Top 7 POS Systems For Small Restaurants
Written by
Daniel Zvi
In today’s fast-paced food service industry, staying ahead means more than just serving delicious meals. Efficient operations, seamless customer experiences, and accurate financial tracking are all essential to running a successful restaurant, café, bakery, or food truck. This is where point of sale systems (POS systems) come into play. These powerful tools have become indispensable for modern restaurants, providing the technology to streamline operations and improve profitability.
Many restaurant owners struggle with challenges like slow service, inventory mishaps, and tracking customer preferences—all of which can impact overall performance. Point of sale systems for small restaurants solve these pain points by automating key tasks such as order processing, inventory management, and sales reporting. With a robust POS system in place, restaurant staff can focus more on delivering excellent customer service and less on time-consuming manual tasks.
Moreover, the impact of point of sale technology on restaurant success is backed by data. Implementing a modern point of sale (POS) system can significantly enhance a restaurant's efficiency and accuracy. For instance, a study by the National Restaurant Association found that 76% of restaurant operators believe that using technology provides a competitive advantage. Additionally, a report by Hospitality Tech indicates that 50% of restaurant operators are leveraging POS data to determine staffing levels and performance. These examples highlight how adopting modern POS technology can lead to substantial improvements in operational performance and profitability for restaurants. Whether you’re managing a bustling café, a cozy bakery, or a mobile food truck, choosing the right POS system can make all the difference. This guide will walk you through the top seven restaurant-specific POS systems, helping you make an informed decision tailored to your business needs.
Benefits of POS Systems for Restaurants
Modern point of sale systems (POS systems) are much more than just tools for processing payments—they’re a complete operational hub for restaurants of all sizes. Whether you run a food truck, café, bakery, or full-service restaurant, these systems offer substantial benefits that can streamline operations and drive success.
Streamlined Operations
POS systems eliminate many manual tasks, automating everything from order entry to inventory tracking. For instance, staff can input orders directly into a centralized system, ensuring that kitchen teams receive accurate and timely instructions. This reduces the risk of miscommunication and errors, improving overall efficiency.
Enhanced Customer Experience
Speed and accuracy are critical to providing an excellent dining experience. By enabling faster transactions and accurate orders, restaurant POS systems reduce wait times and improve customer satisfaction. Features like mobile POS allow servers to take orders tableside, saving time and minimizing errors.
Data-Driven Decision-Making
Modern POS systems generate valuable data insights. These insights can help restaurant owners understand sales trends, customer preferences, and peak business hours. Armed with this information, owners can make informed decisions about menu adjustments, staffing, and promotions.
Inventory and Cost Control
Efficient inventory management is a game-changer for restaurants. POS systems track inventory levels in real time, alerting owners when supplies run low. This reduces food waste and ensures that popular menu items are always available.
Increased Sales and Loyalty
Some POS systems include integrated customer relationship management (CRM) features. These allow restaurants to create loyalty programs, send personalized offers, and track repeat customers, leading to increased sales and stronger customer relationships.
Adaptability for Any Business Type
Whether you operate a bakery, café, or food truck, there’s a restaurant management POS tailored to your needs. Many systems now offer cloud-based solutions, allowing you to monitor your business remotely and adapt to changing circumstances.
With these benefits in mind, choosing the right POS system can be pivotal in taking your restaurant to the next level. Next, let’s explore the top seven POS brands for restaurants, comparing features, pricing, and overall value.
1. Toast POS
Toast POS is a comprehensive system designed specifically for restaurants. Key features include:
- Menu management with real-time updates.
- Table and floor plan customization.
- Integrated online ordering and delivery management.
- Advanced reporting and analytics.
- Employee management and scheduling tools.
Pricing:
- Starter Kit: $0/month for single-location restaurants needing 1-2 terminals. Includes a hardware kit with no upfront costs, cloud-based POS, and one terminal (additional charges apply for more devices).
- Point of Sale: $69/month, aimed at restaurants requiring core functionality and flat-rate processing.
- Build Your Own: Custom pricing tailored to specific business needs.
Transaction Fees:
- Pay-as-you-go Plan: 3.09% - 3.69% plus 15 cents per transaction.
- Standard Plan: 2.49% plus 15 cents for card-present transactions; 3.50% plus 15 cents for card-not-present transactions.
Pros:
- Robust, restaurant-specific features.
- Scalable solutions suitable for various restaurant sizes.
- Strong online ordering and delivery integrations.
Cons:
- Requires proprietary hardware.
- Pricing can be higher compared to some competitors.
Usability: Toast offers an intuitive interface that's easy for staff to learn, making it suitable for both small cafés and large full-service restaurants.
Customer Support: Provides 24/7 customer support via phone, email, and chat, along with a comprehensive online knowledge base.
Our top picks for December 2024
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Restaurants & food trucks
2. TouchBistro
TouchBistro is an iPad-based POS system focusing on improving front-of-house and back-of-house operations. Features include:
- Menu and table management.
- Staff scheduling and management.
- Customer relationship management (CRM).
- Inventory tracking.
- Reporting and analytics.
Pricing:
- POS Software Plan: Starts at $69/month.
- Additional costs for hardware and add-on features.
Transaction Fees:
- TouchBistro offers quote-based payment processing fees, which can vary depending on the specific needs and volume of the restaurant.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface.
- Offline functionality ensures operations continue without internet.
- Comprehensive CRM features.
Cons:
- Limited integrations compared to some competitors.
- No free plan available.
Usability: Designed for small to medium-sized restaurants, TouchBistro's intuitive design facilitates quick staff training and efficient operations.
Customer Support: Offers 24/7 support through phone, email, and chat, along with an extensive online resource center.
Our top picks for December 2024
3. Square for Restaurants
Square's POS system for restaurants offers:
- Order management.
- Payment processing.
- Basic inventory management.
- Integration with Square's ecosystem, including payroll and marketing tools.
Pricing:
- Free Plan: $0/month with basic features.
- Plus Plan: $60/month per location.
- Additional fees for advanced features like payroll and marketing.
Transaction Fees:
- In-Person Transactions: 2.6% plus 10¢ per transaction.
- Online Transactions: 2.9% plus 30¢ per transaction.
- Manually Entered Transactions: 3.5% plus 15¢ per transaction.
- Invoices: 3.3% plus 30¢ per transaction.
Pros:
- Affordable with a free option.
- Easy to set up and use.
- Strong ecosystem of integrations.
Cons:
- Not as feature-rich for larger restaurants.
- Limited advanced inventory tools.
Usability: Square’s user-friendly platform is ideal for small restaurants, bakeries, and food trucks.
Customer Support: Provides live support during business hours, along with a comprehensive online resource library.
Our top picks for December 2024
4. SumUp
SumUp offers a straightforward and portable POS solution tailored for small cafés, food trucks, and pop-up restaurants. Key features include:
- Payment processing for in-person and remote transactions.
- Basic sales reporting.
- Mobile functionality with compact card readers.
Pricing:
- Card Readers:
- SumUp Plus: $54.
- SumUp Solo: $99.
- Monthly Fees: No monthly subscription fees.
Transaction Fees:
- In-Person Transactions: 2.6% + $0.10 per transaction.
- Online and Manually Entered Transactions: 3.5% + $0.15 per transaction.
- Invoicing Payments: 2.9% + $0.15 per transaction.
Pros:
- Cost-effective with no monthly fees.
- Portable and easy to set up.
- Transparent, flat-rate transaction fees.
Cons:
- Limited advanced features compared to competitors.
- Not ideal for larger restaurants with complex needs.
Usability: SumUp's user-friendly design and portability make it an excellent choice for small businesses seeking a simple payment solution without extensive setup.
Customer Support: Provides support via email and phone, along with an online help center for troubleshooting and guidance.
Our top picks for December 2024
5. SpotOn POS
SpotOn offers a comprehensive POS system tailored for restaurants, providing tools to enhance operations and customer engagement. Key features include:
- Menu management with real-time updates.
- Integrated online ordering and delivery management.
- Advanced reporting and analytics.
- Employee scheduling and management.
- Customer loyalty programs and marketing tools.
Pricing: SpotOn provides several pricing plans to accommodate different restaurant needs:
- Quick Start: $0/month. This plan is ideal for small counter-service restaurants or cafés. Hardware and software costs are included in processing fees, with a processing rate of 2.89% + 25¢ per transaction.
- Counter-Service: $99/month plus $3 per employee/month. Designed for counter-service restaurants, this plan includes a 10" counter hardware bundle with a guest-facing display. The processing rate is 1.99% + 25¢ per transaction.
- Full-Service: $135/month plus $3 per employee/month. Suited for full-service restaurants, this plan offers a 15" station hardware bundle and a kitchen display system (KDS) touchscreen monitor. The processing rate is 1.99% + 25¢ per transaction.
- Custom Plan: For more complex restaurant operations requiring advanced features, SpotOn offers customized pricing and hardware options.
Transaction Fees: As outlined in the pricing plans, transaction fees vary:
- Quick Start Plan: 2.89% + 25¢ per transaction.
- Counter-Service and Full-Service Plans: 1.99% + 25¢ per transaction.
Pros:
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees.
- Scalable solutions suitable for various restaurant sizes.
- Comprehensive suite of features enhancing operational efficiency.
Cons:
- Initial hardware costs can be significant, though financing options are available.
- Some advanced features may require additional fees.
Usability: SpotOn's intuitive interface facilitates quick staff training and efficient operations, making it suitable for both small cafés and large full-service restaurants.
Customer Support: SpotOn provides 24/7 customer support via phone, email, and chat, along with a comprehensive online knowledge base to assist with any issues or questions.
Our top picks for December 2024
6. SkyTab POS
SkyTab is an all-in-one restaurant management platform designed to streamline operations and enhance customer experiences. Key features include:
- Comprehensive menu management with real-time updates.
- Tableside ordering and payment processing via handheld devices.
- Integration with online ordering and delivery services.
- Advanced reporting and analytics for informed decision-making.
- Customer loyalty programs and marketing tools.
Pricing: SkyTab offers transparent and competitive pricing:
- Monthly Subscription: Starts at $29.99 per month per workstation, covering both software and hardware with no upfront costs.
- Additional Hardware: Optional accessories like SkyTab Mobile devices or kitchen display systems may incur extra monthly fees.
Transaction Fees: SkyTab provides two payment processing options:
- Standard Pricing: 2.49% plus 15¢ per transaction.
- Dual Pricing: The POS displays both cash and non-cash prices, allowing customers to cover credit card fees.
Pros:
- Affordable monthly fee with no upfront hardware costs.
- Robust, restaurant-specific features.
- Lifetime warranty on hardware.
Cons:
- Requires use of SkyTab's payment processing services.
- Limited integrations compared to some competitors.
Usability: SkyTab's intuitive interface and handheld devices facilitate quick staff training and efficient operations, making it suitable for various restaurant types, including small cafés and full-service establishments.
Customer Support: SkyTab offers 24/7 customer support via phone, email, and chat, along with a comprehensive online knowledge base to assist with any issues or questions.
Our top picks for December 2024
7. CAKE POS
CAKE POS, developed by Mad Mobile, provides versatile and robust tools designed for the restaurant industry. It supports both quick-service and full-service environments, offering efficient operations, streamlined workflows, and enhanced guest experiences. Key features include:
- Menu Management: Real-time updates and customization for seamless menu operations.
- Order Processing: Efficient workflows for tableside and quick-service operations.
- Guest Management: Tools for managing reservations, waitlists, and customer preferences.
- Online Ordering Integration: For delivery and takeout services.
- Reporting and Analytics: Detailed metrics on sales trends, employee performance, and customer behavior.
Pricing:
CAKE POS offers flexible pricing to accommodate different restaurant needs:
- Full Service Essentials Package:
- Hardware Package: $999 (discounted from $1,799), includes a receipt printer, cash drawer, and CAKE Payment Cube.
- Software Subscription: $69 per month for a 24-month contract.
- Payment Processing Fees: 3% + $0.15 per transaction for card payments.
- Quick Service Essentials Package:
- Hardware Package: $1,299 (discounted from $1,999), includes a receipt printer, cash drawer, and CAKE Payment Cube.
- Software Subscription: $69 per month for a 24-month contract.
- Payment Processing Fees: 3% + $0.15 per transaction for card payments.
Additional Hardware Options:
- OrderPad: Handheld devices for tableside order-taking and payment processing.
- Kitchen Display System (KDS): Digital screens to streamline communication between front-of-house and kitchen staff.
- Guest Manager: Tools for reservations and waitlists to enhance table management.
- Printers: Thermal receipt and kitchen printers for efficiency and durability.
Pros:
- Flexible Packages: Tailored solutions for both quick-service and full-service restaurants.
- Durable Hardware: High-quality equipment built for demanding environments.
- 24/7 Support: Reliable customer service through multiple channels.
Cons:
- Upfront Costs: Hardware packages, while discounted, require significant initial investment.
- Contract Commitment: A 24-month contract may not suit all businesses.
Usability:
CAKE POS offers intuitive interfaces and customizable workflows, making it user-friendly for both small quick-service setups and larger full-service restaurants. The addition of handheld devices and kitchen displays enhances operational efficiency and service speed.
Customer Support:
CAKE POS provides 24/7 support via phone, email, and chat, with access to a detailed online knowledge base and CAKE University for training.
Conclusion:
CAKE POS stands out for its comprehensive packages that cater to both quick-service and full-service restaurants. Its combination of durable hardware, flexible pricing, and robust support makes it a reliable choice for modern restaurant management.
Our top picks for December 2024
Comparison Table
Below is a side-by-side comparison of the seven featured POS systems, summarizing their pricing, features, and best use cases:
| POS System | Hardware Starting Price | Software Cost | Transaction Fees | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toast | Custom Quote | Starts at $69/month | 2.49% + $0.15 (card-present) | Full-service and quick-service restaurants |
| TouchBistro | Custom Quote | Starts at $69/month | Custom rates via payment partner | Small to medium-sized restaurants |
| Square | $0 (Free Plan) | $0–$60/month | 2.6% + $0.10 (card-present) | Food trucks, bakeries, and small cafés |
| SumUp | $54+ | No monthly fees | 2.6% + $0.10 (in-person) | Pop-ups, small cafés, and mobile businesses |
| SpotOn | $0–$135+ (Plan dependent) | Starts at $0/month (Quick Start) | 2.89% + $0.25 or 1.99% + $0.25 | Scalable solutions for growing restaurants |
| SkyTab | Custom Quote | Starts at $29.99/month | 2.49% + $0.15 (standard) | Tableside service and delivery-heavy restaurants |
| CAKE | $999 (Full Service) / $1,299 (Quick Service) | $69/month | 3% + $0.15 (card-present) | Quick-service and full-service restaurants |
Expert Advice: How to Choose the Right POS System for Your Restaurant
- Understand Your Business Needs
- Restaurant Type: Determine whether your business is a full-service, quick-service, café, bakery, or food truck, as POS needs differ significantly.
- Operations: Identify features that address your challenges, such as online ordering, tableside payment, inventory tracking, or staff management.
- Assess Scalability
- Choose a system that can grow with your business. For instance, if you plan to expand to multiple locations, ensure the POS supports multi-location management.
- Consider Ease of Use
- A user-friendly interface is crucial for quick staff training and reducing errors during busy shifts. Opt for POS systems with intuitive designs and customizable workflows.
- Look at Pricing and Costs
- Evaluate the total cost of ownership:
- Hardware Costs: Check if the system requires proprietary hardware or offers flexibility.
- Software Subscription Fees: Monthly costs can vary widely, so ensure the pricing fits your budget.
- Transaction Fees: These can significantly impact profitability, especially for high-volume businesses.
- Evaluate the total cost of ownership:
- Evaluate Customer Support
- Ensure the provider offers 24/7 support with multiple communication channels (phone, email, chat). Quick problem resolution can minimize downtime.
- Check for Integration Capabilities
- Look for POS systems that integrate seamlessly with your existing tools (e.g., accounting software, delivery platforms, marketing systems).
- Test Reporting and Analytics
- Strong reporting tools are vital for understanding sales trends, employee performance, and inventory levels. Choose a POS that delivers actionable insights.
- Trial or Demo the System
- Request a free trial or demonstration to test how well the system fits your operations. Involve your team to gather feedback.
- Read Reviews and Compare Options
- Use trusted review platforms (like the one hosting this guide!) to see what other restaurant owners say about reliability, usability, and support.
Find The Best POS Solution For Your Restaurant Today!
Selecting the right point of sale (POS) system is one of the most critical decisions for your restaurant's success. The right POS can streamline operations, improve customer satisfaction, and increase profitability. Whether you're running a cozy café, a bustling food truck, or a full-service restaurant, there's a solution tailored to your needs.
Explore Your Options Now
With so many POS systems available, choosing one that aligns with your specific business goals is important. To learn more about each system and see detailed comparisons, visit our in-depth reviews.
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