Best 6 caterer
software for small
businesses [in 2024]

1. Vev

Who Is It For

Vev caterer software suits small to medium-sized businesses. This multifunctional software solution simplifies key tasks such as scheduling and customer management, making it a valuable tool for owners looking to improve the way they provide their services and deal with administrative work.

It really helps with client relationships and in simplifying administrative tasks that would cost a lot with many traditional systems.

Features Overview

Vev's booking system is flexible, designed to meet the needs of caterers. It has a complete CRM system that allows businesses in every interaction with a client, or maintaining records of their preferences and histories.

The platform provides automated reminders and notifications to keep your clients informed and engaged, reducing no-shows and ensuring smooth operations. Marketing tools within Vev help businesses promote new services or products effectively.

Vev's dashboards provide a clear view of cash flows, client data, and other critical business metrics in a user-friendly environment. The software also offers customized branding options.

Pricing

• Free version $0 Plus version $8.99 - First month free. Pro version for enterprises: get in touch for custom pricing
• $0 - $8.99

Website

https://vev.co

Pros

• Automated schedule management: Saves time and reduces the risk of errors associated with manual scheduling.
• Increased efficiency: Allows for more streamlined operations and the ability to focus on other tasks.
• Improved client experience: Provides clients with a convenient and user-friendly booking process, enhancing satisfaction and potentially leading to repeat business.
• Built-in CRM: Helps maintain organized customer information, facilitating better communication and customer relationship management.

Cons

• Setup Time: May take time to set up and get started.
• Tech Reliance: Relies on technology to manage orders.
• Learning Required: Staff and customers may need time to learn how to use it.

2. Bentobox

Who Is It For

BentoBox serves caterers. It offers a comprehensive toolkit with a focus on modernizing the dining experience alongside digital and delivery services.

Features Overview

BentoBox provides an end-to-end caterer management system known for its intuitive backend and visually appealing user interface, simplifying website creation aligned with brand identity. While ease of use and design capabilities are strengths, limitations such as restricted source code access and a lack of plugin marketplace may hinder customization efforts.

BentoBox offers QR Code Order & Pay, dine-in ordering options, menu management, and integration with Clover POS, along with customer engagement features like loyalty programs.

Pricing

• Fully customizable, core setup is free and add-on go from $19 to $199
• $19 - $199

Website

https://www.getbento.com

Pros

• Logical backend.
• Easy to learn.
• Beautiful finished product.
• Responsive and helpful team.
• Represents brand well.
• Clean website.
• Valuable asset.
• Beautiful websites.
• Great customer service.

Cons

• Limited access to source code.
• Lack of marketplace for plug-ins.
• Limited functionality without visible options in visual editor.
• Poor customer service experience.
• Delayed product delivery.
• Issues with gift card sales and fraudulent charges.

3. Toast POS

Who Is It For

Toast caters to caterers. Its all-in-one platform incorporates features like POS, Open View ordering, and many more.

Features Overview

Toast POS offers a suite of features tailored for caterers's dynamic needs, ensuring efficient and organized operations. It includes a point-of-sale (POS) component, open view ordering, back-of-house (BOH) organization, and a kitchen display screen to replace paper processes and minimize errors. Supporting mobility and convenience, it enables mobile order and pay, allowing customers to place orders directly from their devices.

Specialized hardware like POS terminals, mobile order gadgets, kitchen displays, and printers integrate seamlessly with Toast's software suite. While cloud-based management is possible, Toast's dedicated hardware options maximize the system's capabilities, particularly in order-taking, processing, and overall management.

Pricing

• Starter kit $0 Point of Sale $69 Build your own: custom pricing
• $0 - $69

Website

https://pos.toasttab.com

Pros

• Loved by staff and management, facilitating smooth operations.
• Expansion options for businesses with multiple locations.
• Easy integration for management teams and staff.
• User-friendly interface simplifies food ordering process for customers.
• Straightforward steps on the app make ordering easy and convenient.

Cons

• Lack of customer support for setting up online ordering can be frustrating.
• Display screen functionality may not meet expectations.
• Complicated drop-down menu in the new online ordering system leads to guest confusion.

4. Square POS

Who Is It For

Square POS caters to caterers. Its flexibility makes it suitable for establishments operating both online and in physical locations.

Features Overview

Square POS stands out as a multifaceted platform meeting diverse operational needs of caterers. Supporting a wide range of payment methods, including major credit cards and offline transactions, ensures uninterrupted service even in connectivity-limited scenarios. Its design facilitates quick transaction inputs, crucial for fast-paced environments, aiming to reduce customer wait times and enhance service efficiency. Other functionalities such as floor and kitchen management aim to facilitate workflow dynamics. An automatic tipping feature benefits the gratuity process. Square POS extends utility beyond the counter with a customizable ordering website, broadening reach for delivery and on-the-go services. Integration with social media and OpenTable.

Pricing

• Free $0 Plus $29/month Fully customizable with add-ons
• $0 - $29

Website

https://squareup.com/us/en/point-of-sale

Pros

• Free to start.
• No monthly fees in Basic Plan.
• Wide range of hardware to choose from.

Cons

• Account can freeze due to irregular activity.
• Not cost-effective for high-volume transactions.
• No phone support.

5. Rezku

Who Is It For

Rezku serves caterers. It's specifically designed for those seeking an advanced POS system that addresses their operational needs comprehensively and efficiently.

Features Overview

Rezku's Advanced POS system is a powerhouse of functionalities tailored to caterer operations. It simplifies staff scheduling, optimizes inventory management, and provides in-depth financial reporting. With its Kitchen Management tools, establishments can enhance organizational efficiency and reduce errors. The customizable Branded Restaurant App elevates customer engagement through personalized marketing and promotions. Integrated Marketing & Promotions tools drive business growth by attracting and retaining customers. Lastly, Rezku supports To-Go & Delivery services, ensuring adaptability to evolving dining trends and revenue opportunities for food service businesses.

Pricing

• Essential $0/mo Growth $49/mo Custom - call sales for info
• $0 - $49

Website

https://rezku.com

Pros

• Helpful, patient, and easy-to-talk-to support team.
• Ease of use.
• Superior customer support.
• Outstanding and intuitive interface.
• Proactive update implementation based on user input.

Cons

• Slow secondary system.
• Lack of tools or resources for the host stand.
• Initial lack of functionality in early versions.
• Issues with receiving incorrect hardware and difficulty obtaining refunds.

6. Restroworks

Who Is It For

Restroworks is tailored for caterers, offering comprehensive solutions from menu management to advanced POS systems. Its open API and ERP integration capabilities make it a versatile choice for enhancing operational efficiency, particularly beneficial for streamlining service platforms without adding complexity to workflows.

Features Overview

Restroworks presents itself as a technological solution crafted specifically for caterers. With its open API and flexible architecture, it seamlessly integrates with ERP systems, providing effortless menu management and operational optimization. The platform ensures smooth operations by offering robust POS functionalities, tablet support, and efficient queue management. Elevating the dining experience, it offers features like custom order displays and optimized table layouts. Its user-friendly interface simplifies stock management and multi-branch training, prioritizing efficiency and ease of use to empower culinary businesses with effective management tools for sustainable growth and success.

Pricing

• N/A
• N/A

Website

https://www.restroworks.com

Pros

• Very good software with helpful customer support, especially with stock management.
• User-friendly interface with easy access to pictures and quick training for teams.
• Ideal for managing multiple branches.
• Top-notch implementation team providing excellent support tailored to food businesses.

Cons

• No significant dislikes, as the software operates smoothly.
• Integration with Swiggy and Zomato can be problematic with menu updates and occasional crashes.
• Limited delivery from customer service despite availability on-call, with additional costs for most modules making it expensive and potentially ineffective.