Ask suppliers to demonstrate a table opening, menu modifier, course firing, kitchen change, split bill and final reconciliation, with the same number of staff and devices you use in service.
Run a complete service in the demo
Start with a booking or walk-in. Open a table, move it, add a modifier and send the order to the correct kitchen printer or kitchen display. Then cancel an item, split the bill between two payment methods and close the table. If staff use handheld devices, repeat the flow away from the fixed terminal.
Ask how kitchen tickets are grouped, whether courses can be held and released, and how a changed order is shown to the kitchen. A claim of “kitchen integration” may cover a printer but not the display or routing you need.
Budget for the whole dining-room setup
Count every terminal, handheld, card reader, kitchen screen or printer and receipt printer. Request separate prices for table management, online ordering, reservations, training and support. Ask whether the monthly charge changes if you add a second site or seasonal terminal.
Integrated payments can simplify reconciliation, but compare card fees and settlement timing. A restaurant taking deposits or online payments should confirm the rate for each channel, not assume the in-person rate applies everywhere.
Questions that expose operational gaps
- What happens to orders and card payments when the broadband fails?
- Who answers support calls during evening and weekend service?
- Can we export sales and VAT reports in a format our accountant can use?
- Does the kitchen display or printer continue if one device goes offline?
- How are tips, service charges and refunds represented in the end-of-day report?
EPOS Direct and Epos Now both publish restaurant-focused information. Read the supplier material, but validate every promised capability in a demo and contract before buying.
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Build your briefSource and further reading
EPOS Direct describes its own products; check current features, offers and terms before buying.
Providers are illustrative market examples, not a paid ranking, confirmed partner roster or product test. Check demonstrations, pricing and contract terms with each supplier.