The Ultimate Restaurant Online Ordering Platform Guide: Features, Costs & Top Solutions for 2025

Online ordering platforms have become crucial for restaurants aiming to boost sales, streamline operations, and provide superior customer experiences. This guide breaks down essential features, cost structures, and the best online ordering platforms available in 2025.

What Is an Online Ordering Platform for Restaurants?

An online ordering platform allows restaurants to accept and manage orders digitally, via websites or mobile apps. Customers can place orders remotely, enabling convenience, higher order accuracy, and increased revenue streams.

Key Features to Look For

Menu Management & Customization

Modern platforms let restaurants effortlessly update menus, offer specials, manage availability, and clearly highlight allergens and dietary restrictions. Dynamic menus can boost average order value by suggesting upsells and cross-sells.

POS Integration

Seamless integration with Point-of-Sale systems reduces manual entry, minimizes order errors, and synchronizes inventory management, sales tracking, and analytics in real-time.

Mobile & Table-Ordering Support

Optimized mobile apps or responsive sites are essential. Customers increasingly expect easy ordering from their smartphones, and restaurants benefit from additional table-ordering functionality to improve in-store service efficiency.

Pricing & Fee Models Explained

Subscription vs. Per-Order Fees

Online ordering platforms usually offer two fee structures:

• Subscription-based: Flat monthly fees with minimal per-order costs. Ideal for restaurants with predictable, higher-volume orders.

• Commission-based: Platforms charge a percentage per order. Common in marketplaces but can significantly cut into restaurant margins.

Hidden Costs & Transaction Fees

Restaurants should look out for transaction fees, marketing charges, or setup costs that might add significantly to the advertised price.

Best Online Ordering Platforms in 2025

Sauce

• Pricing: Custom, flexible structures designed for profitability. No commissions.

• Pros: SEO-optimized storefronts, advanced AI-driven retention marketing, extensive restaurant branding control, virtually unlimited delivery radius

• Cons: Smaller brand recognition compared to larger marketplaces

Toast

• Pricing: Starts at ~$69/month plus hardware costs

• Pros: Robust POS integration, comprehensive hardware solutions

• Cons: Higher initial setup costs, commission-based fees for certain add-ons

ChowNow

• Pricing: Commission-free, subscription-based model

• Pros: Transparent pricing, easy setup, strong branding control

• Cons: Limited delivery radius and fewer advanced marketing features

Shopify POS

• Pricing: From $89/month per location

• Pros: Strong ecommerce capabilities, ideal for restaurants with existing Shopify integration

• Cons: Less industry-specific customization

Olo/Upserve

• Pricing: Subscription fees plus approximately 2.99% service charges

• Pros: Enterprise-grade integrations, solid customer analytics

• Cons: Less accessible for smaller restaurants due to cost

How to Choose the Right Platform for Your Restaurant

Small Business vs. Enterprise Needs

Smaller restaurants may prefer subscription models that avoid high commissions, whereas enterprises might leverage commission-based platforms for extensive reach.

Local vs. Nationwide Coverage

Local restaurants should consider platforms optimized for local SEO and community engagement, while national brands might benefit from broader marketplace integration.

Branded vs. Marketplace

Restaurants focused on building customer loyalty and brand equity should opt for branded, direct-ordering platforms like Sauce, while those aiming for immediate visibility might initially prefer larger marketplaces.

Integration & Marketing Tips

SEO-Optimized Storefronts

An SEO-friendly online storefront increases organic visibility, attracts more customers, and reduces dependence on paid ads.

Email & SMS Campaigns via Your Platform

Regular, personalized communications using customer data can boost repeat orders significantly. Look for platforms with built-in CRM tools.

Driving Repeat Orders with AI

Platforms using AI, such as Sauce, personalize marketing messages based on customer behavior, dramatically increasing repeat business and revenue.

FAQ

What is the best online ordering platform for restaurants?

The best platform depends on restaurant size, priorities, and specific needs. Sauce offers strong branding, customer retention, and flexible pricing ideal for diverse restaurant types.

Can I use multiple ordering platforms at once?

Yes, many restaurants strategically leverage multiple platforms to maximize exposure, but this requires careful management to maintain consistency.

How much do online ordering platforms cost?

Costs vary widely, from flat-rate subscriptions (~$50–$200/month) to commission-based models (10–30% per order), depending on chosen features and provider.

Selecting the optimal restaurant online ordering platform is crucial for driving growth, enhancing customer experiences, and ensuring profitability. Carefully evaluate your priorities and choose a platform that aligns seamlessly with your business goals.