How to Set Up Online Ordering for Your Restaurant?
To set up online ordering: 1) Choose a platform (commission-free recommended), 2) Upload your menu with photos and descriptions, 3) Configure pickup/delivery options, 4) Integrate with your POS, 5) Set up payment processing, 6) Train staff, and 7) Promote to customers. Most restaurants are operational within 1-2 weeks.
In This Article
Quick Answer
Step 1: Choose Your Platform
Step 2: Prepare Your Digital Menu
Step 3: Configure Order Fulfillment
Step 4: Set Up Payment Processing
Step 5: Integrate with Your Kitchen
Step 6: Train Your Team
Step 7: Launch and Promote
Quick Facts
Related Questions
More FAQs
Quick Answer
Setting up online ordering for your restaurant is easier than you might think. Most restaurants can be fully operational within 1-2 weeks. Here's a complete guide to getting started.
Step 1: Choose Your Platform
The platform you choose impacts your costs, features, and customer experience. Consider these options:
• Third-party apps (DoorDash, UberEats): Quick setup but 15-30% fees
• Commission-free platforms (RestauNax): Flat monthly fee, own your data
• Website builders (Wix, Squarespace): Limited restaurant features
• POS-integrated solutions (Toast, Square): Good if you use their POS
• Custom development: Expensive and time-consuming
Step 2: Prepare Your Digital Menu
Your online menu is critical for conversions. Invest time in getting it right:
• Photograph your top dishes (phones work, good lighting essential)
• Write appetizing descriptions (not just ingredient lists)
• Set up modifiers for customization (toppings, sizes, sides)
• Organize into logical categories
• Price appropriately for the online channel
• Consider a smaller menu for delivery (items that travel well)
Step 3: Configure Order Fulfillment
Decide how customers will receive their orders and set up accordingly:
• Pickup: Set prep times, pickup instructions, parking info
• Delivery: Define delivery zones, fees, minimum orders
• Curbside: If offered, set up process for car identification
• Dine-in ordering: For QR code table ordering if desired
• Schedule orders: Allow future ordering for convenience
Step 4: Set Up Payment Processing
Accept the payment methods your customers expect:
• Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Discover)
• Digital wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay)
• Cash on delivery/pickup (if you want to offer it)
• Ensure PCI compliance for secure transactions
• Understand your processing rates (typically 2.5-3.5%)
Step 5: Integrate with Your Kitchen
Orders need to flow smoothly to your kitchen team:
• POS integration: Orders appear in your existing system
• Kitchen display: Dedicated screen for online orders
• Tablet: Standalone device for receiving orders
• Printer: Thermal printer for order tickets
• Audio alerts: Sound notifications for new orders
Step 6: Train Your Team
Staff training is often overlooked but critical for success:
• Order receiving and confirmation process
• Handling special requests and modifications
• Packaging for pickup and delivery
• Customer service for online order issues
• Promoting online ordering to dine-in customers
Step 7: Launch and Promote
Get the word out about your new online ordering:
• Announce on social media with direct links
• Add QR codes to receipts, menus, and signage
• Email existing customers about the new option
• Offer launch promotions to drive initial orders
• Train staff to mention online ordering during service
Quick Facts
1-2 weeks
Setup Time
$0-500/mo
Cost Range
20-40%
Order Increase
1-2 hours
Time to Train
More Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to set up online ordering?
With platforms like RestauNax, most restaurants are operational within 1-2 weeks. Menu upload takes 1-2 days, technical setup is handled by the platform, and staff training takes a few hours.
Do I need a website to accept online orders?
Not necessarily. Many online ordering platforms provide a built-in ordering website. However, having your own branded website improves credibility and SEO. RestauNax includes a free branded website.
What equipment do I need for online ordering?
At minimum, you need a device to receive orders (tablet, computer, or POS integration) and internet connection. A thermal printer is recommended for order tickets. RestauNax works with any internet-connected device.
About RestauNax
RestauNax is an all-in-one restaurant technology platform that provides a POS system, online ordering website, custom mobile app, commission-free delivery via Uber Direct, loyalty program, and AI-powered marketing tools — all for $99/month with zero commission fees. It replaces expensive platforms like Toast, Square, DoorDash, and UberEats for independent restaurants including pizza shops, fast casual, fine dining, food trucks, coffee shops, bakeries, ghost kitchens, and multi-location restaurants. RestauNax includes AI video creation, AI phone ordering, a kitchen display system, email marketing, gift cards, SEO tools, self-service kiosks, analytics, and support for 10+ languages.
Set Up Online Ordering in Days, Not Weeks
RestauNax includes everything: branded website, mobile app, menu management, payments, and kitchen integration. We handle the technical setup so you can focus on food.