Best SaaS For Restaurants (Online Ordering Systems) in 2025
In today's competitive restaurant landscape, having a robust online ordering system is no longer optional; it's essential for survival and growth. Customers increasingly prefer the convenience of ordering online, whether for pickup or delivery. SaaS (Software as a Service) solutions offer scalable, cost-effective ways to set up and manage online ordering, helping restaurants reach a wider audience, boost revenue, and improve operational efficiency. This buying guide delves into the best SaaS platforms for restaurants offering online ordering, comparing key features, pricing, and integration capabilities to help you find the perfect fit for your business. Factors to consider include the size of your restaurant, the complexity of your menu, and your integration needs -- from point-of-sale (POS) systems to marketing automation. We'll also explore different types of solutions: basic ordering platforms, systems with advanced features like customer relationship management (CRM), and integrated all-in-one platforms.
What's In This Guide
- •Our Selection Methodology
- •Selection Criteria
- •Toast - Best Overall for Comprehensive Restaurant Management
- •Square for Restaurants - Best Value for Simplicity and Ease of Use
- •Menufy - Best for Standalone Online Ordering
- •ChowNow - Best for Brand-Focused Restaurants
- •GloriaFood - Best Free Option for Basic Needs
- •Conclusion & Recommendations
- •Frequently Asked Questions
Our Selection Methodology
Our rankings are derived from a thorough analysis of leading online ordering systems for restaurants. We utilized an AI-powered system to process and evaluate publicly available data, including user reviews from platforms like G2, Capterra, and TrustRadius; technical specifications from vendor websites; expert opinions from industry publications; and performance metrics extracted from case studies and comparative analyses. The AI algorithm weighed each criterion (ease of use, features, integrations, pricing and value, and customer support) based on its perceived importance to restaurants and the customer experience. We assessed each platform based on these criteria to construct rankings, identify strengths and weaknesses, and provide a comprehensive overview of the most suitable solutions for various restaurant types and needs. This process enabled objective and data-driven recommendations, removing any inherent biases.
Selection Criteria
Ease of Use
The platform should be easy for both staff and customers to navigate, ensuring a smooth ordering process and minimizing errors. This includes an intuitive interface, customizable menu management, and straightforward order fulfillment.
Features & Functionality
The platform should offer a comprehensive set of features, including online menu customization, payment processing, order management, delivery options, and reporting/ analytics. Advanced features like loyalty programs and CRM integration add significant value.
Integrations
Seamless integration with existing systems is critical. This includes point-of-sale (POS) systems, payment gateways, third-party delivery services (DoorDash etc.), and marketing tools to streamline operations and enhance customer experience. The ability to integrate multiple third-party services is highly desirable.
Pricing & Value
The platform should offer a competitive pricing structure that aligns with your restaurant's budget and sales volume. Consider all costs, including subscription fees, transaction fees, and any hardware costs for the complete cost of ownership.
Customer Support
Reliable customer support is crucial for addressing technical issues and getting help with setup and troubleshooting. Look for providers that offer prompt and knowledgeable support through multiple channels (phone, email, chat).
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Top 5 SaaS For Restaurants (Online Ordering Systems) in 2025
Pros
- All-in-one platform with integrated POS, payments, and online ordering.
- Comprehensive features, including menu customization, loyalty programs, and advanced reporting.
- Strong customer support and extensive integrations.
Cons
- Can be costly for smaller restaurants with lower order volumes.
- Some advanced features may require a learning curve.
Key Specifications
Toast is a comprehensive restaurant management system that includes powerful online ordering capabilities. It excels in its all-in-one approach, seamlessly integrating online ordering with POS, payment processing, and loyalty programs. Toast offers robust menu management, delivery driver management, and detailed reporting features. The platform integrates with a wide range of third-party services, including delivery platforms and marketing tools. It provides several customer-facing features, like online ordering and mobile ordering apps for customers. Toast caters well to full-service restaurants and establishments needing a cohesive solution, although it can be a significant investment. Its ease of use and comprehensive features make it a top contender for scalability and operational efficiency. However, its price point might exclude micro-restaurants.
Square for Restaurants
Best Value for Simplicity and Ease of Use
https://squareup.com/us/en/online-orderingPros
- Easy to set up and use.
- Transparent and competitive pricing.
- Seamless integration with Square payment processing.
Cons
- Advanced features require higher-tier plans.
- Can be less feature-rich than more comprehensive systems like Toast.
Key Specifications
Square for Restaurants is a popular choice, especially for smaller restaurants and those already using Square's payment processing. It provides an easy-to-use online ordering system, along with POS functionality and customer management features. Square integrates seamlessly with its own payment processing and offers integrations with third-party delivery services, simplifying order management. It boasts user-friendly menu management and reporting. Pricing is transparent and generally more cost-effective than competitors such as Toast, making it an excellent value proposition for growing operations. The system is suitable for various restaurant types, especially those prioritizing simplicity and cost-effectiveness. Its ease of setup and intuitive interface are major advantages; however, it may be less efficient than some competitors. Because it is primarily a payment processor that also offers online ordering, Square is an excellent fit for restaurants that value integrated payments.
Pros
- Easy to set up and maintain; dedicated focus to online ordering.
- Affordable pricing.
- Strong customer support.
Cons
- Limited advanced features compared to other options.
- Third-party integrations can be complex to set up.
Key Specifications
Menufy is a dedicated online ordering platform that emphasizes ease of use and affordability. Designed specifically for online ordering and delivery, Menufy excels in its focus on helping restaurants quickly establish an online presence. The platform provides user-friendly menu management tools and supports various order customization options. It offers integrations with third-party delivery services and POS systems, enhancing operational efficiency. Menufy's pricing is generally lower than all-in-one systems, making it suitable for restaurants solely focused on online ordering. With responsive customer support, even restaurants with limited technical expertise will feel supported. The system is an excellent choice for restaurants seeking a standalone, cost-effective online ordering solution.
Pros
- Branded online ordering experience.
- No per-order fees.
- Marketing and promotional tools
Cons
- Can be more expensive with add-ons.
- Needs more integrations to enhance its appeal.
Key Specifications
ChowNow is a platform focused on helping restaurants maintain their brand identity in their online ordering presence. It allows restaurants to create a customized, branded online ordering experience with their own website and mobile app. ChowNow doesn't take any fees per order, which makes the system attractive, but involves a monthly subscription fee. The pricing is transparent, covering order management, payment processing facilities, and customer support. The system also includes options for marketing support and promotional campaigns. The platform integrates with third-party delivery services and POS systems for streamlined operations. ChowNow is suitable for restaurants that wish to maintain strong branding and direct customer relationships while integrating with a wide range of functions. The subscription model could be helpful, but it might not offer substantial value for restaurants with moderate order volume.
Pros
- Free to begin.
- Easy setup.
- Basic features.
Cons
- The platform is not as advanced as other offerings.
- Limited options for customization.
Key Specifications
GloriaFood delivers a free online ordering system, catering, therefore, to those who want an economical choice. The platform includes options such as menu management, order management, and payment processing. This platform also provides options to customize the restaurant’s branding. The system integrates with POS systems, and third-party delivery services; it offers functionalities like commission-free ordering to enhance customer experience. GloriaFood is best for businesses looking for a cost-effective starting point or for smaller businesses that are at the start of online ordering functions. The main advantage is that it offers all those basic functionalities free of charge.
Conclusion
Choosing the right SaaS for restaurants offering online ordering can significantly boost sales and streamline operations. Our analysis suggests that the top-ranked systems provide a balance of features, ease of use, and value. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your restaurant's specific needs and the level of integration required.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are typical pricing models for online ordering systems?
Pricing varies widely depending on features, transaction volume, and the provider. Some offer subscription models, while others charge per order. Consider the total cost of ownership, including hardware and potential third-party integration fees.
What are the essential features to look for in an online ordering system?
Key features include online menu management, order customization options, payment processing, delivery management, and reporting/analytics. Integrations with POS systems, loyalty programs, and marketing tools are also crucial.
How important is ease of use?
Ease of use is paramount, both for your staff and your customers. Look for intuitive interfaces, mobile-friendly design, and simple order processes. Good customer support is also vital for troubleshooting.
Can these systems integrate with third-party delivery services?
Yes, many systems offer integration with major third-party delivery services like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub. This allows you to manage all orders from a single platform, streamlining operations, or to enable self-delivery options.