2025 restaurant trends for quick service restaurants are all about leveraging technology. While 2024 buzzed with discussions about AI, augmented reality (AR), and robots in the kitchen, this year quick service restaurant owners are shifting their focus toward practical, results-driven solutions.
The key question: What technology will help quick service restaurant owners run more efficient, profitable businesses?
The answer: Cloud-based POS systems, commission-free online food ordering systems, and automatic SMS text notifications.
Let’s dive in!
2025 Restaurant Trends: Cloud-Based Restaurant POS System
This year, more and more quick service restaurants are moving toward all-in-one cloud-based POS systems, leaving behind outdated legacy systems with bulky, expensive hardware.
Why make the switch?
Regardless of whether you run a casual take-out spot or a high-traffic quick service restaurant, a cloud-based POS system offers the ideal combination of power and flexibility.
- Power:
- Accept orders from multiple channels (e.g., in-person, online, QR code menu).
- Manage and update menus across platforms.
- Track order status in real time with a Kitchen Display System (KDS).
- Automatically notify customers when their orders are ready.
- Flexibility:
- Monitor restaurant operations from anywhere.
- Make real-time menu updates, track sales performance, and manage orders seamlessly — even when offsite.
2025 Restaurant Trends: Online Food Ordering System
Tired of losing revenue to third-party order and delivery apps, more quick service restaurants are adopting their own commission-free online food ordering systems.
Why it’s a game-changer:
- Better Margins:
- Third-party apps often take up to 30% in fees, which can hurt your bottom line. By owning your online ordering platform, you retain more revenue while keeping prices reasonable for customers.
- Greater Control:
- Managing multiple tech providers can get messy. Integrating your online ordering system with your POS streamlines operations, making it more efficient and cost-effective.
2025 Restaurant Trends: Automatic SMS Order Notifications
In 2025, automatic SMS order notifications built into a kitchen display system (KDS system) are poised to become a must-have feature for quick service restaurants. Customers crave convenience and expect clear communication about their orders.
Why SMS notifications are a win-win:
- Enhanced Customer Experience:
- Text alerts provide a discreet, efficient way for customers to know their orders are ready. No need to deal with noisy environments, bulky beepers, or constant name-shouting.
- Restaurant Convenience:
- Staff no longer need to search for customers or repeat order numbers, saving time and ensuring food stays fresh. A simple one-click system from your KDS system sends an instant alert.
Tap Into the Power of 2025 Restaurant Trends with Table Needs
Staying ahead of the curve is critical for quick service restaurant owners, and adopting practical, restaurant technology is the key to thriving in 2025. From cloud-based POS systems to commission-free online ordering and SMS notifications, these tools empower your business to operate more efficiently, connect with customers, and boost profits.
Ready to take your quick service restaurant to the next level? Let Table Needs help you implement the technology solutions you need to succeed. Contact us today to learn how we can help your restaurant thrive in 2025!
Follow us for tips, news, and tutorials to run a successful independent restaurant, coffee shop, or food truck.
