My Review of the 9 Best Restaurant Management Software

Running a restaurant involves managing numerous moving parts—staff schedules, inventory, customer service, etc.

While I didn’t directly experience the chaos of daily operations, as a technical writer tasked with reviewing the best restaurant management software, I quickly realized just how complex the challenges could be. The more I spoke to restaurant owners, the more I understood why restaurant owners and managers need a solution that could streamline everything.

For years, many in the industry have relied on a patchwork of methods—manual logs, spreadsheets, and basic point-of-sale systems—to stay organized. However, I quickly learned that this approach leads to missed orders, overlapping tasks, and general disorganization, which stresses the demanding environment.

I spent hours researching and testing over 20 hotel management tools, evaluating their features, usability, and user feedback from G2. My goal was to identify the solutions that truly stand out.

In this article, I’ll share my top 9 picks for streamlining restaurant operations and eliminating common headaches.

Whether managing staff, tracking inventory, or enhancing customer experience, the right tool can make all the difference in running a seamless operation.

My top 9 best restaurant management software recommendations for 2025

Restaurant management software is designed to help restaurant owners and managers streamline operations, manage staff, track inventory, handle orders, and improve customer service, all from a centralized platform.

When I first began reviewing restaurant management software, I quickly realized that managing restaurant operations could be chaotic for those handling multiple tasks simultaneously. 

I’ve heard countless stories of restaurant managers struggling to coordinate staff schedules, track inventory, and organize customer orders while maintaining a smooth dining experience. These stories made me realize how critical it is to have a tool that consolidates all these functions into one seamless platform.

I saw firsthand how these solutions can transform operations. The right software helped restaurant owners and managers gain control over their daily tasks, reduce errors, and improve overall efficiency. 

Picking the best restaurant management software: What I looked for

When evaluating restaurant management software, I look for a few key features that can make a significant difference in day-to-day operations. Here's what I consider:

• Speed: When evaluating restaurant management software, speed is a critical factor. The software must operate without lag, especially during peak hours when there’s a lot of activity. Fast loading times and responsiveness are essential so that tasks like processing orders, updating inventories, and managing reservations are handled quickly, directly impacting operational efficiency. I need a tool that keeps up with high-traffic periods and allows users to stay productive without interruptions, ensuring a smooth experience even under pressure.
• Security: As the software handles sensitive information like payment details and employee data, I need to ensure that robust security features are in place. For example, I look for end-to-end encryption, secure payment gateways, and compliance with industry standards like the payment card industry (PCI) to keep data safe from breaches or unauthorized access. A system that prioritizes security protects data and fosters trust with customers and staff alike, which is crucial when evaluating the tool’s reliability.
• Mobile accessibility: I need to access real-time data, manage schedules, and monitor orders without being tied to a desktop. The convenience of checking in from anywhere, whether it’s to evaluate staff schedules or see inventory levels, is a huge advantage. Mobile accessibility enhances flexibility and helps me stay connected to the tool at all times, improving my ability to assess the software’s performance, even when I’m not physically at my desk.
• Scalability: As I test different platforms, I must ensure that the software can adapt as the restaurant grows or as business needs evolve. Whether that means integrating new features, supporting multiple locations, or accommodating increased transaction volumes, I need a platform that can scale without compromising performance. This is especially important for me to assess because I’m considering how easily these systems will be able to handle future expansions, both in terms of capabilities and volume.
• Order management: The software should allow easy tracking of orders in real-time, as this helps me assess how well the system supports smooth service. I look for a system that allows easy order updates, tracks their status instantly, and minimizes mistakes, ultimately improving accuracy. Real-time tracking of orders ensures that everything runs smoothly, especially during busy periods, and allows me to test the system's efficiency under pressure.
• Inventory management:  The system should track inventory levels in real-time, offer predictive insights, and notify me when stock runs low. For me, this feature is critical because it reduces waste, prevents stockouts, and helps businesses make informed purchasing decisions. I’m particularly interested in how the software helps prevent shortages during peak hours and how easily it integrates with suppliers for restocking—both important for long-term operational efficiency.
• Staff scheduling and management: When evaluating the scheduling and management capabilities, I pay attention to how well the software can handle shift creation, track attendance, and adjust labor costs in real time. Integration with payroll systems is important for me, as it ensures accurate and efficient management of labor expenses. I need to test whether the system can easily create flexible schedules based on varying staffing needs and peak hours, which is key for smooth operations in a dynamic environment. The software should also offer visibility into staffing levels, making balancing labor costs with customer demand easier.
• Table management and reservation system: When testing software to efficiently manage seating and reservations, I look for table management features. I need to see how well the software tracks table availability and handles reservations, helping to optimize guest flow and minimize wait times. A system that allows real-time updates and seamlessly manages walk-ins is critical for smooth operation. I also want to test how it handles overbooking situations and whether it offers tools for tracking guest preferences and special requests, as this improves guest satisfaction and operational efficiency.

These factors play a big role in determining the best software for restaurants.

The list below contains genuine user reviews from our best restaurant management software category page. To be included in this category, software must:

• Provide at least four of the following features: inventory management, POS, employee management, accounting, order management, reservations, or payroll
• Help run both the front and back of the house while providing back-office support
• Be designed specifically for restaurants or the food service industry

*This data has been pulled from G2 in 2025. Some reviews have been edited for clarity.

1. OpenTable for Restaurants

As I tested OpenTable for Restaurants, I found its reservation system to be one of the most impressive features. Customers can easily book tables online, and I can manage and adjust reservations with minimal effort. This feature truly simplifies the booking process for both guests and the restaurant.

The customer relationship management (CRM) tool also stood out to me. It efficiently tracks guest preferences, enabling me to provide personalized service—a clear benefit for retaining repeat customers.

Features like integrating the restaurant’s website and sending automated confirmation and reminder emails enhance the overall customer experience and significantly reduce no-shows.

Another strong point is the platform's comprehensive reports and analytics, which provide valuable insights into guest behavior, revenue trends, and reservation patterns. These tools can help restaurant managers make informed decisions about their operations.

The platform was a bit overwhelming due to its extensive features and settings. An intuitive onboarding process could make a big difference in quickly getting staff who are new to restaurant management systems up to speed.

While OpenTable excels at reservation management, I noticed occasional slowdowns during peak times when handling a high volume of bookings. This lag can be frustrating, especially during busy hours.

Additionally, I observed issues with data synchronization across platforms. For instance, reservation details didn’t always update in real time, causing discrepancies in availability. This could lead to overbookings or missed reservations during high-traffic periods, a significant challenge for restaurant operations.

What I dislike about OpenTable for Restaurants:

• Initially, the platform felt a bit overwhelming, and I think an intuitive onboarding process would make it easier for new users to navigate.
• I noticed data synchronization issues, where reservation updates weren’t always real-time, leading to occasional overbookings or missed reservations.

What G2 users dislike about OpenTable for Restaurants:

“Storing credit card information keeps changing, making bookings unnecessarily complicated.”

- OpenTable for Restaurants Review, Tony M.

2. Restaurant365

One of my favorite features of Restaurant365 is its integrated accounting system. It seamlessly connects with a restaurant’s point-of-sale (POS) system, eliminating the need for manual data entry. This reduces errors and saves me a significant amount of time—making it a game-changer for busy restaurant teams.

Another major advantage is that I can manage multiple locations from a single account. It offers centralized control over operations and financials, making it a great fit for chains or franchises.

I appreciate inventory management, which lets restaurant owners track inventory levels in real-time and streamline the ordering process. This is especially helpful for preventing overstocking or stockouts and maintaining cost control.

Restaurant365’s robust reporting and analytics provide detailed financial and operational reports that help track expenses, revenue, and profitability. Although, I found the level of customization to be somewhat restrictive. Some reports are pre-designed, and while there are options for adjusting parameters, the ability to tailor reports to my specifications wasn’t as flexible as I would have liked. More granular control over report design would allow for deeper insights into specific data points, which would be valuable for highly detailed analysis.

I also felt the learning curve was steep. More guided tutorials or a more intuitive user interface would make the setup process easier and less overwhelming for me.

Another challenge I encountered was the system’s occasional slowness when processing large datasets, especially when running complex financial reports. This lag can be frustrating, especially during busy periods when quick access to data is crucial.

What I dislike about Restaurant365:

• I found the customization of reports to be somewhat restrictive. While there are options to adjust parameters, the lack of granular control over report design limits my ability to extract specific insights.
• The learning curve with Restaurant365 can be steep. More guided tutorials or a more intuitive interface would make the setup process easier and less overwhelming.

What G2 users dislike about Restaurant365:

“The systems lack seamless connectivity, requiring multiple separate logins. The help pages could also be more comprehensive and include demo tutorials to guide users through the platform.”

- Restaurant365 Review, L. C.

3. Petpooja

I’ve been testing Petpooja, and it offers several features that could significantly streamline restaurant operations. 

One of its major strengths is the user interface, which is intuitive and easy to navigate. As someone without deep technical knowledge, I found this incredibly helpful in reducing the time spent learning the system. The user-friendly design makes it easier for restaurant staff to get on board quickly, ensuring a smooth and efficient onboarding process.

The fast and reliable POS system ensures smooth transactions and order processing, which is crucial during busy hours. This cloud-based system offers updates on real-time sales, inventory, and customer preferences. Accessing up-to-date information on the go has been a game-changer, allowing me to stay informed and make data-driven decisions without being tied to a particular device or location.

However, I found that the POS system doesn’t have a built-in feature to handle complex orders, such as modifications or special customer requests. These tasks often require manual intervention, which increases the risk of order errors.

Another feature I appreciate is Petpooja’s ability to generate detailed reports on sales, profit margins, and customer preferences. These reports provide valuable insights that help with decision-making. By analyzing them, I can identify trends and adjust operations accordingly, which could ultimately help improve customer satisfaction and profitability.

The inventory management system automatically tracks stock levels and alerts when supplies run low. This real-time tracking helps prevent stockouts, ensure optimal inventory levels are maintained, reduce waste, and maximize profit margins.

However, while generally reliable, the inventory system occasionally suffers from inaccuracies in stock adjustments, leading to discrepancies, especially when handling high-volume orders or frequent stock updates. Additionally, the system lacks advanced features for bulk inventory updates. This becomes a limitation when large amounts of inventory data must be processed simultaneously, particularly during busy periods when managing stock is critical.

What I dislike about Petpooja:

• I’ve noticed that the POS system doesn’t have a built-in feature for handling complex orders, like special requests or modifications. This means I often have to manually intervene to make changes, which increases the risk of making errors.

• While the inventory management system is generally reliable, I’ve experienced some inaccuracies in stock adjustments, especially during high-volume orders or frequent updates. The system also lacks features for bulk inventory updates, which can be limited during busy periods.

What G2 users dislike about Petpooja:

“The integration process is often time-consuming, especially when launching a new outlet. There are some flaws in the software that could be exploited by individuals for personal gain, which poses a significant risk to any organization, particularly in the billing section.”

- Petpooja Review, Jay G.

4. Toast

After testing Toast, I was impressed by how user-friendly the system is, particularly for someone who isn't tech-savvy. The interface is clean, intuitive, and easy to navigate, which made it quick for me to get accustomed to the system without requiring extensive training.

One of the features I appreciated the most is how it integrates seamlessly with online ordering platforms. Customers can place orders directly through the restaurant's website or app, which greatly streamlines the entire process. It eliminates manual order entry and helps keep everything in sync. Since online orders are often a significant part of the operation, this integration made things much easier, reducing errors and improving efficiency.

Another valuable aspect is the loyalty program integration. It automatically tracks customer purchases and rewards them with loyalty points, making it easier to engage with customers and build a loyal base. I noticed that this feature encouraged repeat visits and helped increase customer retention.

However, I encountered a few drawbacks. One major issue is the lack of offline functionality. If the internet connection fails, the entire system becomes inoperable, which can be a major problem during busy periods. This is particularly frustrating when every second counts, and without a backup during outages, operations can grind to a halt.

Additionally, I found that some of the reports were difficult to customize. While the reporting system provides much useful data, its rigidity meant that tailoring reports to meet specific needs took extra time and effort. It felt inefficient when I needed to quickly pull data for decision-making, and having more flexibility in customizing reports would have been really helpful.

What I dislike about Toast:

• I found the lack of offline functionality to be a major issue. If the internet connection fails, the entire system becomes inoperable, which can be frustrating for busy restaurants during busy periods when every second counts.
• Some reports were difficult to customize to a restaurant’s specific needs. The rigidity of the reporting system meant tailoring reports took extra time and effort, which felt inefficient when data had to be accessed quickly.

What G2 users dislike about Toast:

“Customer service is atrocious. We’ve been waiting for deposits from Toast for sales made over six weeks ago, and no one has responded to our inquiries.”

- Toast Review, Taylor W.

5. Restroworks Restaurant POS

After thoroughly testing Restroworks Restaurant POS, I found it particularly beneficial for smaller to mid-sized restaurants.

One of its key strengths is that the system integrates with payment processing software and supports a variety of payment methods, allowing for a seamless transaction experience. This has been especially helpful in ensuring smooth checkouts for customers, even when dealing with different types of payments.

Another big advantage is the real-time data updates across the POS system, which I see benefit restaurants when they need to stay updated on menu or employee performance without checking manually. 

Restroworks also offers built-in scheduling tools for real-time employee shift adjustments, which I found useful for team management. The ability to make quick changes to the schedule is a huge time-saver, allowing teams to adapt to sudden changes in demand.

Inventory tracking requires manual input, leading to errors or delays in high-volume settings. When managing a busy restaurant, the last thing I want is to manually track stock and potentially run into discrepancies during rush hours. It also lacks advanced features like automatic stock reordering based on sales trends, which would be useful for maintaining inventory levels at busy restaurants.

Customer support response times are slow, and the level of assistance is limited. This became particularly problematic when I encountered technical issues that needed quick resolution.

Additionally, the system occasionally experiences performance issues, including slow speeds and connection problems. These issues, which I shared, became frustrating for teams during busy periods when quick access to the system is crucial for smooth operations.

What I dislike about Restroworks Restaurant POS:

• Inventory tracking requires me to manually enter, which can lead to errors or delays, especially in high-volume settings. This can cause discrepancies during busy times, which is frustrating when managing a fast-paced restaurant.
• Customer support response times are slow, and the level of assistance is often limited. I encountered this issue when dealing with technical problems, which needed quick resolution but were delayed due to the slow support.

What G2 users dislike about Restroworks Restaurant POS:

“One thing I didn't like about the system is how reports are delivered. Instead of all reports being attached in a single email, they come separately—one email for each report. If I need 10 to 12 reports, I receive 10 to 12 different emails, which isn't efficient. All the reports should be bundled into one email.”

- Restroworks Restaurant POS Review, Shrinivas M.

6. Owner.com

While testing Owner.com, one feature that stood out to me was its advanced reservation management tool. This tool allows restaurants to manage reservations and optimize seating arrangements in real time, minimizing wait times and maximizing table turnover.

I could easily track guest preferences and special requests, allowing restaurants to offer a personalized experience and improve customer satisfaction. This would especially benefit high-traffic restaurants or those focused on enhancing customer service.

Another impressive aspect is the integrated marketing tools. Owner.com offers email marketing that helps restaurants engage with customers and encourage repeat visits.

It helped me establish a loyalty program and send targeted promotions based on customer behavior, such as birthday discounts or personalized offers, which can help restaurants boost customer retention.

One challenge I faced was the platform's limited integration with third-party delivery services. While Owner.com handles direct online orders effectively, integrating with popular delivery platforms like Uber Eats or DoorDash isn’t as seamless, requiring extra steps that can slow down operations.

Another downside I’ve noticed is the lack of an intuitive menu management feature. While the system provides basic tracking, it would really benefit from more advanced tools, such as supplier integration, to help reduce the risk of running out of key ingredients.

What I dislike about Owner.com:

• I found the platform's limited integration with third-party delivery services challenging. While it handles direct online orders well, the extra steps required for services like Uber Eats or DoorDash can slow down operations.
• I found the menu management features to be a bit basic. Adding advanced tools, like supplier integration, would make it much easier to track inventory and avoid running out of key ingredients.

What G2 users dislike about Owner.com:

“Updating the menu is a bit more complicated compared to the previous platform we used. Additionally, retrieving old receipts and updating customer information in the contact area is not as simple, which can be frustrating.”

- Owner.com Review, Tracy E.

7. Tock

After using Tock, one of the standout features for me is its reservation and booking system, which effectively manages both traditional reservations and special events like private dining.

I appreciate Tock’s dynamic pricing functionality, which allows restaurants to adjust prices based on demand, special events, or peak times. This flexibility has been invaluable during high-demand holidays or weekends, allowing teams to optimize revenue by charging more.

Tock’s ability to track guest preferences, dining history, and special requests has been a game-changer. This data-driven approach helps me understand customer data easily and helps restaurants curate a more personalized dining experience for guests. This makes them feel valued and encourages repeat business, which enhances customer loyalty.

Another feature I’ve found incredibly useful is Tock’s integration with order management platforms and its capability to manage deposits or pre-payments for reservations. This has significantly reduced no-shows—a crucial feature for high-end restaurants or those with limited seating.

I also appreciate Tock’s scalability, as it can grow with a business, accommodating everything from small eateries to large, multi-location operations.

However, I found Tock lacking in areas like inventory tracking and staff scheduling. For restaurants seeking an all-in-one system, Tock might fall short, as it requires additional integrations to handle these operational needs.

Additionally, while the interface is sleek, I found it somewhat unintuitive at times. Mastering all its features involves a bit of a learning curve, and a more user-friendly design would make it easier for new users to navigate.

While Tock offers several features, its customization options are limited. I found it challenging to tailor certain functionalities to fit specific operational needs, such as creating highly specific reports or modifying workflows for unique scenarios.

What I dislike about Tock:

• I found Tock lacking in inventory tracking and staff scheduling features. For restaurants looking for an all-in-one solution, this could be a drawback, as additional integrations are needed to cover these operational aspects.
• While the interface looks sleek, I found it somewhat unintuitive at times. There's a noticeable learning curve, and a more user-friendly design would make it much easier for new users to navigate and maximize its features.

What G2 users dislike about Tock:

“While Tock offers many benefits, one challenge we've encountered is its complexity when training new staff. The platform's extensive features and options can overwhelm unfamiliar users, making the learning curve steep. It takes significant time and effort to get new team members up to speed, which can be frustrating.”

- Tock Review, Nicole Y.

8. Connecteam

I’ve found Connecteam to be a highly effective workforce management tool. It offers a range of features tailored specifically for restaurant needs, such as a seamless payroll system and task management tool integration.

What stands out to me is its robust scheduling capabilities, which make it easy to assign tasks, set deadlines, and track progress. One of the biggest advantages I’ve experienced with Connecteam is its ability to automate recurring tasks like inventory checks, equipment maintenance, and cleaning schedules.

With automated tracking, it ensures these tasks are completed on time. I didn’t have to constantly check task statuses—it was all available in one place. This eliminates the need for constant supervision, which can be a game-changer for maintaining operational efficiency and ensuring everything runs smoothly.

The tool also simplifies time tracking. Without needing complex formulas, I could calculate accurate labor costs, which can help restaurants speed up payroll processing.

That said, I didn’t find many advanced analytics features for tracking staff productivity or granular metrics for operational performance. This makes it harder for teams to make truly data-driven decisions.

Although the mobile app is generally user-friendly, I’ve occasionally experienced issues with push notifications. Delayed or undelivered messages can disrupt communication, especially during busy periods, leading to inefficiencies or missed tasks.

While the app is convenient, I’ve also experienced occasional stability issues, like lags or crashes, particularly when switching between features. This can be frustrating for managers who rely on real-time updates to stay on top of operations.

What I dislike about Connecteam:

• I found the analytics features lacking when it comes to tracking staff productivity or detailed operational metrics. This limitation makes it harder to make fully data-driven decisions to optimize restaurant performance.
• Although the mobile app is generally user-friendly, I’ve occasionally had issues with delayed or undelivered push notifications. This can disrupt communication during busy periods, leading to missed tasks or inefficiencies.

What G2 users dislike about Connecteam:

“The one downside is how the software’s pricing is structured. It uses an a la carte model, where you pay for the features you need. However, I often find myself trying to use a feature, only to realize that it’s not included in our current plan. This can be frustrating, especially when I’m in the middle of a task and discover that I can’t complete it without upgrading and paying more.”

- Connecteam Review, Alex N.

9. Lavu

One of the most innovative aspects for me is Lavu’s built-in menu engineering tool. This feature provides detailed analytics on menu performance, such as identifying best-sellers and high-margin items. It’s been a game-changer in helping me understand data and restaurants make data-driven decisions about menu design and optimizing offerings for profitability.

Another aspect I appreciate is Lavu’s offline functionality. Even during internet outages, I can access the tool, and operations continue smoothly as orders and payments are stored locally and automatically synced once the connection is restored. This reliability can be a lifesaver, especially in areas with spotty internet service or during unexpected disruptions.

For chain restaurants, multi-location support is incredibly useful. It allows me to view all branches from a central dashboard, which makes it easier for teams to standardize operations and monitor performance across sites. Its tip pooling feature is another standout—it simplifies dividing tips among staff based on hours worked or sales performance. This reduces manual calculations and ensures fairness, fostering a positive work environment.

One of the main issues is the delayed updates. I’ve often had to wait longer than expected for software updates, which can be frustrating when new features or bug fixes are promised but aren’t delivered on time. For example, I had to wait several weeks for a minor update essential for smoother menu management, which delayed the restaurant’s ability to make necessary changes in the system.

Billing issues have also been a problem. On multiple occasions, I noticed discrepancies in charges, and when I contacted customer support for clarification, the responses were either slow or unhelpful.

Finally, system glitches have been a concern. At times, I’ve experienced that the software freezes or experiences lag, especially when processing high volumes of orders during peak hours. This can cause delays and impact overall efficiency during busy periods.

What I dislike about Lavu:

• One major drawback I’ve experienced with Lavu is the delayed updates. I’ve often had to wait longer than expected for software updates, which has sometimes delayed necessary changes and caused frustration.
• Billing discrepancies have been another issue for me. I’ve noticed discrepancies in charges, and when I reached out to customer support, the responses were either slow or unhelpful, which has been frustrating.

What G2 users dislike about Lavu:

"I've been using Lavu for over 8 years, and one area that hasn't improved is the inventory management section. Additionally, there's limited documentation on APIs, making it difficult to integrate Lavu with other apps like Quickbooks, Xero, and Menu Drive. The current guide isn’t enough, especially for those who aren’t familiar with APIs.”

- Lavu Review, Murtaza I.

Restaurant management software: frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Q. What types of restaurants can benefit from using restaurant management software?

Restaurant management software can benefit any type of restaurant, whether it's a fast-food joint or a fine-dining establishment. Even food trucks can gain a lot from systems like Flipdish, which can handle orders and customer relationships.

Q. Which POS system is best for restaurants?

The best POS system for restaurants depends on the size and type of the establishment. Toast is recommended for its robust features, including advanced reporting, employee management, and easy online ordering integration.

Q. Which is the best free restaurant management software?

Epicbase is a great option for free restaurant management software, offering essential features like table management, order tracking, and reporting. Explore more free restaurant management solutions. 

Q. Which software is best for restaurant billing?

Restroworks Restaurant POS is a great option for restaurant billing. It integrates well with your POS system, allowing efficient management of sales, inventory, and customer orders.

Q. Can restaurant management software help with customer engagement?

Yes, restaurant management software can significantly boost customer engagement. Owner.com, Toast, and Tock offer integrated loyalty programs to reward repeat customers. Additionally, software that integrates with social media or enables direct communication with customers enhances their overall experience.

Serving solutions, no reservations required

 After thoroughly testing the top restaurant management tools, I've found that each offers unique features suited for different needs. 

Whether you're looking for streamlined scheduling, inventory management, or point-of-sale integration, there's a solution out there that fits your restaurant's requirements. 

My advice? Start by identifying your restaurant's specific pain points—whether it's managing a busy front line or simplifying back-end processes—and choose a tool that addresses those needs.

Looking to streamline tip allocation at your restaurant? Explore the best tip distribution software.