In high-volume restaurants, efficiency is crucially important and can make a huge difference to the bottom line. How quickly you seat guests, take orders, serve food, and complete payments has a direct impact on table turnover, so it’s essential to have streamlined processes and systems in place to keep service flowing smoothly.
While traditional counter or bar ordering still works for some venues, others are moving toward more flexible alternatives that increase efficiency. From mobile apps to QR codes, the main aim is the same: make the ordering process easier, faster and more accurate. One of the most common solutions that modern restaurants are incorporating is a tableside ordering system. By allowing staff to take orders directly at the table, these systems streamline operations and create a more enjoyable dining experience.
For high-volume restaurants, this type of software is about more than just convenience; it’s key to keeping service quick, accurate and profitable. Below, we have explored the benefits of tableside ordering systems in more detail.
A tableside ordering system is a mobile point of sale (POS) solution that enables staff to take orders directly at the table using a handheld device. They can manage menu modifications, make notes of dietary restrictions and even suggest upsell options. Once an order is entered into the system, it’s immediately sent to the kitchen display system, so chefs can start preparing the food straight away.
POS software provides an end-to-end solution for restaurants. In addition to taking orders via a mobile or tablet device, tableside ordering systems can handle payments, allowing staff to apply discounts and split bills, all without having to leave the table. For guests, this results in a smoother dining experience and for businesses, it can streamline operations, increase accuracy and even provide valuable insights into customer preferences.
One of the biggest benefits of tableside ordering with a POS system is that no one has to go anywhere. Guests won’t have to leave their table to place their orders, and staff won’t have to repeatedly return to the bar or kitchen to input orders. Instead, all orders are placed digitally and transmitted instantly. This seamless process reduces delays, speeds up service and reduces the time taken dealing with errors that result in dishes being sent back.
For high-traffic venues, the ability to increase restaurant efficiency with POS technology is a game-changer. With less time spent running back and forth, staff can focus more on interacting with customers, discussing specials, providing menu recommendations, and ultimately, delivering a memorable dining experience that encourages repeat visits.
Even the most experienced staff can make mistakes, especially when they’re juggling multiple tables. By entering orders directly into a mobile POS device at the table, staff can read the details back to guests, whether it’s allergy information or cooking preferences, and confirm everything is correct. This reduces the risk of misunderstandings and miscommunication, ensuring every dish is exactly as the guest expects.
With orders being sent directly to kitchen display systems, there is a reduced likelihood of errors being made by chefs as well. This will prevent the time, hassle and cost associated with having to remake dishes, and the knock-on effects this can have on customer satisfaction.
Every minute that can be saved during service will have a direct impact on a restaurant’s bottom line. Tableside ordering systems speed up order processing, which shortens wait times and enables much quicker table turnover. In turn, this means more guests can be served every day, without compromising on quality.
When tableside ordering is combined with convenient contactless payment options, the process becomes even smoother. There will be no more waiting around for the bill, having to go up to the bar to make payment, or manually having to split the bill among guests. By supporting table management, these ordering systems will help you ensure tables are ready for the next party in less time, resulting in higher revenue.
An easy-to-overlook benefit, but arguably one of the most valuable, is that tableside POS systems provide an abundance of data. Every guest interaction, order and payment is tracked through the system, giving you detailed insights into things like menu item performance, sales patterns and even staff efficiency.
By analysing this data, restaurant managers can make informed decisions to boost growth. Whether it’s refining menus, developing targeted marketing campaigns or improving staff training, you can ensure restaurant operations are as efficient as possible. This level of insight can help build a long-term strategy for success and profitability.
Ultimately, tableside ordering systems are a proven way to increase efficiency in restaurants, particularly in high-volume venues where time is of the essence. When staff can take orders and process payments at the table, you can ensure the entire guest experience is more enjoyable.
For customers, tableside ordering means faster service, accurate meals, and a hassle-free payment process. For businesses, it leads to quicker table turnover, higher revenue, and valuable insights. To find out more about POS for high-volume restaurants, get in touch with our team at NFS Hospitality today. We will be happy to discuss our range of products with you and help you determine which are the best fit for your business.
