In today’s dynamic, digital-first restaurant landscape, the right tools can help drive customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, and long-term growth. From point-of-sale (POS) systems and online ordering to inventory management and guest engagement, these solutions can streamline operations and elevate the dining experience.
In fact, a survey by the National Restaurant Association (NRA) points to 55% of restaurant operators planning to invest in tech that improves services, while 60% say they’re on the hunt for options to enhance the customer experience.
With more choices than ever and customers expecting seamless experiences, embracing innovation is how restaurants stay in the game—and Rewards Network® is here to help.
1. Point-of-sale systems
Point-of-sale (POS) systems have evolved way beyond merely processing transactions. Today’s smart platforms act as the central nervous system of your restaurant, connecting everything from the front-of-house experience to back-end operations. They can sync with digital ordering, loyalty programs, kiosks, and inventory tools to help create a holistic technology ecosystem.
They also provide real-time visibility into sales trends, staff performance, and menu effectiveness, turning everyday data into meaningful decisions, according to the 63% of restaurants that use cloud-based POS systems.
What’s more, many modern POS systems are built with cybersecurity in mind, with features like encryption, secure data storage, and multifactor authentication that can safeguard against breaches and help maintain compliance with privacy rules. With components like pay-at-table and centralized dashboards, these systems help your entire business run smarter and safer.
Rewards Network is compatible with major POS systems to track visits, measure program impact, access customer insights, and more without disrupting operations.
2. Online ordering and delivery
Online ordering systems have become essential for restaurants of all types—even those that focus primarily on dine-in service. These tools can expand revenue streams and boost efficiency by integrating directly with POS systems and syncing with third-party delivery platforms, saving time and reducing manual errors.
An interesting way that tech has evolved the world of online ordering and delivery is the rise of cloud kitchens and ghost kitchens. Since these establishments are 100% digital and offer pickup and delivery only, the overhead is lower than traditional restaurants. These models are a great example of using technology for the benefit of the customer when it comes to speed, service, and quality.
One of the most important aspects of incorporating this technology is that it allows you to own the guest data and control the customer experience. Instead of relying solely on third-party apps, restaurants can build stronger relationships, personalize marketing, and make smarter decisions all while meeting guests (especially Gen Z) where they are—online—while putting your brand in the driver’s seat.
3. Table management and reservation systems
Efficient table management and reservation systems are essential for restaurants looking to maximize revenue and deliver exceptional guest experiences, especially during packed dinner rushes. Tools like OpenTable and Resy make it easier to seat guests efficiently, cut down on wait times, and keep tables turning, which means more happy diners and more revenue.
But it’s not just about logistics. These platforms can also give your team a heads up before guests even walk in the door. With insights into preferences and past visits, staff can personalize the experience and make each meal feel special. When smart reservation tech is in place, even the busiest nights can feel effortless, and guests leave impressed and ready to come back.
You can make a reservation via OpenTable for many of Rewards Network’s restaurants.
4. Digital menus and self-service kiosks
Are you seeing a pattern? Automation and personalization are the name of the game when it comes to restaurant innovation. Next up: digital menus and self-service kiosks are doing their part to help transform the restaurant experience. Whether accessed via touch screens, QR codes, or apps, these tools give guests more control, faster service, and visually engaging interfaces, all while easing the workload on staff.
With AI-driven recommendations and upsell prompts, self-service ordering can significantly boost check averages. Plus, digital menus are easy to update in real time, making them perfect for seasonal specials or inventory-based changes.
Additionally, some come equipped with features like voice and/or facial recognition and multi-language support, allowing for a hands-free experience, maximum customization, and next-level accessibility for every guest.
5. Back of house inventory management
In any restaurant, keeping the kitchen running smoothly while cutting down on waste and food costs is no small feat. That’s where smart inventory management tools come in. When you connect your inventory system with your POS, you get real-time insights into what ingredients are being used, how prices are shifting, and where you might be over-ordering. No more guesswork, no more surprises.
Blockchain technology has been instrumental when it comes to inventory management. Blockchain offers a secure, transparent way to track ingredients throughout the food supply chain. It’s like a digital record that tracks every step an ingredient takes from the farm to your kitchen. Everyone involved logs their part of the journey, creating a clear, tamper-proof history you can trust. This makes it easier to spot issues like contamination before ingredients even reach your door, which means less waste, safer food, and a dining experience your guests can feel good about.
Overall, this kind of visibility makes it easier to plan prep, buy smarter, and make sure every dollar spent is working hard for your bottom line. Whether you’ve got one location or a growing multi-unit, having the right tech in place helps keep your kitchen lean, efficient, and ready to handle whatever the day throws at you without compromising quality.
6. Kitchen automation and robotics
Can you do the robot? Most restaurant operators will tell you why you should, with a full 95% having adopted some type of artificial intelligence in their establishments. Automation and robotics are rapidly reshaping restaurant operations, offering smart, scalable solutions to common challenges like labor shortages and inconsistent output.
Internet of Things (IoT) devices can help your kitchen run more smoothly and sustainably when added to your technology upgrades. These devices include automated fryers, burger-flipping robotic arms, energy-efficient appliances like smart ovens, and inventory-tracking sensors, all of which help reduce waste, ensure quality, and help elevate the dining experience.
While adoption is accelerating in quick-service and fast-casual chains, independent restaurants are also beginning to experiment with automation for labor-intensive tasks. If you live in an urban area, chances are you’ve spotted a self-driving car or a delivery robot cruising down the sidewalk with someone’s lunch. You may have even seen a drone whizzing overhead, bypassing traffic to drop off a meal in record time. What once seemed futuristic is now a practical path to efficiency, consistency, and innovation behind the line.
7. Eco-friendly tech and sustainability systems
Sustainability is no longer a side dish, it’s a main ingredient in today’s restaurant operations, considering food waste is a major issue here at home as well as globally. Valued by diners, investors, and regulators alike, eco-friendly tech solutions like energy-efficient appliances, composting systems, and food waste tracking software help reduce environmental impact while improving operational efficiency.
Smart water and HVAC systems can significantly lower utility costs, making sustainability a good financial move as well. Even POS systems are evolving—as mentioned earlier—offering sustainability dashboards that track waste, energy usage, and packaging choices.
And sustainability sells, with 75% of guests saying they’re happy to pay a premium for eco-conscious options. By embracing these tools, restaurants can align with consumer values, meet regulatory expectations, and build a more resilient, responsible business.
8. Augmented and virtual reality
While it may sound futuristic, augmented and virtual reality (AR and VR) enabled tools and systems are making meaningful strides in restaurant operations and guest engagement. AR powers interactive menus, immersive tableside experiences, and creative social media campaigns, like filter-based promotions that boost brand visibility.
Meanwhile, VR is revolutionizing employee training, especially in multi-unit environments, allowing new hires to master kitchen workflows before ever stepping behind the line. Restaurants can even offer virtual previews of their ambiance and menu online, giving guests a taste of the experience before they arrive. Early adopters stand out in a crowded market, especially among Gen Z diners who crave tech-forward, visually rich interactions.
9. Data and reporting tools
In any business, data is only valuable when it’s clean, actionable, and insight-driven, not just a sea of numbers. With the right reporting tools, owners and managers can go beyond basic metrics to uncover patterns that fuel smarter decisions. Want to tailor your marketing or personalize the guest experience? Segmenting by behaviors or preferences becomes a breeze.
You can even track how campaigns are performing in real time, so you know what’s working and what to tweak. And when it comes to your menu, data can help highlight the stars, flag the duds, and uncover upsell opportunities. In today’s competitive landscape, these kinds of insights aren’t just helpful, they’re non-negotiable.
10. Payment systems
One final piece of essential tech in today’s restaurants is a fast, easy payment system. With contactless, mobile, and QR-based options, guests expect a checkout experience that’s quick, seamless, and tech-savvy. These systems cut down on wait times, reduce errors, and make the entire dining experience feel smoother.
Plus, advanced features like pay-at-table and digital receipts help staff work more efficiently and keep tables turning. Even in full-service restaurants, where face-to-face interaction is key, over 60% of guests still prefer digital or contactless payment. In a competitive market, frictionless payments are as convenient as they are smart when it comes to building loyalty and keeping operations running at full speed.
How Rewards Network can help
Technology in restaurants is always evolving, but building the right foundation pays off in big ways, from smoother operations to happier guests and long-term loyalty. Whether you’re testing out robotics, streamlining workflows, or upgrading your POS system, every piece of tech plays a role in creating a more efficient and guest-friendly business. Remember, the most successful operators aren’t chasing trends, they’re choosing tools that reduce friction, elevate the experience, and help them make smarter, data-driven decisions.
Ready to level up your strategy? At Rewards Network, we’re not just bringing you diners—we’re helping you build a smarter, stronger restaurant. If you’re interested in upgrading your current technology or investing in new, advanced solutions for your business, reach out to see how we can help! We’re ready when you are.
The information contained in this digital content is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as providing tax, legal, accounting, career, business, or other professional advice. You should consult your own professional advisors before engaging in any course of action. Individual results on the Rewards Network platform will vary.
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