Zum Hauptinhalt springen
TabTake logoTabTake
Online Ordering

How to launch online ordering for your restaurant

Direct online ordering gives UK restaurants full control over customer relationships, zero commission per order, and custom branded checkout experiences.

TabTake E-Commerce Team10 min readUpdated August 2026
Key Takeaways
  • Set up a fast, mobile-first ordering storefront linked directly from your domain.
  • Offer collection, delivery, and scheduled pre-ordering options.
  • Integrate secure card payments via Apple Pay, Google Pay, and major debit/credit cards.
  • Promote your direct channel using receipt QR codes and social media links.

1. Why UK Restaurants Need Direct Ordering

Third-party marketplaces charge up to 30% commission per order while keeping customer email addresses and data hidden. Direct online ordering allows hospitality businesses to retain 100% of revenue and build direct repeat relationships.

2. Designing an Optimized Digital Menu

Organize menu categories logically with high-quality food photography, clear allergen badges, and customizable item add-ons (e.g. choices of sauce, extra toppings, sides).

  • Use clear category headings (Starters, Mains, Desserts, Drinks).
  • Include high-margin upsells directly at add-to-cart moments.
  • Ensure instant page loading speeds for mobile shoppers.

3. Configuring Fulfilment & Payments

Define precise delivery zones by radius or postcode, set minimum order values, and configure lead-time buffer intervals during busy hours.

Ready to put this guide into practice?

TabTake helps UK hospitality businesses unify direct ordering, kitchen printing, delivery, and menu management.

Related Restaurant Guides

More practical operational and technology guides for UK hospitality businesses.

Online Ordering

Direct ordering vs delivery marketplaces

Comparing direct web ordering with third-party marketplaces (Deliveroo, Uber Eats, Just Eat) across profit margins, customer data ownership, and brand control.

9 min readRead guide
Delivery

How to reduce restaurant delivery commission

High commission rates from third-party apps erode restaurant margins. Shift delivery orders to direct customer channels while keeping app visibility.

9 min readRead guide
Marketing

Restaurant marketing ideas for UK businesses

Attracting and retaining restaurant customers in the UK requires a mix of local search optimization, engaging social media, and automated retention campaigns.

11 min readRead guide