How to Set Up Online Ordering
From choosing a platform to your first order. Everything you need to launch online ordering that works.
20 min read
Updated Jan 1, 2026
3,800 words
Table of Contents
Why Online Ordering is Essential in 2026
Step 1: Choose Your Online Ordering Platform
Step 2: Prepare Your Online Menu
Step 3: Integrate with Your POS
Step 4: Configure Delivery
Step 5: Train Your Staff
Step 6: Launch and Market
TL;DR - Quick Summary
Setting up online ordering involves choosing a platform (commission-based vs. commission-free), preparing your menu, integrating with your POS, training staff, and marketing to customers. The entire process takes 1-2 weeks.
Why Online Ordering is Essential in 2026
Online ordering isn't optional anymore—it's expected.
Customer Expectations:
- 70% of customers prefer ordering online vs. calling
- 60% order from restaurants with their own online ordering
- Customers spend 20% more on online orders than phone orders
Business Impact:
- Online ordering captures the customer who will not phone in, and stays open when your phone line is busy
- Direct online ordering saves 15-30% vs. third-party apps
- Customer data from online orders drives repeat business
Step 1: Choose Your Online Ordering Platform
The platform you choose determines your costs, capabilities, and customer experience.
Types of Platforms
Third-Party Marketplaces (DoorDash, UberEats) Pros: Built-in customer base, no setup required Cons: 15-30% commission, no customer data
Commission-Free Platforms (RestauNax, ChowNow) Pros: No commission, own customer data, branded experience Cons: Monthly fee, requires customer migration
Cost Comparison (100 orders/week at $35 avg):
| Platform Type | Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| DoorDash (30%) | $54,600 |
| Commission-Free | $1,800-3,600 |
Step 3: Integrate with Your POS
POS integration prevents double entry and reduces errors.
Integration Options:
- Direct Integration: Orders flow directly into POS
- Tablet + Manual Entry: Separate tablet, staff enters orders
- Middleware: Services that connect multiple platforms
Common Integrations:
- Toast, Square, Clover, Lightspeed all have integration options
- Timeline: 1-5 days depending on POS
Step 4: Configure Delivery
Decide how you'll handle delivery logistics.
Options:
| Option | Best For |
|---|---|
| In-House Drivers | High-volume, consistent demand |
| Third-Party Network | Variable demand, testing delivery |
| Pickup Only | Fast-casual, urban locations |
Zone Strategy:
| Zone | Distance | Delivery Fee | Min Order |
|---|---|---|---|
| Priority | 0-2 mi | $3.99 | $15 |
| Standard | 2-4 mi | $5.99 | $25 |
| Extended | 4-6 mi | $7.99 | $35 |
Step 5: Train Your Staff
Smooth operations require trained staff.
Front of House:
- Checking order queue regularly
- Handling customer pickup
- Managing driver handoffs
- Answering questions
Kitchen:
- Reading online order tickets
- Packaging for delivery
- Quality checking before handoff
Pro Tip: Designate an "online order champion" for each shift.
Step 6: Launch and Market
Build it and they will NOT come. You need to actively promote.
Soft Launch Strategy:
- Week 1: Friends & family testing
- Week 2: Staff and regulars
- Week 3: Quiet public launch
- Week 4: Full marketing push
Marketing Tactics:
| Channel | Cost per Customer |
|---|---|
| In-store table tent | $0.05 |
| Email campaign | $0.25 |
| DoorDash commission | $8-10 |
Your own marketing is 20x cheaper than app commissions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to set up online ordering?
Most platforms can have you live in 1-2 weeks. This includes platform selection, menu preparation, POS integration, testing, and staff training.
Do I need professional photos for every menu item?
While professional photos are ideal, smartphone photos in good lighting work well. Items with photos sell 30% more. Start with your top 10 sellers.
Should I use a third-party app or my own system?
For long-term profitability, your own system is better. Commission-free platforms save 15-30% on every order. Many restaurants use both: apps for discovery, their own system for repeat customers.
How do I get customers to switch from apps to my site?
Incentivize with discounts (10-15% off first order), exclusive menu items, and loyalty rewards. Include QR code cards in all app orders.
What if my POS doesn't integrate?
Use tablet-based systems alongside your POS, middleware services, or consider upgrading your POS. Many restaurants successfully operate with tablet + manual entry.
About the Author
RestauNax Team
RestauNax
We build RestauNax — an all-in-one platform that gives independent restaurants their own POS, website, mobile app, online ordering, delivery, loyalty and AI tools for a flat $99/month with zero commission. We write about what we learn building it: what third-party delivery actually costs, how restaurant tech really works, and how to keep more of what you earn.
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