Quick Overview
- 1#1: Toast - Comprehensive cloud-based POS system optimized for bars with robust tab management, inventory tracking for liquor, and real-time reporting.
- 2#2: Lightspeed Restaurant - All-in-one POS solution for bars featuring inventory control, multi-location support, and seamless integrations for payments and loyalty.
- 3#3: TouchBistro - iPad-based POS tailored for bars and restaurants with quick tab opening, bill splitting, and liquor inventory management.
- 4#4: Revel Systems - Flexible POS platform for bars offering customizable menus, employee management, and advanced analytics for high-volume service.
- 5#5: Square for Restaurants - User-friendly POS for bars with free software, contactless payments, and basic inventory tools ideal for small to medium venues.
- 6#6: Epos Now - Cloud EPOS system for bars with table management, CRM integration, and hardware compatibility for efficient drink service.
- 7#7: Lavu - Mobile-first POS for bars supporting offline mode, recipe costing, and happy hour promotions to streamline operations.
- 8#8: Clover - Customizable POS hardware and software for bars with app marketplace for inventory and loyalty features.
- 9#9: SpotOn - Restaurant and bar POS with kiosk ordering, delivery integrations, and detailed sales analytics for busy environments.
- 10#10: rpower - High-performance POS for bars focused on speed, large table tabs, and casino-style integrations for entertainment venues.
We evaluated these tools based on core features like robust tab handling, liquor and goods inventory tracking, integration capabilities, ease of use, and overall value, ensuring each ranks highly for its ability to support smooth bar operations across different business sizes.
Comparison Table
Navigating bar POS software can be challenging, but this table simplifies the process by comparing top options like Toast, Lightspeed Restaurant, TouchBistro, Revel Systems, and Square for Restaurants. Readers will discover critical details, from core features to practical benefits, to make an informed choice that matches their bar's unique needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Toast Comprehensive cloud-based POS system optimized for bars with robust tab management, inventory tracking for liquor, and real-time reporting. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.9/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | Lightspeed Restaurant All-in-one POS solution for bars featuring inventory control, multi-location support, and seamless integrations for payments and loyalty. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 3 | TouchBistro iPad-based POS tailored for bars and restaurants with quick tab opening, bill splitting, and liquor inventory management. | specialized | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Revel Systems Flexible POS platform for bars offering customizable menus, employee management, and advanced analytics for high-volume service. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Square for Restaurants User-friendly POS for bars with free software, contactless payments, and basic inventory tools ideal for small to medium venues. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 7.9/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 6 | Epos Now Cloud EPOS system for bars with table management, CRM integration, and hardware compatibility for efficient drink service. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | Lavu Mobile-first POS for bars supporting offline mode, recipe costing, and happy hour promotions to streamline operations. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | Clover Customizable POS hardware and software for bars with app marketplace for inventory and loyalty features. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | SpotOn Restaurant and bar POS with kiosk ordering, delivery integrations, and detailed sales analytics for busy environments. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | rpower High-performance POS for bars focused on speed, large table tabs, and casino-style integrations for entertainment venues. | specialized | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
Comprehensive cloud-based POS system optimized for bars with robust tab management, inventory tracking for liquor, and real-time reporting.
All-in-one POS solution for bars featuring inventory control, multi-location support, and seamless integrations for payments and loyalty.
iPad-based POS tailored for bars and restaurants with quick tab opening, bill splitting, and liquor inventory management.
Flexible POS platform for bars offering customizable menus, employee management, and advanced analytics for high-volume service.
User-friendly POS for bars with free software, contactless payments, and basic inventory tools ideal for small to medium venues.
Cloud EPOS system for bars with table management, CRM integration, and hardware compatibility for efficient drink service.
Mobile-first POS for bars supporting offline mode, recipe costing, and happy hour promotions to streamline operations.
Customizable POS hardware and software for bars with app marketplace for inventory and loyalty features.
Restaurant and bar POS with kiosk ordering, delivery integrations, and detailed sales analytics for busy environments.
High-performance POS for bars focused on speed, large table tabs, and casino-style integrations for entertainment venues.
Toast
enterpriseComprehensive cloud-based POS system optimized for bars with robust tab management, inventory tracking for liquor, and real-time reporting.
Integrated liquor inventory with recipe costing and automated reordering, minimizing waste in fast-paced bar settings
Toast is a cloud-based EPOS system tailored for bars and restaurants, providing seamless order management, tab tracking, and quick-service capabilities ideal for high-volume bar environments. It includes inventory control for liquor stock with recipe costing, real-time reporting, and integrations for delivery apps like Uber Eats. The platform also offers online ordering, loyalty programs, and payroll to streamline full bar operations from front-of-house to back-office.
Pros
- Robust bar tab management and quick modifier tools for cocktails and pours
- Advanced inventory tracking with waste logging and low-stock alerts
- Comprehensive analytics and integrations with 100+ third-party apps
Cons
- Higher upfront hardware costs and subscription fees
- Requires reliable high-speed internet for optimal performance
- Steep initial setup and training for complex features
Best For
High-volume bars and pubs needing an all-in-one scalable EPOS with strong inventory and reporting tools.
Pricing
Starts at $69/month per terminal plus hardware bundles from $799; payment processing 2.49%-3.69% + $0.15 per transaction; custom enterprise pricing available.
Lightspeed Restaurant
enterpriseAll-in-one POS solution for bars featuring inventory control, multi-location support, and seamless integrations for payments and loyalty.
Advanced inventory management with automated recipe costing and variance tracking, crucial for precise bar stock control.
Lightspeed Restaurant is a cloud-based POS system tailored for bars and restaurants, providing comprehensive tools for order processing, inventory management, and sales reporting. It excels in high-volume bar environments with features like quick tab handling, customizable drink modifiers, and real-time analytics to optimize operations. The platform supports handheld ordering devices and integrations with popular delivery and accounting services, making it scalable for growing bar businesses.
Pros
- Robust inventory tracking with recipe costing and waste management ideal for liquor control
- Seamless multi-location support and real-time reporting
- Strong integrations with QuickBooks, delivery apps, and loyalty programs
Cons
- Higher pricing may deter small independent bars
- Relies heavily on stable internet connectivity
- Advanced customizations require some technical setup
Best For
Mid-sized bars and multi-location establishments seeking scalable EPOS with advanced inventory and analytics capabilities.
Pricing
Starts at $69/month per location (Basic), up to $289/month (Enterprise); hardware and add-ons extra.
TouchBistro
specializediPad-based POS tailored for bars and restaurants with quick tab opening, bill splitting, and liquor inventory management.
Offline mode with full sync capabilities, ensuring bars stay operational during outages
TouchBistro is a robust, iPad-based POS system tailored for bars and restaurants, providing seamless order processing, bar tab management, and inventory tracking. It supports quick-service environments with mobile ordering, payment processing, and real-time reporting, while offering offline mode for uninterrupted operations during connectivity issues. The platform integrates with bar-specific tools like modifiers for drinks and loyalty programs to boost customer retention.
Pros
- Excellent offline functionality for reliable bar service
- Comprehensive inventory and recipe management for liquor stock
- Strong bar tab and split bill features for high-volume nights
Cons
- Higher pricing may strain smaller bars
- Learning curve for advanced reporting tools
- Some integrations incur extra fees
Best For
Busy independent bars and pubs needing a feature-rich, mobile POS with strong inventory controls.
Pricing
Custom quotes starting at ~$69/month for Starter plan per terminal, up to $165+/month for Pro plans with add-ons.
Revel Systems
enterpriseFlexible POS platform for bars offering customizable menus, employee management, and advanced analytics for high-volume service.
Real-time liquor inventory and pour cost analytics to minimize waste and theft
Revel Systems is a cloud-based iPad POS platform designed for bars and restaurants, enabling fast order processing, tab management, and inventory tracking for liquor and supplies. It offers real-time analytics, customizable menus with drink modifiers, and seamless check splitting to handle busy bar environments efficiently. The system supports multi-location operations and integrates with accounting software, delivery apps, and loyalty programs for comprehensive bar management.
Pros
- Advanced inventory management with pour cost tracking
- Real-time reporting and cloud accessibility
- Strong integrations for bars like QuickBooks and online ordering
Cons
- High subscription and hardware costs
- Internet dependency for full functionality
- Learning curve for complex features
Best For
Mid-to-large bars needing scalable POS with robust analytics and multi-location support.
Pricing
Core plan starts at $99/month per terminal; Pro at $149/month; Enterprise custom pricing, plus iPad/hardware costs ~$1,000+ initial setup.
Square for Restaurants
specializedUser-friendly POS for bars with free software, contactless payments, and basic inventory tools ideal for small to medium venues.
Advanced bill splitting and open tab management, perfect for handling group drinks and payments in bars
Square for Restaurants is a cloud-based POS system tailored for hospitality venues like bars, offering seamless order taking, payment processing, inventory management, and staff tools. It supports customizable menus with drink modifiers, bill splitting for tabs, and real-time sales reporting to handle busy bar environments. The platform integrates with Square hardware for countertop or handheld use, making it suitable for small to mid-sized bars without requiring complex setups.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with minimal training required for bar staff
- No monthly software fees, only pay-per-transaction pricing
- Strong bill splitting and tab management ideal for bar service
Cons
- Transaction fees (2.6% + 10¢) add up in high-volume bars
- Inventory tracking lacks depth for complex liquor stock management
- Limited advanced bar-specific reporting and analytics compared to dedicated systems
Best For
Small to medium bars seeking an affordable, user-friendly POS with quick setup and reliable payment processing.
Pricing
Free software; 2.6% + 10¢ per in-person transaction; hardware starts at $0 (reader) up to $799 for terminals.
Epos Now
enterpriseCloud EPOS system for bars with table management, CRM integration, and hardware compatibility for efficient drink service.
Expansive App Store offering customizable integrations for bar-specific needs like delivery apps and advanced reporting
Epos Now is a cloud-based EPOS system tailored for hospitality venues like bars, providing touchscreen point-of-sale terminals for quick order processing and payments. It excels in inventory management for tracking liquor stock, bottles, and ingredients with real-time alerts and recipe costing. The platform also supports table management, customer loyalty programs, and detailed sales reporting accessible remotely via any device.
Pros
- Cloud-based access for real-time inventory and sales monitoring from anywhere
- Extensive App Store with 100+ integrations for payments, accounting, and bar-specific tools
- Strong stock control features including low-stock alerts and wastage tracking ideal for bars
Cons
- Pricing can escalate quickly with add-ons and multiple terminals
- Customer support response times vary, with some users reporting delays
- Initial hardware setup often requires professional installation, adding to costs
Best For
Mid-sized bars needing scalable cloud EPOS with robust inventory and integration options.
Pricing
Software subscriptions start at £25/month per device (Essentials plan), up to £109/month (Ultimate); hardware bundles from £500–£2,000+.
Lavu
specializedMobile-first POS for bars supporting offline mode, recipe costing, and happy hour promotions to streamline operations.
Offline mode that syncs data automatically when reconnected, ensuring no service disruptions.
Lavu is a cloud-based POS system tailored for restaurants and bars, offering comprehensive tools for order management, bar tab handling, and inventory tracking specifically suited for high-volume bar environments. It supports iPad and Android devices for mobile flexibility, enabling quick service at the bar or tableside. Key functionalities include real-time reporting, employee management, and integrations with accounting software, making it a solid EPOS choice for bars focused on efficiency.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile interface ideal for fast-paced bar service
- Strong bar tab management with easy splitting and transfers
- Reliable inventory tracking for alcohol stock control
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly with add-ons and locations
- Fewer bar-specific integrations than top competitors
- Occasional reports of customer support delays
Best For
Small to medium bars needing a mobile, user-friendly POS with robust tab and inventory features.
Pricing
Starts at $69/month (Restaurant Express), $119/month (Restaurant), $169/month (Restaurant Pro); per location, plus hardware and processing fees.
Clover
enterpriseCustomizable POS hardware and software for bars with app marketplace for inventory and loyalty features.
Vast app marketplace allowing tailored bar extensions for tabs, inventory, and loyalty without custom development
Clover is a versatile cloud-based POS system from clover.com, tailored for small to medium businesses including bars, with integrated payment processing, inventory management, and sales analytics. It excels in handling bar-specific needs like open tabs, quick service orders, and liquor inventory tracking through customizable apps. The platform supports both countertop and mobile hardware setups, making it adaptable for busy bar environments.
Pros
- Extensive app marketplace for bar-specific customizations like tab management and inventory
- Seamless integrated payment processing with competitive rates
- Reliable hardware options including mobile setups for bar service
Cons
- Ongoing monthly software fees can add up for multi-location bars
- Some advanced bar features require third-party apps, increasing costs
- Customer support can be inconsistent during peak hours
Best For
Small to medium-sized bars seeking a flexible, all-in-one POS with strong payment integration and app extensibility.
Pricing
Hardware starts at $499 (countertop) or $99 (Go handheld); software plans from $14.95-$114.85/month per device, plus 2.3%-2.6% + $0.10 per transaction.
SpotOn
specializedRestaurant and bar POS with kiosk ordering, delivery integrations, and detailed sales analytics for busy environments.
Advanced pour cost and inventory forecasting that automatically tracks liquor usage and variances for precise profitability insights
SpotOn is a cloud-based POS system designed for bars and restaurants, offering robust tools for order management, bar tab handling, and real-time inventory tracking to optimize high-volume service. It includes features like split bill capabilities, pour cost calculations, and integrations with payment processors for efficient transactions. The platform also supports online ordering, loyalty programs, and detailed reporting to help bar owners make data-driven decisions.
Pros
- Strong inventory management with recipe costing and waste tracking ideal for bars
- Flexible bar tab system supporting opens, splits, and transfers
- Reliable 24/7 customer support and no long-term contracts
Cons
- Hardware bundles can increase upfront costs for smaller bars
- Reporting tools lack deep customization compared to top competitors
- Limited third-party integrations for niche bar equipment
Best For
Mid-sized bars and pubs needing an all-in-one POS with strong inventory and tab management without lock-in contracts.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $135/month per location including software, payments, and hardware bundles.
rpower
specializedHigh-performance POS for bars focused on speed, large table tabs, and casino-style integrations for entertainment venues.
Advanced bottle service and virtual booth management for nightlife operations
RPower is a cloud-based POS system tailored for bars, nightclubs, and high-volume hospitality venues, offering advanced tools for inventory management, table and tab tracking, and real-time reporting. It supports complex nightlife operations like bottle service, guest profiles, and seamless integrations with delivery apps and accounting software. Designed for fast-paced environments, it ensures quick transactions and minimizes downtime with reliable hardware options.
Pros
- Specialized nightlife features like open tabs and bottle service
- Robust inventory tracking and real-time analytics
- Strong integrations with third-party apps and hardware
Cons
- Higher pricing suitable for larger venues only
- Steeper learning curve for new users
- Custom quotes and setup require sales consultation
Best For
Established bars and nightclubs with high transaction volumes needing advanced tab and inventory management.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing starting around $150/month per terminal, plus hardware and setup fees.
Conclusion
Across the reviewed tools, Toast leads as the top choice, with robust tab management, precise liquor inventory tracking, and real-time reporting tailored to bar operations. Lightspeed Restaurant and TouchBistro follow closely, each excelling in areas like multi-location support or quick tab handling, making them strong alternatives for different needs. Ultimately, the best solution depends on specific requirements, but these top three offer exceptional foundations for streamlining service and boosting efficiency.
Begin optimizing your bar's workflow with Toast—its comprehensive features, from seamless tab management to detailed analytics, are designed to handle busy environments, ensuring a smoother experience for staff and customers alike.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison