11 Best Square Alternatives for Restaurants (2026)

Square charges 2.6% + $0.15 on every in-person transaction. For a restaurant processing $30,000 a month in card sales, that adds up to roughly $800 in processing fees — nearly $10,000 a year going straight to your payment processor instead of back into your business.

Square POS is a popular payment processing solution for good reason. The free plan works, there are no contracts, and setup takes minutes. But as your order volume grows, those per-transaction payment processing fees start eating into your margins. The free plan also lacks floor plans and kitchen displays, the loyalty program costs $45/month extra, and you’re locked into Square payments with no way to negotiate rates on lower tiers.

Whether you need a cheaper square alternative for businesses focused on food service, a restaurant POS with more advanced features, or just an affordable POS and payment processing solution for online orders — there’s a better fit out there. Unlike retail pos systems like Shopify POS or Clover that serve multiple industries, several of the square alternatives for small restaurants on this list are purpose-built for food service. We compared 11 square pos alternatives across pricing, transaction fees, online ordering costs, and restaurant-specific features to help you find the best for your business.

Quick picks:

• Best for commission-free online ordering: Menubly ($9.99/month, zero processing fees)
• Best free online ordering: GloriaFood (free plan with unlimited orders)
• Best full-service restaurant POS: Toast (purpose-built for restaurants)
• Best free POS system: Loyverse (free POS with no contracts)

What Is Square for Restaurants?

Square for Restaurants is a cloud-based point of sale and payment processing platform built by Block, Inc. It’s used by millions of businesses worldwide, from food trucks to full-service restaurants. Square offers a genuinely functional free plan, making it one of the most popular POS systems for small businesses just getting started.

Square provides three pricing tiers: $0/month for the Free plan, $49/month for Plus, and $149/month for Premium. Payment processing rates range from 2.6% + $0.15 on the Free plan to 2.4% + $0.15 on Premium. Online ordering is included commission-free on all plans, but standard payment processing fees still apply to every transaction — 2.9% + $0.30 for card-not-present orders. Square hardware options include a free card reader, Square Stand ($149), and Square Register ($799) — all working as payment terminals alongside iPads.

So why are so many restaurant owners looking for square pos competitors and alternatives? The main reasons:

• Processing fees are non-negotiable on lower plans — and they add up fast at higher volumes
• You must use Square’s payment processing exclusively — you can’t bring your own processor
• The free plan lacks floor plans, kitchen displays, and advanced reporting
• The loyalty program is a $45/month add-on
• Square’s restaurant features are less specialized than dedicated restaurant POS systems like Toast or SpotOn
• No advanced payment features like tableside ordering or coursing on the basic pos plan

Square Features

Here’s what’s available on Square across its plans:

• Free POS with unlimited items and basic reporting
• Commission-free online ordering on all plans
• Menu management with modifiers
• Team management with shift scheduling
• Inventory tracking
• Square Online website builder
• Customer directory and feedback tools
• DoorDash and Uber Eats integration
• Contactless and mobile payments
• Kitchen display system (Plus plan and above)
• Table and floor plan management (Plus plan and above)

Square Pros

• Free plan is genuinely functional — not a stripped-down trial
• No contracts or early termination fees
• Transparent flat rate payment processing
• Works on existing iPads — no proprietary computer hardware required
• Square offers free online ordering on all plans — commission-free
• Easy setup with a low learning curve
• Large integration ecosystem
• Free mobile app for managing sales on the go

Square Cons

• Processing rates are not negotiable on lower plans
• Must use Square’s payment processing — no third-party payment processor allowed
• Free plan lacks floor plans, kitchen displays, and advanced reporting
• Loyalty program costs $45/month extra
• Limited offline mode compared to competitors
• Less restaurant-specialized than purpose-built POS systems like Toast or SpotOn

What to Look For in a Square Alternative

Before switching from Square, here are the key factors to evaluate. Not every alternative will beat Square on every point — the goal is to find the best fit for your specific business needs.

• Processing fees and pricing transparency — Square’s percentage-based fees scale with your order volume. Some payment solutions offer flat rate monthly pricing with no per-order fees, which can save you hundreds per month. Calculate your actual monthly fee based on real order volume before switching. Also compare the cost of payment terminals and pos systems and payment processing bundled together vs. separate.
• Online ordering capabilities — Square includes free online ordering, but payment processing fees still apply to every transaction. Look for platforms with truly commission-free ordering and lower (or no) payment processing fees on orders.
• Hardware and software requirements — Square works on iPads with no proprietary lock-in, which is a big advantage. Some alternatives like Toast and SkyTab require proprietary computer hardware costing $500–$8,000+. Others like Menubly and GloriaFood need no hardware at all for online ordering.
• Contract flexibility — Square is month-to-month with no early termination fees. Watch for multi-year contracts and hidden fees from competitors like Toast (2–3 years) and SkyTab (30 months).
• Ease of use and setup time — Square is known for simple payment processing and fast setup. If you’re switching, look for platforms that match this simplicity rather than adding complexity to your workflow.
• Restaurant-specific features — If you need advanced features like table management, coursing, kitchen displays, or inventory management software, a purpose-built restaurant POS system may serve you better than Square’s more general approach.
• Integration with existing tools — Check if the alternative works with your accounting software, delivery app integrations, and other tools you already use.

Quick Comparison: Best Square Alternatives at a Glance

11 Best Square Alternatives for Restaurants

1. Menubly — Best for Commission-Free Online Ordering & Digital Menus

If your main reason for looking at square alternatives is the per-transaction fees eating into every online order, Menubly solves that problem at a fraction of the cost. For $9.99 a month — with zero commission and zero payment processing fees on orders — you get an online menu, built-in ordering, and a simple restaurant website. No percentage-based charges, no hidden fees, and no expensive POS hardware to buy.

Menubly isn’t a full POS system, and it doesn’t try to be. It’s built specifically for small business owners who need online ordering and a professional digital menu without the cost and complexity of a traditional POS solution. Where Square charges 2.6–2.9% on every transaction, Menubly lets you keep 100% of every order.

Key Features

• Commission-free online ordering — no per-order fees, no percentage cut
• Interactive, mobile-friendly digital menus with search, categories, and item photos
• Simple restaurant website builder — no coding required
• QR code menu generation for dine-in ordering
• 100+ payment methods worldwide — credit cards, digital wallets, cash on delivery
• WhatsApp ordering for direct customer communication
• Instant menu updates — change prices or mark items sold out in seconds
• Bulk menu import from Excel or CSV
• Add-ons and customization options (sizes, toppings, extras)
• Free menu conversion service — upload a PDF or photo and Menubly builds your menu

Pros

• Zero commission on all orders — keep 100% of your revenue
• $9.99/month flat pricing — no percentage-based charges that scale with volume
• No hardware or software downloads required — works on any device with a browser
• Setup takes minutes, not days — most menus are live within 30 minutes
• 100+ payment types supported worldwide
• Free 30-day trial with no credit card required
• Free menu conversion from PDF or paper menus

Cons

• Not a POS system — no in-person payment processing or cash register functionality
• No inventory management features
• No employee management or scheduling
• No table management or floor plans

Pricing

• Free trial: 30 days, no credit card required
• Monthly: $9.99/month
• Annual: $95.99/year (save 20%)
• Commission: Zero — no fees on orders

Best For

Small restaurants, cafes, bakeries, food trucks, and bars that want to take online orders without processing fees eating into their profits. If you don’t need a full POS system and your primary goal is affordable, commission-free online ordering with a professional digital menu, Menubly is the best square alternative at $9.99/month.

Try Menubly free for 30 days — no credit card required.

2. Toast — Best Full-Service Restaurant POS System

Toast is the industry standard for full-service restaurant POS systems. Built specifically for the food service industry, Toast handles everything from tableside ordering and kitchen displays to payroll and email marketing. If Square feels too general for your restaurant, Toast goes deep on restaurant-specific features that Square doesn’t offer.

The trade-off? Toast requires proprietary computer hardware ($800–$8,000+ depending on your POS setups), locks you into 2–3 year contracts, and costs $150–$400+ per month all-in for a single location. Online ordering is a $75/month add-on — it’s not included like it is with Square. For many small businesses, Toast is more restaurant POS than they actually need.

Features

• Cloud-based POS on proprietary Android hardware
• Online ordering with delivery and pickup support ($75/month add-on)
• Kitchen display system included
• Table management and floor plans
• Menu management with modifiers and combos
• Employee management, scheduling, and payroll
• Real-time reporting and analytics
• Toast Loyalty and gift cards
• Multi-location management
• DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub integration

Pros

• Purpose-built for restaurants with deep industry-specific features
• All-in-one restaurant management platform (POS, payroll, ordering, marketing)
• 200+ integrations available
• Strong online ordering and delivery management
• 24/7 customer support
• Widely adopted — easy to hire staff already trained on Toast
• Toast IQ AI-powered insights for menu and operational decisions

Cons

• Proprietary hardware required — cannot use existing iPads or tablets
• 2–3 year contracts with early termination fees
• Payment processor lock-in — must use Toast Payments, no third-party processor allowed
• High total cost: $150–$400+/month for a single location
• Online ordering is a $75/month add-on, not included in base POS plan
• Processing fees can increase mid-contract
• Controversial past fee practices — added fees to customer receipts without clear disclosure

Pricing

• Starter (Pay-as-you-go): $0/month software; 3.09% + $0.15 processing; proprietary hardware required
• Core: $69/month; 2.49% + $0.15 processing
• Growth: $165/month
• Custom: Quote-based
• Online ordering: $75/month add-on

Best For

Mid-to-large full-service restaurants that need a complete restaurant management platform and are willing to commit to multi-year contracts and higher all-in costs. If you’re looking for Toast POS alternatives because of the cost, consider lighter options first.

3. Clover — Best for Multi-Concept Businesses

Clover stands out among square competitors because it works across both restaurant and retail businesses. With 500+ apps in its marketplace, Clover offers more customization than almost any other POS platform. If you run a restaurant with a retail component — like a bakery that sells packaged goods — Clover handles both under one system.

The catch is Clover’s reseller model. Banks and merchant services companies sell Clover with wildly different pricing, contract terms, and support quality. The same Clover system can cost $85/month through one reseller and $300/month through another. Always buy directly from Clover or a verified reseller to avoid inflated costs and unfavorable contract terms.

Features

• 500+ app marketplace for custom POS features
• Multiple hardware options (Go, Flex, Mini, Station Duo, Kiosk)
• Menu management with modifiers and combos
• Table management and floor plans
• Employee management with shift tracking
• Free online ordering via Clover Online
• Inventory tracking and reporting
• Gift card program and customer engagement tools
• QR code ordering and open tabs
• QuickBooks and accounting integration

Pros

• Largest app marketplace of any POS system — 500+ apps for custom functionality
• Attractive, well-designed hardware with multiple form factors
• Flexible for multi-concept businesses (restaurant + retail)
• Backed by Fiserv for financial stability
• Free built-in online ordering
• Works across restaurant and retail point of sale categories

Cons

• Reseller model causes wildly inconsistent pricing, support, and contract terms
• Proprietary hardware — cannot reuse if you switch to a different POS
• Total cost can be $300–$1,800/month all-in depending on reseller
• Not as restaurant-specialized as Toast or SpotOn
• Staff logins cost $15/month each — adds up fast for larger teams
• Pricing is hard to compare without a custom quote from each reseller

Pricing

• Software (direct): Starting at $14.95/month
• Restaurant Starter: ~$84.95/month (includes Clover Flex hardware)
• Restaurant Standard: ~$104.95/month
• Processing fees: 2.3% + $0.10 (in-person, direct); 3.5% + $0.10 (keyed-in)
• Hardware: Clover Go ($49), Flex ($599), Mini ($799), Station Duo ($1,799+)

Best For

Multi-concept businesses (restaurant + retail hybrid) that need POS features across categories and want deep customization via apps. If you’re evaluating Clover alternatives, compare total all-in costs, not just advertised monthly fees.

4. SpotOn — Best for Mid-Sized Restaurants Wanting Lower Processing Rates

SpotOn is a strong square competitor for mid-sized restaurants that want lower payment processing rates without sacrificing features. On paid plans, SpotOn charges 1.99% + $0.25 per in-person transaction — significantly lower than Square’s 2.6% + $0.15. SpotOn was ranked #1 Restaurant POS on G2 in Fall 2025 with a 4.3 score, beating Toast’s 4.2.

SpotOn offers commission-free online ordering, integrated reservations, a loyalty program, and AI-powered profit analysis tools. The software is month-to-month, but watch the fine print: canceling hardware within the first year triggers a penalty, and switching away from SpotOn’s payment processing costs a $995 fee plus doubled software licensing.

Features

• Full restaurant POS with table management and coursing
• Commission-free online ordering (SpotOn Order)
• QR code ordering for dine-in (Full Service plan)
• Integrated reservations and waitlist (SpotOn Reserve)
• Built-in loyalty program (paid add-on)
• Labor management with scheduling and time tracking
• Kitchen display system and handheld tableside ordering
• Marketing tools — email campaigns and review management
• AI-powered Profit Assist for margin analysis
• DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub integration

Pros

• Lower processing fees than Square on paid plans (1.99% + $0.25)
• Ranked #1 Restaurant POS on G2 (Fall 2025)
• Strong offline mode — queues transactions automatically when WiFi drops
• AI-powered Profit Assist for automated margin analysis
• Month-to-month software with no long-term contract
• Commission-free online ordering integrated with loyalty
• 24/7 live support

Cons

• Hardware cancellation penalty within first year
• $995 processor switch fee + doubled licensing if leaving SpotOn Payments
• Loyalty and marketing are paid add-ons, not included in base plans
• Multiple app logins required — fragmented user experience
• Billing discrepancies are the #1 user complaint (unauthorized charges reported)
• Online ordering requires hardware-linked POS (not standalone)

Pricing

• Quick Start: $0/month; 2.89% + $0.25 processing
• Counter Service: $99/month
• Full Service: $135/month
• Processing (paid plans): 1.99% + $0.25 (in-person); 2.99% + $0.25 (online)
• Hardware: $500–$850/terminal; $400 refundable deposit

Best For

Mid-sized full-service restaurants and restaurant groups that want lower processing fees than Square and are comfortable using SpotOn’s payment processing. Check out SpotOn alternatives if the hardware penalties and processor lock-in concern you.

5. Lightspeed Restaurant — Best for Inventory Management & Reporting

Lightspeed Restaurant offers the best reporting and analytics in this comparison. If you’re a data-driven restaurant owner who wants ingredient-level inventory management with COGS tracking, multi-location oversight, and detailed operational insights, Lightspeed delivers what Square’s basic reporting can’t.

The downside is cost. The Starter plan is $69/month but doesn’t include online ordering — that requires the Essential plan at $189/month. There’s also a $99/month surcharge if you don’t use Lightspeed Payments, minimum 1-year contracts, and early termination fees. For small businesses, Lightspeed’s pricing is hard to justify unless you need its advanced inventory management features.

Features

• Cloud-based iPad POS with customizable interface
• Industry-leading reporting and analytics
• Ingredient-level inventory management with COGS tracking
• Commission-free online ordering (Essential plan and above)
• QR code contactless ordering and pay-at-table
• Advanced floor plan and table management
• Multi-location management from a single dashboard
• CRM with guest profiles and visit history
• Lightspeed AI for predictive insights
• Kitchen display system integration

Pros

• Best-in-class reporting and analytics among restaurant POS systems
• Ingredient-level inventory management software with COGS analysis
• Strong multi-location management
• iPad-based — no proprietary hardware lock-in
• 24/7 customer support across all plans
• Active product development (AI features, Tempo kitchen pacing)

Cons

• Online ordering requires the $189/month Essential plan
• $99/month surcharge if you don’t use Lightspeed Payments
• Early termination fees can be punishing — contract exit is difficult
• No built-in employee scheduling or payroll
• Third-party delivery integrations reported as unreliable
• Some users report slow billing support (week-long delays)

Pricing

• Starter: $69/month
• Essential: $189/month (adds online ordering, multi-location)
• Premium: $399/month (adds raw API access, custom payment rates)
• Processing: 2.6% + $0.10 (in-person); 2.6% + $0.30 (online)

Best For

Full-service restaurants and multi-location operations that need strong analytics, ingredient-level inventory tracking, and are willing to pay a premium. See Lightspeed alternatives if the pricing feels too steep for your operation.

6. TouchBistro — Best for In-Venue Dining Experience

TouchBistro has some of the best table management capabilities among restaurant POS systems. Color-coded floor plans, table timers, section assignments, and a strong offline mode make it a solid choice for full-service restaurants that prioritize the in-venue dining experience over online sales.

Unlike Square, TouchBistro lets you bring your own payment processor — you’re not locked into one company’s processing rates. But the add-on pricing is where TouchBistro gets expensive. The core POS is $69/month, but online ordering adds $50/month, reservations add $229/month, loyalty adds $99/month, and marketing adds $99/month. The full suite adds $476+/month on top of the base — far more than similar to Square’s all-in costs.

Features

• Hybrid local/cloud iPad POS with strong offline mode
• Color-coded floor plans with table timers and section management
• Menu management with forced modifiers and upsell prompts
• Tableside ordering via handheld iPads
• Staff scheduling and labor management
• Kitchen display system
• Reservation and waitlist management (add-on)
• Customer loyalty program (add-on)
• Inventory management with waste tracking
• Payment processor flexibility — bring your own processor

Pros

• Among the best table management systems available for restaurant POS
• Strong offline mode — operates during full internet outages
• Payment processor flexibility — not locked to one payment processing service
• Purpose-built for restaurants with an intuitive interface
• Fast staff training — simple UI reduces onboarding time
• Available internationally

Cons

• Essential features are expensive add-ons ($50–$229/month each)
• Multi-year contracts with aggressive retention tactics reported
• BBB “F” rating as of 2025
• Customer support quality declining based on user reviews
• iPad-only — no Android support
• Online ordering ($50/month add-on) is less mature than dedicated platforms
• System crashes and outages documented by users

Pricing

• Core POS: $69/month
• Online Ordering: +$50/month
• Reservations: +$229/month
• Loyalty: +$99/month
• Marketing: +$99/month
• Processing: ~2.6% + $0.10 (TouchBistro Payments); third-party rates negotiable

Best For

Full-service restaurants, bars, and nightclubs that prioritize in-venue dining, table management, and offline reliability. Not ideal if you need affordable online ordering. Explore TouchBistro alternatives if add-on costs are a concern.

7. GloriaFood — Best Free Online Ordering Platform

GloriaFood offers something rare among square alternatives: a genuinely free online ordering system with unlimited orders and zero commission. Backed by Oracle (acquired in 2021), GloriaFood lets you embed ordering directly on your website or Facebook page without paying a monthly fee or per-order charge.

The free plan covers core online ordering, but paid add-ons include a sales-optimized website ($9/month), advanced promotions ($19/month), online payment processing ($29/month), and a branded mobile app ($59/month). If you already have a POS system and just need to add an online ordering channel without the processing fees that come with using Square for online orders, GloriaFood is worth considering.

Features

• Commission-free online ordering — unlimited orders, no per-order fees
• QR code table ordering for dine-in
• Online payment via Stripe, PayPal, Apple Pay (paid add-on)
• Table reservation system built in
• Promotional marketing tools — discounts, promo codes, upsells (paid add-on)
• Menu editor syncing online and in-store menus
• Scheduled and pre-orders for pickup and delivery
• Delivery management with driver tracking
• Free sales-optimized website builder
• Offline mode — continues taking orders during internet outages

Pros

• Free tier is genuinely usable — unlimited orders, no commissions, no per-order fees
• Zero commission saves 15–30% compared to delivery apps
• No long-term contracts on the online ordering platform
• QR code ordering and reservations available in free/low-cost tiers
• Quick setup — most restaurants live within hours
• Backed by Oracle for long-term stability

Cons

• Growing complaints about support responsiveness since January 2025
• Cannot manage orders or make menu changes from a mobile app
• Limited customization of the online ordering widget
• Percentage-only delivery fee discounts — no fixed dollar amounts
• Oracle ownership creates uncertainty about long-term free-tier commitment
• POS product is separate and limited to one tablet per location

Pricing

• Core online ordering: Free (no contracts, no commissions)
• Sales-Optimized Website: $9/month
• Advanced Promotions: $19/month
• Online Payment Processing: $29/month
• Branded Mobile App: $59/month

Best For

Small independent restaurants and ghost kitchens that need a zero-commission online ordering solution without upfront investment. Great alternative to Square for restaurants that already have a POS and just want to add direct online ordering. See GloriaFood alternatives for more options.

8. Loyverse — Best Free POS for Small Restaurants

Loyverse is the closest thing to Square’s free plan without the payment processor lock-in. The core POS, kitchen display system, and customer-facing display are all completely free with no transaction limits. Unlike Square, Loyverse lets you choose your own payment processor — so you can shop for the lowest processing rates instead of being locked into one company’s percentage.

The trade-off is that Loyverse has no native online ordering, no table management, and no floor plans. It’s built for quick-service restaurants, cafes, food trucks, and food retail — not full-service dining. If you’re a small business owner who needs a free POS without contracts and wants control over your payment processing, Loyverse is a great alternative to Square.

Features

• Free POS app for iOS and Android — works on existing devices
• Kitchen display system (KDS) included free
• Customer-facing display (CDS) included free
• Built-in customer loyalty program and CRM (free)
• Basic inventory management with real-time stock tracking (free)
• Advanced inventory with variants, purchase orders, COGS tracking ($25/month)
• Employee management with role-based permissions ($5/month per employee)
• Offline mode — records online sales locally, syncs when connection returns
• Integration marketplace (Otter, Xero, QuickBooks)
• Multi-store management from a single account

Pros

• Core POS, KDS, and customer display are completely free with no transaction limits
• No payment processor lock-in — freedom to choose competitive rates
• No contracts — cancel or change add-ons at any time
• Works on existing iOS and Android devices — no hardware purchase required
• Offline mode ensures operations continue during internet outages
• Simple, clean UI with a low learning curve

Cons

• No native online ordering — requires third-party integration
• No table management or floor plan features — not suitable for full-service dine-in
• No credit card pre-authorization — a limitation for bars
• Employee management costs $5/month per employee — adds up for larger teams
• Advanced reporting requires the paid inventory add-on ($25/month)
• Limited modifier and combo tracking

Pricing

• Core POS: Free
• Employee Management: $5/month per employee
• Advanced Inventory: $25/month per store
• Integrations: $9/month per store
• Processing: Set by your chosen third-party processor

Best For

Small quick-service restaurants, cafes, food trucks, and food retail businesses that need a capable free POS software without long-term commitments. Best for budget-conscious business owners who want control over their payment processing rates.

9. SkyTab POS — Best for Low Upfront Cost Full POS

SkyTab by Shift4 stands out among square alternatives for its low entry cost: $29.99/month with $0 upfront hardware (including a touchscreen terminal, EMV reader, receipt printer, and cash drawer). That’s significantly cheaper than most restaurant POS setups, and the hardware comes with a lifetime warranty.

SkyTab also includes features that Square and many competitors charge extra for: commission-free online ordering, a loyalty program, reservations and waitlist management, and a free AI-powered website builder. The catch? A 30-month contract with Shift4’s payment processing — and early termination fees calculated on anticipated processor profits. There are documented cases of five-figure ETFs even within the trial period.

Features

• Commission-free online ordering with direct POS and kitchen sync
• Tableside mobile ordering and payment via SkyTab Air handhelds
• Built-in loyalty program with tiered rewards, email, and SMS marketing
• Reservations and waitlist management with SMS guest alerts
• Real-time reporting via Lighthouse back-office platform
• Table and floor plan management with tab management
• Labor management with scheduling and timeclock
• Self-ordering kiosk support
• Free AI-powered restaurant website builder
• 50+ third-party integrations (QuickBooks, DoorDash, Uber Eats, OpenTable)

Pros

• Low monthly fee ($29.99) with $0 upfront hardware — accessible for many small businesses
• Commission-free online ordering included (unlike Toast’s $75/month add-on)
• Loyalty, reservations, and waitlist included in base price
• Lifetime hardware warranty with free replacement
• 24/7 US-based support with on-site installation and training included
• Strong tableside and bar functionality — tab management and pay-at-table

Cons

• Mandatory Shift4 payment processing — no ability to use a different processor
• Punishing early termination fees — documented five-figure ETFs even within trial period
• Hidden annual fees (Program Fee ~$250/year + Regulatory Assurance Fee ~$189–$325/year per device)
• Proprietary hardware only — no iPad option, no bring-your-own-device
• 30-month contract is a major commitment
• Add-on costs for handhelds and KDS not clearly published

Pricing

• Restaurant/Bar: $29.99/month per workstation
• Processing: 2.75% + $0.15 (standard); 2.49% + $0.15 (dual pricing program)
• Hardware: $0 upfront with processing agreement (touchscreen terminal, reader, printer, cash register drawer)
• Annual fees: ~$440–$575/year per device (Program Fee + Regulatory Assurance Fee)

Best For

Independent restaurants and bars that want a feature-rich, low-upfront-cost POS system and are comfortable committing to a long-term payment processing relationship with Shift4.

10. Owner.com — Best for Growing Direct Online Orders via SEO

Owner.com takes a different approach than most square alternatives. Instead of replacing your POS, it layers on top of your existing system to drive more direct online orders through SEO optimization, automated marketing, and a branded mobile app. Owner.com claims to have helped restaurants go from $2,000/month to $10,000+ in direct orders.

The pricing is a single flat fee of $499/month with all features included — no add-ons to juggle. That’s steep for small businesses, but for established restaurants doing meaningful online order volume, the return can justify the subscription. Owner.com is not for restaurants just getting started. It’s for business owners ready to invest in growing their direct ordering channel.

Features

• Commission-free online ordering (pickup, delivery, dine-in)
• AI-powered, SEO-optimized restaurant website builder
• Branded mobile app for iOS and Android
• Email and SMS marketing automation
• Loyalty and rewards program
• Google Business Profile optimization tools
• Customer database — restaurants own all customer data
• POS integrations with major systems
• Automated customer re-engagement campaigns
• Reporting and analytics dashboard

Pros

• All features at one flat rate — no add-ons to manage
• Commission-free direct ordering saves vs. delivery apps
• Strong restaurant SEO and Google visibility tools
• Restaurants fully own their customer data
• Documented results — real restaurants reporting significant revenue increases
• Dedicated account support included
• Built-in marketing automation reduces manual effort

Cons

• $499/month is steep for small or low-volume restaurants
• Some users report undisclosed POS add-on costs not mentioned during sales
• Value depends heavily on order volume — hard to justify at low volumes
• No free trial — demo required before signing up
• Some users report pricing wasn’t fully transparent during onboarding

Pricing

• Single plan: $499/month — all features included
• Commission: Zero on direct orders
• Hardware: None required — fully web-based, integrates with existing POS

Best For

Established restaurants with meaningful online order volume that want to grow direct orders through SEO and automated marketing. Not suitable for startups or restaurants in the early stages of building an online presence.

11. ChowNow — Best for Branded Mobile App Ordering

ChowNow gives your restaurant its own branded mobile app for iOS and Android — something Square doesn’t offer. A branded app drives repeat orders through push notifications and a built-in loyalty program. ChowNow also connects to Google, Apple Maps, Yelp, and Tripadvisor through its Order Better Network, giving your restaurant visibility beyond your own website.

After acquiring Cuboh in 2024, ChowNow now integrates with 14+ POS systems including Toast, Square, Clover, and SkyTab. Processing fees are 2.95% + $0.29 per transaction — higher than Square’s in-person rates. Setup costs can add up: $119–$499 one-time setup fee, plus $250–$420 for a printer, plus $99/year for the Apple Developer fee.

Features

• Commission-free online ordering (website, app, marketplace)
• Custom-branded iOS and Android mobile app for each restaurant
• Order Better Network — connects to Google, Apple Maps, Yelp, Tripadvisor
• 14+ POS integrations (Toast, Square, Clover, SkyTab, and more)
• Automated email marketing for customer retention
• Customizable loyalty and rewards program
• Flex Delivery management (flat per-order fee, no commission)
• Order aggregation from third-party delivery platforms
• 100% fraud and chargeback protection
• Text-To-Order for mobile ordering

Pros

• Custom-branded mobile app drives repeat orders
• 14+ POS integrations after Cuboh acquisition
• Commission-free ordering saves vs. delivery apps
• Full ownership of customer data
• 24/7 customer support with dedicated success managers
• G2: 4.6/5 | Capterra: 4.7/5 — highly rated by users

Cons

• Website builder is very limited (single Squarespace template)
• Users report inability to change menu prices directly — must go through support
• Pausing orders during busy periods requires calling support
• Toast POS modifier integration issues reported by multiple users
• Setup costs add up: $119–$499 fee + printer $250–$420 + Apple fee $99/year
• Some restaurant owners report rate increases without adequate notice

Pricing

• Hub: $119/month
• Pro: $199/month (annual) or $229/month (monthly)
• Premier: $298/month (annual) or $328/month (monthly)
• Processing: 2.95% + $0.29 per transaction
• Setup fee: $119–$499 one-time

Best For

Independent restaurants and fast-casual spots that want a branded mobile app and need to consolidate third-party delivery app orders into one dashboard. Best for restaurants handling high order volumes who want to shift customers from third-party apps to direct ordering.

How to Choose the Right Square Alternative

With 11 options to consider, here’s how to narrow down the best alternative for your business based on what matters most.

By Budget

• Free: GloriaFood (online ordering), Loyverse (POS system)
• Under $10/month: Menubly ($9.99/month for online ordering + digital menus)
• $30–$70/month: SkyTab ($29.99), TouchBistro ($69), Lightspeed ($69)
• $100–$200/month: ChowNow ($119), SpotOn ($135), Toast ($69 + add-ons)
• $200+/month: Lightspeed Essential ($189), Owner.com ($499)

By Restaurant Type

• Food trucks & small cafes: Menubly or Loyverse
• Full-service restaurants: Toast or SpotOn
• Quick-service & counter-service: Square (keep it) or Clover
• Multi-location operations: Lightspeed or Toast
• Delivery-focused & ghost kitchens: GloriaFood or Owner.com

By Primary Need

• I just need online ordering without fees: Menubly or GloriaFood
• I need a full restaurant POS: Toast or SpotOn
• I need a free POS to start: Loyverse or Square (free plan)
• I want to grow direct orders and stop paying delivery apps: Owner.com or ChowNow
• I need strong inventory management and analytics: Lightspeed

For most small restaurants, cafes, bakeries, and food trucks, the biggest profit drain isn’t POS software — it’s the percentage-based processing fees on every order. If your main goal is online ordering without fees eating into your margins, Menubly gives you everything you need at $9.99/month with zero commission. If you also need in-person payment processing, pair Menubly with a free POS like Loyverse or Square’s free plan to increase restaurant sales without increasing costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best alternative to Square for restaurants?

It depends on your needs. For commission-free online ordering without processing fees, Menubly is the best square alternative at $9.99/month. For a full-service restaurant POS system, Toast or SpotOn are the top square competitors. For free online ordering, GloriaFood offers unlimited orders with no commission.

How much does Square really cost for restaurants?

Square’s free plan is $0/month for POS software, but charges 2.6% + $0.15 per in-person transaction and 2.9% + $0.30 per online transaction. Square’s Plus plan is $49/month with slightly lower processing rates. A restaurant processing $30,000/month in card sales pays roughly $800+ in payment processing fees — that’s nearly $10,000 a year.

Can I use Square without paying processing fees?

No. Square requires you to use their built-in payment processing on all plans. You cannot bring your own payment processor or negotiate processing rates on the Free or Plus plans. If avoiding per-transaction fees on online orders is your goal, apps like square alternatives such as Menubly charge a flat monthly fee with no processing fees on orders.

What is the cheapest Square alternative?

GloriaFood (free online ordering) and Loyverse (free POS software) cost nothing. Menubly is $9.99/month for online ordering and digital menus with zero payment processing fees on orders — making it the most affordable paid alternative for restaurants that want to keep 100% of their order revenue.

Is Toast better than Square for restaurants?

In the Toast vs Square debate, Toast has deeper restaurant-specific features: coursing, advanced table management, payroll, and employee scheduling. But Toast requires proprietary computer hardware ($800–$8,000+), 2–3 year contracts, and costs $150–$400+ per month all-in. For many small business owners, Square’s free plan with no contracts is a better fit than Toast’s higher cost and commitment.

Can I switch from Square without losing my data?

Most POS alternatives offer menu import and migration support during onboarding. For online ordering platforms like Menubly, you create a new pos plan independently — no data migration needed. The transition typically takes a few days to a few weeks depending on the complexity of your menu and POS setups.

Do I need a full POS system for my restaurant?

Not always. If your primary goal is online ordering and a restaurant online ordering system, a platform like Menubly handles that at a fraction of POS pricing. You only need a full point of sale system if you process in-person card payments. Many small businesses pair Menubly for online orders with a free POS like Loyverse for in-person payments to keep costs minimal.

What POS system has lower processing fees than Square?

SpotOn offers 1.99% + $0.25 on paid plans — significantly lower than Square’s 2.6% + $0.15. Clover charges 2.3% + $0.10 when purchased directly. SkyTab offers 2.49% + $0.15 with its dual pricing program. For online ordering with no processing fees at all, Menubly charges a flat $9.99/month with zero per-transaction fees.

Final Verdict: Which Square Alternative Is Right for You?

Here’s a quick recap of the top square alternatives by category:

• Best for commission-free online ordering: Menubly ($9.99/month, zero processing fees)
• Best full-service restaurant POS: Toast (deep restaurant features, but high all-in cost)
• Best free online ordering: GloriaFood (unlimited orders, no commission)
• Best free POS system: Loyverse (free core POS with no processor lock-in)
• Best for multi-concept businesses: Clover (500+ app marketplace)
• Best for analytics & inventory: Lightspeed (industry-leading reporting)
• Best for low-cost POS with hardware: SkyTab ($29.99/month, $0 upfront hardware)

Square is a solid point of sale system — especially for restaurants just getting started with its free plan and no contracts. It’s more restaurant-focused than retail pos options like Shopify POS, but as your business grows, those per-transaction payment processing fees add up. A restaurant doing $20,000/month in online orders pays $520–$620 in processing fees to Square every month. That’s money that could go back into your food, your staff, or your profit margin.

Many small restaurants don’t need a new POS system at all. They need affordable online ordering and a professional digital menu that doesn’t cost a percentage of every sale. Menubly gives you commission-free online ordering, a digital menu, and a simple website builder for $9.99/month — no contracts, no hardware, no processing fees on orders.

Try Menubly free for 30 days — no credit card required. Create your online menu in minutes and start taking commission-free orders today.