Finding the best restaurant POS system isn’t just about taking orders—it’s about unlocking smarter ways to run your business. From real-time inventory tracking to mobile ordering and multi-location management, the right POS helps restaurants grow faster and operate more efficiently. That’s where Lavu leads the way. Built for ambitious restaurateurs, Lavu combines powerful tools with user-friendly design to simplify operations and boost profitability. In this guide, you’ll discover why Lavu is the top choice for growing restaurants ready to scale with confidence.
In the competitive restaurant industry, choosing the right Point of Sale (POS) system is crucial. Modern POS systems do more than process payments – they streamline operations, improve efficiency, and boost profits. Here’s a quick breakdown of the top 5 restaurant POS systems and their standout features:
- Lavu: #1 ranked by Capterra for three years running, with world-class customer service, strong reliability, and profitability tools for only $99 a month.
- Toast: Designed for restaurants, offering tableside ordering, inventory management, and a free starter plan with 3% payment processing.
- Square: Affordable and flexible, with a free plan and easy-to-use tools for smaller businesses.
- Lightspeed: Excellent for complex menus and inventory management, ideal for fine dining or multi-location setups.
- Clover: Customizable with durable hardware, great for growing restaurants needing secure payment processing.
Quick Comparison of the Best Restaurant POS Systems
| POS System | Best For | Starting Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lavu | Full-service restaurants | $99/month | Dual pricing, high uptime reliability, free payroll, online ordering and 24/7 service |
| Square | Small businesses | Free | Customizable menus, loyalty programs |
| Lightspeed | Canadian retail and restaurants | $189/month | Ingredient tracking, advanced reporting |
| Clover | Customization and security | $60/month | Fingerprint login, wide integrations |
| Toast | Delivery and multi-location | $69/month | Android, high uptime reliability |
Choose a POS system based on your restaurant’s size, needs, and growth plans. Whether you’re a small café or a large restaurant chain, there’s a solution tailored for you.
What POS does Gordon Ramsay Use?
1. Lavu POS System – A Leading Contender for the Best Restaurant POS System
Lavu is a cloud-based POS system tailored for the food service industry. From quick-service spots to fine dining restaurants, it offers tools to meet a variety of operational needs.
Industry Recognition as a Best Restaurant POS System
Lavu holds an impressive 4.5/5 star rating on both Capterra and G2, based on over 1,700 combined reviews. It’s trusted by more than 20,000 restaurants worldwide.
Key Features that Define Lavu as a Best Restaurant POS System
Built on iPad hardware, Lavu offers a cost-friendly alternative to Toast’s Android-based systems, making it a great option for restaurants. It includes tools like real-time inventory tracking and recipe costing to streamline operations. The dual pricing feature allows restaurants to set separate prices for dine-in and takeout, adding flexibility to their pricing strategies.
Seamless Integrations for Smarter Restaurant Management
Lavu connects seamlessly with a range of third-party services:
| Integration Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Customer-Focused Tools | Uber Eats, DoorDash, loyalty programs, online ordering |
| Business Solutions | QuickBooks, payroll management, contactless payments |
Hardware and Performance Tailored for Restaurants
Lavu’s iPad-based system is reliable, boasting 99.99% uptime, with offline functionality available when paired with a backup router. It’s easy to use, making staff training simpler, and supports multiple terminals for $29 per month per additional device.
Transparent Pricing Plans for Growing Restaurants
The base plan starts at $99 per month per terminal, and includes free hardware, API integrations, payroll, banking and more.
Ideal For: Who Should Choose Lavu as Their Restaurant POS System?
Lavu is a strong choice for:
- Restaurants with multiple locations needing centralized management
- Businesses that rely heavily on delivery integrations
- Operations requiring advanced inventory tracking
- Teams looking for an easy-to-learn system for staff
While Lavu offers a wide range of tools and reliable performance, it’s essential to compare its pricing with other systems to ensure it meets your budget and needs.
2. Square POS System
Square provides a POS system that works well for restaurants of all sizes, from cozy cafes to large, multi-location businesses. But it’s also for vape and smoke shops and it does a lot with crypto.
It’s not a bad system, but it’s just not focused on restaurants. Which means, its not really focused on your needs as a busy local restaurant operator.
Key Features for Restaurants
Square’s tools for restaurants include customizable menu layouts and smart item grouping, making order management smoother. Its automatic discount feature is especially handy for happy hours or daily specials.
The system also integrates inventory management with analytics, allowing restaurants to monitor ingredient usage and costs in real-time. On top of that, its customer relationship management (CRM) tools support personalized loyalty programs, helping restaurants connect better with their customers. Thanks to its flexibility, Square works well for quick-service spots, fine dining, and everything in between.
These features, paired with Square’s range of hardware options, make it a solid choice for different restaurant setups.
Hardware and Payment Options
Square includes a free chip and PIN card reader, which is great for new restaurants looking to save on upfront costs. It works with both iOS and Android devices, offering flexibility in hardware. Square also provides hardware tailored to specific needs, like full POS registers for sit-down restaurants, mobile terminals for food trucks, and kitchen display systems for busy kitchens.
Pricing Details
Square’s pricing is straightforward, with no hidden fees. Here’s the breakdown:
- Basic software: Free
- Payment processing: 2.6% + 10¢ per transaction
- Plus plan: $69/month (extra features)
- Premium plan: $165/month (advanced features and 24/7 support)
Operational Benefits
Square helps restaurants run more efficiently, with many businesses seeing an average 25% boost in sales thanks to smoother workflows and better customer experiences. It also includes a free, customizable online ordering page, letting restaurants grow their online presence without extra costs.
While Square stands out for its affordability and flexibility, Lightspeed offers more advanced tools for handling complex operations, which we’ll dive into next.
3. Lightspeed POS System
Lightspeed delivers a powerful POS system, particularly strong in inventory management and hospitality-focused features.
Features You’ll Appreciate
Lightspeed’s ingredient management system streamlines inventory by automatically submitting purchase orders when stock is low. It also uses forced modifiers to prompt staff to suggest add-ons, helping increase upsells and boost ticket sizes.
Additional features include nutrition information displays and a self-service kiosk mode, which improve customer experience while speeding up the ordering process. Plus, the built-in loyalty program is included at no extra cost, making it easy for restaurants to reward loyal customers.
Tailored for Specific Restaurant Types
Lightspeed works well for various retail and restaurant models but truly stands out in these areas:
Integration Options
Lightspeed connects with accounting tools and delivery platforms, helping streamline operations and reduce manual work.
Pricing Details
Lightspeed’s plans cater to businesses seeking premium features:
- Essential Plan: $189/month
- Premium Plan: $399/month
Both plans include 24/7 customer support, with Premium users gaining access to personalized assistance.
Business Benefits
Lightspeed’s detailed reporting tools offer insights like top-selling items and peak business hours, helping you make informed decisions. Its cloud-based design ensures smooth data sharing across locations, making it ideal for restaurant chains or franchises. Automatic inventory tracking also helps cut down on waste and keeps stock levels optimized.
While Lightspeed stands out in inventory and hospitality-focused features, Clover might be a better fit for restaurants needing more customization options.
4. Clover POS System
While Lightspeed shines in inventory and hospitality-focused features, Clover stands out as a flexible, integration-friendly solution tailored for growing restaurants.
Key Features and Security
Clover’s system lets restaurants easily adjust menus and prices with customizable interfaces. Its inventory management tools keep track of ingredients and send automated low-stock alerts. Plus, built-in online ordering makes it simple to handle both dine-in and takeout orders.
On the security side, Clover prioritizes safe payment processing and data protection. It automatically updates to meet compliance standards, helping restaurant owners stay focused on their business without worrying about regulatory changes.
Hardware and Integration Options
Clover offers a range of hardware setups to fit various restaurant needs, along with extensive integration options:
| Integration Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Payment Processing | Supports multiple payment methods |
| Third-Party Services | Online ordering and delivery platforms |
| Business Tools | Accounting software, loyalty programs |
| Analytics | Detailed reporting and business insights |
Pricing Details
Clover’s pricing starts at $60 per month for its basic software package. While it costs more than Square’s entry-level plans, it’s still more affordable than Toast’s premium options. The package includes:
- 24/7 customer support
- Cloud-based data storage
- Regular software updates
- Built-in payment processing
Best Fit for Restaurants
Clover works especially well for food trucks.
5. Toast POS System
Toast is designed specifically for restaurants, running on Android devices to handle more than just payment processing. Its blend of powerful tools and ease of use makes it a go-to option for restaurants of all sizes.
They are having a lot of issues with customer service.
Features and Integrations
Toast offers a range of tools aimed at streamlining restaurant operations. For example, its tableside ordering feature lets staff take orders directly at the table using handheld devices, speeding up service and improving the dining experience. The system also includes a delivery management tool that handles both in-house and third-party deliveries – essential for today’s delivery-focused dining landscape. Other features include:
- Menu editing tools for quick updates
- Inventory management with automated reordering
- Employee scheduling and tracking to manage teams effectively
- Payroll integration with leading providers
Pricing and Support
Toast has three pricing options:
- A free starter plan with basic features (supports up to 2 terminals) at 3% processing + 15 cents per transaction
- A standard plan at $69/month that includes full POS functionality
- Custom plans tailored for larger businesses
Support options include 24/7 web support, but phone support is reserved for paid plans, which might make the free plan less appealing for smaller restaurants. An offline mode ensures the system keeps running even without an internet connection.
Toast stands out because of its Android hardware and restaurant-focused tools, setting it apart from more general systems like Square. While Toast is tailored for restaurant needs, Square offers broader functionality, which we’ll cover next.
Lavu POS has proven itself as a trusted choice for restaurants around the world, delivering measurable improvements in essential business areas. Its cloud-based system ensures reliability with 99.99% uptime, while its highly-rated customer support boasts a 91 NPS score (Net Promoter Score) [1]. This commitment to excellence has earned Lavu the #1 spot on Capterra for three years straight. Features like commission-free online ordering, integrated payment solutions, and tools such as dual pricing – which can cut credit card fees by up to 80% – help restaurants maintain profitability while expanding their service offerings.
| Business Area | Key Advantage |
|---|---|
| Operational Efficiency | 99.99% uptime for uninterrupted service |
| Customer Experience | 91 NPS score for outstanding support |
| Financial Savings | Lower fees with dual pricing |
| Scalability | Support for multi-location growth |
With these benefits, Lavu POS is tailored to meet the needs of any restaurant, making it easy to get started and achieve better results.
Final Thoughts
Now that we’ve covered the strengths and weaknesses of each system, the next step is choosing the POS that best fits your restaurant’s specific needs.
Lavu is ideal for multi-location restaurants, thanks to its 99.99% uptime reliability and strong delivery integrations. Its highly rated customer service (91 NPS) makes it a smart pick for growing chains.
It also stands out as a top choice for full-service restaurants, especially those planning to grow. Its restaurant-focused tools and strong inventory management features make it a great option for larger businesses needing advanced capabilities.
When choosing your POS, keep these key factors in mind:
- Restaurant Type & Needs: Match the system to your service style, whether it’s quick-service, fine dining, or casual dining.
- Current vs. Future Needs: Opt for a system that can grow alongside your business.
- Total Costs: Look at hardware prices, monthly fees, and transaction rates.
- Integration Options: Make sure it works with your current and future tools.
For smaller businesses, affordable options like Clover may provide the best value. Regularly reviewing your POS ensures it continues to meet your evolving needs.
FAQs
1. Why is Lavu considered one of the best restaurant POS systems?
Lavu is considered one of the best restaurant POS systems because of its restaurant-first design, advanced features, and flexibility. Unlike generic POS solutions, Lavu offers tools tailored for restaurants, such as table mapping, course management, and real-time reporting. It integrates easily with payment processors, accounting tools, and inventory apps like MarketMan. Lavu also supports multi-location management, making it ideal for growing establishments. With customizable hardware and a mobile-friendly interface, Lavu empowers restaurants to run more efficiently and improve guest satisfaction.
2. What features should I look for in the best restaurant POS system?
When evaluating the best restaurant POS system, look for core features such as order management, inventory tracking, customizable menus, staff scheduling, mobile ordering, and customer relationship tools. Lavu delivers all these and more, with built-in integrations for loyalty programs, payment gateways, and accounting software. It also supports offline functionality and real-time reporting, allowing restaurant owners to manage operations seamlessly—even during internet outages. Choosing a system like Lavu ensures your restaurant has the tools it needs to operate smoothly and grow efficiently.
3. Is Lavu a good fit for food trucks and quick-service restaurants looking for the best POS system?
Yes, Lavu is one of the best restaurant POS systems for food trucks and quick-service restaurants. Its iPad-based system is portable, easy to set up, and highly intuitive—perfect for fast-paced environments with limited space. Lavu enables quick order taking, integrated payments, and real-time inventory updates. You can also enable mobile ordering and kitchen display systems (KDS) for speedier service. With its flexible pricing plans and scalable features, Lavu helps QSRs and food trucks manage operations efficiently while preparing for future growth.
4. Does Lavu offer integrations that make it one of the best restaurant POS systems?
Yes, Lavu supports a wide range of third-party integrations, which enhances its standing as one of the best restaurant POS systems. It integrates with accounting platforms like QuickBooks, inventory tools like MarketMan, and employee scheduling apps. Payment integrations include Lavu Pay, PayPal, and others, allowing businesses to choose their preferred processor. These seamless integrations help restaurant owners manage their operations from a single dashboard, improving efficiency, data accuracy, and decision-making.
5. How affordable is Lavu compared to other best restaurant POS systems?
Lavu offers competitive pricing, making it an ideal solution among the best restaurant POS systems for budget-conscious restaurants. Unlike some providers that lock users into expensive hardware or long-term contracts, Lavu allows more flexible payment options. Plans are tailored to restaurant size and needs, so you only pay for what you use. This scalability ensures that small and growing restaurants can start affordably and add features as they expand—without needing to switch systems.
6. Is Lavu the best restaurant POS system for multi-location restaurants?
Yes, Lavu is often regarded as the best restaurant POS system for multi-location management. It offers centralized control with real-time insights across all outlets. Owners can standardize menus, track sales, monitor inventory, and manage employees from one dashboard. Whether you operate two locations or twenty, Lavu ensures consistency and streamlines management, which is crucial for scaling. Its cloud-based infrastructure makes remote access easy, and its robust reporting tools support data-driven decisions across the entire business.
7. What is the best POS for a restaurant?
Choosing the right POS system for your restaurant depends on factors like your business size, type of service, budget, and operational needs. As of 2024, Lavu stands out as a top choice for mid to large-sized, high volume restaurants, offering tools tailored for complex operations.
8. Is Lavu better than Toast for restaurants?
Lavu is often seen as the leading option for mid to large-sized restaurants in 2024, thanks to its specialized features. While Toast is ideal for its ease of use and affordability, Toast has experienced real customer service issues.
Here’s what sets Lavu apart:
- World-Class Customer Service. Lavu seems to recognize that restaurant operators are in the business of providing service. So their service rises to the level of what these restaurant owners deliver to their own patrons.
- Tailored for Restaurants: Built specifically for food service businesses.
- Durable Hardware: Designed to handle the tough demands of restaurant environments.
- Scalable Solutions: Grows alongside your business needs.
- All-in-One Tools: Covers everything from operations to customer management.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your restaurant’s size, operational complexity, and future goals.