• Admin
• August 29, 2020
• Business

Best Free Online Ordering Systems for Small Businesses in 2025

In 2024, small businesses, especially restaurants, cafes, and food vendors, need an efficient online ordering system to stay competitive. Customers expect the convenience of placing orders online, whether for pickup, delivery, or dine-in services. However, many small business owners worry about the costs of implementing such systems.

The good news? There are free online ordering systems designed to help small businesses streamline orders without hefty fees. This guide highlights the best free online ordering systems for small businesses in 2024, breaking down their features, benefits, and limitations so you can make the right choice.

1. Square Online

Overview:

Square Online offers an easy-to-use, free ordering system that integrates with Square’s POS, making it a great option for restaurants and retailers. It supports pickup, delivery, and even in-person ordering.

Key Features:

• No subscription fees (only payment processing fees apply)

• Syncs with Square POS

• Customizable website for online ordering

• Order scheduling and real-time tracking

• Integration with delivery services

Pros:

✔ No monthly fees ✔ User-friendly setup ✔ Excellent POS integration ✔ Supports multiple ordering options

Cons:

✘ Limited customization in the free version ✘ Delivery features may require third-party services

Best For:

Restaurants, coffee shops, and small retail businesses already using Square POS.

2. Toast POS (Toast Takeout & Delivery)

Overview:

Toast POS offers a free online ordering feature with its platform, ideal for restaurants looking to streamline takeout and delivery services.

Key Features:

• Mobile-friendly online ordering

• Integrated with Toast POS for seamless order management

• Guest engagement tools for promotions and loyalty programs

• Custom branding options

Pros:

✔ Designed specifically for restaurants ✔ No commission fees ✔ Loyalty program features included ✔ Syncs with kitchen operations

Cons:

✘ Limited to businesses using Toast POS ✘ May require paid add-ons for advanced features

Best For:

Restaurants and food vendors looking for a restaurant-specific ordering system with loyalty features.

3. GloriaFood

Overview:

GloriaFood is one of the most popular free online ordering systems for small restaurants, allowing businesses to take online orders without commissions.

Key Features:

• Free online ordering website and mobile-friendly menu

• Supports pickup and delivery

• Customizable order scheduling

• Integration with Facebook ordering

Pros:

✔ Completely free with no commissions ✔ Easy to set up and use ✔ Works with Facebook and social media ✔ Customization options for branding

Cons:

✘ No built-in POS integration (requires third-party tools) ✘ Payment processing is separate

Best For:

Small restaurants and food vendors that need a simple, free ordering system.

4. Flipdish

Overview:

Flipdish provides small businesses with a commission-free online ordering system that enhances brand visibility and customer retention.

Key Features:

• White-label ordering system for a branded experience

• Mobile app integration

• Real-time analytics and reporting

• Loyalty and marketing tools

Pros:

✔ No commission on orders ✔ Custom-branded website and app ✔ Includes loyalty program features ✔ Detailed reporting and analytics

Cons:

✘ Some features require a paid plan ✘ Best suited for food businesses

Best For:

Restaurants and takeout businesses that want a custom-branded ordering experience.

5. ChowNow

Overview:

ChowNow is a commission-free ordering system that enables small businesses to take direct online orders from their website, app, and social media.

Key Features:

• Commission-free online ordering

• Integrates with Instagram and Facebook

• Marketing and loyalty tools

• Customer data ownership

Pros:

✔ No commission fees ✔ Social media integration ✔ Retains customer data for marketing ✔ Custom branding available

Cons:

✘ May require a setup fee for advanced features ✘ Some features are behind a paywall

Best For:

Small restaurants that want social media integration and full control over customer data.

6. OrderUp

Overview:

OrderUp provides an affordable online ordering system with a free basic plan that supports pickup, delivery, and dine-in orders.

Key Features:

• Free basic plan for small businesses

• QR code ordering for in-store customers

• Payment processing included

• Easy website integration

Pros:

✔ Free to start ✔ QR code ordering for touchless dining ✔ Supports multiple ordering methods ✔ Simple integration with websites

Cons:

✘ Some advanced features require a paid upgrade ✘ Best suited for businesses just starting out

Best For:

Small businesses and cafes looking for a free, no-frills ordering system.

How to Choose the Right Free Online Ordering System

When choosing an online ordering system for your small business, consider the following:

1. Ease of Use: Is it simple to set up and manage?

2. POS Integration: Does it sync with your current POS system?

3. Customization: Can you brand it with your business identity?

4. Payment Processing Fees: Are there hidden costs?

5. Customer Experience: Does it support mobile ordering, delivery, and social media?

Each system has its strengths, so choosing the best one depends on your business model.

Conclusion

In 2024, free online ordering systems offer small businesses an opportunity to grow without high costs. Whether you run a restaurant, café, or food truck, options like Square Online, Toast POS, and GloriaFood can help you streamline operations and boost customer satisfaction.

Need a robust ordering system with added features? Try My Food Menu Today! Our platform helps businesses like yours manage online orders seamlessly. Sign up now and start taking orders for free!