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Best self-ordering restaurant kiosk systems in 2025

2025-01-14 | 9 min read

Best self-ordering restaurant kiosk systems in 2025

Restaurant kiosks have been rising in popularity and will continue to for the foreseeable future. Why? For starters, self-service kiosks enhance the customer experience. Additionally, they assist in streamlining business operations, speeding up the payment process, and increasing your restaurant’s bottom line. Kiosks are clearly here to stay, so the question is, which is the best self ordering kiosk system for your business? We’ve done the research on the five most popular systems out there so all you’ll have to do is pick one.

How we choose

We’ve narrowed the long list of self-ordering kiosk systems and ranked them according to user-friendliness interfaces, customization options, point-of-sale integration capabilities, scalability, and pricing. The systems we’ve chosen come with touchscreens, branding capabilities, and integration with apps you already use like inventory management.. Additional features like data analytics, payment options, and accessibility have also been evaluated. Moreover, we’ve considered each system’s unique features, as well as customer ratings where applicable.

Top 5 self-ordering kiosk systems for restaurants

The restaurant industry is moving into the future fast, and it’s worth keeping up with. One innovation worth investing in – a self-ordering kiosk solution that will increase basket size, decrease customer wait times, increase staff efficiency, and streamline overall restaurant operations. Staff will now have the chance to refocus their efforts on more important tasks, like customer service. Let’s break down five of the most reputable kiosk system options to identify which is most right for your restaurant business. 

Otter

The offering: The Otter kiosk system is a game-changer for dining establishments, particularly small businesses who want to make the most of their budget. As industry leaders in this space, we offer an unbeatable combination of affordability, reliability, and user-friendliness that sets us apart from the competition. What’s more, Otter’s kiosk systems come with durable spill and heat-resistant, high speed hardware that easily syncs with your POS system and works quickly, reducing wait times. 

Pros:

Fast payments (credit, GooglePay, ApplePay)

Customer order notifications

Nested menu modifiers

Live 24/7 customer service

Self-serve branding customization

POS integrations and auto sync

On-demand reporting

Standing and countertop kiosk options

Flexible “Kiosk mode” that turns your point-of-sale into a self-service ordering system

Cons:

Standing hardware option is a larger investment 

Built-in WiFi router not provided (though it connects to in-store WiFi)

Pricing: Kiosk hardware bundle starts at $100, and kiosk software starts at $99 per month per device.

Unique feature: Otter's AI-driven upsell program prompts customers to increase orders with relevant add-ons or upgrades based on their selections.

Best for: Quick-service and fast-casual restaurants, multi-location establishments, and restaurants with high volumes of online orders.

Toast

The offering: Toast’s self-ordering kiosks work well for a wide range of businesses within the restaurant industry. Toast’s kiosks are designed to be durable, spill-resistant, and heat-resistant.

Pros:

Built to withstand a busy restaurant

Live 24/7 customer service

Tap-to-pay device and router

Free software plan available with one POS terminal

Cons:

High monthly fees

Two-year contract

No standing kiosk hardware available

No integration with third party POS or payment processors 

Pricing: The Toast Flex terminal can be used as a self-serve kiosk and costs $1,024.20 upfront with an additional $69 per month for kiosk software. Customizable options are available as well.

Unique feature: The Toast Tap device comes included with the kiosk system, allowing for quick and easy contactless payments. 

Best for: Quick-service restaurants and multi-location restaurant chains.

Square

The offering: Square Kiosk is an iPad-driven kiosk solution that combines hardware, software, and payment processing into one integrated package.

Pros: 

Integrates with existing Square POS systems 

Flexible mounting options

Operates on iPad battery, ensuring functionality even during power outages

Offers built-in contactless and chip payments

No costly service visits or installation fees

Customizable interface to match brand and offering

Cons: 

Specific iPad models required and not included in price

Limited menu items

Swipe payments require additional accessory 

Pricing: Square Kiosk device costs $149 with an additional $50 per month per active device for kiosk software. In-person transaction fees may apply.

Unique feature: Customers can enroll in the Square Loyalty program and accrue points.

Best for: Businesses with limited counter space or snug front-of-house areas.

GRUBBRR

The offering: GRUBBRR is a self-ordering kiosk system that helps streamline  operations and enhance the customer experience.

Pros: 

Automated upselling system designed to increase revenue

Offers customizable and branded kiosk options

Integrates with existing POS systems and kitchen display systems

Provides real-time analytics and menu reporting

Supports multiple languages and offline mode

Cons: 

Limited menu items 

Requires initial investment in hardware

May require staff training for implementation and management

Pricing: GRUBBRR kiosks range from $2,500 to $3,500, with an undisclosed monthly kiosk software payment.

Unique feature: Incorporates AI-driven upselling capabilities, including facial recognition for loyalty customers.

Best for: Quick-service restaurants, stadium stalls and food courts, and cafes and bakeries.

Clover

Offering: Clover’s comprehensive self-ordering system features a 24" enterprise-grade display, versatile payment terminal, and built-in printer.

Pros: 

Integrates seamlessly with existing Clover POS systems

Offers intuitive interface for faster and more accurate ordering

Provides real-time menu updates and syncing

Supports multiple payment methods, including contactless and chip

Choose from three styles, including wall mounting, countertop, and standing kiosks.

Cons: 

High upfront hardware cost 

Customer support not available 24/7

Limited menu items 

May require a separate merchant services account

Pricing: A Clover self order kiosk costs $3,499 and $34.95/mo per device for the kiosk software. 

Unique feature: Includes dual touch screens to order and pay.

Best for: Quick-service and fast food restaurants, multi-location establishments, restaurants with high volumes of orders.

Self-ordering kiosks are revolutionizing the dining experience, offering your customers faster service while freeing up your staff to focus on what matters most. With the right kiosk system, like Otter’s, you can streamline operations, increase order accuracy, and boost average ticket size effortlessly. 

Why Otter is the ideal self-serving kiosk for businesses

If you’re a restaurant owner looking for a comprehensive solution for your business needs, look no further than Otter’s self-serve kiosk system! We’ve found a way to integrate all the essential features you’re looking for – from durable design to round-the-clock support – into one cohesive combo package.

What are you guaranteed with Otter’s self-order kiosk?

Real-time updates on orders and inventory. Out of fried chicken? The moment you enter an 86’d item into your KDS, it will reflect on the kiosk. Client wants extra lettuce? The kitchen will know as soon as the order is confirmed.

  • Professional, sleek, and designed to complement any restaurant environment. Our kiosks are flexible for your space. Choose from 27” standing devices or 15” countertop options.
  • Transforms from a POS terminal to a kiosk in a flash. When you unexpectedly find yourself short on staff, don’t waste time begging employees to come in on their day off! Quickly flip your existing Otter POS terminals into  kiosks to keep customer wait time at a minimum.
  • AI integration that increases your sales up to 30%. Our kiosks encourage larger basket sizes via AI generated smart upsells and provide, a seamless ordering experience.
  • Effortless integration with your POS – whether you have the Otter POS system or a preexisting one! Don’t have Otter POS but want to try our Otter kiosk? No worries! Our kiosks are programmed to integrate with popular POS systems like Clover, Square, and Toast. 
  • Durable, restaurant-grade hardware. . Built with hardware to withstand spills and heat, Otter kiosks can endure it all.
  • Provides customer reports and data. Build a repeat loyal customer base with data analysis and automatic retargets containing discounts and offers.
  • Help is always available regardless of the time or day. Our system is backed by round-the-clock support. 
  • Transparent in its pricing structure. Costs are clearly outlined, from one-time hardware costs to monthly software fees where applicable, making it easier to budget and plan your technology investments.

Self-ordering kiosks have become an essential tool for modern restaurants. By adopting the latest solution in the food services industry, your restaurant will not only meet customer expectations but also drive higher revenue and repeat business. Ready to revolutionize the dining experience and increase your bottom line? Book a demo with Otter today!

Frequently asked questions

Can self-ordering kiosks integrate with my current POS system?

Yes, self-ordering kiosks can integrate with various POS systems. Otter's kiosk solution, for example, integrates seamlessly with popular POS systems like Clover, Square, and Toast. 

How do kiosks help with upselling and increasing sales?

By removing the natural discomfort that often coincides with in-person upselling, self-ordering kiosks boost sales through automated suggestions. Increase sales through a kiosk’s ability to showcase high-quality food photography and personalized recommendations as customers build their orders.

Are these kiosks easy to set up and maintain?

Otter's kiosk system is designed to be user-friendly and easy to implement, with a quick setup process that you can even do on your own. Regular software updates are typically performed during off-hours to prevent disruptions. 

How do self-ordering kiosks improve customer satisfaction?

Self-ordering kiosks enhance customer satisfaction in several ways:

  • They reduce wait times and improve order accuracy.
  • They give diners the ability to customize their orders without feeling judged.
  • Kiosks offer a consistent and personalized experience, as kiosks analyze data to suggest customized options and increase customer loyalty.
  • They provide clear allergen and nutritional information, catering to customers with specific dietary needs.

How secure is the payment processing system?

Like other reputable kiosk solutions, Otter's kiosk system prioritizes payment security through encryption, PCI DSS compliance, and by offering multiple secure payment options, including contactless payments.

What kind of reporting and analytics features does Otter’s kiosk system offer?

Otter's kiosk system provides comprehensive analytics tools, including:

  • Consolidated reports that combine data from different delivery partners, locations, and POS systems
  • Simplified data charts for easy understanding of restaurant performance
  • Trends and actionable insight suggestions to improve sales and operations
  • Option to generate custom reports that are automatically sent to your inbox

Can Otter’s kiosk system adapt to changing menu items and pricing?

Yes, since Otter’s kiosk system is directly linked to the KDS, it can adapt to both short and long-term menu changes.

Want to learn how kiosks can work for your business? Book a call with Otter.

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