Online ordering capability is no longer an optional add-on for restaurants; it’s an essential part of their business. Customers expect to be able to order whatever you offer—takeout, delivery, etc.— online. A good restaurant ordering system can help streamline operations, reduce errors, and increase revenue.
But with so many platforms available—each with different features, pricing models, and levels of control—how do you know which online ordering system is right for your restaurant?
This guide breaks down some of the most widely used systems, including those we use with our clients.
Why Have An Online Ordering System Anyway?
Before diving into the platforms, it’s helpful to understand the types of scenarios that require an online system.
Takeout / To-Go Orders: Customers visit your website or social media page, browse your menu, place an order, and come in to pick it up. This helps avoid phone orders and improves accuracy.
Delivery: Customers place orders online and have food delivered. Some platforms offer built-in delivery, while others require you to provide your own driver or connect to a third-party fleet.
Dine-In QR Code Ordering: This became popular as restaurants tried to stay afloat during COVID. Guests scan a QR code at their table, view your menu on their phones, and order directly from their devices. The order is sent straight to your kitchen or POS system. This is useful for contactless dining and increased efficiency.
Most systems support at least one or two of these experiences—some support all three.
Top Online Ordering Platforms for Restaurants
Each platform has its strengths. Here’s a comparison of popular options and what they offer:
GloriaFood
Best for: Restaurants that want a low-cost, DIY system with direct ordering. We love GloriaFood and use it with our restaurant clients. We’d love to help you set it up for your restaurant!
- Free core system with optional paid add-ons (like credit card payments)
- Supports pickup, delivery (you handle delivery), and QR code ordering
- Easy to set up and manage via a mobile app
- Menu builder and real-time order notifications
- Great option for small restaurants or those just getting started online
Toast
Best for: Restaurants that want a full POS system with built-in online ordering.
- Offers pickup, delivery, and QR code/table ordering
- Fully integrated POS with order and kitchen management tools
- Delivery through in-house drivers or third-party partnerships
- Requires hardware and monthly software fees
- Ideal for mid-to-large restaurants looking for an all-in-one solution
Square for Restaurants
Best for: Smaller restaurants or cafés looking for simplicity and flexibility.
- Integrated with Square POS
- Free online ordering site included
- Pickup and delivery via partner integrations
- Minimal upfront cost; scalable as you grow
- Great for quick-service restaurants or new businesses
ChowNow
Best for: Restaurants that want commission-free ordering with custom branding.
- No commission fees
- Provides branded ordering through your website and custom mobile apps
- Delivery through your drivers or their vast courier network
- Includes marketing tools and customer data retention
- Monthly flat-rate pricing structure
BentoBox
Best for: Restaurants that want premium website design paired with online ordering.
- Online ordering integrated with custom-built restaurant websites
- Also supports catering, gift cards, and loyalty
- Pickup and delivery options available
- Higher cost, but strong design and branding control
- Ideal for restaurants that value user experience and brand presentation
Flipdish
Best for: Restaurants and chains looking for a branded app and built-in marketing tools.
- Offers branded apps for both iOS and Android
- Integrated marketing features (SMS/email campaigns, loyalty)
- Supports pickup and delivery (you choose the logistics)
- Higher cost but strong for multi-location restaurants or franchises
UpMenu
Best for: Restaurants looking for menu flexibility and marketing tools.
- Customizable online menus
- Loyalty programs, discount systems, and email campaigns
- Branded website or widget integration
- Monthly fee structure, no commissions
Which Online Ordering System Is Right for Your Restaurant?
Every restaurant is different and has unique needs. Here are a few questions to help guide your choice:
- Do you need full POS integration? Look at Toast or Square.
- Do you want to avoid commissions and keep customer data? Consider GloriaFood, ChowNow, or UpMenu.
- Are you focused on branding and marketing? Flipdish or BentoBox might be the right fit.
- Are you starting small or on a tight budget? GloriaFood or Square Online are good entry points.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best system for you depends on your restaurant’s size, goals, and operations. Whether you want to handle takeout orders more efficiently, add delivery without losing revenue to commissions, or provide a modern dine-in experience with QR codes, there’s a platform to match your needs.
The key is to choose a system that aligns with your workflow, supports your customer experience goals, and fits your budget now and as you grow.
Need help choosing or setting one up? We’d be happy to guide you through it! Get in touch today.
