Running a restaurant—whether it’s a food truck, a cozy café, or a busy quick-service spot—means juggling speed, accuracy, and customer satisfaction every single day. The right restaurant ordering app can keep orders flowing smoothly, reduce mistakes, and encourage repeat business. But with so many options out there, how do you know which one will truly work for you? Let’s break down what to look for.
Essential Features Every Restaurant Ordering App Should Have
Easy, Intuitive Customer Experience
The best restaurant ordering app should feel simple even for first-time users. Look for:
A clean, clutter-free design
Quick menu navigation with large buttons
Easy customization for orders (e.g., toppings, sizes, add-ons)
Saved payment options for repeat customers
Think of a busy lunch crowd—if your mobile ordering app for restaurants takes too long to load, you risk losing orders before they start.
Real-Time Menu Control for Owners
Your staff shouldn’t have to call tech support to update your menu. Choose a branded restaurant ordering app that lets you:
Adjust prices instantly
Mark items as unavailable when stock runs out
Launch time-based specials without manual updates
This is especially important for food trucks or QSRs that run limited menus and daily specials.
Features That Drive Sales and Customer Loyalty
Built-In Upselling and Cross-Selling
A smart restaurant ordering system can gently suggest add-ons without annoying customers. Examples include:
“Make it a combo” prompts
Suggested drinks or desserts based on the order
Add-on sections with clear photos
These little nudges can increase ticket sizes without extra staff effort.
Integrated Rewards and Loyalty Programs
A restaurant ordering app with loyalty program keeps customers coming back. Look for:
Points-based rewards
Instant redemption at checkout
Progress trackers (“You’re 20 points away from $5 off!”)
For example, a quick-service restaurant ordering app with automated loyalty rewards can turn one-time visitors into regulars.
Order Fulfillment Options That Match Your Service Style
A modern mobile restaurant ordering system should support:
Curbside pickup with vehicle details
Delivery integration with your set zones and fees
Scheduled orders for customers planning ahead
If you run a food truck, an ordering app with curbside pickup means customers can order ahead and just walk up for pickup—no long lines.
Payments and Accessibility for All Customers
Your restaurant ordering software should support:
Credit and debit cards
Apple Pay and Google Pay
Gift cards and promo codes
Multiple language options for diverse communities
A restaurant ordering app with multiple language support ensures no customer feels left out.
Why Commission-Free Ordering Apps Make a Difference
Third-party ordering platforms can take 15–30% of your revenue per order. A commission-free restaurant ordering app keeps that money in your business.
With providers like Applova, every order goes directly to you—no middlemen, no cuts, just more profit.
Your Data, Your Control
An app should give you complete access to:
Customer contact information
Order history
Insights to improve marketing and menu decisions
When your data stays with you, you can run smarter promotions and boost retention.
FAQs
Q: How much does a restaurant ordering app cost?
Costs vary. With providers like Applova, you avoid heavy upfront development fees and long-term contracts.
Q: How long does it take to set up a mobile ordering app for restaurants?
Setup can be completed in days, with full menu, branding, and payment integration ready to go.
Q: Do I need a POS system to use a restaurant ordering app?
Not always. Applova integrates with many POS systems or can function as a standalone all-in-one POS.
Q: What features should a restaurant ordering app have?
Ease of use, real-time menu control, integrated loyalty, payment flexibility, and delivery/pickup options.
Q: Is a branded restaurant ordering app worth it for small restaurants?
Yes—control over branding, data, and customer experience can lead to higher profits and loyalty.
Conclusion
Choosing the right restaurant ordering app isn’t just about looking good—it’s about improving daily operations, reducing errors, and keeping customers happy. Whether you’re running a coffee shop, food truck, or QSR, the best solution will give you control over your menu, your customer relationships, and your profits—without commission cuts.
If you want a branded restaurant ordering app that’s built for real-world restaurant needs, explore what Applova can do for your business.