The restaurant operating system (ROS) is a crucial part of the restaurant business. It is a restaurant technology that every restaurant owner should know about. The best operating system for a restaurant can make a big difference in a restaurant’s bottom line.
A restaurant without an operating system is like trying to run a marathon without any training. You can do everything to make your restaurant reach new heights but never succeed. Therefore, you must use a good restaurant order management app and efficiently manage your operations.
According to a 2023 survey, 72% of restaurant owners report that using an integrated system improved their operations, with 65% noting higher customer satisfaction.
An effective ROS simplifies everything from order management to inventory control, reducing errors and saving valuable time.
By adopting the right ROS, restaurants can boost productivity and increase profitability.
We have compiled the information to help you know more about the restaurant operating system, what they can do, and how to choose the one.
What is a Restaurant Operating System?
The restaurant operating system is software that helps restaurants run their operations smoothly. It includes everything every restaurant wants, from point-of-sale (POS) systems to employee scheduling software.
The primary objective of the restaurant order management system is to:
- Streamline various operational tasks and processes
- Improve productivity and performance
- Monitor various restaurant operations
- Get real-time visibility of the tasks
- Help you to make an informed decision
- Keep track of stock
- Help you in inventory management
Moreover, the best operating system for a restaurant will automate all the tasks you do manually, which takes a lot of time. Also, it saves a lot of money that you spend on managing your business.
Restaurant Operating System Features
Having an ideal operating system for a restaurant comes with great features. To help you make an informed decision, we have listed some features that should be in the restaurant’s online ordering system.
Track Sales
The restaurant order management software can track all the business sales data. When all the sales data is in one place, it helps you make informed decisions and intelligent choices. Restaurants can determine the profit and know which items are best and worst selling.
Inventory Control
It is one of the best features of the restaurant operating system. With this feature, the restaurants can know the amount of food they have and how much is required. It also helps you understand your profit margins and food consumption.
Simple Menu Setup
The menu configuration in the restaurant system should be easy. No one wants a complex system that takes a lot of time and effort to change the menu.
When you pick the operating system, ensure it helps you quickly adjust the menu. If it takes a lot of time, consider looking for more options.
Easy to Use System
People who work in restaurants and the people who come in are busy. This is why your food ordering platform should be simple for people to use.
Before you trust the app to buy food online, ask for a live demo or evaluate it on a trial plan. You’ll get an idea of what the interface will look like. Make sure it is easy to understand and use.
Multiple Payment Processing
Credit/debit cards are not the only payment modes for restaurant customers. 68% of customers prefer to pay via credit and debit cards. At the same time, 18% prefer to pay with cash or use cash on delivery method. Also, it provides a digital wallet payment option.
Speed
Speed is another prominent feature of the restaurant order management app. The slow system can delay all the tasks, and no one wants to give customers the wrong impression.
Rewards and Loyalty Programs
When someone orders food from your restaurant, make them feel good and valued. You can reach a potential customer with a clear picture of their wants, food habits, and the trends they’re interested in.
40% of restaurants already have a loyalty program, and 57% would love a place that does. If your restaurant doesn’t have a loyalty program, you are leaving a lot on the table.
You can turn regular customers into loyal ones when you have a reward program. One way to do this is to give them reward points for returning to the restaurant repeatedly. These programs are about getting closer to customers to make more money and improve the restaurant’s image.
Outstanding Customer Support
The excellent support will help you if you face any issues related to online orders, setting up the system, etc. Customer service that is willing to help you isn’t one of the best things about a restaurant management system. So, please ensure the food service provider has an active support team available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Benefits of a Restaurant Operating System
The restaurant operating system provides several benefits to restaurants. A few of them are listed below.
Automated Notifications
The restaurant staff can stay updated with automated notifications related to tasks and any changes in the restaurant. These notifications provide updates on customer feedback and complaints. When a new task is assigned to someone, the system can send a notification to the designated member. These notifications eliminate manual communication and reduce the chances of miscommunication.
Streamline Operations
The single and multi restaurant food ordering management system can streamline operations and make your work more efficient. With this, restaurants can automate various tasks and run a successful restaurant.
Restaurants can automate these tasks, which include:
- Kitchen management
- Order taking
- Customer service
Manage Staff
It helps restaurants to manage their staff and their work digitally. To track staff working hours, restaurants can set up ‘clock in and clock out’ functions. It’s an excellent way to bring your staff management under one roof.
Reporting and Analytics
To make smart business choices, you need to be able to access accurate and complete reports and analytics. Advanced reporting and analytics tools in a restaurant operating system can help you understand operational measurements and key performance indicators (KPIs).
Increase Efficiency
One main benefit of operating systems in restaurants is that they make things run more smoothly. You can keep your business running as efficiently as possible by getting the most out of an operating system.
With essential tools like managing the floor, timesheets, inventory, and contactless payments, you can focus on other parts of your business. They also give your employees the tools to do a better job and avoid mistakes.
Top Restaurant Operating System in 2024
What system do most restaurants use?
Below is a list of the top restaurant operating systems for your business.
Enatega
Enatega is the best and all-in-one restaurant operating system. It is a perfect solution for small to mid-sized businesses. With Enatega, you can manage all your restaurant operations from a single platform.
Features
- Inventory tracking
- Reporting and analytics
- Order tracking
- Supply management
| Pros | Cons |
| Transparent pricing | Marketing tools are not included |
| 2 hours of free technical consultation | |
| Include customer, restaurant, and rider app with an admin dashboard. |
Enatega Pricing
The Enatega pricing is flexible and it is $1,997. You only have to make a one-time payment and get the delivery management software platform according to your needs.
Supercharge your deliveries with Enatega.
TouchBistro
TouchBistro is a restaurant POS and management system. It has built-in tools that help you in all your tasks. It is an excellent choice for restaurants to run their business more efficiently and save time by simplifying staff management. TouchBistro integrates with best-in-class technology solutions, making it an all-in-one platform for powering your business.
Features
- Inventory management
- Menu management
- Table management
- Kitchen display system
- Staff management
- Reporting and analytics
- Offline mode
| Pros | Cons |
| Fast and reliable | The free version is not available |
| 24/7 customer support team is available | Only works on Apple devices |
| Easy-to-use system | |
| Run without any delay |
TouchBistro Pricing
TouchBistro offers pricing based on a subscription model, which typically includes a base monthly fee for its core POS system. The cost can vary depending on the features and hardware you choose.
Here is the pricing structure of TouchBistro.
Software Subscription
TouchBistro’s software subscription costs start at approximately $69 per month per terminal. This is the base fee for the POS system and includes standard features like table management, menu management, and order tracking.
Additional Costs
- Add-ons: TouchBistro offers additional features like online ordering, reservations, and loyalty programs, which may require extra monthly fees.
- Online Ordering: Around $50 per month.
- Loyalty Programs: Starting at $99 per month.
- Gift Cards: Around $25 per month.
- Hardware: TouchBistro works exclusively with Apple devices (iPads). You will need to factor in the cost of purchasing iPads, receipt printers, cash drawers, and card readers.
- Payment Processing Fees: Payment processing fees vary depending on the integrated payment processor. TouchBistro integrates with several options, including its own payment platform.
Customization for Larger Restaurants
TouchBistro also provides custom pricing for larger restaurant operations or those requiring multiple terminals, additional features, or advanced integrations.
Aloha
Aloha is an all-in-one solution for your restaurant. It handles everything from point of sale to inventory management. With Aloha, restaurants can improve customer experience and run their business more efficiently.
Features
- Streamline food delivery
- Customer management
- Menu management
- Integrate with other systems
| Pros | Cons |
| Clean interface | Expensive for small restaurants |
| Efficient order management | |
| A lot of customization |
Aloha Pricing
Below is an Aloha pricing structure.
- Software License: $45 per month per terminal.
- Hardware: $100 per month per terminal.
- Launch Kit: Included for free, with 24/7 live support and assistance for system setup and menu configuration.
Square
Square is best for small to medium-sized businesses. It is well-known for its affordability, simplicity, and accessibility. With a Square POS, restaurants can manage financial transactions and improve operations.
Features
- Inventory management
- Email marketing
- Online ordering
- Payment processing
| Pros | Cons |
| Free to start | Not cost-effective for high-volume transactions |
| The basic plan has no monthly fee | |
| Transparent pricing |
Square Pricing
Square offers flexible pricing tailored to small and medium-sized businesses. Check the Square pricing structure.
Point-of-Sale (POS) Software
- Free Plan
- Includes essential POS features such as order management, inventory tracking, and analytics.
- No monthly fee for basic usage.
- Plus Plan
- Start at $29+/month per location, offering additional tools like advanced team management and customer loyalty programs.
- Premium Plan
- Custom pricing according to the customer requirements.
Foodics
Foodics is one of the best solutions if you are looking for a restaurant operating system that renowned brands use. 22,000+ restaurants use Foodics for their operations.
Features
- Manage inventory
- Manage kitchen staff
- Digital payments
- Integrate with multiple applications
| Pros | Cons |
| Excellent customer support | Limited customization |
| Easy to use | Hardware compatibility |
| Multi-location management |
Foodics Pricing
Foodics offers various pricing plans tailored to meet the needs of businesses. The plans include:
- Starter Plan: Designed for small operations, providing essential POS features.
- Basic Plan: Includes more advanced functionalities for growing businesses.
- Advanced Plan: Offers comprehensive features for large-scale businesses or enterprises.
Tips to Choose the Restaurant Operating System
Here are some tips to help you select the best restaurant operating system.
- You have to understand your business goals.
- Clearly understand your requirements.
- Request a free demo or free trial.
- Choose a system that has a user-friendly interface.
- Consider integration capabilities.
- The system you choose must prioritize security and data protection.
- Provide support and training.
- Restaurant online ordering system costs should be budget-friendly.
- Check reviews and feedback of old clients.
Supercharge your deliveries with Enatega.
Conclusion
Adopting the restaurant operating system can make a huge positive impact on the success of your business. It is the perfect solution for restaurants, from streamlining operations to improving customer experience.
So, if you need a good restaurant management system that handles all your tasks and prepares your restaurant for success. Contact us and get the best management system for your restaurant.
Book a free demo with us and get help from our experts.
About the author
Hudaibia Khalid is the creative force behind the blog—a maestro of words and ideas. Her distinctive style not only imparts wisdom but also leaves an indelible mark, transforming each post into a captivating journey through her unique perspective on the world.
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