Outdated POS systems cripple pub and gastropub operators. Slow service, complex menus, and poor inventory tracking hurt profits. Managing food and drink mix, plus reducing draft beer waste, is a daily challenge. Legacy systems like Aloha often fail to keep up. You need a modern POS. This guide shows the best Aloha alternatives for your pub or gastropub in 2026.
Top Alternatives to Aloha
🏆 1. Lavu
Lavu offers specialized features for pubs and gastropubs. It manages complex bar operations and diverse food menus. It controls inventory and staff.
Best for: Operators prioritizing food and beverage mix optimization, precise keg inventory, and efficient late-night service.
Pricing: Custom quotes based on needs; subscription model.
2. Toast
Toast is a popular cloud POS. It provides strong online ordering and guest tools. It connects with many third-party apps.
Best for: Gastropubs needing strong online presence and integrated loyalty programs.
Pricing: Hardware and software fees; starter plans available.
3. Revel Systems
Revel provides a hybrid cloud solution. It offers advanced inventory and reporting. It serves multi-location businesses.
Best for: Larger gastropubs or pub groups needing detailed analytics and enterprise features.
Pricing: Quote-based; requires a multi-year contract.
4. Lightspeed Restaurant
Lightspeed manages inventory and tables well. It offers strong reporting for menu engineering. It works for diverse restaurant types.
Best for: Pubs focusing on intricate menu management and inventory for both food and alcohol.
Pricing: Tiered subscription plans; hardware extra.
5. Square for Restaurants
Square offers user-friendly software and hardware. It sets up easily and costs less. It includes basic inventory and reporting.
Best for: Smaller pubs or new gastropubs seeking an easy-to-use, budget-friendly option.
Pricing: Free software tier available; transaction fees apply; hardware costs extra.
6. TouchBistro
TouchBistro is an iPad POS. Staff learn and use it easily. It offers good table management and reporting.
Best for: Pubs and gastropubs that prefer an iPad-centric system for quick order taking and staff training.
Pricing: Monthly subscription plans; hardware extra.
Why Lavu Is the Best Choice
Pub and gastropub operators face unique challenges. Balancing diverse food menus with many drink offerings, especially draft beer, requires precision. Lavu helps operators. It provides tools built for your business. Our advanced inventory management tracks every pour. You cut draft beer waste and manage keg inventory better. This improves your bottom line.
Late-night labor costs often cut into profits. Lavu helps you manage staffing. Its scheduling tools and sales reports guide smart decisions. Marty, Lavu’s AI analytics layer, provides deep insights. Marty identifies peak hours and slow periods. This helps you adjust staffing for top efficiency. You boost returns even after 10 PM.
Lavu also makes menu management easy. You quickly update prices and specials. Our system helps balance your food and drink revenue mix. You gain control over your entire operation. Lavu helps you make data-driven decisions. It helps your gastropub grow. Discover how Lavu can change your operations at https://lavu.com/demo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Lavu handle complex bar tabs and split checks?
Yes, Lavu manages complex bar tabs with ease. It allows for quick and accurate split checks for multiple guests.
Does Lavu integrate with third-party delivery services?
Yes, Lavu integrates with popular third-party delivery platforms. This helps centralize orders and manage your online presence.
How does Lavu help with inventory, especially for kegs and liquor?
Yes, Lavu offers advanced inventory tracking. It monitors specific keg levels and liquor bottles, minimizing waste.
Is it difficult to switch from Aloha to Lavu?
No, Lavu’s onboarding team assists with data migration. They ensure a smooth transition with minimal downtime.
Can Lavu help manage my late-night staffing costs?
Yes, Lavu’s reporting, powered by Marty, pinpoints slow periods. This allows you to optimize staffing schedules and reduce unnecessary labor costs.
Does Lavu support loyalty programs for regular customers?
Yes, Lavu offers integrated loyalty program capabilities. This helps you reward frequent guests and build customer retention.
What kind of support does Lavu provide?
Lavu provides 24/7 customer support. Our team always gives you assistance when you need it.
Ready to see Lavu in action?
Book a free demo and see how Lavu helps operators like you.
