Top 15 Best POS Software For Restaurants in UK

Why Choosing the Right POS Software for Restaurants in the UK Is Critical in 2025

In 2025, the restaurant industry in the UK is more competitive and fast-paced than ever before. Digital transformation has reshaped customer expectations, operational workflows, and payment methods. At the heart of this evolution lies the Point of Sale (POS) software, an indispensable tool that manages everything from order taking and payment processing to inventory tracking, customer engagement, and analytics.

Selecting the right POS software for restaurants in the UK is not just about handling transactions. It directly influences operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, staff productivity, and ultimately, your restaurant’s profitability. The ideal POS system offers seamless integration with online ordering platforms, supports contactless and mobile payments, complies with UK tax laws, and provides real-time insights to empower data-driven decisions.

This comprehensive guide explores the Top 15 Best POS Software for Restaurants in the UK in 2025. These systems have been meticulously evaluated based on features, pricing, scalability, user experience, UK-specific requirements, and customer feedback. Whether you operate a small café, a bustling takeaway, or a multi-branch restaurant chain, this article will help you make an informed choice tailored to your unique needs.

15 Best POS Software for Restaurants in UK

Here is a snapshot of the leading POS systems revolutionizing UK restaurant operations:

1. Square for Restaurants — Offers flexibility with cloud-based ordering, mobile payments, and integrated online sales.
2. Lightspeed POS — Comprehensive inventory, reporting, and customer management suitable for full-service restaurants.
3. Toast POS — Feature-rich with in-depth reporting, labor management, and loyalty program integration.
4. Vend POS — Robust retail POS adapted for restaurants with strong analytics and multi-location support.
5. TouchBistro — iPad-based, user-friendly POS built for restaurant workflows and table management.
6. Revel Systems — Enterprise-grade POS focused on scalability, compliance, and deep integration options.
7. Epos Now — UK-based, easy-to-use POS with scalable solutions for independents and chains alike.
8. ShopKeep by Lightspeed — Simplified POS ideal for small eateries, cafes, and food trucks.
9. Clover POS — Modular hardware and software offering tailored solutions for restaurants.
10. Upserve POS — Combines POS, analytics, and marketing automation for full-service restaurants.
11. Kounta POS — Cloud-based, scalable system with seamless integration with delivery platforms.
12. Lavu POS — Highly customizable iPad POS designed for detailed menu and staff management.
13. Harbortouch POS — Budget-friendly with free hardware offers and essential POS functionalities.
14. Toast POS UK — Adapted for UK-specific tax and payment processes with strong reporting.
15. Epos Express — Simple and affordable POS focused on UK small restaurants and cafés.

How This Top 15 List Was Created

This curated list of POS systems was formed by evaluating:

• Core Restaurant Features: Table and order management, menu flexibility, split billing, and kitchen display systems.
• Payment Compatibility: Support for UK payment gateways, chip-and-PIN, contactless, and mobile wallets.
• Integration: Seamless syncing with popular delivery services, accounting software, loyalty apps, and inventory management tools.
• Ease of Use: Intuitive interfaces that minimize staff training time and errors.
• Pricing Flexibility: Offering plans suitable for startups, growing SMEs, and large enterprise chains.
• Scalability: Ability to support multiple locations, terminals, and users without performance loss.
• Compliance: Adherence to UK tax laws, including VAT management and digital receipt requirements.
• Customer Support: Availability of UK-based support, training resources, and community forums.
• User Feedback: Real-world performance, reliability, and value as reported by restaurant owners and staff.

Pricing Models for Small, Growing, and Enterprise Restaurants in the UK

Pricing for Small Restaurants and Startups

Small restaurants, cafés, and food trucks prioritize affordability and simplicity. Entry-level POS systems offer essential features at competitive prices and allow easy scaling:

• Square for Restaurants: Offers a free plan for basic needs; paid plans start at around £29 per terminal/month, suitable for single locations.
• Epos Express: Pricing begins at £39/month, ideal for new establishments looking for easy setup.
• Harbortouch POS: Provides free hardware with lease or purchase options and monthly subscription fees tailored to small businesses.
• TouchBistro: Entry-level plans start at approximately £69/month with intuitive iPad interfaces.
• ShopKeep: Basic plans for startups from around £49/month with essential sales and inventory features.

Pricing for Growing Restaurants and Multi-Location SMEs

As restaurants expand, more advanced features like inventory forecasting, loyalty programs, multi-terminal support, and detailed reporting become critical:

• Lightspeed POS: Plans begin at £69/month and include inventory management and analytics; add-ons available for growing needs.
• Upserve POS: Starts near £59/month, offering staff management and marketing automation.
• Kounta POS: Cloud-based plans around £69/month per terminal, integrating well with delivery platforms.
• Revel Systems: Custom pricing tailored for mid-sized operations needing scalability.
• Toast POS: Subscription pricing varies with business size and modules chosen, popular for growing UK restaurants.

Pricing for Large Enterprises and Restaurant Chains

Enterprise solutions focus on high-volume transaction handling, compliance, advanced analytics, custom integrations, and dedicated support:

• Revel Systems: Enterprise-level pricing with customized contracts, dedicated account management, and extensive compliance features.
• Toast POS UK: Tailored packages to meet complex UK-specific tax and operational requirements for large chains.
• Lightspeed POS: Offers enterprise tiers with bespoke features and advanced workflow automation.
• Clover POS: Modular pricing depending on hardware, software modules, and scale of deployment.

1. Square for Restaurants

Overview

Square for Restaurants is a cloud-based POS known for its ease of use and flexibility, supporting quick order entry, payment processing, and online ordering. It offers essential tools like inventory tracking and employee management, making it suitable for small to medium UK restaurants looking for an affordable and scalable solution.

Features

• Tableside Ordering & Payments: Fast order input with support for contactless and chip & PIN payments.
• Online Ordering Integration: Syncs orders from Square Online or third-party apps directly to the POS.
• Menu & Inventory Management: Customizable menus and real-time inventory updates.
• Real-time Reporting: Sales and labor cost insights to optimize operations.
• Employee Management: Role-based access and clock-in/out functionality.

Review

Users appreciate its simple setup, intuitive interface, and mobile-friendly design. It’s well-suited for growing restaurants but advanced features come with paid plans.

Pros

• Easy to use with minimal training.
• Strong mobile POS support.
• Transparent pricing.
• Seamless online ordering integration.
• Robust payment options.

Cons

• Some key features require higher-tier plans.
• Limited advanced reporting.
• Support response can be slow.

Final Verdict

Square for Restaurants is ideal for UK eateries needing an affordable, user-friendly POS that scales with business growth.

2. Lightspeed POS

Overview

Lightspeed POS offers a powerful cloud-based solution with advanced inventory, customer management, and multi-location capabilities. It’s designed to support the operational complexities of medium to large UK restaurants, providing tools to manage stock, customer loyalty, and detailed sales reporting.

Features

• Advanced Inventory Tracking: Real-time updates at ingredient and menu item levels.
• Customer Relationship Management: Built-in loyalty programs and personalized marketing tools.
• Multi-location Management: Centralized control for multiple outlets.
• Detailed Reporting: Comprehensive sales, labor, and profitability analytics.
• Integrated Payments: Supports UK payment methods including chip & PIN and contactless.

Review

Lightspeed is highly regarded for its comprehensive features and ability to scale with growing restaurants. Some users find the system complex initially, but its depth justifies the learning curve.

Pros

• Detailed inventory and customer insights.
• Scales efficiently for multiple locations.
• Strong loyalty program support.
• Broad integrations with accounting and delivery apps.
• Robust UK payment processing compliance.

Cons

• Higher cost compared to simpler POS systems.
• Setup and training require time investment.
• Interface may overwhelm small teams.

Final Verdict

Lightspeed POS suits UK restaurants that need powerful management tools and are ready for a robust, scalable system.

3. Toast POS

Overview

Toast POS is a cloud-based restaurant management platform offering comprehensive tools for order processing, labor management, and customer loyalty. It is designed to improve speed and accuracy in both quick-service and full-service UK restaurants, with features tailored to restaurant-specific workflows.

Features

• Tableside Ordering and Kitchen Displays: Real-time communication between front and back of house.
• Built-in Loyalty and Gift Card Programs: Boost customer retention and repeat visits.
• Labor Management: Scheduling, payroll integration, and cost monitoring.
• Advanced Reporting: Insights into sales trends, menu performance, and guest feedback.
• Integrated Payment Processing: Support for EMV chip cards, contactless, and mobile payments.

Review

Toast is praised for its rich feature set tailored to restaurant operations, though some users note higher hardware costs and US-centric support as limitations for UK businesses.

Pros

• Tailored specifically for restaurants.
• Comprehensive loyalty program integration.
• Real-time labor cost tracking.
• Customizable reporting tools.
• Support for multiple payment methods.

Cons

• Higher initial hardware investment.
• Some advanced features require paid add-ons.
• Customer support predominantly US-based.

Final Verdict

Toast POS is ideal for UK restaurants seeking a full-featured system that enhances order management and customer engagement.

4. Vend POS

Overview

Vend POS began as a retail-focused platform but has adapted for restaurant use, offering reliable sales, inventory tracking, and reporting features. It fits well with small to mid-sized UK eateries that prioritize straightforward operations and detailed analytics.

Features

• Real-time Inventory Management: Tracks stock levels automatically.
• Multi-Outlet Management: Centralizes sales and stock data across locations.
• Integrated Payments: Accepts all major UK payment methods, including contactless.
• Sales Reporting: Provides detailed insights into product performance.
• Basic Customer Management: Tracks purchasing behavior and preferences.

Review

Vend is favored for its simplicity and multi-location support, though it lacks advanced restaurant-specific tools like table management.

Pros

• User-friendly with clear reporting.
• Scalable across multiple locations.
• Reliable payment integration.
• Strong inventory control.
• Compatible with major accounting software.

Cons

• No built-in table or floor plan management.
• Limited restaurant-specific features.
• Additional costs for integrations.

Final Verdict

Vend POS is suitable for UK restaurants focused on inventory and sales management rather than complex front-of-house operations.

5. TouchBistro

Overview

TouchBistro is an iPad-based POS designed specifically for restaurants. It combines ease of use with features like table management and menu customization, making it popular among UK businesses aiming to improve dining room efficiency and service speed.

Features

• Visual Table and Floor Plan Management: Easy reservation and seating organization.
• Customizable Menus: Supports modifiers and menu changes on the fly.
• Order and Payment Processing: Tableside ordering and flexible payment splits.
• Staff Management: Scheduling and performance monitoring.
• Offline Mode: Ensures continued operation without internet.

Review

Users highlight TouchBistro’s intuitive interface and restaurant-specific design. Hardware costs can be higher, but the system boosts operational efficiency.

Pros

• Intuitive and restaurant-focused.
• Powerful floor plan and table management.
• Flexible payment options.
• Offline capability for uninterrupted service.
• Transparent pricing.

Cons

• Limited third-party integrations.
• Hardware expenses for iPads and accessories.
• Support availability can vary.

Final Verdict

TouchBistro is an excellent choice for UK restaurants prioritizing front-of-house efficiency and ease of use.

6. Revel Systems

Overview

Revel Systems is an enterprise-grade cloud-based POS platform tailored for complex restaurant operations. It combines powerful reporting, employee management, and inventory controls, making it suitable for large UK restaurants and multi-location chains that require scalability and compliance with local regulations.

Features

• Comprehensive Inventory Management: Tracks ingredients, menu items, and supplier orders in real time.
• Employee Management: Scheduling, time clock, and performance analytics.
• Advanced Reporting: Customizable dashboards showing sales, labor, and inventory data.
• Table Management and Order Flow: Supports split checks, course timing, and order modifications.
• Integrated Payments: Compatible with multiple payment types including EMV chip and contactless cards.

Review

Revel Systems is praised for its scalability and robust features, though its complexity and price point may be challenging for smaller UK restaurants.

Pros

• Robust multi-location management tools.
• Extensive reporting and analytics.
• Strong compliance with UK tax and payment standards.
• Highly customizable workflows.
• Integrated employee management.

Cons

• Higher cost than many competitors.
• Requires thorough staff training.
• May be overwhelming for small operations.

Final Verdict

Revel Systems is best suited for large, multi-location UK restaurants seeking a comprehensive and scalable POS solution.

7. Epos Now

Overview

Epos Now is a UK-based POS system that offers flexible, scalable solutions designed to fit a wide range of hospitality businesses. Its user-friendly interface and extensive feature set make it popular among independent restaurants, cafes, and growing chains.

Features

• Easy Setup and Use: Intuitive touchscreen interface ideal for quick staff training.
• Inventory and Stock Control: Automated stock level alerts and supplier management.
• Customer Loyalty Programs: Built-in rewards and promotions management.
• Cloud-based Reporting: Access sales, staff performance, and VAT reports remotely.
• Payment Processing: Supports all major UK card schemes including contactless payments.

Review

Epos Now receives praise for its strong UK presence and tailored features but users note occasional hardware compatibility issues.

Pros

• Simple setup and intuitive interface.
• UK-specific VAT and compliance support.
• Integrated loyalty programs.
• Cloud reporting accessible anywhere.
• Scalable from single terminals to multi-location businesses.

Cons

• Some hardware options can be costly.
• Support quality varies regionally.
• Occasional software bugs reported.

Final Verdict

Epos Now is an excellent POS choice for UK restaurants seeking a local, user-friendly solution with solid compliance features.

8. ShopKeep by Lightspeed

Overview

ShopKeep by Lightspeed is an easy-to-use cloud POS system designed for smaller hospitality businesses. It offers basic inventory and sales management tools suitable for UK cafes, food trucks, and small restaurants looking for a straightforward, affordable solution.

Features

• Inventory Management: Basic stock tracking and reorder alerts.
• Sales Reporting: Daily sales summaries and employee performance reports.
• Simple Payment Processing: Supports chip & PIN, contactless, and mobile payments.
• Multi-device Access: Works on iPads, iPhones, and desktops for flexibility.
• Customer Management: Stores basic customer info for repeat business.

Review

ShopKeep is praised for its simplicity and ease of setup but may lack advanced features needed by larger restaurants.

Pros

• Affordable and easy to deploy.
• Mobile and tablet-friendly.
• Basic reporting meets small business needs.
• Quick staff onboarding.
• Transparent pricing.

Cons

• Limited integrations with other software.
• Lacks advanced inventory and order management.
• Not ideal for multi-location operations.

Final Verdict

ShopKeep by Lightspeed is a solid choice for small UK restaurants or cafes needing a simple, cost-effective POS.

9. Clover POS

Overview

Clover POS offers a modular hardware and software system, allowing UK restaurants to customize their setup to fit their unique service style. It supports various payment options and includes apps for inventory, employee management, and customer engagement, making it a flexible choice for restaurants of all sizes.

Features

• Modular Hardware Options: Range of terminals, handheld devices, and mobile readers.
• Customizable App Market: Add features like loyalty programs, inventory, and scheduling through apps.
• Payment Processing: Accepts chip & PIN, contactless, and mobile payments with integrated security.
• Order Management: Supports order splitting, modifiers, and refunds.
• Real-time Reporting: Sales and staff performance analytics accessible remotely.

Review

Clover is praised for its hardware versatility and app ecosystem, though some UK users report higher transaction fees and occasional software limitations.

Pros

• Highly customizable with modular hardware and apps.
• Supports a wide range of payment methods.
• User-friendly interface.
• Remote reporting and management.
• Good support for loyalty and marketing.

Cons

• Transaction fees can be higher than competitors.
• Some apps add to overall cost.
• Limited UK-specific integrations.

Final Verdict

Clover POS is ideal for UK restaurants wanting a tailored hardware-software solution with extensive app customization.

10. Upserve POS

Overview

Upserve POS is an all-in-one restaurant management system combining POS functionality with analytics and marketing tools. It helps UK restaurants optimize operations, staff management, and customer engagement through detailed insights and loyalty features.

Features

• Comprehensive POS: Tableside ordering, payment processing, and menu management.
• Advanced Analytics: Tracks sales, labor, menu performance, and guest preferences.
• Loyalty and Marketing: Integrated programs to drive repeat business.
• Inventory Management: Real-time stock tracking with alerts.
• Staff Scheduling: Streamlines shift planning and payroll integration.

Review

Upserve is highly regarded for its robust analytics and marketing tools, though it may be pricier than some alternatives.

Pros

• Deep data insights for informed decision-making.
• Integrated loyalty programs boost retention.
• Comprehensive staff management.
• User-friendly interface tailored to restaurants.
• Strong customer support.

Cons

• Higher cost for full feature set.
• May be complex for smaller operations.
• Hardware compatibility can vary.

Final Verdict

Upserve POS is a strong choice for UK restaurants seeking to combine operational efficiency with customer loyalty and marketing.

11. Kounta POS

Overview

Kounta POS is a cloud-based system designed for fast-paced restaurant environments. It supports flexible menu management, integrates with popular delivery platforms, and offers robust reporting, making it a great fit for UK restaurants focusing on speed and scalability.

Features

• Flexible Menu and Modifier Setup: Easily adapt menus and special orders.
• Delivery Integration: Syncs with platforms like Deliveroo and Uber Eats.
• Real-time Analytics: Sales, inventory, and labor reports accessible online.
• Multi-location Support: Centralized management for growing restaurant groups.
• Payment Processing: Supports major UK payment methods including contactless.

Review

Kounta is praised for its cloud-first approach and delivery platform integrations, though some users mention limited offline capabilities.

Pros

• Strong integration with delivery services.
• Easy menu customization.
• Scalable for multi-location restaurants.
• Intuitive user interface.
• Real-time reporting accessible anywhere.

Cons

• Offline mode is limited compared to competitors.
• Some advanced features require add-ons.
• Learning curve for non-technical users.

Final Verdict

Kounta POS suits UK restaurants prioritizing delivery integration and cloud-based management.

12. Lavu POS

Overview

Lavu POS is an iPad-based system tailored for restaurants that require a high degree of menu customization and detailed sales analytics. It supports diverse service styles, from quick service to fine dining, making it a versatile option for UK restaurants aiming to optimize both front- and back-of-house operations.

Features

• Customizable Menu Management: Supports modifiers, combo meals, and multiple menu layouts.
• Detailed Sales Reporting: Tracks item sales, employee performance, and peak times.
• Tableside Ordering: Enables fast and accurate order entry at the table.
• Inventory Tracking: Monitors ingredient usage and alerts for low stock.
• Offline Mode: Ensures uninterrupted service during internet outages.

Review

Lavu is favored for its customization and robust reporting, though some users mention occasional stability issues on older hardware.

Pros

• Highly customizable menus and order options.
• Comprehensive reporting tools.
• Supports multiple restaurant types.
• Reliable offline functionality.
• User-friendly iPad interface.

Cons

• Some stability concerns on certain devices.
• Limited third-party integrations.
• Support primarily US-based.

Final Verdict

Lavu POS is a strong choice for UK restaurants seeking customizable menus and detailed analytics on a mobile platform.

13. Harbortouch POS

Overview

Harbortouch POS is an affordable and straightforward system that offers free hardware for qualified businesses, making it attractive for UK restaurants and cafes on a budget. It combines essential POS features with reliable payment processing and customer support.

Features

• Flat-rate Pricing: Includes free hardware with lease or purchase options.
• Simple Order Management: Intuitive touchscreen interface for quick order entry.
• Payment Processing: Supports EMV chip, contactless, and mobile payments.
• Customer Management: Basic loyalty and promotions features.
• Reporting and Analytics: Daily sales and labor reports for better management.

Review

Harbortouch is appreciated for its cost-effectiveness and ease of use but may lack advanced features required by larger restaurants.

Pros

• Free hardware reduces upfront costs.
• Transparent and affordable pricing.
• User-friendly interface for quick adoption.
• Supports all major payment types.
• Reliable customer service.

Cons

• Limited advanced reporting and integrations.
• Hardware may be basic compared to competitors.
• Not ideal for multi-location or large-scale operations.

Final Verdict

Harbortouch POS is an excellent entry-level solution for UK restaurants seeking a budget-friendly and straightforward system.

14. TouchSuite POS

Overview

TouchSuite POS is a UK-focused, cloud-based restaurant POS system designed for quick-service and full-service venues. It offers an easy-to-use interface, fast payment processing, and robust reporting features tailored to the needs of UK hospitality businesses.

Features

• Intuitive Order Management: Quick order entry with customizable menus and modifiers.
• Payment Processing: Accepts all major UK payment methods, including contactless and chip & PIN.
• Inventory Control: Tracks stock levels with automated reorder alerts.
• Employee Management: Shift scheduling, clock-in/out, and sales tracking.

• Comprehensive Reporting: Real-time sales, VAT, and labor reports accessible online.

Review

Users value TouchSuite for its simplicity, reliability, and UK-specific compliance. It’s especially popular among small to medium restaurants and cafes.

Pros

• User-friendly with minimal training required.
• Fast and secure payment processing.
• Strong UK tax compliance.
• Scalable for growing businesses.
• Responsive UK-based customer support.

Cons

• Limited advanced customization options.
• Fewer third-party integrations than larger competitors.
• Some features require paid add-ons.

Final Verdict

TouchSuite POS is a solid, affordable choice for UK restaurants seeking a straightforward POS system with reliable support and compliance.

15. Epos Express

Overview

Epos Express is a simple, cost-effective POS system designed specifically for small UK restaurants, cafes, and takeaway outlets. It emphasizes ease of use, quick setup, and reliable transaction processing, making it suitable for businesses new to POS technology.

Features

• Basic Sales Processing: Supports cash, card, contactless, and mobile payments.
• Inventory Tracking: Simple stock level monitoring and reorder alerts.
• User Management: Basic staff login and permissions.
• Reporting Tools: Daily sales and VAT reports compliant with UK tax laws.
• Customer Support: UK-based support team available for assistance.

Review

Epos Express is appreciated for its affordability and simplicity, though it may lack the advanced features needed by growing or complex operations.

Pros

• Very affordable with transparent pricing.
• Simple interface ideal for quick staff training.
• UK tax compliant reporting.
• Reliable UK-based support.
• Fast installation and setup.

Cons

• Limited advanced features and integrations.
• Not designed for multi-location businesses.
• Basic inventory management.

Final Verdict

Epos Express is a great starter POS for small UK restaurants and cafes seeking an easy-to-use, budget-friendly solution.

Conclusion:

The POS system you choose is more than just a cash register; it is the backbone of your restaurant’s operational success. In 2025, the right POS software can enhance customer experiences, streamline staff workflows, and provide vital business insights that drive growth.

From budget-friendly entry-level platforms perfect for small cafés to robust, enterprise-grade solutions designed for multi-location restaurant chains, the UK market offers a broad spectrum of POS options. Key considerations should include your restaurant’s size, menu complexity, integration needs, and scalability plans.

By leveraging one of the top 15 POS software solutions outlined in this guide, you can improve transaction speed, inventory control, marketing efforts, and compliance adherence—essential factors in today’s dynamic foodservice landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is POS software for restaurants?

POS software is a digital system that manages order taking, payments, inventory, and reporting, tailored to the unique workflows of restaurants.

Why should UK restaurants invest in modern POS systems?

Modern POS systems support contactless payments, online ordering, and integrate with UK tax regulations, improving efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Can POS software integrate with popular UK delivery platforms?

Yes, many leading POS systems integrate directly with platforms like Deliveroo, Uber Eats, and Just Eat to streamline orders and delivery management.

Is cloud-based POS better than traditional systems for restaurants?

Cloud-based POS offers real-time updates, remote management, and automatic backups, making it more flexible and reliable than traditional on-premise systems.

How to choose the right POS system for a multi-location restaurant chain?

Look for scalable solutions with centralized management, multi-terminal support, robust reporting, and strong compliance features tailored for UK regulations.