Being on an online ordering platform or offering online orders through your website can open up big growth opportunities for restaurants. These systems help boost order sizes, streamline order processing by reducing mistakes, expand delivery options, and gather valuable customer data to turn first-time customers into loyal regulars.
Navigating the different options on the market can be challenging, so we’ve summarised the steps to identify and launch an restaurant online ordering system that will set you up for success.
Assess your options
When setting up online ordering, there are a few options to choose from, depending on what works best for your business. These generally fall into two main categories: first-party online ordering and third-party online ordering. Let’s take a closer look at each one.
First-Party Online Ordering
First-party systems, like Gardiff EPOS, let you set up online ordering directly through your own platform. You can customise your menu, keep your branding consistent, and collect valuable customer data for things like email marketing and loyalty programs. With our system, instead of paying commission on every order, you pay a flat monthly fee – saving you money compared to third-party services.
These systems work well for delivery and click & collect. You can set up scheduled ordering, create your own specials for click & collect and if this is going to be a major part of your business plan, consider linking the system with a digital order collection screen.
Overall, first-party ordering gives you more control, better margins, and greater flexibility in handling logistics.
Third-Party Online Ordering
Services like JustEat, Deliveroo and Uber Eats list restaurants based on location and cuisine to help customers find and order food easily. They integrate with certain EPOS systems (including Gardiff EPOS) for a flat monthly fee.
These platforms list your restaurant alongside others in their marketplace, making it easy to reach new customers. Once an order comes in, your restaurant confirms it, enters it into your EPOS (if not integrated), and prepares the food for pickup by the customer or a delivery person.
While third-party services can generate extra demand, they come with high commission fees – sometimes up to 30% per order, which can eat into your profits.
Research Local Trends
It’s worth researching which online ordering systems other restaurants in your area use and how local customers prefer to order. This is especially important when choosing a third-party delivery platform – going with one that’s already popular in your community can help attract first-time customers and boost visibility. For example, if most people in your area use Deliveroo, being listed there makes it easier for them to find you.
That said, third-party platforms often come with high commission fees. It’s a good idea to ask other restaurant owners if they think these services are worth the cost. If you do use a third-party service, encourage repeat customers to order directly through your first-party system over time to reduce commission fees and increase profits.
Get Demos of Different Systems
Once you’ve researched your options, schedule demos for the systems that seem like the best fit for your restaurant.
Come prepared with questions about key factors like commission fees, monthly costs, EPOS integration, data collection, customisation, branding, and delivery options. These can vary significantly between providers, so it’s important to compare.
Also, consider the ordering experience from a customer’s perspective. Is the platform easy to use? Does it encourage users to support local restaurants? If something goes wrong with an order, who handles the issue – your restaurant or the platform’s customer support? A smooth experience can make a big difference in whether customers return.
Make Sure the System Integrates with Your EPOS System
Seamless EPOS integration is key to running a smooth online ordering system. When online orders go straight from the customer to your EPOS and kitchen, it saves staff time, reduces errors, and ensures faster order fulfillment.
With an integrated system, customers can place an order on your website or app, and it will automatically appear on your EPOS, printers and kitchen display. Without integration, staff would have to manually enter orders, increasing the risk of mistakes and delays.
Another major advantage of direct integration is data collection. All customer info from online orders is stored in your EPOS system, making it easy to use for marketing, loyalty programs, and sales insights.
At Gardiff, we support a range of integrations, allowing you to use both first-party ordering and third-party services like JustEat, Uber Eats and Deliveroo.
Get Set Up
Once you’ve chosen your online ordering system, it’s time to set everything up. Each provider will have its own onboarding process, usually including training on system settings and best practices.
If customisation is an option, take advantage of it. Use your branding, images, and colors to make the platform feel like an extension of your restaurant.
Add Your Menu and Test the System
Now it’s time to set up your menu for online ordering. Think about how your dishes will hold up for takeaway and delivery. Some items might not travel well, so consider adjustments to make them more transport-friendly. Also, plan your packaging to keep food fresh and make sure product pricing accounts for any extra costs.
It’s worth checking out how other restaurants handle their online menus for inspiration. A well-structured menu helps ensure customers get the best experience, and can also help to increase order value. Consider setting up some online only special offers or bundle deals.
Start Accepting Orders
Now you’re ready to go live! There might be a bit of a learning curve as you fine-tune menu items, order flow, and logistics. Pay attention to feedback from both staff and customers so you can make adjustments as needed. Many systems offer features like order throttling to manage demand during peak hours – take advantage of these tools to keep things running smoothly.
To drive traffic to your online ordering system, use your marketing channels. Share the link via email and social media, add it to your website, and promote it with in-store signage and flyers in takeaway bags.
Get Your Restaurant Online
No matter which approach you take, setting up an online ordering system is a great way to tap into digital demand. First-party systems, like Gardiff EPOS,, help you maintain control and maximise profits, while third-party platforms can introduce your restaurant to new customers.
As the industry becomes more tech-focused, having a solid online presence will be key to long-term success. The right system will not only streamline operations but also help your restaurant grow in an increasingly digital world.
Want to learn more about our online ordering system? Click here to book a demo with our friendly sales team.
