Think About the Dining Experience: Consider the type of dining experience you want to create for your customers. Are you aiming for a casual, family-friendly atmosphere, or a more upscale, fine dining experience? The ambiance, decor, and service style should align with your concept.
What is Tableside Ordering?
Tableside ordering is an ordering and payment system used in restaurants where customers use technology that is either installed at their table or available through their own mobile devices to browse the menu, place orders, and pay for their meals. This can include point-of-sale devices that wait staff carry around or smartphone-based QR code ordering systems that let customers place orders right away. Tableside ordering aims to increase productivity, expedite service, and improve the overall eating experience for customers.
Types of Tableside Ordering Systems
Tableside ordering systems come in various forms, each offering unique benefits and features. Here are the main types:
Handheld POS Systems: These are handheld devices used by servers to take orders and process payments directly at the table. Handheld POS systems can also offer additional functionalities like sending orders directly to the kitchen, splitting bills, and processing various payment methods.
QR Code Ordering Systems: QR code ordering systems allow guests to scan a QR code on their table or menu using their smartphone. This opens up a digital menu where guests can browse items, place orders, and even pay for their meals. QR code ordering systems reduce the need for physical menus and minimize contact between staff and guests.
Mobile Apps: Some restaurants offer mobile apps that guests can download to their smartphones. These apps provide similar functionality to QR code ordering systems, allowing guests to browse menus, place orders, and pay for their meals from their phones. Mobile apps can also offer loyalty programs and personalized recommendations.
Self-Service Kiosks: While not strictly tableside, self-service kiosks allow guests to place orders and pay for their meals without interacting with a server. Self-service kiosks are often used in fast-food and quick-service restaurants to streamline the ordering process and reduce wait times.
Tabletop Tablets: Some restaurants use tabletop tablets that are installed directly at each table. These tablets allow guests to browse menus, place orders, and request assistance from servers. Tabletop tablets can also offer entertainment options like games or videos, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Benefits of Tableside Ordering
Tableside ordering offers several benefits for both restaurants and guests. Here are some of the key advantages:
Improved Efficiency:
Tableside ordering reduces the time it takes to place orders and process payments, allowing servers to serve more tables in less time. This can lead to faster table turnover and increased revenue for the restaurant.
Enhanced Guest Experience:
Tableside ordering gives guests more control over their dining experience. They can take their time browsing the menu, customize their orders, and pay at their convenience, leading to higher satisfaction levels.
Accurate Orders:
With tableside ordering, there is less room for error in taking orders. Orders are sent directly from the table to the kitchen, reducing the chances of miscommunication between servers and kitchen staff.
Reduced Wait Times:
By streamlining the ordering process, tableside ordering can reduce wait times for guests, leading to a more efficient and pleasant dining experience.
Contactless Ordering and Payment:
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, contactless ordering and payment options have become increasingly important. Tableside ordering allows guests to order and pay without exchanging physical menus, cash, or credit cards, reducing the risk of transmission.
Upselling Opportunities:
Tableside ordering systems can be programmed to suggest additional items or upgrades, leading to increased sales and higher check averages.
Data Collection:
Tableside ordering systems can collect valuable data about guest preferences and ordering habits, which can be used to personalize future experiences and marketing efforts.
How to Implement Tableside Ordering
- Choose the Right Technology: Consider your restaurant's needs and budget when selecting a tableside ordering system.
- Train Your Staff: Ensure your staff is trained on how to use the new technology effectively.
- Test and Refine: Continuously test and refine your tableside ordering process to ensure it is efficient and effective.
Choosing the Right Tableside Ordering System
- Integration: Ensure the system integrates seamlessly with your existing POS system.
- Customer Experience: Consider the ease of use for both guests and staff.
- Cost: Evaluate the cost of implementation and ongoing fees for the system
The Future of Tableside Ordering
Future trends indicate that tableside ordering will likely become even more common as technological developments make it more convenient and economical for restaurants to adopt. Tableside ordering will become a must for businesses hoping to remain competitive as customer expectations continue to change.
Conclusion
With its many advantages for both customers and employees, tableside ordering is revolutionizing the restaurant business. Restaurants may boost revenue, increase efficiency, and improve the customer experience by putting in place the proper tableside ordering system. Tableside ordering will only get easier to use and more essential to the dining experience as technology develops.
