Toolkit

10 best multichannel softwares for restaurants

Mar 11, 2025 | 16 min read

Written by: Autumn Dube

Table of contents

Running a modern day restaurant means managing orders from what feels like a million different places at once. Customers order through your website, in person, over the phone, on kiosks, and through delivery marketplaces like DoorDash and Uber Eats, simultaneously. Keeping track of all these orders without the right system can become overwhelming. 

That's where multichannel software for restaurants comes in. Multichannel platforms gather all your orders together in one place, making your life easier and your customers happier. Gone are the days of frantically switching between tablets and screens – with multichannel listing software, you can manage all your orders from a single dashboard.

As industry leaders who have helped thousands of restaurants streamline their workflows with our all-in-one POS system, Otter knows what you need to consider when deciding on multichannel order management software. In this post, we’ll go over the following:

  • What multichannel software is and why it matters
  • The top 10 multichannel business solutions for restaurants
  • How to choose the right system for your needs
  • The key benefits of using multichannel software
  • Why Otter stands out from the competition

Ready to stop the order chaos and experience more stress-free days? Let's do it.

What is multichannel software for restaurants?

Imagine having an assistant on-call at all times who manages every order and organizes them into one list. Except the assistant is a software, and the list is your restaurant’s all-in-onePOS system. Even if orders are coming in at the same time in person, on the phone, on your website, and through delivery retailers, a good software will streamline all the information you need to get the order ready quickly.

How does multichannel software work?

An advanced multichannel listing platform will connect the following for easy organization:

  • In-house POS system
  • Online ordering website
  • Third-party delivery apps (Uber Eats, DoorDash, Grubhub)
  • Takeout and curbside pickup
  • Self-service kiosks

The moment an order comes in from any of these sources, multichannel ecommerce software will add it to your queue instantly. This flow of orders syncing into one system helps to eliminate order errors, decrease wait time, and effectively eliminate the confusion that comes with managing multiple tablets and systems.

Top 10 multichannel software solutions for restaurants

Here are the top 10 multichannel software solutions restaurant owners and managers trust to manage their orders, menus, and sales across multiple channels.

Note: The following ratings are based on a comprehensive analysis of user reviews from G2, Capterra, and TrustRadius, combined with restaurant owner satisfaction surveys conducted by Restaurant Technology Network, and feature evaluation by restaurant tech experts at RestaurantTechInsider as of January 2025.

1. Otter

Overview: Otter is a complete multichannelorder management system built specifically for restaurants. It's ideal for both single-location restaurants and multi-location chains looking to streamline and grow their delivery and takeout operations.

Reason for inclusion: As the industry leader in multichannel management, Otter offers a purpose-built platform that addresses the unique challenges restaurants face when managing orders from multiple sources. Otter was created solely for restaurants which is why more and more businesses are switching to their all-in-one system.

Pros:

  • Lowest POS processing fees in the industry (see below)
  • Seamlessly integrates with all major delivery platforms (Uber Eats, DoorDash, Grubhub, and more)
  • Modern, user-friendly dashboard that consolidates all orders in one place
  • Real-time menu management and item editing across all platforms
  • Detailed analytics, AI marketing tools, and solutions-based reporting features
  • Reliable and accessible, 24/7 customer support team
  • Restaurant-grade hardware and software that’s built to last 
  • Built-in payment processing

Cons:

  • Platform focuses on digital services, with few tools for physical menus
  • Basic functionality for staff management

Pricing: Multiple pricing tiers based on restaurant needs starting at US$19 per month. The next tier is $59 per month with 2.39% + 15¢ per transaction.

Unique features: Otter's AutoAccept technology automatically confirms orders so no order is missed, and its direct POS integration eliminates the need for manual order entry.

Overall Rating: 9.5/10 – The most comprehensive multichannel management software designed exclusively for restaurants.

2. Toast POS

Overview: Toast is a popular restaurant POS system that has expanded to include multichannel order management capabilities. It works well for full-service restaurants that prioritize in-house dining but want to expand their delivery and takeout operations.

Reason for inclusion: A well-known name in the industry, Toast offers a solid solution with strong in-house POS features and growing multichannel capabilities.

Pros:

  • Strong integration between POS and online ordering
  • Good inventory management features 
  • Built-in payment processing
  • Tableside ordering options

Cons:

  • Less specialized for delivery management than dedicated multichannel platforms
  • Limited third-party integration options

Pricing: Starting at $69/month per location, plus payment processing fees.

Unique features: Toast offers a comprehensive suite of restaurant management tools including payroll and team management.

Overall Rating: 8/10 – Great for restaurants focused primarily on dine-in with some delivery needs.

3. Square

Overview: Square is a versatile POS system with multichannel selling capabilities that’s good for small businesses to medium-sized restaurants, cafes, and food trucks.

Reason for inclusion: Square serves as an accessible entry point for restaurants just beginning to expand into multichannel sales.

Pros:

  • Easy to set up and use
  • Affordable starting price
  • Built-in payment processing
  • Good basic reporting features

Cons:

  • Limited advanced features compared to specialized solutions
  • Third-party delivery integrations less comprehensive
  • Adding features becomes expensive 

Pricing: Monthly fees start at $60 per location, plus 2.6% + 10¢ per transaction.

Unique features: Square's system includes marketing optimization tools, customer loyalty programs, and an integrated online ordering site.

Overall rating: 7.5/10 – Best for smaller operations with straightforward multichannel needs.

4. Chowly

Overview: Chowly specializes in integrating third-party delivery platforms with existing restaurant POS systems, ideal for restaurants with a preexisting POS looking to add delivery management.

Reason for inclusion: Chowly fills an important niche for restaurants that like their current POS system but want to improve their multichannel order management.

Pros:

  • Works with most major POS systems
  • Eliminates the need for tablets from multiple delivery services
  • Reduces order entry errors
  • Intuitive tablet-based interface

Cons:

  • Not a complete POS solution on its own
  • Limited inventory management features
  • Fewer analytics compared to comprehensive platforms

Pricing: Starting around $99/month per location, with additional fees based on order volume.

Unique features: Chowly offers menu management across multiple delivery platforms from a single dashboard.

Overall rating: 8/10 – Excellent choice for restaurants with an existing POS looking to integrate delivery platforms.

5. Deliverect

Overview: Deliverect is a global multichannel order management system that helps restaurants manage online orders and delivery services. It's suitable for restaurants of all sizes with a strong focus on delivery operations.

Reason for inclusion: It offers a robust international support network, ideal for restaurants operating in multiple countries.

Pros:

  • Extensive integration options with global delivery platforms
  • Notable menu synchronization features
  • Multilingual support

Cons:

  • Interface can be complex for new users
  • Pricing on the higher side
  • Advanced features may require technical setup

Pricing: Starting at approximately $89/month per location, with customized pricing for larger operations available.

Unique features: Menu management tools allow for easy, simultaneous updates across all connected platforms.

Overall rating: 8/10 – Restaurants with international locations can benefit from Deliverect’s global system.

6. MarketMan

Overview: MarketMan combines multichannel inventory management with order processing, making it excellent for restaurants that want to closely track inventory across all sales channels.

Reason for inclusion: MarketMan stands out for its inventory-focused approach to multichannel management.

Pros:

  • Exceptional inventory tracking and management
  • Vendor management and ordering features
  • Recipe costing and menu engineering tools
  • Good reporting capabilities

Cons:

  • Less focused on customer-facing features
  • More complex to set up initially
  • Limited marketing tools

Pricing: Starting at $99/month per location.

Unique features: Real-time inventory updates based on sales across all channels helps prevent stockouts and over-ordering.

Overall rating: 7.5/10 – Best for restaurants focused on inventory management across channels.

7. CAKE

Overview: CAKE offers a multichannel solution with strong POS features and growing online ordering capabilities, making it suitable for medium-sized restaurants balancing in-house and takeout operations.

Reason for inclusion: CAKE provides solid hardware options with a growing suite of multichannel features.

Pros:

  • Reliable hardware designed for restaurant environments
  • Solid table management features
  • Built-in online ordering options
  • Reasonable pricing structure

Cons:

  • Fewer third-party delivery integrations than specialized platforms
  • Limited customization options
  • Basic reporting compared to more advanced systems

Pricing: Starting at $69/month for software, plus hardware costs.

Unique features: CAKE offers guest management features that work across both in-house and takeout operations.

Overall rating: 7/10 – Good option for restaurants focused primarily on dine-in with growing takeout needs.

8. Cuboh

Overview: Cuboh focuses specifically on virtual restaurants and ghost kitchens, offering a streamlined multichannel order management system for delivery-only operations.

Reason for inclusion: Cuboh addresses the unique needs of a fast-growing virtual restaurant segment.

Pros:

  • Built for delivery-only operations
  • Integrates with most major delivery platforms
  • Simple, focused interface
  • Good order routing features

Cons:

  • Not suited for traditional dine-in restaurants
  • Limited inventory management features
  • Fewer POS integration options

Pricing: Starting at $149/month per location.

Unique features: Cuboh's kitchen display system is optimized for high-volume delivery operations.

Overall rating: 8/10 – Excellent for ghost kitchens and virtual restaurants.

9. ItsaCheckmate

Overview: ItsaCheckmate specializes in integrating delivery services with existing POS systems, making it ideal for restaurants with established operations looking to streamline their delivery management.

Reason for inclusion: ItsaCheckmate offers strong POS integration capabilities for restaurants with complex existing systems.

Pros:

  • Works with over 50 POS systems
  • Integrates with all major delivery platforms
  • Menu synchronization across platforms
  • Reduces order entry errors

Cons:

  • Not a complete POS solution
  • Limited inventory features
  • Basic reporting capabilities

Pricing: Pricing rules based on restaurant size and order volume.

Unique features: ItsaCheckmate offers AI-powered menu mapping to ensure consistency across all platforms.

Overall rating: 7.5/10 – Strong choice for restaurants with complex existing POS needs.

10. Lunchbox

Overview: Lunchbox offers a multichannel platform focused on helping restaurants build their own direct ordering channels while also managing third-party deliveries. It's ideal for restaurants looking to reduce dependency on delivery apps.

Reason for inclusion: Lunchbox takes a unique approach by helping restaurants build their own ordering channels while still managing third-party order fulfillment.

Pros:

  • Helps build branded ordering experiences
  • Reduces commission fees from third-party platforms
  • Strong marketing tools included
  • Good loyalty program features

Cons:

  • Higher upfront investment
  • More complex to implement
  • Less focused on in-house dining

Pricing: Starting at $199/month for basic features, with custom pricing for larger operations.

Unique features: Lunchbox's marketing tools help restaurants convert third-party customers to direct ordering customers.

Overall rating: 8/10 – Excellent for restaurants looking to build their own digital presence while managing multiple channels.

How to choose the best multichannel software for your restaurant

With so many options available, finding the right multichannel software for your restaurant can feel difficult and sometimes lead to settling for what you currently have. However, it’s critical for your business to invest in modern tech that has the capability to grow alongside your business.

Here's a simple step-by-step guide to help you make the best choice for your business.

Step #1: Define your specific needs

The following questions will help you identify what your restaurant really needs.

  • What channels do you use? In-house dining, website orders, phone calls, third-party delivery apps, kiosks, etc.
  • What are your biggest pain points? Order errors, inventory problems, slow service, managing multiple tablets
  • What volume of orders do you handle? Small, medium, or large
  • Do you need special features? Menu customization, customer experience and relationship management, detailed reporting

Be honest about your challenges. Are you losing orders? Struggling with stock levels? Finding it hard to manage delivery timing? The right software should solve your specific problems.

Step #2: Consider scalability

Are you planning to expand in the future? The best multichannel software grows with your business. Identify the best system for your restaurant by finding out the following:

  • Will this software still work if you open more locations?
  • Can it handle a significant increase in order volume?
  • Is it easy to add new delivery platforms or sales channels?
  • Is it intuitive enough for staff to understand as you add features?
  • Does the platform offer support to help you keep business running smoothly?

Step #3: Look for integration options

Multichannel software needs to integrate as seamlessly as possible with pre-existing tools. Be sure it’s compatible with:

  • Your current POS system (if you want to keep it)
  • Delivery platforms including UberEats, DoorDash, Grubhub, etc.
  • Any accounting software
  • Loyalty programs and AI marketing tools
  • Inventory management systems

Discover how Otter's Order Manager integrates with all your existing systems.

Step #4: Understand the pricing structure

Many options claim they have a free trial or low monthly fee, but it’s very important to ask about the entire pricing structure from the beginning. Otter does not believe in hidden fees, and promises transparent pricing. Multichannel software pricing can be complicated depending on the provider, so get clear on things like: 

  • Monthly subscription fees
  • Per-transaction charges
  • Hardware costs
  • Installation fees
  • Training costs
  • Support fees

If a system seems notably cheaper than the industry average, there’s a chance it might cost more in the long run with hidden fees. Ask for a complete breakdown of all costs over a one-year period.

Step #5: Read customer reviews and case studies

Look for feedback from restaurants similar to yours by:

  • Checking testimonials and online reviews 
  • Asking for references from the software company
  • Looking for case studies on their website
  • Joining restaurant owner groups and asking for recommendations

Pay special attention to comments about customer support quality. When you have a problem during a busy service, immediate assistance is critical.

Step #6: Test before you commit

Many multichannel software companies offer free trials, live demonstrations, or virtual software tours before you need to make a commitment. Have your staff try it too, since they're the ones who will use it every day! Ask about Otter’s free demo offering.

Taking these steps will help you to find an ideal multichannel software that truly fits your restaurant's needs, making operations smoother and boosting your bottom line.

Managing multiple sales channels shouldn’t be complicated. With Otter, you can effortlessly centralize orders, sync with your POS, automate inventory tracking, and boost customer satisfaction—all from a single platform.

Why restaurants choose Otter

Despite the many multichannel software options available, Otter stands out as the first choice for today’s innovative restaurants. Here's why restaurant owners around the globe –– and in your neighborhood –– trust Otter with their multichannel management:

Purpose-built for restaurant success

Unlike generic business software adapted for restaurants, Otter was created exclusively for the restaurant industry. Every feature addresses the specific challenges restaurants face when managing multiple ordering channels.

The team behind Otter has deep restaurant industry experience. We truly understand what it means to run a kitchen during rush hour, the importance of delivery timing, and why it’s crucial to manage inventory levels efficiently across multiple platforms.

All-in-one restaurant platform

Otter provides everything you need in one comprehensive system:

  • Order management: Consolidate orders from all sources into one streamlined system
  • Menu synchronization: Update your menu once and see changes across all platforms
  • Delivery integration: Connect with all major delivery services through one tablet
  • POS integration: Seamlessly connect with your existing POS system
  • Inventory tracking: Automatically update inventory as orders come in and avoid overselling
  • Reporting and analytics: Receive actionable insights and real-time product data
  • Integrations: Keep existing patterns and expand your reach with 100+ integrations

With Otter’s all-in-one approach, you’ll no longer need to piece together multiple systems or worry about system compatibility. Plus, your team will love it too.

Works for all restaurant types, especially delivery-first

Whether you run a food truck, neighborhood café, fast casual restaurant, or multi-location chain, Otter can scale to meet your needs.

  • Small operations can streamline delivery and takeout with our straight-forward, intuitive system
  • Mid-size restaurants can balance in-house and delivery orders efficiently
  • Large chains maintain consistency across all locations while gathering valuable data
  • Ghost kitchens are able to manage multiple virtual brands from one kitchen
  • Food trucks can track inventory and orders regardless of space and staff

No matter your size or concept, Otter provides the tools you need to thrive in today's competitive market.

Proven results with Otter

How has Otter helped restaurant owners? Check out some customer reviews before you book a demo with us:

Otter allows me to manage everything from one system – we can do menu and pricing updates, online ordering management, in-store order entry through the POS, Kiosk ordering. All from Otter.” Reda Iabbakh, Owner, IDK Philly 

Otter makes everything easier. You just need the one tablet instead of having four or five. I’m saving time and money, getting more deliveries, and my employees are happier. I was one of the naysayers for a long time. Now, I don’t know how I could run my business without it.” Dave Goodhart, Owner, Mustard’s Last Stand

We love having everything in one tablet with Otter, it’s a huge time-saver. It automatically prints orders in the kitchen, so we can avoid missed orders and penalties. This automation has significantly smoothed our operations and supported our staff during peak times.” Ali & Sid, Owners, Yemen Cafe

Frequently asked questions

How does multichannel software help increase restaurant sales?

Multichannel software boosts your restaurant's revenue in several clear ways:

  • Eliminates missed orders – By centralizing all platforms into one system, orders don't slip through the cracks during peak hours
  • Expands your customer reach – Integration with multiple delivery platforms puts your restaurant in front of more potential customers 
  • Enables smarter marketing – Collect customer data across all channels to create targeted promotions and foster loyalty
  • Automates upselling – The system can suggest add-ons or upgrades during digital checkout , increasing your average order value
  • Increases operational capacity – With streamlined processes, your team can handle more orders during the rush without getting overwhelmed

Is it difficult to set up multichannel software in my restaurant?

Not at all! Most providers, including Otter, offer an easy setup process with step-by-step guidance. Integration with existing platforms usually takes a few hours to a day, and training is minimal thanks to intuitive dashboards and automation features. Otter also has 24/7 customer support and is known for their seamless onboarding.

How does multichannel software improve order accuracy?

Multichannel software eliminates manual data entry by automatically syncing orders from all platforms directly to your POS system. This removes opportunities for human error when transferring orders, ensuring special instructions and modifications are communicated exactly as customers entered them. The result: fewer mistakes, faster service, and satisfied customers who get exactly what they ordered.

Can I manage multiple restaurant locations with one software?

Yes! Multichannel restaurant software supports multi-location management, allowing owners to track sales, inventory, and customer data across different branches from one dashboard. Otter offers a centralized view of all restaurant operations, making expansion easier. They work with both midscale and enterprise franchises across the globe.

Does Otter support delivery and takeout management?

Yes! Otter helps streamline delivery and takeout orders by integrating with Uber Eats, DoorDash, Grubhub, and more. It ensures that all orders are consolidated into one system, eliminating the need for multiple tablets and reducing order confusion.

What is the cost of using Otter?

Otter offers flexible plans with transparent pricing and no hidden fees. Chat with a team member today to choose the best option for your business. See more pricing details here.

Book a demo with Otter

It’s time to enhance your operations with Otter’s all-in-one restaurant platform. Book time with our sales team to learn more.

Mar 11, 2025