Choosing between TouchBistro and Grubhub Direct for your business? Both are popular restaurant solutions, but they serve different needs. TouchBistro starts at $69/month and is iPad-based restaurant POS with tableside ordering, while Grubhub Direct starts at Free setup + processing fees and is Direct online ordering solution from Grubhub. This comprehensive comparison will help you decide which POS system is the right fit for your operation.
Quick Comparison: TouchBistro vs Grubhub Direct
| Feature | TouchBistro | Grubhub Direct |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Restaurant | Software |
| Starting Price | $69/month | Free setup + processing fees |
| Rating | 4.4/5 | 3.9/5 |
| Target Business | Small Business | Small Business to Mid-Market |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Transaction-based |
| Free Trial | Yes | No |
| Free Version | No | Yes |
| Best For | Independent restaurants, bars, and food service businesses using iPads | Restaurants wanting direct ordering with Grubhub delivery |
TouchBistro Overview
TouchBistro is an iPad-based restaurant POS system designed specifically for food service businesses. It offers tableside ordering, menu management, and comprehensive restaurant management features.
TouchBistro is offered by TouchBistro Inc. (founded 2010) based in Toronto, Canada. The system focuses on Full-service restaurants, Quick service, Bars, Cafes, Food trucks, Breweries.
Key Features:
- Tableside ordering
- Floor plan management
- Menu management
- Staff scheduling
- Inventory tracking
- CRM
Grubhub Direct Overview
Grubhub Direct allows restaurants to accept online orders directly through their website without marketplace commissions. Includes order management and optional delivery through Grubhub drivers.
Grubhub Direct is offered by Grubhub (Just Eat Takeaway) (founded 2004) based in Chicago, IL. The system focuses on Restaurants.
Key Features:
- Online Ordering
- Website Integration
- Order Management
- Delivery Option
- Marketing Tools
- Analytics
Feature Comparison
TouchBistro Features:
- Tableside ordering
- Floor plan management
- Menu management
- Staff scheduling
- Inventory tracking
Grubhub Direct Features:
- Online Ordering
- Website Integration
- Order Management
- Delivery Option
- Marketing Tools
When comparing features, TouchBistro stands out with Offline functionality, while Grubhub Direct differentiates itself with Commission-free direct orders. Your choice should depend on which features align better with your specific business requirements.
Pricing Comparison
| Pricing Aspect | TouchBistro | Grubhub Direct |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $69/month | Free setup + processing fees |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | Transaction-based |
| Price Range | Mid-range | Budget |
| Free Trial | Available | Not available |
| Free Version | No | Yes |
Grubhub Direct is more budget-friendly, making it a better choice for cost-conscious businesses. Consider the total cost of ownership including hardware, processing fees, and add-on modules when making your decision.
Pros and Cons
TouchBistro
Pros:
- Restaurant-focused design
- Works offline
- Intuitive interface
- Good customer support
- Flexible menu management
Cons:
- iPad/Apple only
- Add-ons increase costs
- Limited integrations
- Reservation system separate
Grubhub Direct
Pros:
- No commission on orders
- Grubhub delivery available
- Marketing support
- Free to set up
Cons:
- Delivery fees apply
- Less known than marketplace
- Limited customization
Who Should Choose TouchBistro?
TouchBistro is ideal for Independent restaurants, bars, and food service businesses using iPads. The system is particularly well-suited for Full-service restaurants, Quick service, Bars, Cafes, Food trucks, Breweries.
However, TouchBistro may not be the best fit for Non-restaurant businesses or those preferring Android/Windows.
Who Should Choose Grubhub Direct?
Grubhub Direct is ideal for Restaurants wanting direct ordering with Grubhub delivery. The system is particularly well-suited for Restaurants.
However, Grubhub Direct may not be the best fit for Those avoiding third-party delivery platforms.
Our Recommendation
Both TouchBistro and Grubhub Direct are solid POS solutions, but they excel in different areas. Choose TouchBistro if you’re Independent restaurants, bars, and food service businesses using iPads. Choose Grubhub Direct if you’re Restaurants wanting direct ordering with Grubhub delivery. TouchBistro has a higher user rating (4.4 vs 3.9). Also, choose Grubhub Direct if you want to start with a free version. We recommend trying demos or free trials of both systems before making your final decision.