8 best restaurant POS software systems of 2025

Running a successful restaurant is about more than great food—efficient operations are just as important. A reliable POS (point of sale) system streamlines orders, manages inventory, and improves customer experiences. But with so many options, finding the right fit can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve curated a list of the best restaurant POS software systems. Whether you’re a small café or a busy chain, these tools will help you save time, reduce errors, and grow your business.

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What is a restaurant POS system?

A POS (point of sale) system is the technology businesses use to process transactions and manage sales. For restaurants, a POS system typically includes hardware like touchscreens, card readers, and receipt printers, along with software to handle orders, payments, and inventory tracking. Modern POS systems often integrate with other tools, such as kitchen displays, delivery platforms, and customer loyalty programs, making them essential for streamlining operations and enhancing the dining experience.

POS systems can also integrate with security camera systems like Solink to provide an added layer of protection and insight for restaurant operations. This integration links transaction data with video footage, making it easy to review discrepancies, prevent theft, and resolve disputes. For example, if a refund or voided transaction seems suspicious, you can instantly match the POS data with video evidence. This connection not only improves security but also helps streamline operations by identifying inefficiencies and improving accountability.

What are the different types of POS systems?

Here are the main types of POS systems:

Cloud-based POS systems

Operate online and store data in the cloud.
Accessible from anywhere with an internet connection.

On-premise POS systems

Installed locally on servers or devices at the business location.
No internet required, but limited remote access.

Mobile POS systems (mPOS)

Run on smartphones or tablets.
Ideal for food trucks, pop-ups, or tableside service.

All-in-one POS systems

Combine hardware and software into a single device.
Sleek design and simple setup for small businesses.

Self-service POS systems

Kiosks or touchscreens for customers to place orders and pay.
Popular in fast-food or quick-service restaurants.

Open-source POS systems

Customizable software for businesses with specific needs.
Requires technical expertise to implement and maintain.

Industry-specific POS systems

Tailored for restaurants, retail, salons, and other industries.
Offers features specific to each business type, like table management for restaurants.

Hybrid POS systems

Combines cloud and on-premise functionalities.
Operates offline but syncs data to the cloud when reconnected.

Each type serves unique business needs, so selecting the right one depends on your restaurant’s size, budget, and operational requirements.

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Best way to choose a restaurant POS system

Choosing the right POS system starts with understanding your restaurant’s specific needs. Start by evaluating your current challenges—are you struggling with order accuracy, inventory management, or payment processing? A good POS system should solve those problems while offering room for growth.

Here’s a simple guide to finding the best fit:

Identify must-have features Look for tools like inventory tracking, employee management, and security integrations, such as Solink’s video monitoring.
Consider your business type Quick-service, fine dining, and multi-location chains each have unique requirements. Ensure the POS is designed for your restaurant type.
Test usability The system should be intuitive for staff to use. A confusing interface can lead to slow service and errors.
Evaluate costs Compare upfront costs, subscription fees, and potential ROI. Balance affordability with functionality.
Check for integrations Seamless connections with delivery platforms, loyalty programs, and security tools can streamline your operations.
Read reviews and get demos Research user experiences and request a demo to see the system in action.

The right POS system should simplify daily operations, improve efficiency, and give you greater control over your business. Take the time to choose wisely, and the results will pay off.

Integrating your restaurant POS system with Solink

As a cloud video management system, Solink provides restaurants with innovative features that enhance security and operational insights. By connecting your POS system with Solink, you unlock powerful tools to protect your business and streamline processes.

Here’s what Solink offers:

Link transactions to video footage
Instantly match POS transactions with corresponding video footage to review refunds, voids, or discounts. Quickly verify activity and address discrepancies.
Automated notifications and flagging
Get alerts for suspicious activities, like high-value refunds, discounts, or after-hours transactions. Solink helps you take action before issues escalate.
Searchable insights
Use advanced search tools to locate specific events by time, date, or transaction details. Save time by narrowing down footage in seconds.
Employee accountability
Monitor staff interactions with customers, cash handling, and adherence to policies. Improve training and ensure compliance.
Loss prevention
Identify patterns of theft or fraud by connecting sales data with video. Prevent losses and enhance trust within your team.

The 8 best POS software systems for restaurants

Toast POS

Best for: Restaurants needing durable hardware and mobile payment options.

Toast is a versatile POS system built specifically for restaurants, offering features that make running a busy establishment easier:

Handheld devices for tableside ordering and payments, ensuring faster service and better guest feedback collection.
Spill-resistant hardware designed to withstand the challenges of a fast-paced restaurant environment.
Delivery integrations that connect directly with platforms like DoorDash and Uber Eats, streamlining off-premise sales.
Smart menu management that allows updates from any device and tracks inventory in real time, reducing waste and improving efficiency.

Lightspeed

Best for: Restaurants looking for robust reporting and multi-location management.

Lightspeed is a powerful POS system ideal for restaurants that value detailed analytics and streamlined operations. It offers features designed to enhance efficiency and profitability:

Comprehensive reporting tools that provide in-depth insights into sales, staff performance, and inventory trends.
Multi-location management for seamless coordination between different branches, perfect for growing restaurant groups.
Customizable menus that allow you to make real-time updates across all locations or tailor offerings for each site.
Integrated payment processing that simplifies transactions and reduces errors with options for tableside payments.
Third-party integrations with platforms like accounting software, delivery services, and reservation tools to centralize operations.

Clover

Best for: Small to mid-sized restaurants wanting flexibility and user-friendly hardware.

Clover is a highly customizable POS system offering easy-to-use hardware and software, perfect for restaurants looking for a scalable solution. Its standout features include:

Modular hardware options like portable card readers, countertop stations, and handheld devices, allowing you to design a setup that fits your needs.
Built-in payment processing for seamless transactions, with support for all major payment methods, including contactless options.
Inventory management tools to track stock levels, automate low-stock alerts, and streamline ordering.
Customer loyalty programs that help you engage with diners through discounts, rewards, and promotions.
Third-party app marketplace with integrations for delivery platforms, accounting software, and marketing tools.

NCR Voyix

Best for: Established restaurants seeking enterprise-grade features and reliability.

NCR Voyix is a robust POS system built for restaurants that need advanced capabilities to manage complex operations. Its enterprise-focused tools make it ideal for multi-location businesses and high-volume establishments. Key features include:

Enterprise-grade reporting for deep insights into sales, customer behavior, and operational performance across multiple locations.
Customizable workflows to streamline everything from order entry to kitchen operations, improving efficiency and reducing errors.
Cloud-based infrastructure that ensures data accessibility and real-time updates from any device.
Integrated payment processing with options for contactless, mobile, and traditional payment methods.
Loyalty and marketing tools to attract and retain customers through personalized offers and promotions.

Lavu

Best for: Small restaurants and cafes needing an affordable, mobile-first POS system.

Lavu is a user-friendly POS system designed with small to mid-sized restaurants in mind. It’s known for its affordability, ease of use, and mobile-focused functionality. Key features include:

iPad-based system that offers portability and convenience for tableside ordering and payment processing.
Customizable menu management with real-time updates, making it easy to adjust pricing, add seasonal items, or mark items as out of stock.
Inventory tracking that alerts you when supplies run low and helps reduce food waste.
Built-in payment processing with support for contactless payments and EMV chip cards.
Third-party integrations with popular tools like QuickBooks, online delivery platforms, and kitchen display systems.

Heartland

Best for: Restaurants and retailers seeking a versatile, all-in-one point-of-sale solution with integrated payment processing.

Heartland POS offers a comprehensive system designed to streamline operations for both the food service and retail industries. Key features include:

Integrated payment processing: Accepts various payment methods, including credit cards, EMV chip cards, and mobile wallets, ensuring secure and efficient transactions.
Inventory management: Real-time tracking of stock levels helps prevent shortages and overstocking, optimizing inventory control.
Customer relationship management (CRM): Tools to manage customer interactions and loyalty programs, enhancing customer engagement and retention.
Employee management: Features for tracking employee hours, managing schedules, and assigning roles, improving workforce efficiency.
Reporting and analytics: Comprehensive reports on sales, inventory, and employee performance support informed decision-making.

Square

Best for: Small restaurants and cafes seeking an affordable, easy-to-use POS system.

Square is a flexible and budget-friendly POS solution ideal for small food service businesses. Known for its simplicity, it offers features that streamline operations without requiring significant technical expertise. Key features include:

Free software: Square’s basic POS software is free and includes features like menu management, order tracking, and payment processing.
Integrated payments: Accepts all major payment types, including chip cards, contactless payments, and mobile wallets, with no separate hardware required.
Inventory tracking: Helps you monitor stock levels, set alerts for low inventory, and maintain better control over supplies.
Online ordering integration: Allows you to create a free online store for takeout and delivery orders that syncs directly with your POS system.
Employee management tools: Tracks hours, roles, and sales performance, helping to simplify team oversight.

FocusPOS

Best for: Restaurants seeking a customizable, feature-rich point-of-sale system to enhance efficiency and profitability.

Focus POS is designed to meet the diverse needs of the hospitality industry, offering tools that streamline operations and improve customer service. Key features include:

Order and pay at the table: Enables guests to place orders and make payments directly from their table, enhancing convenience and turnover rates.
Comprehensive inventory management: Monitors stock levels in real time, helping to prevent shortages and reduce waste.
Customer loyalty programs: Facilitates the creation of rewards and promotions to encourage repeat business and boost customer engagement.
Sales reporting and analysis: Provides detailed insights into sales trends, employee performance, and customer preferences to inform strategic decisions.
User-friendly interface: Features an intuitive touchscreen interface that reduces training time and minimizes errors during service.

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