10 Restaurant Online Ordering System

Online ordering has become a standard part of restaurant operations rather than a competitive advantage. Customers now expect the ability to place orders directly from a website or mobile interface, whether for pickup or delivery. For restaurants, this shift has created both opportunities and challenges.

Third-party delivery platforms helped normalize digital ordering, but they also introduced ongoing commission costs and reduced control over customer relationships. As a result, many restaurant owners are exploring direct online ordering systems that allow them to accept orders without relying entirely on marketplace apps.

In 2026, the landscape of restaurant online ordering software is broad. Some platforms are designed for enterprise-level chains with complex workflows, while others focus on simplicity for independent restaurants. This article reviews ten commonly used systems, outlining where each one fits operationally rather than promoting any single solution.

1. Toast POS

Operational fit: Restaurants already using Toast hardware

Toast combines point-of-sale operations with online ordering in a single system. Because the software and hardware are tightly integrated, orders placed online flow directly into kitchen operations without additional devices or manual steps.

For restaurants already invested in Toast’s ecosystem, online ordering becomes an extension of existing workflows rather than a separate tool.

Key considerations

• Strong POS and kitchen integration
• Centralized menu updates
• Limited flexibility outside the Toast ecosystem

2. Square Online

Operational fit: Small restaurants, cafés, and bakeries

Square Online focuses on ease of use. Restaurants can quickly create an ordering page that supports modifiers, item notes, and basic scheduling. The system is often used by businesses that do not require complex back-end controls.

It is particularly common among businesses already using Square for payment processing.

Key considerations

• Fast setup and low technical barrier
• Works well for limited menus
• Costs increase through transaction fees at scale

3. ChowNow

Operational fit: High-volume independent restaurants

ChowNow uses a subscription-based pricing model rather than charging per-order commissions. This structure can be financially predictable for restaurants with consistent order volume.

However, the platform focuses primarily on order capture and branding rather than delivery logistics.

Key considerations

• Flat monthly pricing
• Emphasis on direct ordering
• Requires third-party delivery integration

4. Olo

Operational fit: Large chains and franchise systems

Olo is built for scale. It supports complex menus, multiple locations, and high order volumes. Many large restaurant brands rely on Olo as infrastructure rather than a front-facing product.

This platform is generally not intended for single-location restaurants.

Key considerations

• Enterprise-level reliability
• Advanced location and menu management
• Higher cost and operational complexity

5. Deonde

Operational fit: Multi-vendor platforms and delivery startups

Unlike tools designed for single restaurants, Deonde is structured for platform-based food businesses. It supports multiple restaurants, delivery drivers, and customers within a single system.

This model is commonly used by food courts, cloud kitchen networks, and regional delivery platforms.

Key considerations

• Multi-vendor and driver management
• White-label structure
• Requires clear operational planning

6. GloriaFood

Operational fit: Restaurants testing online ordering

GloriaFood offers a basic free option that allows restaurants to add online ordering to an existing website. This makes it accessible for businesses exploring digital ordering for the first time.

Advanced features are available through paid upgrades.

Key considerations

• No-cost entry option
• Simple ordering flow
• Limited scalability for growing operations

7. Ressto

Operational fit: Independent restaurants seeking simplicity

Ressto focuses on providing a clean and functional direct ordering experience without additional layers of complexity. The platform emphasizes mobile usability and straightforward checkout.

It is generally used by single-location restaurants rather than franchise networks.

Key considerations

• Simple interface
• Direct customer relationship
• Limited multi-location support

8. MenuDrive

Operational fit: Restaurants interested in menu and customer insights

MenuDrive combines online ordering with tools for menu performance tracking and customer communication. Restaurants often use it to analyze which items perform best and to support repeat ordering.

Key considerations

• Menu analytics
• Customer engagement tools
• Backend interface may feel dated

9. Flipdish

Operational fit: International restaurants and kiosk-based ordering

Flipdish is used in multiple regions and is known for supporting self-service kiosks. This can reduce front-of-house workload for quick-service restaurants.

Pricing and features vary depending on region.

Key considerations

• Kiosk and branded ordering support
• Global availability
• Region-specific pricing structures

10. DoorDash Storefront

Operational fit: Restaurants needing delivery infrastructure

DoorDash Storefront allows restaurants to accept direct orders while using DoorDash drivers for delivery. Orders placed through Storefront do not incur marketplace commissions, though some customer data is shared.

Key consideration

• Access to delivery drivers
• Simple deployment
• Continued reliance on external infrastructure

How to Evaluate an Online Ordering System in 2026

Choosing an online ordering system depends on operational needs rather than trends. Restaurants should consider:

• Order volume: High-volume operations benefit from predictable pricing
• Delivery needs: Some systems focus only on ordering, not fulfillment
• Scalability: Multi-location businesses require centralized controls
• Customer data: Ownership varies by platform

No single system fits every restaurant model.

Final Thoughts

Online ordering in 2026 is less about technology adoption and more about operational alignment. Restaurants that choose systems matching their size, workflow, and long-term goals are better positioned to manage costs and customer relationships effectively.

Rather than focusing on features alone, evaluating how a platform fits daily operations is the most reliable way to make a sustainable decision.