Key Takeaways:
A POS System Does More Than Process Payments: It helps with order accuracy, inventory tracking, and customer management. Choosing the right one depends on the restaurant’s needs and budget.
Costs Depend On Features And Business Size: POS systems range from affordable options for small restaurants to advanced setups for larger businesses. Pricing includes hardware, software, and transaction fees.
POS Systems Can Connect To Online Ordering: Many modern POS systems integrate with social media and online ordering platforms, making reaching more customers easier for restaurants and increasing sales.
Seamlessness is crucial.
A restaurant should always run smoothly, but it's increasingly unlikely without a modern POS system. Outdated registers and handwritten orders lead to slow service, mistakes, and frustrated customers. A streamlined, efficient system is no longer a luxury – it’s necessary for restaurants that want to keep up with today’s fast-paced dining experience.
At Sauce, we empower restaurants with the technology they need to thrive. Our commission-free ordering and delivery solutions help businesses maximize profits while providing a seamless customer experience. A well-integrated POS system is crucial in this process, connecting in-house operations with online ordering, delivery services, and payment processing.
In this guide, we’ll examine the best restaurant POS systems, the essential features to look for, and how to choose the right one for your business.
What Is A POS System And Why Do Restaurants Need One?
A point-of-sale (POS) system is more than just a cash register – the central hub keeps a restaurant running smoothly. It handles transactions, manages inventory, tracks sales, and helps with customer interactions. Modern POS systems go beyond processing payments; they connect front-of-house and back-of-house operations, making it easier for staff to take orders, send them to the kitchen, and complete sales efficiently.
With more restaurants offering online ordering and delivery, a POS system is crucial in keeping everything in sync. Integrated solutions help manage in-person dining, takeout, and third-party deliveries from one platform, reducing chaos and improving workflow. Restaurants risk long wait times, incorrect orders, and lost revenue without a reliable system.
Best POS Systems For Restaurants
With so many POS systems available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Some are designed for small cafés, while others cater to high-volume restaurants with multiple locations. Below are some of the best POS systems, offering a mix of reliability, ease of use, and integration with online ordering:
Sauce
Sauce is a platform designed to help restaurants manage their delivery services, reducing reliance on third-party apps and lowering commission costs. We offer online ordering and customer engagement tools but not in-house operations, payments, and inventory. Restaurants looking to optimize delivery while maintaining a separate POS may benefit from integrating Sauce with their existing system.
Square For Restaurants
Square offers an all-in-one POS solution designed to streamline restaurant operations. It provides features such as integrated online ordering for pickup and delivery, handheld POS devices for tableside service, and a kitchen display system to manage orders efficiently. The system is cloud-based, ensuring real-time data access and synchronization across devices. Square's transparent pricing model includes a 30-day free trial with no hidden fees or long-term contracts.
Toast POS
Toast is a comprehensive restaurant management platform offering a range of tools from point of sale to digital ordering and delivery. It includes menu management, tableside ordering, and integrated payment processing. Toast also provides marketing tools such as email campaigns and loyalty programs to engage customers. The platform caters to restaurants, including quick service, full service, and fast casual establishments.
Clover POS
Clover provides a versatile POS system suitable for restaurants of all sizes. Its hardware options range from handheld devices to full countertop stations that handle high-volume transactions. Clover's software includes table mapping, order management, and employee scheduling. Additionally, it offers a variety of apps to customize the system according to specific restaurant needs.
Lightspeed Restaurant POS
Lightspeed offers a cloud-based POS system tailored for the restaurant industry. It provides tools for floor plan customization, tableside ordering, and comprehensive reporting. The system integrates with various third-party applications, allowing for expanded functionality such as accounting and inventory management. Lightspeed's platform is designed to improve service speed and accuracy, optimizing the overall dining experience.
TouchBistro
TouchBistro is an iPad-based POS system designed to improve the efficiency of restaurant operations. It offers features like menu management, tableside ordering, and staff scheduling. The system also includes customer relationship management tools to track patron preferences and boost repeat business. TouchBistro is designed to be user-friendly, making it easy for staff to learn and use effectively.
SpotOn Restaurant POS
SpotOn provides a customizable POS system that adapts to various restaurant service styles, including casual dining, quick service, and fine dining. It features intuitive ordering interfaces, advanced modifiers, and cloud-based data access. SpotOn offers integrated marketing tools to help restaurants engage with customers and build loyalty. The system is designed to keep operations running smoothly, even during peak hours.
Revel Systems
Revel Systems delivers a cloud-based POS solution for multi-location restaurant operations. It offers flexible payment options, open API integrations, and mobile solutions to maximize efficiency. Revel's platform is scalable and suitable for both small establishments and large chains. The system ensures reliability with features like Always On Mode, allowing continuous operation even during internet outages.
The Role Of POS Systems In Improving Customer Experience
A great dining experience goes beyond good food – speed, accuracy, and convenience all significantly affect customer satisfaction. A well-designed POS system helps restaurants provide faster service, reduce mistakes, and offer multiple payment options. By streamlining operations, restaurants can focus more on creating a welcoming environment and keeping customers happy.
Faster And More Efficient Service
Long wait times can frustrate customers, especially during peak hours. A POS system helps speed up order-taking by allowing servers to send requests directly to the kitchen in real-time. This reduces miscommunication, ensures orders are prepared quickly, and keeps tables turning faster.
Fewer Order Errors And Better Communication
Handwritten tickets and verbal orders can lead to mistakes, causing delays and unhappy guests. A POS system minimizes errors by displaying orders for front-of-house staff and kitchen teams. When modifications or special requests are entered correctly, customers receive exactly what they ordered, improving their overall experience.
Convenient And Flexible Payment Options
Customers expect to pay in a way that suits them, whether it’s a credit card, mobile wallet, or contactless payment. A modern POS system supports multiple payment methods, smoothing transactions and reducing long lines at the register. Some systems even allow guests to split checks or pay directly at the table, adding to their convenience.
Personalized Service Through Customer Data
POS systems that store customer information allow restaurants to offer personalized experiences. By tracking order history, preferences, and special requests, restaurants can recommend favorite dishes or offer discounts to returning customers. Loyalty programs linked to the POS encourage repeat visits by rewarding frequent diners.
Online Ordering And Delivery Integration
More customers are choosing takeout and delivery, and a POS system that syncs with online orders ensures a smooth experience for both in-house and remote diners. With services like Sauce, restaurants can manage online and in-person orders from the same system, reducing errors and keeping wait times short. A well-connected POS helps restaurants maintain the same level of service across all ordering channels.
Faster Checkouts And Reduced Waiting Time
A slow checkout process can leave a bad impression, especially if customers wait to pay their bills. POS systems speed up the process by allowing staff to close out checks quickly, apply for discounts or promotions easily, and even offer self-checkout options in some setups. The smoother the checkout, the more likely customers are to leave on a positive note.
How Much Does A Restaurant POS System Cost?
The cost of a restaurant POS system depends on factors such as hardware, software, and additional features. Some providers offer subscription-based pricing, while others charge a one-time fee for software and equipment. Understanding what’s included in the price helps restaurants avoid unexpected expenses and choose a system that fits their budget.
Hardware costs vary depending on the type of setup needed. A basic setup with a tablet and card reader may cost a few hundred dollars, while a complete system with registers, kitchen displays, and handheld devices can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more. Many providers also offer leasing options, allowing restaurants to spread costs over time instead of paying upfront.
Software pricing is often based on a monthly subscription, typically from $50 to $300 per month, depending on the features included. Some providers charge extra for add-ons like online ordering, advanced reporting, or employee management tools. Depending on the POS provider, restaurants should also consider payment processing fees, which usually range between 2.5% and 3.5% per transaction.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right POS system is more than just a technical decision – it’s crucial to running a smooth, efficient, and customer-friendly restaurant. The right system keeps orders flowing, reduces mistakes, and supports in-house and online operations.
With today’s fast-paced dining environment, investing in a modern POS isn’t just about convenience but staying competitive. Whether you run a small café or a large restaurant, a well-integrated system helps you focus on what truly matters – serving great food and creating a seamless experience for your guests.
Read Also:
Frequently Asked Questions About Which POS System Best For Restaurant
What is the difference between a POS system and a cash register?
A POS system is a digital solution that handles payments, tracks inventory, and manages customer data, while a cash register records sales. Modern POS systems integrate with online ordering, delivery services, and reporting tools, offering far more functionality than traditional registers. This makes them a better choice for restaurants looking to streamline operations and increase efficiency.
Can a POS system work without an internet connection?
Some POS systems have offline capabilities, allowing transactions to continue even if the internet goes down. These systems store data locally and sync it once the connection is restored, ensuring no sales are lost. However, cloud-based systems without offline features may always require internet access.
Is it necessary for a restaurant to use a cloud-based POS system?
A cloud-based POS system allows restaurant owners to access sales reports, inventory, and employee data from anywhere. It also automatically updates software and security patches, reducing downtime. While not mandatory, cloud-based systems offer more flexibility than traditional setups.
What type of POS system is best for small restaurants?
Small restaurants benefit from affordable and easy-to-use POS systems like Square or Clover. These systems typically require minimal hardware and offer built-in payment processing, making them ideal for startups or single-location businesses. The best choice depends on budget, transaction volume, and whether online ordering is needed.
Can a POS system help with staff management?
Yes, many POS systems include employee management tools for scheduling, time tracking, and performance monitoring. Managers can track hours worked, set permission levels, and even monitor employees' sales performance. This helps streamline payroll and identify training opportunities.
How does a POS system improve restaurant security?
POS systems offer secure payment processing with encryption and fraud detection features. They also restrict employee access based on role, preventing unauthorized discounts, refunds, or data breaches. With digital transaction records, businesses can reduce the risk of theft and financial discrepancies.
Can a restaurant POS system integrate with social media?
Yes, many POS systems connect with social media platforms to allow direct online ordering. This lets customers place orders from Instagram, Facebook, or Google without visiting a separate website. Restaurants using services can streamline this process without paying high commission fees.
What kind of reports can a POS system generate?
A POS system can generate sales reports, inventory summaries, and customer insights. These reports help restaurant owners track best-selling menu items, peak business hours, and revenue trends. Analyzing this data allows for better pricing, marketing, and inventory management decisions.
Do all POS systems charge transaction fees?
Most POS providers charge a processing fee per transaction, typically between 2.5% and 3.5%, for credit and debit card payments. Some systems include the fees in a monthly subscription, while others charge separately for each transaction. Restaurants should review fee structures to avoid unexpected costs.
How often should a restaurant upgrade its POS system?
Restaurants should consider upgrading their POS system every 3 to 5 years, depending on changes in technology and business needs. Regular updates keep the system secure, improve functionality, and support new payment methods. If a system starts slowing down service or lacks essential features, it’s time to upgrade.
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