Quick Overview
- 1#1: Toast - Comprehensive cloud-based POS system with integrated online ordering, delivery, and restaurant management features.
- 2#2: Square for Restaurants - Affordable POS solution offering online ordering, payments, and inventory management for small to medium restaurants.
- 3#3: Lightspeed Restaurant - Cloud POS platform with eCommerce, online ordering, and multi-location management capabilities.
- 4#4: TouchBistro - iPad-based POS system featuring online reservations, ordering, and real-time reporting for full-service restaurants.
- 5#5: Revel Systems - Flexible iPad POS with online ordering integrations, loyalty programs, and advanced analytics.
- 6#6: Clover - Customizable POS hardware and software supporting online ordering apps and third-party integrations.
- 7#7: ChowNow - Commission-free online ordering platform that integrates with restaurant websites and POS systems.
- 8#8: Olo - Enterprise-grade online ordering and delivery platform with deep POS and marketplace integrations.
- 9#9: BentoBox - Website builder for restaurants with built-in online ordering, reservations, and marketing tools.
- 10#10: GloriaFood - Free online ordering system with website integration, menu management, and commission-free orders.
Tools were selected and ranked by evaluating core features, including integration capabilities, ease of use, reliability, and overall value. We prioritized solutions that adapt to varied restaurant needs—from small cafes to multi-location chains—ensuring the list balances innovation with practical functionality for real-world performance.
Comparison Table
Online restaurant software is essential for optimizing daily operations, and this comparison table explores top tools like Toast, Square for Restaurants, Lightspeed Restaurant, TouchBistro, Revel Systems, and more, equipping readers to compare key features, pricing, and functionalities for their business.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Toast Comprehensive cloud-based POS system with integrated online ordering, delivery, and restaurant management features. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.9/10 | |
| 2 | Square for Restaurants Affordable POS solution offering online ordering, payments, and inventory management for small to medium restaurants. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 3 | Lightspeed Restaurant Cloud POS platform with eCommerce, online ordering, and multi-location management capabilities. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 4 | TouchBistro iPad-based POS system featuring online reservations, ordering, and real-time reporting for full-service restaurants. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Revel Systems Flexible iPad POS with online ordering integrations, loyalty programs, and advanced analytics. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 6 | Clover Customizable POS hardware and software supporting online ordering apps and third-party integrations. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 7 | ChowNow Commission-free online ordering platform that integrates with restaurant websites and POS systems. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | Olo Enterprise-grade online ordering and delivery platform with deep POS and marketplace integrations. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 9 | BentoBox Website builder for restaurants with built-in online ordering, reservations, and marketing tools. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 10 | GloriaFood Free online ordering system with website integration, menu management, and commission-free orders. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 |
Comprehensive cloud-based POS system with integrated online ordering, delivery, and restaurant management features.
Affordable POS solution offering online ordering, payments, and inventory management for small to medium restaurants.
Cloud POS platform with eCommerce, online ordering, and multi-location management capabilities.
iPad-based POS system featuring online reservations, ordering, and real-time reporting for full-service restaurants.
Flexible iPad POS with online ordering integrations, loyalty programs, and advanced analytics.
Customizable POS hardware and software supporting online ordering apps and third-party integrations.
Commission-free online ordering platform that integrates with restaurant websites and POS systems.
Enterprise-grade online ordering and delivery platform with deep POS and marketplace integrations.
Website builder for restaurants with built-in online ordering, reservations, and marketing tools.
Free online ordering system with website integration, menu management, and commission-free orders.
Toast
enterpriseComprehensive cloud-based POS system with integrated online ordering, delivery, and restaurant management features.
Commission-free branded online ordering integrated directly into the POS for higher margins and better customer data control
Toast is a comprehensive cloud-based restaurant management platform that serves as a full-featured POS system, handling everything from in-person and online orders to payments, inventory, scheduling, and payroll. It integrates seamlessly with third-party delivery services like Uber Eats and DoorDash while offering commission-free online ordering directly through the restaurant's branded channels. With robust analytics, kitchen display systems, and loyalty programs, Toast streamlines operations for restaurants of all sizes, providing real-time insights to drive efficiency and revenue growth.
Pros
- All-in-one platform covering POS, online ordering, payroll, and analytics
- Seamless integrations with delivery apps and no commissions on direct online orders
- Scalable for single locations to enterprise chains with strong reporting tools
Cons
- Higher upfront hardware costs and proprietary equipment lock-in
- Custom pricing can be opaque and steep for smaller operations
- Occasional reports of software glitches and steep learning curve for advanced features
Best For
Mid-sized to enterprise restaurants needing a scalable, feature-rich POS with integrated online ordering and management tools.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting at around $69-$165/month per terminal plus hardware bundles from $799-$5,000+ upfront.
Square for Restaurants
enterpriseAffordable POS solution offering online ordering, payments, and inventory management for small to medium restaurants.
Commission-free online ordering through a customizable branded website
Square for Restaurants is a cloud-based POS and online ordering platform tailored for restaurants, offering unified management of in-store and online orders, inventory, staff scheduling, and reporting. It integrates seamlessly with popular delivery services like DoorDash and Uber Eats, while providing kitchen display systems and customizable floor plans. The solution emphasizes ease of use and scalability for small to medium-sized establishments.
Pros
- No monthly fees for core POS and online ordering features
- Intuitive interface with quick setup and mobile accessibility
- Seamless integration across POS, online orders, and third-party deliveries
Cons
- Transaction fees can accumulate for high-volume keyed transactions
- Reporting lacks depth for enterprise-level analytics
- Limited built-in reservation tools (requires integrations)
Best For
Small to medium restaurants needing an affordable, all-in-one POS and online ordering system without contracts.
Pricing
Free core POS and online ordering; 2.6% + 10¢ per transaction (in-person), 2.9% + 30¢ (online); Plus plan at $60/location/month for advanced features.
Lightspeed Restaurant
enterpriseCloud POS platform with eCommerce, online ordering, and multi-location management capabilities.
Advanced inventory management with AI-driven forecasting and recipe costing
Lightspeed Restaurant is a cloud-based POS system tailored for restaurants, providing comprehensive tools for order management, payments, inventory tracking, and online ordering integration. It supports full-service, quick-service, and multi-location operations with features like kitchen display systems, loyalty programs, and delivery app partnerships such as Uber Eats and DoorDash. The platform emphasizes real-time data syncing and advanced reporting to optimize restaurant efficiency and profitability.
Pros
- Extensive feature set including online ordering, inventory forecasting, and multi-location management
- Seamless integrations with popular delivery services and accounting tools
- Robust analytics and customizable reporting for data-driven decisions
Cons
- Higher pricing compared to some competitors, especially for advanced plans
- Steeper learning curve for setup and customization
- Occasional reports of sync delays during peak hours
Best For
Growing restaurant chains and multi-location operators needing scalable POS with strong back-office tools.
Pricing
Starts at $69/month per terminal for Essentials plan, up to $159+/month for Pro, plus one-time hardware costs and add-ons.
TouchBistro
enterpriseiPad-based POS system featuring online reservations, ordering, and real-time reporting for full-service restaurants.
Tableside ordering on iPads for faster, more accurate service directly at the customer's table
TouchBistro is a cloud-based point-of-sale (POS) system tailored for restaurants, offering comprehensive tools for order management, inventory tracking, table management, and staff scheduling. It supports tableside ordering on iPads, real-time reporting, and integrations with online ordering, delivery services, and loyalty programs. Designed for full-service restaurants, it streamlines front-of-house and back-of-house operations while providing multi-location support.
Pros
- Robust restaurant-specific features like tableside ordering and kitchen display systems
- Strong integrations with third-party services including online ordering and payroll
- Excellent real-time reporting and analytics for business insights
Cons
- Requires Apple iPads, limiting hardware flexibility
- Pricing can be steep for small or single-location restaurants
- Occasional reports of customer support delays during peak times
Best For
Full-service restaurants and bars needing an all-in-one POS with strong mobile ordering capabilities.
Pricing
Custom pricing starting at around $69 per month per terminal, plus hardware costs and add-ons; requires quote.
Revel Systems
enterpriseFlexible iPad POS with online ordering integrations, loyalty programs, and advanced analytics.
Cloud-synced Kitchen Display System (KDS) for real-time order routing and fulfillment
Revel Systems is a cloud-based POS platform tailored for restaurants, providing comprehensive tools for point-of-sale transactions, inventory management, online ordering, and customer loyalty programs. It excels in high-volume environments with iPad-centric hardware that supports kitchen display systems, real-time reporting, and multi-location management. The system integrates seamlessly with delivery services and third-party apps, making it a robust solution for modern restaurant operations.
Pros
- Extensive feature set including POS, online ordering, inventory, and advanced analytics
- Strong scalability for single or multi-location restaurants
- Reliable integrations with delivery platforms like DoorDash and Uber Eats
Cons
- High upfront and ongoing costs, especially for hardware and add-ons
- Steep learning curve for non-tech-savvy users
- Reliance on iOS devices limits hardware flexibility
Best For
Busy restaurants and chains needing a full-featured POS with integrated online ordering and multi-site management.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month per terminal plus hardware ($500+ per iPad), payment processing fees (2.3%+), and optional add-ons like online ordering ($50+/month).
Clover
enterpriseCustomizable POS hardware and software supporting online ordering apps and third-party integrations.
App Marketplace with over 500 third-party apps for tailored restaurant functionality
Clover is a versatile point-of-sale (POS) system designed for restaurants, offering online ordering, menu management, inventory tracking, and seamless payment processing. It integrates with major delivery platforms like DoorDash and Uber Eats, while its App Marketplace provides hundreds of customizable add-ons for features like loyalty programs and employee scheduling. Ideal for streamlining both in-person and online operations, Clover combines robust hardware options with cloud-based software for real-time data access.
Pros
- Extensive App Marketplace for custom integrations
- Reliable payment processing with low fees
- Strong hardware ecosystem for restaurants
Cons
- High upfront hardware costs
- Pricing can become complex with add-ons
- Some users report occasional software bugs
Best For
Small to medium-sized restaurants seeking an all-in-one POS with solid online ordering and delivery integrations.
Pricing
Starts at $14.95/month for basic plans + 2.3-3.5% processing fees; restaurant plans from $59.85/month; hardware $499+.
ChowNow
specializedCommission-free online ordering platform that integrates with restaurant websites and POS systems.
White-label, commission-free direct online ordering that keeps 100% of customer data and profits
ChowNow is a commission-free online ordering platform that enables restaurants to create branded ordering websites and apps, allowing direct customer orders for pickup or in-house delivery without third-party marketplace fees. It integrates with major POS systems like Toast and Square, offers menu management, automated marketing tools, and analytics to help restaurants own their customer relationships. The platform emphasizes simplicity and direct sales channels, helping establishments retain full profits from online orders.
Pros
- Commission-free ordering retains full profits
- Customizable, mobile-optimized websites and apps
- Seamless POS integrations and marketing automation
Cons
- Monthly subscriptions start relatively high for small operations
- No native delivery logistics or dispatching tools
- Limited advanced inventory or staff management features
Best For
Independent restaurants and small chains seeking to bypass third-party delivery apps and build direct customer loyalty.
Pricing
Starts at $150/month (Starter plan) up to $325/month (Premium), plus 2.9% + $0.30 payment processing; no order commissions.
Olo
enterpriseEnterprise-grade online ordering and delivery platform with deep POS and marketplace integrations.
Olo Guest platform for unified first-party data collection and hyper-personalized marketing across ordering channels
Olo is a robust enterprise-grade platform specializing in online ordering, delivery management, and digital guest engagement for restaurants. It integrates seamlessly with POS systems, third-party delivery services like DoorDash and Uber Eats, and offers tools for payments, loyalty programs, and data-driven marketing. Designed primarily for multi-location chains, it helps restaurants own the guest relationship and reduce reliance on third-party commissions.
Pros
- Extensive integrations with POS, delivery partners, and payment processors
- Powerful guest data analytics for personalized marketing and loyalty
- Scalable for high-volume, multi-location restaurant operations
Cons
- High pricing suitable only for larger enterprises
- Complex setup and steeper learning curve for smaller teams
- Limited options for single-location independent restaurants
Best For
Large restaurant chains and multi-location operators seeking enterprise-level online ordering and guest engagement tools.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $1,000+ per month based on locations, volume, and features; often includes setup fees.
BentoBox
specializedWebsite builder for restaurants with built-in online ordering, reservations, and marketing tools.
Beautiful, conversion-optimized websites with built-in online ordering that keeps 100% of customer data and revenue on-site
BentoBox is a specialized website builder and digital marketing platform for restaurants, offering customizable, mobile-optimized websites with integrated online ordering, reservations, menus, and email marketing tools. It empowers independent restaurants to create branded digital experiences without relying on third-party marketplaces, helping them own customer data and drive direct traffic. The platform emphasizes design aesthetics and conversion optimization tailored to the hospitality industry.
Pros
- Stunning, restaurant-specific templates and drag-and-drop builder
- Commission-free online ordering and customer data ownership
- Robust marketing tools including SEO, email, and events management
Cons
- Higher pricing may not suit very small operations
- Integrations with POS systems require partners
- Advanced customizations can have a learning curve
Best For
Independent restaurants and small chains looking to build a professional branded website with seamless online ordering and marketing.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month for Essentials, $199/month for Growth, $299/month for Pro; includes setup fees and add-ons for advanced features.
GloriaFood
specializedFree online ordering system with website integration, menu management, and commission-free orders.
100% free custom ordering website with unlimited orders and no transaction fees
GloriaFood is a free online ordering platform that enables restaurants to create a custom-branded website for direct customer orders, bypassing third-party commissions. It includes menu management, order notifications, customer databases, and integrations with POS systems and delivery apps like Uber Eats. The service supports promotions, loyalty programs, and basic analytics to help small businesses streamline operations and boost sales.
Pros
- Completely free core plan with no commissions on orders
- Quick setup in minutes without coding skills
- Seamless integrations with popular POS and delivery services
Cons
- Limited customization options for design and branding
- Advanced reporting and marketing tools require paid upgrades
- Customer support primarily via email with slower response times
Best For
Small independent restaurants or cafes seeking a no-cost entry into online ordering to reduce dependency on aggregator fees.
Pricing
Free forever plan for basic features; premium add-ons like white-label apps and advanced tools start at $29/month.
Conclusion
The reviewed online restaurant software tools, while varying in focus, deliver strong solutions for modern dining operations. Leading the pack is Toast, lauded for its comprehensive cloud-based features that unify POS, online ordering, and management needs. Close competitors like Square for Restaurants and Lightspeed Restaurant also shine—with Square offering affordability for small to medium businesses and Lightspeed excelling in multi-location and eCommerce capabilities, providing solid alternatives based on specific requirements.
For a seamless blend of functionality and versatility, Toast is the top pick—explore its tools to elevate your restaurant’s efficiency and customer engagement.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison