Quick Overview
- 1#1: Toast - Comprehensive cloud-based POS and online ordering platform designed for full-service restaurants.
- 2#2: Olo - Enterprise-grade online ordering solution that integrates with POS systems for high-volume restaurants.
- 3#3: ChowNow - Direct online ordering platform that helps restaurants capture customer data without third-party commissions.
- 4#4: Square for Restaurants - Affordable POS and online ordering system ideal for small to medium restaurants.
- 5#5: Lightspeed Restaurant - Cloud POS platform with robust online ordering and table management for restaurants.
- 6#6: TouchBistro - iPad-based POS system with integrated online ordering for quick-service restaurants.
- 7#7: Revel Systems - Flexible iPad POS with online ordering and inventory management for various restaurant types.
- 8#8: SpotOn - Restaurant management software offering online ordering, payments, and marketing tools.
- 9#9: Clover - Versatile POS hardware and software with online ordering apps for small restaurants.
- 10#10: GloriaFood - Free website builder and online ordering system tailored for small independent restaurants.
We evaluated these tools based on features like POS integration, data capture, and scalability; quality of user experience; ease of adoption; and value for money to identify top performers across diverse restaurant types.
Comparison Table
This comparison table outlines essential features, pricing, and functionalities of top online restaurant ordering software, including Toast, Olo, ChowNow, Square for Restaurants, Lightspeed Restaurant, and more, helping restaurants evaluate options for their unique needs. Readers will learn how these tools optimize order management, boost customer engagement, and integrate with existing workflows, enabling informed decisions to enhance operational efficiency.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Toast Comprehensive cloud-based POS and online ordering platform designed for full-service restaurants. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | Olo Enterprise-grade online ordering solution that integrates with POS systems for high-volume restaurants. | enterprise | 9.3/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | ChowNow Direct online ordering platform that helps restaurants capture customer data without third-party commissions. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 4 | Square for Restaurants Affordable POS and online ordering system ideal for small to medium restaurants. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.9/10 | |
| 5 | Lightspeed Restaurant Cloud POS platform with robust online ordering and table management for restaurants. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | TouchBistro iPad-based POS system with integrated online ordering for quick-service restaurants. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | Revel Systems Flexible iPad POS with online ordering and inventory management for various restaurant types. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 8 | SpotOn Restaurant management software offering online ordering, payments, and marketing tools. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Clover Versatile POS hardware and software with online ordering apps for small restaurants. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 10 | GloriaFood Free website builder and online ordering system tailored for small independent restaurants. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 9.4/10 |
Comprehensive cloud-based POS and online ordering platform designed for full-service restaurants.
Enterprise-grade online ordering solution that integrates with POS systems for high-volume restaurants.
Direct online ordering platform that helps restaurants capture customer data without third-party commissions.
Affordable POS and online ordering system ideal for small to medium restaurants.
Cloud POS platform with robust online ordering and table management for restaurants.
iPad-based POS system with integrated online ordering for quick-service restaurants.
Flexible iPad POS with online ordering and inventory management for various restaurant types.
Restaurant management software offering online ordering, payments, and marketing tools.
Versatile POS hardware and software with online ordering apps for small restaurants.
Free website builder and online ordering system tailored for small independent restaurants.
Toast
enterpriseComprehensive cloud-based POS and online ordering platform designed for full-service restaurants.
Seamless, commission-free online ordering with direct POS synchronization to eliminate double-entry and reduce errors.
Toast is an all-in-one cloud-based restaurant management platform with robust online ordering capabilities, enabling restaurants to build branded websites and mobile ordering experiences without third-party commissions. It seamlessly integrates with Toast's POS system for real-time order syncing, inventory management, and kitchen display systems, streamlining operations from front-of-house to delivery. Additionally, it offers loyalty programs, gift cards, and partnerships with services like DoorDash and Uber Eats for expanded reach.
Pros
- Commission-free online ordering with branded storefronts
- Deep integration with POS for real-time inventory and order management
- Comprehensive analytics, reporting, and customer loyalty tools
Cons
- Higher upfront costs and hardware requirements
- Steeper learning curve for full feature utilization
- Pricing can scale quickly with add-ons and transaction volume
Best For
Mid-sized to enterprise-level full-service restaurants needing a scalable, integrated POS and online ordering solution.
Pricing
Custom plans starting at $69/month per location for core software, plus hardware leases (~$100+/month), payment processing (2.99% + $0.15/transaction), and premium features.
Olo
enterpriseEnterprise-grade online ordering solution that integrates with POS systems for high-volume restaurants.
Unified Guest Data Platform that centralizes ordering data for hyper-personalized marketing and loyalty across all channels
Olo is an enterprise-grade online ordering platform designed for restaurants, enabling branded websites, mobile ordering, and seamless integrations with POS systems like Toast and NCR. It supports direct orders, third-party delivery marketplaces, payments via Olo Pay, and advanced guest data management for personalized marketing and loyalty programs. Targeted at multi-location chains, Olo optimizes operations with AI-driven insights and high-volume scalability.
Pros
- Deep integrations with major POS and delivery partners for frictionless operations
- Robust guest data platform with AI personalization and analytics
- Highly scalable for national chains handling millions of orders
Cons
- High cost prohibitive for small independent restaurants
- Complex initial setup requiring technical expertise
- Pricing lacks public transparency, requiring custom quotes
Best For
Enterprise restaurant chains and multi-unit operators needing scalable, data-driven online ordering.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on order volume and locations; typically starts at $5,000+/month for mid-sized chains.
ChowNow
specializedDirect online ordering platform that helps restaurants capture customer data without third-party commissions.
100% commission-free direct ordering with full branding and customer data ownership
ChowNow is a commission-free online ordering platform that enables restaurants to create branded ordering experiences directly on their websites and mobile apps, helping them retain full control over customer relationships and data. It offers comprehensive tools for menu management, real-time order notifications, POS integrations, and automated marketing via email and SMS. The platform emphasizes pickup and in-house delivery, avoiding third-party marketplace fees to maximize restaurant profits.
Pros
- Commission-free model keeps 100% of sales revenue
- Strong marketing and loyalty tools for customer retention
- Seamless POS integrations and branded ordering experience
Cons
- Higher monthly fees compared to free third-party options
- Limited native support for third-party delivery networks
- Setup and customization can require technical assistance
Best For
Independent restaurants and chains focused on direct customer engagement and avoiding marketplace commissions.
Pricing
Monthly subscriptions start at $150 for basic plans, scaling to $500+ for enterprise; includes setup fees, no order commissions, only standard payment processing.
Square for Restaurants
enterpriseAffordable POS and online ordering system ideal for small to medium restaurants.
Seamless end-to-end order flow from online customer placement directly to POS, kitchen tickets, and inventory updates without manual entry
Square for Restaurants is an all-in-one POS system tailored for the restaurant industry, featuring integrated online ordering through Square Online for pickup, delivery, and dine-in. It enables businesses to create customizable ordering websites or pages that sync seamlessly with the POS, kitchen display system, and inventory. The platform supports commission-free ordering on its site and integrates with popular third-party delivery services like DoorDash and Uber Eats.
Pros
- Seamless integration between online orders and POS/kitchen displays
- Quick setup with no contracts or upfront hardware costs
- Commission-free direct online ordering to reduce third-party fees
Cons
- Transaction fees (2.6% + $0.15 per online order) can add up for high-volume restaurants
- Limited advanced customization for complex menus or enterprise-scale operations
- Reporting and analytics are basic compared to specialized platforms
Best For
Small to medium-sized restaurants seeking an affordable, user-friendly all-in-one solution for POS and online ordering without long-term commitments.
Pricing
Free starter plan with transaction fees (2.6% + $0.15 per online order); Plus plan at $60/month per location; Premium custom pricing; no contracts.
Lightspeed Restaurant
enterpriseCloud POS platform with robust online ordering and table management for restaurants.
Direct POS-online order synchronization that eliminates double entry and ensures real-time stock accuracy
Lightspeed Restaurant is a comprehensive cloud-based POS system with integrated online ordering capabilities, enabling restaurants to create branded ordering websites for pickup, delivery, and dine-in. It syncs online orders directly into the POS for real-time inventory management, menu updates, and order fulfillment. The platform also includes customer loyalty tools, marketing features, and analytics to drive repeat business.
Pros
- Seamless integration of online orders with POS for efficient operations
- Customizable branded ordering sites and menus
- Robust inventory and reporting tools
Cons
- Higher pricing for full features and add-ons
- Steep learning curve for advanced customization
- Limited native integrations with some third-party delivery services
Best For
Mid-sized restaurants seeking an all-in-one POS and online ordering platform with strong backend management.
Pricing
Starts at $69/month per terminal (Essentials plan); higher tiers up to $149/month include advanced online ordering; hardware and add-ons extra.
TouchBistro
enterpriseiPad-based POS system with integrated online ordering for quick-service restaurants.
Direct POS integration that routes online orders straight to the kitchen display without manual re-entry
TouchBistro is a restaurant-focused POS system with integrated online ordering software that enables customers to place pickup or delivery orders via a branded website or app. It syncs real-time menu updates, inventory, and payments directly with the POS, streamlining kitchen operations and reducing errors. The platform also includes loyalty programs, marketing tools, and analytics to boost customer retention and sales.
Pros
- Seamless POS-online ordering integration for real-time order flow
- Customizable branded ordering sites with loyalty and promo tools
- Robust analytics and reporting tailored for restaurants
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers make it less ideal for small or budget-conscious venues
- Requires compatible hardware which adds upfront costs
- Steeper learning curve for non-tech-savvy staff
Best For
Mid-sized full-service restaurants needing an all-in-one POS with reliable online ordering integration.
Pricing
Starts at $69/terminal/month for POS (billed annually), online ordering add-on ~$115/month; custom quotes with hardware bundles.
Revel Systems
enterpriseFlexible iPad POS with online ordering and inventory management for various restaurant types.
Commission-free, fully branded online ordering integrated directly with the POS for seamless fulfillment
Revel Systems is a cloud-based iPad POS platform tailored for restaurants, featuring built-in online ordering tools that enable commission-free web-based and app ordering. It integrates seamlessly with popular delivery services like DoorDash and Uber Eats, while providing real-time order routing to kitchen displays and inventory management. The system supports customizable menus, loyalty programs, and multi-location operations for efficient order fulfillment.
Pros
- Commission-free online ordering with branded storefronts
- Strong integrations with delivery apps and third-party services
- Scalable for multi-location restaurants with real-time reporting
Cons
- High upfront hardware costs (requires iPads and peripherals)
- Steeper learning curve for full customization
- Pricing can escalate quickly with add-ons and multiple terminals
Best For
Mid-sized to enterprise restaurants seeking an all-in-one POS with robust online and delivery ordering capabilities.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month per terminal (Core plan) plus one-time hardware fees (~$1,000+ per setup); online ordering included in Pro/Enterprise tiers ($299+/month).
SpotOn
enterpriseRestaurant management software offering online ordering, payments, and marketing tools.
Commission-free branded online ordering with direct customer data ownership
SpotOn is a full-service restaurant POS and management platform with robust online ordering capabilities, enabling commission-free webstore, branded app, and third-party delivery integrations like DoorDash and Uber Eats. It streamlines operations by syncing online orders directly with the POS for real-time kitchen display and inventory management. Designed primarily for U.S. restaurants, it also includes marketing tools, loyalty programs, and analytics to boost revenue.
Pros
- Commission-free online ordering preserves full profit margins
- Seamless POS integration reduces errors and speeds up service
- Comprehensive analytics and marketing tools drive customer retention
Cons
- Custom pricing can be opaque and higher for smaller operations
- Interface has a learning curve for non-tech-savvy users
- Limited customization options compared to specialized ordering platforms
Best For
Mid-sized full-service restaurants seeking an all-in-one POS and online ordering system with strong U.S.-focused integrations.
Pricing
Custom quotes starting at ~$135/month per location for software, plus hardware leases (~$50-100/month) and per-order fees only for third-party integrations.
Clover
enterpriseVersatile POS hardware and software with online ordering apps for small restaurants.
Commission-free branded online ordering that syncs instantly with POS inventory and in-store fulfillment
Clover is a versatile point-of-sale (POS) system with robust online ordering capabilities tailored for restaurants, enabling seamless menu creation, order acceptance via website or branded apps, and direct integration with in-store operations. It supports commission-free online orders, real-time inventory syncing, and partnerships with delivery services like DoorDash and Uber Eats. The platform's app marketplace extends functionality for custom needs, making it a solid all-in-one solution for digital and physical sales.
Pros
- Seamless POS and online ordering integration with real-time syncing
- Commission-free online orders reducing costs compared to third-party platforms
- Extensive app marketplace for delivery and customization integrations
Cons
- Hardware purchase often required for optimal performance adding upfront costs
- Pricing tiers can escalate quickly for advanced features
- Occasional reports of app glitches or slower customer support response
Best For
Small to medium restaurants seeking an integrated POS and online ordering system without marketplace commissions.
Pricing
Software starts at $14.95/month (Payments plan); full POS bundles with hardware from $799 one-time + $50+/month for online ordering add-ons.
GloriaFood
specializedFree website builder and online ordering system tailored for small independent restaurants.
Commission-free ordering system that allows restaurants to keep 100% of sales revenue
GloriaFood is a free online ordering platform that enables restaurants to create a customizable ordering website for direct customer orders without commissions. It provides tools for menu management, real-time order notifications, and basic customer relationship features like loyalty programs. Ideal for small businesses, it integrates easily with existing websites and offers mobile apps for owners and customers.
Pros
- Completely free core platform with unlimited orders
- Quick and intuitive setup with drag-and-drop menu builder
- No commission fees on orders
Cons
- GloriaFood branding visible on free plan
- Limited integrations with POS systems or advanced analytics
- Customer support primarily email-based with slower response times
Best For
Small independent restaurants and cafes seeking a no-cost entry into online ordering without transaction fees.
Pricing
Free forever plan; premium add-ons like online payments ($9/mo), white-label ($29/mo), and SMS notifications ($19/mo).
Conclusion
The reviewed online restaurant ordering tools cater to diverse needs, yet Toast leads as the top choice, offering comprehensive cloud-based POS and online ordering tailored for full-service operations. Olo excels for high-volume, enterprise-level integration, and ChowNow stands out with direct ordering and no third-party commissions—excellent alternatives for specific requirements.
Dive into Toast to streamline operations, boost customer engagement, and elevate your restaurant's online presence today.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison