Nearly 49% of customers order takeout or delivery at least once a week.

Restaurants without online ordering risk losing customers to competitors that simplify food orders through websites or mobile apps.

However, setting up an online ordering system involves more than just putting a menu on your website. It requires choosing the right software and strategy to boost sales, reduce mistakes, and encourage repeat customers.

This guide will explain how online ordering works, its benefits, and the best tools for restaurant owners to increase online sales and attract more customers.

How Does Online Ordering Work?

Online ordering allows customers to order food from a restaurant’s website, mobile app, or third-party platform.

Instead of calling in an order, customers can browse an online menu, select items, customize their meals, and complete payment in just a few clicks.

The restaurant then processes the order and either prepares it for pickup or arranges for delivery.

Steps in the Online Ordering Process

A smooth online ordering process keeps customers happy and ensures that restaurant operations run efficiently. Here’s how a typical online food ordering system works:

Customers Visit the Online Ordering Page

Restaurants can set up an online ordering page on their website or use third-party apps like Uber Eats or Square Online. This page should be easy to navigate, display the full menu, and allow customers to order directly.

Menu Selection and Customization

Customers browse the restaurant’s online menu, select their food, and choose any available modifications, such as extra toppings or portion sizes.

Some online ordering platforms allow restaurants to highlight best-sellers or offer special deals.

Payment and Order Confirmation

After finalizing their selections, customers pay online using credit cards, mobile wallets, or other payment options.

A confirmation message is sent via email or SMS, giving them details on estimated prep and delivery times.

The Restaurant Receives and Prepares the Order

The order is instantly received through an online ordering system or POS system, which helps the kitchen staff prepare it efficiently.

Some restaurants use order management software to track item availability and avoid out-of-stock issues.

Pickup or Delivery

Customers can choose between pickup, curbside pickup, or delivery.

Restaurants that offer their own delivery drivers have full control over the process, while those using third-party apps may rely on Uber Direct or other services for on-demand delivery.

Benefits of Online Ordering for Restaurants

Restaurants that adopt online ordering gain the following benefits:

Increased Revenue Potential

Online ordering allows restaurants to serve more customers without adding extra tables or staff. Customers tend to spend more when ordering online since they can browse the full menu at their own pace.

Many online ordering platforms also offer upselling features, such as suggested add-ons or combo deals, which further increase sales.

With an online ordering system, restaurants can process more orders during peak hours and capture sales from customers who prefer takeout or delivery. This helps generate additional revenue beyond traditional dine-in services.

Convenience for Customers and Restaurant Staff

An online food ordering solution makes it simple for customers to place orders at home, at work, or on the go.

A mobile ordering page lets customers browse the menu and complete their purchase without having to call the restaurant.

For restaurant staff, online orders reduce the time spent taking phone orders, which means fewer mistakes and faster service.

Orders come in digitally, allowing the kitchen to focus on preparing food instead of managing calls.

Reduced Errors in Order-Taking

Miscommunication is a common issue with phone orders, leading to incorrect items or missing details.

An online food ordering system eliminates this problem by allowing customers to select their exact preferences.

Special instructions, dietary preferences, and modifications are clearly recorded, reducing order errors and improving customer satisfaction.

Streamlined Operations and Faster Service

An integrated online ordering system speeds up food preparation by sending orders directly to the kitchen.

Restaurants that connect their online ordering software with a POS system can automatically update inventory, track item availability, and manage orders efficiently.

Using automation to handle incoming online orders means staff can focus on food preparation instead of juggling multiple order channels. This leads to shorter wait times and a smoother service process.

Ability to Collect Customer Data for Marketing

Online ordering allows restaurants to collect valuable customer data, such as order history, preferences, and peak ordering times. This information helps restaurant operators offer personalized promotions, targeted email campaigns, and loyalty programs to encourage repeat business.

With an online ordering platform, restaurants can analyze buying patterns and create special offers that appeal to regular customers.

The data also helps businesses understand demand trends so they can adjust their menu and pricing accordingly.

Ways to Set Up an Online Ordering System for Your Restaurant

Restaurants have multiple options when setting up an online ordering system, such as:

Build Your Own Online Ordering System

A restaurant’s website is its digital storefront.

Adding an online ordering page allows direct orders without relying on third-party services that take a cut of every transaction. This method provides full control over branding, pricing, and customer interactions.

Setting up an independent online ordering platform requires:

• A mobile-friendly website with an easy-to-use ordering system
• Secure payment options for seamless transactions
• Integration with a POS system to manage inventory and sales
• A loyalty program to encourage repeat business

Some restaurants also invest in a branded mobile app, which allows customers to place food orders directly without using third-party apps.

A free online ordering system may be an option for smaller restaurants looking for a budget-friendly way to accept online orders.

Use a Third-Party Online Ordering App

Many restaurants partner with Uber Eats, DoorDash, or Square Online to reach more customers.

These platforms offer ready-made solutions for online ordering, payment processing, and delivery management.

Some advantages of using third-party apps include:

• No need for coding skills or website development
• Access to a large customer base already using the app
• Built-in on-demand delivery solutions, reducing the need for own delivery drivers
• Easy integration with existing restaurant operations

However, third-party platforms charge commissions on each order, which can reduce profit margins.

Restaurants must also compete with other businesses on the app, making branding and promotions essential for visibility.

Implement a QR Code Ordering System

A QR code ordering system simplifies the ordering process by allowing customers to scan a code and access the restaurant’s menu. This eliminates the need for printed menus and phone orders, speeding up service and reducing wait times.

QR code ordering is useful for:

• Restaurants offering curbside pickup and dine-in ordering
• Minimizing staff involvement in order-taking
• Providing a contactless experience for safety-conscious customers

Some restaurants combine QR code ordering with their own mobile app, allowing customers to place orders and pay online smoothly.

Must-Have Features for a Successful Online Ordering System

Below are the key features every restaurant should look for in an online ordering solution.

• User-friendly interface – A clear menu, simple checkout, and easy navigation make ordering smooth for customers.
• Mobile compatibility – A mobile ordering page ensures easy ordering on phones.
• Integration with POS systems – A POS system syncs orders, updates item availability, and prevents manual errors.
• Customization options – Restaurants should be able to adjust the online menu, pricing, and promotions while allowing order modifications.
• Secure payment processing – Multiple payment options, including credit cards and Apple Pay, make checkout secure and flexible.
• Real-time order tracking – Customers get updates on their online orders and delivery status. GPS tracking improves accuracy.
• Order management tools – Features like automatic order queuing and multi-location support improve efficiency.
• Customer support integration – Live chat and email help resolve issues quickly, improving customer experience.
• Marketing and promotion features – Loyalty programs, special offers, and email campaigns attract new customers and boost more orders.

Best Online Ordering System for Restaurant Management

The following are three of the best platforms that offer reliable features for managing online orders while keeping costs low.

1. Buildify

Buildify helps restaurants simplify and improve their online ordering process without high development costs.

Instead of paying thousands for a custom-built app or relying on third-party platforms that charge high commission fees, you can use Buildify.

They will help you set up a fully functional branded app and restaurant website with an online ordering system.

Some key features include:

• Restaurant website – A professional site designed to attract visitors and turn them into paying customers.
• Custom app – A personalized app for customers to place orders quickly and easily.
• Online ordering system – A streamlined ordering experience that integrates directly with the restaurant’s operations.
• Loyalty and rewards programs – Encourage repeat visits by rewarding customers with points and discounts.
• Push notifications and promotions – Allows restaurants to send targeted deals and updates directly to customers.
• Coupons and special deals – Help drive sales by offering time-sensitive deals and community-based discounts.
• 24/7 Customer Support – Round-the-clock assistance to ensure smooth operations.

Pricing

$399/month for a restaurant app, website, online ordering system, and loyalty program tools.

Book a call today!

2. Square Online

Square Online is designed for restaurants that want a simple, integrated system. It syncs directly with the Square POS system, allowing restaurants to manage online food orders and in-person sales in one place.

Restaurants can also accept orders online through social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Google.

Built-in marketing tools, such as email and SMS promotions, help attract new customers and encourage repeat business through loyalty programs.

Pros

• Fully integrated with Square’s POS system
• Easy to use, with a clean interface for both buyers and restaurant staff

Cons

• Limited customization options compared to standalone online ordering platforms
• Some users experience delays with customer support

Pricing

The Free Plan is available with processing fees. The Plus Plan costs $29 per month and includes advanced features. The Premium Plan costs $79 per month and offers full customization and lower transaction fees.

3. UpMenu

UpMenu provides restaurants with a customizable online ordering page and an intuitive POS system integration.

With features like a built-in restaurant loyalty program, a QR code-based online menu, and the option to create a branded app, UpMenu helps restaurants boost online sales and improve the customer experience.

Pros

• Great for restaurants in the HORECA market
• Easy to set up and includes a range of features, from ordering to marketing tools

Cons

• Limited flexibility in modifying certain settings once the system is live
• Payment method options are somewhat restrictive compared to other platforms

Pricing

The Basic Plan is $49/month per location, the Standard Plan is $89, and the Premium Plan is $169.

Set Up Your Restaurant’s Online Ordering System with Buildify

Setting up an online ordering system for your restaurant doesn’t have to cost thousands or take months to develop.

Buildify provides restaurants with a complete website and mobile app packed with features like loyalty rewards and an online ordering system.

It also offers business development services starting at just $8/month. These services include access to useful tools, such as market reports, landing pages, and SWOT analyses, to refine your ideas without overspending on technology.

Ready to attract new customers and keep them coming back? Book a meeting today and set up your online ordering system in days with Buildify!

FAQs About Online Ordering for Restaurant

What is the best online ordering system for restaurants?

The best system depends on the restaurant’s specific needs, budget, and goals. Buildify is ideal for affordability and fast setup. Restaurants can get a branded app and a website in less than 10 days.

How to set up online ordering for a restaurant?

To set up online ordering for a restaurant, start by choosing an ordering system that fits your needs. If using your own website, integrate an ordering platform with payment processing. For third-party platforms, sign up, provide business details, and upload your menu. Optimize the system with high-quality images, clear descriptions, and loyalty programs to attract buyers.

How much does Square charge for online ordering?

Square Online has a free plan with no monthly fees, but restaurants pay processing fees for each order. The processing fee is 2.9% + 30¢ per transaction for online orders. Paid plans, starting at $29 per month, offer additional features like lower fees and more customization.

What are the four types of ordering systems?

The four types of ordering systems are traditional ordering, online ordering, mobile app ordering, and self-service kiosk ordering. Traditional ordering involves phone or in-person transactions. Online ordering allows customers to place orders through a website or third-party platform. Mobile app ordering offers a dedicated app for repeat customers. Self-service kiosks are used in fast-casual settings, letting customers place orders directly on a touchscreen.

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