurants that heavily rely on third-party delivery services for marketing reach. |
✔️ Branded mobile app included. | ❌ Dependence on Owner.com’s platform for website and app. |
Owner.com distinguishes itself as a comprehensive online ordering platform meticulously crafted to aid restaurants in amplifying their online presence while simultaneously curtailing operational expenditures. It transcends the functionality of a mere online ordering solution by furnishing an AI-powered website, ingeniously optimized for prominent search engines. In addition to robust online ordering, integrating a restaurant phone system can enhance customer interactions and streamline operations. A smart phone system not only allows for better management of incoming calls but also improves customer satisfaction by offering features like call forwarding, voicemail management, and automated responses. You can discover more about enhancing your communication strategy with the right technology in this insightful article on improving customer calls with a restaurant phone system.
This strategic feature actively contributes to attracting a larger influx of customers through organic search results, fostering sustainable growth. Furthermore, Owner.com extends the offering of a branded mobile app, thereby facilitating direct and personalized engagement with your valued customers, fostering customer loyalty, and cultivates lasting relationships.
The implementation of a flat-fee delivery management system constitutes a substantial advantage, effectively eradicating the burdensome commissions typically levied by third-party apps such as Uber Eats. This translates to significant cost savings for restaurants, enabling them to retain a larger portion of their revenue.
Owner.com’s holistic approach, encompassing website optimization, a dedicated mobile app, and a cost-effective delivery model, positions it as an ideal online ordering software for businesses seeking both expansive reach and financial prudence. Owner.com aims to take away hidden fees and increase sales, providing more money for your business. It is great for new restaurants.
Why We Chose Owner.com
Owner.com stands out due to its innovative approach to driving direct online orders and significantly reducing reliance on costly third-party platforms. While many systems offer online ordering, Owner.com’s integration of an AI-powered website is a truly unique feature that can provide a substantial competitive advantage. This AI-driven optimization can dramatically improve a restaurant’s visibility in search engine results, leading to a considerable increase in organic traffic and, consequently, online sales.
This proactive approach to attracting customers, combined with the cost savings from reduced third-party commissions, makes Owner.com a compelling choice for restaurants seeking sustainable growth and increased profitability. The platform empowers restaurants to take control of their online destiny, rather than being solely reliant on external platforms.
How It Works in Restaurants?
Owner.com provides a comprehensive platform, managing orders efficiently through a high-ranking website and mobile app, enhancing customer engagement and sales.
Key Features
AI-powered website for better Google rankings.
Online ordering.
Branded mobile app.
Delivery management with flat fees.
Marketing tools
Automated email and SMS campaigns.
Customer segmentation and targeting.
Real-time analytics and reporting.
Pricing Details
💰 Customized, focusing on cost savings from third-party fees, with no explicit monthly rate mentioned.
Overall Rating & Customer Sentiment
Overall Rating: 4.9/5 (Capterra).
Customer Sentiment: Positive, with case studies showing significant sales growth (e.g., +$150,000 for Samos Oaxaca) and savings.
2. Toast
Best for All-in-One POS and Online Ordering Integration
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Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✔️ Cloud-based POS system with offline mode. | ❌ Some users report issues with customer service responsiveness and resolution times. |
✔️ Restaurant-grade hardware. | ❌ Can be expensive for smaller restaurants, especially with added hardware and features. |
✔️ 24/7 customer support. | ❌ Contractual obligations and potential early termination fees. |
✔️ Extensive integrations (POS systems). | ❌ Processing fees can add up, particularly for high-volume businesses. |
Toast emerges as a highly favored all-encompassing restaurant online ordering system seamlessly integrated with a robust point-of-sale (POS) platform. Its comprehensive design is tailored to optimize all facets of restaurant operations, encompassing the efficient management of online orders and the seamless processing of in-house payments.
The cloud-based architecture of Toast guarantees ubiquitous accessibility to your crucial data, while the offline mode serves as a vital safeguard, providing uninterrupted operational continuity even during instances of internet connectivity disruptions. This dual functionality ensures that your restaurant can maintain seamless service regardless of external factors.
The system is widely acclaimed for its resilient hardware components, meticulously engineered to endure the rigorous demands characteristic of a bustling restaurant setting. This durability ensures long-term reliability and minimizes the risk of operational disruptions due to equipment failure. Furthermore, Toast boasts an extensive array of integrations, seamlessly connecting with a multitude of other restaurant online ordering software and ancillary services.
This interoperability streamlines workflows and enhances overall operational efficiency, allowing you to create a customized technology ecosystem that perfectly aligns with your specific needs. The system facilitates online payments, easy delivery options, and integrates with other pos systems, creating a great customer experience.
Why We Chose Toast
Toast was selected for its comprehensive, all-in-one approach to restaurant management. It’s not just an online ordering system; it’s a complete POS solution that integrates seamlessly with online ordering, creating a unified and efficient workflow. The offline mode is a particularly crucial feature, guaranteeing uninterrupted service even in the event of internet outages, a common concern for many businesses.
While other platforms might offer online ordering, Toast’s robust hardware, specifically designed for the demanding restaurant environment, sets it apart. The extensive integration capabilities further enhance its value, allowing restaurants to connect with a wide range of other services and streamline their operations. The 24/7 support, although sometimes reported as having issues, offers a level of reassurance that many other platforms don’t provide.
How It Works in Restaurants?
Toast streamlines operations with a cloud-based system, managing orders and payments seamlessly, even offline, supporting dine-in and online orders.
Key Features
Cloud-based POS with offline mode.
Restaurant-grade hardware.
24/7 support.
Over 200 integrations.
Options for delivery
Kitchen display system (KDS) integration.
Tableside ordering and payment.
Gift card and loyalty program management.
Detailed reporting and analytics.
Pricing Details
💰 Starter kit at $0/month for new single locations, additional devices charged separately, pay later options available.
Overall Rating & Customer Sentiment
Overall Rating: 4.2/5 (Capterra).
Customer Sentiment: Mixed, with some appreciating the system (e.g., ease of use) and others noting customer service issues.
3. BentoBox
Best for Building a Beautiful and Functional Restaurant Website
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Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✔️ Comprehensive platform for website creation, online ordering, and more. | ❌ Specific pricing plans are not detailed upfront, making it difficult to compare costs. |
✔️ Captures diner data for personalized hospitality. | ❌ May be overwhelming for restaurants that only need a basic online ordering solution. |
✔️ Helps create a strong digital presence. | ❌ Reliance on BentoBox for website hosting and management. |
BentoBox transcends the conventional definition of a mere online ordering system; it presents itself as a holistic platform meticulously designed for the comprehensive construction and meticulous management of your restaurant’s entire online presence. This multifaceted platform empowers you to craft a visually stunning and highly responsive, mobile-friendly restaurant website. This website seamlessly integrates a suite of essential functionalities, including online ordering, efficient takeout management, streamlined delivery services, comprehensive event organization capabilities, and a user-friendly reservation system. This integrated approach ensures a cohesive and engaging online experience for your customers.
A core tenet of BentoBox’s philosophy centers on the strategic acquisition and insightful utilization of diner data. This data-driven approach enables you to cultivate a highly personalized customer experience, thereby fostering a strong sense of customer loyalty. By meticulously analyzing customer preferences and behaviors, you gain invaluable insights that empower you to tailor your offerings with remarkable precision, catering to individual tastes and maximizing customer satisfaction.
Why We Chose BentoBox
BentoBox was chosen primarily for its comprehensive approach to building a restaurant’s complete online identity, not just facilitating online orders. While many platforms focus solely on the transactional aspect of online ordering, BentoBox understands the importance of creating a strong brand presence and a cohesive customer experience.
The platform’s ability to create visually appealing, highly functional websites that seamlessly integrate online ordering, reservations, and event management sets it apart. Furthermore, BentoBox’s emphasis on capturing and utilizing diner data to personalize the customer experience is a significant advantage. This data-driven approach allows restaurants to build stronger relationships with their customers, foster loyalty, and ultimately drive repeat business. It’s a holistic solution for restaurants looking to establish a robust and engaging online presence.
How It Works in Restaurants?
BentoBox enhances online presence with a customizable website, managing orders and reservations, boosting customer retention through data-driven insights.
Key Features
Platform for website creation.
Takeout and delivery options.
Event and reservation management.
Diner data capture for hospitality.
Easy to use and user friendly online ordering page.
SEO optimization tools.
Email marketing integration.
Gift card and merchandise sales.
Catering management tools.
Pricing Details
💰 Subscription-based, specific plans not detailed, likely monthly fees.
Overall Rating & Customer Sentiment
Overall Rating: 4.4/5 (Capterra).
Customer Sentiment: Positive, users value the platform’s features and support, reporting increased web traffic and revenue.
4. Square
Best for Simple, Transparent Pricing and Versatility
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Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✔️ Accepts all major payment types. | ❌ Advanced features may require additional subscriptions, increasing the overall cost. |
✔️ Manages orders from multiple channels. | ❌ Transaction fees can be higher than some competitors for certain business types. |
✔️ Includes customer engagement tools (customer loyalty program). | ❌ Customer support can sometimes be difficult to reach or slow to respond. |
✔️ Transparent pricing. | ❌ Limited customization options for the online ordering page compared to dedicated website builders. |
Square, a widely recognized and trusted name in the realm of payment processing, extends its expertise to provide a robust and versatile online ordering solution specifically tailored for restaurants. Square Online empowers you to effortlessly establish a dedicated online ordering page, enabling you to swiftly commence the process of accepting online orders and generating revenue.
This seamless integration with Square’s comprehensive suite of services, including its renowned POS system, secure payment processing infrastructure, and a range of customer engagement tools such as targeted marketing campaigns and rewarding loyalty programs, creates a unified and efficient ecosystem for managing all aspects of your business.
Square’s unwavering commitment to transparent pricing and its intuitive, user-friendly interface has garnered widespread acclaim, solidifying its position as a preferred choice for businesses spanning the spectrum from small-scale startups to medium-sized enterprises. The platform’s straightforward approach simplifies the online ordering process, making it accessible to restaurants of all sizes and technical capabilities.
With Square, you can confidently manage your online sales and cultivate lasting customer relationships, all within a single, integrated platform. The platform is designed to help you manage online orders and increase sales. It also has many great marketing tools.
Why We Chose Square
Square was selected for its exceptional combination of simplicity, transparent pricing, and overall versatility. It’s a particularly strong choice for businesses that are already using Square’s payment processing or POS system, as the seamless integration creates a streamlined and efficient workflow.
The transparent pricing structure is a major advantage, allowing restaurants to easily understand and predict their costs without hidden fees or complicated contracts. While other platforms might offer more advanced features or customization options, Square’s ease of use and straightforward setup make it an excellent option for restaurants that want to get up and running quickly with online ordering without a steep learning curve.
Its ability to manage orders from multiple channels also adds to its versatility, making it suitable for various restaurant types and service models.
How It Works in Restaurants?
Square facilitates order management and payments across channels, enhancing customer engagement with loyalty tools, suitable for various restaurant sizes.
Key Features
Accepts all payment types.
Manages orders from multiple channels.
Customer engagement tools (marketing and loyalty programs).
Competitive, transparent rates.
Inventory Management
Free online store builder.
Integration with social media platforms.
Pickup and delivery options.
Appointment scheduling.
Pricing Details
💰 Competitive, with transparent rates, no explicit monthly fee mentioned.
Overall Rating & Customer Sentiment
Overall Rating: 4.7/5 for Square Online (Capterra).
Customer Sentiment: Generally positive, users appreciate ease of use and integration, with reports of revenue increases.
5. ChowNow
Best for Independent Restaurants Seeking Commission-Free Ordering
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Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✔️ Focuses on serving independent restaurants. | ❌ Relatively high setup fee compared to some competitors. |
✔️ Commission-free online ordering. | ❌ Monthly fee can be a barrier for very small or low-volume restaurants. |
✔️ Provides online ordering, delivery, and customer management. | ❌ Limited customization options for the website and app compared to dedicated website builders. |
✔️ Strong customer support. | ❌ May not be the best fit for large chains or multi-location restaurants with complex needs. |
ChowNow strategically positions itself as an online ordering platform with a laser focus on empowering independent restaurants. Its core value proposition revolves around providing a commission-free online ordering experience, a crucial differentiator that allows restaurants to retain a significantly larger portion of their hard-earned revenue.
This commitment to financial fairness is particularly appealing to smaller establishments striving to maximize profitability in a competitive landscape. ChowNow equips restaurants with a comprehensive suite of tools specifically designed for the efficient management of online orders, streamlined delivery logistics, and proactive customer relationship management.
The platform places a strong emphasis on facilitating direct online ordering through your restaurant’s dedicated website and a custom-branded mobile app. This strategic approach not only fosters a stronger brand identity but also enables you to cultivate direct relationships with your customers, circumventing the substantial fees often associated with relying on third-party apps.
By empowering restaurants to control their online presence and customer interactions, ChowNow helps them build a loyal customer base and drive sustainable growth. They are a great online ordering solution to help customers order directly from you.
Why We Chose ChowNow
ChowNow was selected primarily for its unwavering commitment to commission-free online ordering and its dedicated focus on serving the unique needs of independent restaurants. In a market often dominated by platforms that charge hefty commissions, ChowNow offers a refreshing alternative that allows restaurants to retain a much larger portion of their revenue.
This is particularly crucial for smaller, independent establishments that often operate on tighter margins. The platform’s emphasis on building direct customer relationships through branded websites and apps, rather than relying on third-party marketplaces, is another key differentiator.
This empowers restaurants to control their brand identity and foster customer loyalty. While the setup fee might be a consideration, the long-term cost savings from avoiding commissions often outweigh this initial investment.
How It Works in Restaurants?
ChowNow enables direct online ordering through websites and apps, simplifying order management and boosting profits by reducing third-party fees.
Key Features
Online ordering.
Delivery management.
Customer management.
Focus on independent restaurants.
Branded website and mobile apps.
Marketing tools (email and social media).
Order tracking and notifications.
Loyalty program integration.
Reporting and analytics.
Pricing Details
💰 Starts from $119 per month for restaurants with $20k/month or less in online ordering revenue.
Overall Rating & Customer Sentiment
Overall Rating: 4.7/5 (Capterra).
Customer Sentiment: Positive, users find it user-friendly and efficient, with good customer support.
6. UpMenu
Best for Customizable Website and Branded Mobile App
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Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✔️ Commission-free online ordering. | ❌ Specific pricing details are not readily available, making it difficult to compare costs directly. |
✔️ Website customization with over 40 themes. | ❌ May require some technical knowledge or design skills to fully utilize the customization options. |
✔️ Branded mobile app included. | ❌ Reliance on UpMenu for website hosting and app maintenance. |
✔️ Delivery management features. | ❌ Customer support response times can vary. |
UpMenu presents itself as a robust online ordering system meticulously designed to empower restaurants in establishing a commanding online presence. This is achieved through the provision of a highly customizable website and a dedicated, branded mobile app, both integral components of the UpMenu offering.
A key differentiator of UpMenu is its commitment to commission-free online ordering, ensuring that restaurants retain a greater proportion of their revenue, a crucial factor for maximizing profitability. The platform boasts an extensive library of over 40 website themes, providing ample options for restaurants to tailor their online menu and ordering page to precisely align with their unique brand aesthetic and create a cohesive and visually appealing online experience.
Beyond aesthetics, UpMenu incorporates a comprehensive suite of features for the efficient management of deliveries, ensuring a seamless and reliable fulfillment process. Furthermore, the platform actively facilitates customer engagement through a range of integrated marketing tools. These tools empower restaurants to cultivate lasting relationships with their customers, fostering loyalty and encouraging repeat business.
The ability to have your own mobile app adds a strong layer of professionalism and convenience, highly valued by customers. This system for restaurants facilitates a streamlined approach to attracting new customers and securing repeat business.
Why We Chose UpMenu
UpMenu was chosen for its compelling combination of commission-free online ordering, extensive website customization options, and the inclusion of a branded mobile app. This blend of features makes it an excellent choice for restaurants that prioritize building a strong brand identity and providing a seamless, personalized online ordering experience for their customers.
The wide variety of website themes allows restaurants to create an online presence that truly reflects their unique style and atmosphere. The included mobile app further enhances this brand presence and provides customers with a convenient way to order directly. While the lack of readily available pricing details is a drawback, the overall value proposition of UpMenu, particularly its focus on empowering restaurants to control their brand and avoid commission fees, makes it a strong contender.
How It Works in Restaurants?
UpMenu streamlines ordering via a customizable website and app, managing deliveries and enhancing customer loyalty through marketing tools.
Key Features
Commission-free ordering.
Website customization (40+ themes).
Branded mobile app.
Delivery management.
Automated marketing
Menu management and customization.
Order tracking and notifications.
Customer database and CRM.
Reporting and analytics.
Pricing Details
💰 Plans start from $49/month with 7-day free trial.
Overall Rating & Customer Sentiment
Overall Rating: 4.7/5 (Capterra).
Customer Sentiment: Positive, valued for cost savings and features, with users reporting increased orders.
7. Flipdish
Best for High-Volume Restaurants and Multi-Location Operations
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Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✔️ Online ordering and kiosk system for efficiency. | ❌ Pricing details require contacting the company, making it difficult to assess affordability upfront. |
✔️ Marketing tools, including SMS campaigns. | ❌ Can be complex to set up and manage, especially for restaurants with limited technical expertise. |
✔️ Management platform for all operations. | ❌ Reliance on Flipdish for all aspects of online ordering and management. |
✔️ Reduces reliance on third-party apps. | ❌ Reported issues with integration of the Uber Direct functionality. |
Flipdish stands out as a comprehensive and feature-rich online ordering platform meticulously engineered to cater to the diverse needs of restaurants across the spectrum of sizes. However, its robust capabilities make it particularly well-suited for high-volume establishments and multi-location restaurants that require a scalable and efficient solution.
The platform offers a comprehensive suite of functionalities, encompassing seamless online ordering, an innovative kiosk system designed to streamline in-house order placement, and a powerful arsenal of marketing tools, including highly effective SMS campaigns for direct customer engagement. These tools empower restaurants to proactively reach their target audience and drive sales.
At the heart of Flipdish lies its sophisticated management platform, a centralized hub that provides a holistic view and granular control over all facets of your restaurant’s operations. This encompasses everything from the meticulous management of order fulfillment to the strategic cultivation of customer engagement initiatives.
A core principle of Flipdish’s philosophy is to facilitate direct online ordering, thereby empowering restaurants to significantly reduce their dependence on costly third-party delivery services and foster stronger, more direct relationships with their customers. This emphasis on direct interaction promotes customer loyalty and enhances the overall online ordering experience. It’s a valuable tool for curbside pickup and enhancing your restaurant online ordering capabilities.
Why We Chose Flipdish
Flipdish was selected primarily for its robust feature set, particularly its suitability for high-volume restaurants and multi-location operations. While many platforms focus on basic online ordering, Flipdish offers a comprehensive suite of tools, including a kiosk system for increased efficiency, powerful marketing tools like SMS campaigns, and a centralized management platform for overseeing all operations.
This makes it an ideal choice for restaurants that need a scalable and comprehensive solution to manage a large volume of orders and multiple locations. The platform’s emphasis on reducing reliance on third-party apps is also a significant advantage, allowing restaurants to retain more control over their brand and customer relationships. The lack of readily available pricing is a drawback, but the overall capabilities of Flipdish make it a strong contender for larger, more complex restaurant operations.
How It Works in Restaurants?
Flipdish reduces commissions with direct online ordering, using kiosks for efficiency and marketing tools to boost customer return rates.
Key Features
Online ordering.
Kiosk system.
Marketing tools (SMS campaigns).
Management platform.
Customer loyalty programs.
Table ordering and management.
Multi-location management tools.
Advanced reporting and analytics.
Integration with various POS systems.
Pricing Details
💰 Online ordering plans start from £49/month.
Overall Rating & Customer Sentiment
Overall Rating: 4.9/5 (Capterra).
Customer Sentiment: Highly positive, with users reporting significant sales increases and excellent support.
8. GloriaFood
Best for Free Online Ordering Solution for Startups and Small Businesses
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Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✔️ Completely free online ordering system. | ❌ Limited advanced features compared to paid platforms (e.g., advanced reporting, robust integrations). |
✔️ Easy to set up and use. | ❌ Relies on a widget-based system, which may offer less design flexibility than dedicated website builders. |
✔️ Widgets for menu and reservations. | ❌ Customer support is primarily through online resources and email, which may be slower than phone support. |
✔️ Website creation capabilities. | ❌ May not be suitable for high-volume restaurants or those with complex operational needs. |
GloriaFood occupies a unique and highly valuable niche within the online ordering landscape by offering a completely free online ordering system specifically tailored for restaurants.
This unprecedented accessibility makes it an ideal solution for startups, small businesses, and any restaurant operating with budgetary constraints. GloriaFood provides a straightforward and remarkably effective method for seamlessly integrating online ordering capabilities into your existing site. Alternatively, it empowers you to create an entirely new website from scratch, providing a comprehensive online presence.
The platform offers a range of user-friendly widgets specifically designed for showcasing your online menu in an attractive and accessible manner, as well as for efficiently accepting reservations. This ensures a smooth and convenient experience for your customers. Furthermore, GloriaFood includes a dedicated mobile app that streamlines the process of receiving and confirming incoming orders, ensuring prompt and efficient order fulfillment.
While it’s true that GloriaFood may not possess the full spectrum of advanced features found in premium, paid platforms, its unparalleled value proposition as a completely free online ordering system makes it an exceptionally compelling option for budget-conscious restaurants seeking to establish or enhance their online presence. This is a perfect way to allow customers to order online through a free online ordering system.
Why We Chose GloriaFood
GloriaFood was selected for its unparalleled offering of a completely free online ordering system. This makes it an incredibly accessible option for startups, small businesses, and restaurants operating on tight budgets. While paid platforms offer more advanced features, GloriaFood provides a remarkably functional and effective solution for establishing an online ordering presence without any financial investment.
The ease of setup and use is another significant advantage, allowing restaurants to quickly implement online ordering without requiring extensive technical expertise. The widget-based system, while perhaps less flexible than some dedicated website builders, provides a simple and straightforward way to integrate online ordering into an existing site or create a basic website. In essence, GloriaFood democratizes access to online ordering, making it available to businesses that might otherwise be unable to afford it.
How It Works in Restaurants?
GloriaFood offers a free online ordering platform for online orders, integrating with websites and social media, enhancing sales without commission fees.
Key Features
Free online ordering system.
Widgets for menu and reservations.
Website creation.
App for order confirmation.
Easy to set up.
Basic reporting features.
Promo code and discount options.
Multi-language support.
Integration with social media platforms.
Pricing Details
💰 Free to use with optional paid services.
Overall Rating & Customer Sentiment
Overall Rating: 4.6/5 (Capterra).
Customer Sentiment: Positive, users appreciate the free online ordering service and ease of setup, with reports of quadrupled sales.
9. Cloudwaitress
Best for Flexible Ordering Options and QR Code Ordering
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Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✔️ Free online ordering with various options (pickup, dine-in, delivery, reservations). | ❌ Free accounts have a limit of 100 orders/bookings per month, which may be insufficient for many restaurants. |
✔️ QR code ordering for a contactless experience. | ❌ Limited customization options compared to some other platforms. |
✔️ Integrations with other platforms. | ❌ Customer support primarily through email and online resources. |
Cloudwaitress distinguishes itself as a versatile online ordering platform that caters to a wide range of operational needs by offering a comprehensive suite of ordering options. These include seamless pickup services, convenient dine-in ordering capabilities, efficient delivery management, and streamlined reservation handling.
A standout feature of Cloudwaitress is its innovative QR code ordering functionality. This allows customers to effortlessly scan a QR code using their smartphones, instantly accessing your online menu and placing orders directly. This contactless approach not only enhances convenience but also aligns with evolving customer preferences for digital interaction.
Cloudwaitress provides a free online ordering account, albeit with a limitation of 100 orders or bookings per month. This makes it an excellent option for businesses seeking to evaluate the platform’s capabilities or for establishments with lower order volumes.
The platform’s commitment to interoperability is evident in its seamless integrations with various other restaurant online ordering systems. This allows you to create a cohesive technology ecosystem that aligns with your specific operational requirements and workflows. Cloudwaitress also provides the necessary tools to manage online orders.
Why We Chose Cloudwaitress
Cloudwaitress was selected for its flexibility in offering various ordering options, including pickup, dine-in, delivery, and reservations, all within a single platform. The standout feature, however, is its QR code ordering capability, which provides a modern, contactless, and convenient ordering experience for customers.
This feature is particularly relevant in today’s environment, where customers increasingly prefer digital and touch-free interactions. The availability of a free plan, albeit with limitations, makes it an attractive option for restaurants looking to test the waters of online ordering or for those with lower order volumes. While the customization options might be limited compared to some other platforms, the overall versatility and the inclusion of QR code ordering make Cloudwaitress a compelling choice.
How It Works in Restaurants?
Cloudwaitress manages orders across channels with a user-friendly interface, reducing costs and enhancing customer experience through QR ordering.
Key Features
Free online ordering (pickup, dine-in, delivery, reservations).
QR ordering.
Integrations.
User-friendly interface.
Order tracking and management.
Customizable branding options.
Multiple payment gateway integrations.
Reporting and analytics.
Pricing Details
💰 Free accounts with 100 orders/bookings limit monthly.
Overall Rating & Customer Sentiment
Overall Rating: 4.9/5 (Capterra).
Customer Sentiment: Positive, users value flexibility and cost-effectiveness, with good support.
10. Restolabs
Best for Data Ownership and Commission-Free Ordering
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✔️ Commission-free online ordering. | ❌ May require some technical knowledge for setup and integration, particularly for advanced features. |
✔️ Full customer data ownership. | ❌ Less well-known than some of the larger, more established platforms. |
✔️ Integrations with POS systems and payment gateways. | ❌ Customer support primarily through email and online resources. |
✔️ Branded mobile apps and marketing tools. | ❌ The interface may not be as visually appealing or user-friendly as some competitors. |
Restolabs positions itself as a powerful online ordering platform that prioritizes two core principles: commission-free online ordering and the unequivocal granting of full customer data ownership to restaurants. This dual focus empowers restaurants to maximize their revenue potential while simultaneously cultivating direct and meaningful relationships with their customer base.
The platform facilitates the creation of custom-branded mobile apps, providing a dedicated channel for engaging with customers and fostering brand loyalty. Furthermore, Restolabs offers a comprehensive suite of marketing tools designed to enhance customer engagement and drive repeat business.
Restolabs seamlessly integrates with a wide array of existing POS systems and established payment gateways. This makes it a highly flexible and adaptable solution for restaurants that already have established technology infrastructure in place. The platform’s unwavering commitment to data ownership is a particularly significant advantage.
It empowers restaurants to leverage valuable customer insights to personalize the online ordering experience, create highly targeted marketing campaigns, and ultimately cultivate a loyal and engaged customer base. By placing data control directly in the hands of restaurants, Restolabs enables them to build stronger, more direct relationships with their customers and optimize their business strategies based on real-time data analysis. You’re able to grow your customer loyalty while generating more clients and repeat business.
Why We Chose Restolabs
Restolabs was selected primarily for its strong commitment to commission-free online ordering and its emphasis on providing restaurants with complete ownership of their customer data. In an industry where many platforms charge substantial commissions and retain control over valuable customer information, Restolabs offers a refreshing alternative.
This empowers restaurants to not only save money but also to build stronger, more direct relationships with their customers. The ability to create branded mobile apps and utilize integrated marketing tools further enhances this capability. While it might require some technical expertise for setup and integration, the long-term benefits of data ownership and cost savings make Restolabs a compelling choice for restaurants that prioritize control and direct customer engagement.
How It Works in Restaurants?
Restolabs facilitates direct online ordering with branded mobile apps, integrating with existing systems, enhancing operations through analytics and marketing.
Key Features
Commission-free online ordering.
Customer data ownership.
Integrations with POS and payments.
Branded mobile apps.
Marketing tools.
Customizable online ordering page.
Order management and tracking.
Real-time reporting and analytics.
Loyalty program integration.
Pricing Details
💰 Monthly plans start from $60/mo with a 30-day free trial.
Overall Rating & Customer Sentiment
Overall Rating: 4.8/5 (Capterra).
Customer Sentiment: Positive, users appreciate transparency and support, with reports of efficient cash management
Enhancing Online Ordering Processes
The best online ordering system isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. The ideal platform for your restaurant will depend on a variety of factors, including your budget, the size and complexity of your operations, your technical expertise, and your specific marketing goals.
Consider whether you need a comprehensive, all-in-one POS and online food ordering system like Toast, or a more focused solution like ChowNow, which caters specifically to independent restaurants seeking commission-free online ordering. Think about the features that are most important to you – do you prioritize a beautiful, customizable website and mobile ordering page, like those offered by BentoBox and UpMenu? Or is a free online ordering system, like GloriaFood, sufficient for your current needs?
Ultimately, the key is to find a system that empowers you to deliver an exceptional customer experience, streamlines your workflow, and helps you achieve your business objectives. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of each platform, read customer reviews, and consider taking advantage of free trials or demos to get a firsthand feel for the software.
By investing the time to choose the right online ordering system, you’re investing in the future success of your restaurant, attracting more customers, and building a loyal following that appreciates the convenience and efficiency of your mobile ordering options. And remember many offer added features to retain those customers, they love to use.
