Top 10 Restaurant KDS Software Companies

A kitchen display system (KDS) enables restaurants to streamline and organize orders. Each item in a restaurant’s menu has different ingredients and preparation times. Similarly, every restaurant kitchen needs KDS software that addresses its daily needs and workflows. POS and KDS software companies like you need to know what features your market needs. 

In this article, you’ll learn more about the top 10 restaurant KDS software companies. From order timers to customized routing tools, these companies know how to get orders done on time. 

Square

Caption: Square’s KDS software enables restaurants to send ticket orders to multiple kitchen stations [Image: Square KDS]

Since 2009, Square has been helping restaurants streamline their front and back-of-house operations. Its KDS software is built for various types of restaurants, including quick service and fast service establishments. Square is used by companies such as Shake Shack, Ben & Jerry’s, and Blue Bottle Coffee. 

Square KDS Software Features

Square is also one of the top POS software companies. To boost a restaurant’s efficiency, its KDS system syncs information from its POS system. 

Its KDS software helps restaurants prioritize orders as they come in. This ensures the kitchen staff prepare and send out the correct orders. Square KDS also works for restaurants with multiple kitchen stations. 

Dine-in and Online Order Tracking

Square KDS users can also track orders from delivery apps and their online ordering platform. Similar to dine-in tickets, these orders are sent directly to the KDS. This ensures the restaurant doesn’t miss any orders. Its Expeditor Mode ensures each order is fulfilled within the target time. 

Customization Features

Square’s KDS ensures orders are tracked accurately. Every restaurant has different needs, so Square enables restaurant owners to customize: 

• Order ticket layouts 
• Timers
• Notifications

When designing a KDS software, you’ll need to provide standard features and offer customization options. This helps restaurant owners maximize their KDS software while tailoring the system to their business’s needs. 

Toast

Caption: The Toast KDS software automatically syncs POS and KDS information [Image: Toast KDS]

Toast’s KDS software is designed to centralize high-volume front and back-of-house operations. Its POS system seamlessly integrates with the KDS software for real-time order tracking. Toast KDS is built to keep up with a busy kitchen’s operations and increase its efficiency. 

Toast KDS Software Features 

The Toast KDS software ensures restaurants monitor and expedite order fulfillment in their kitchens. It automatically displays orders logged on the POS software into the kitchen display system. It can also notify servers whenever an order is ready. 

Compatible Hardware

Toast is also one of the top restaurant KDS hardware manufacturers. Its KDS software is compatible with two devices: 

• Toast Flex for Kitchen
• Elo Kitchen Display Screen

Centralized Order Tracking

Restaurants can track dine-in, takeout, delivery, and even curbside orders using Toast KDS. You can add labels for allergens and special instructions so kitchen staff won’t miss valuable information. Ticket layouts are also customizable. Aside from eliminating the need for paper tickets, KDS software should centralize order fulfillment tracking. 

Order Reviews and Corrections

Order reviews enable a restaurant to double-check ticket information. Toast KDS lets users reopen and review completed tickets. This is especially helpful if order corrections need to be made. 

Reports 

When developing your KDS software, consider adding reporting features. Actionable data enables restaurant owners and managers to improve their business operations. Toast KDS enables restaurants to access reports about: 

• Prep time
• Bottlenecks
• Service time (especially during peak hours) 

Fresh KDS 

Caption: The Fresh KDS software has a score-based ticketing system to track ticket times [Image: Fresh KDS]

Fresh KDS software is built for tablet-based order tracking. Food trucks, cafes, bistros, and other types of restaurants can easily monitor orders using the app. Fresh KDS is used by Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe, SmashBurger, Blaze Pizza, The Social Hub, and other restaurants. 

Fresh KDS Software Features

Fresh KDS enables restaurants to organize and tag priority orders. Kitchen staff can now view these orders at the top of the queue. This is helpful for time-sensitive dishes or when serving VIP customers. 

Meanwhile, regular orders can be manually rearranged on the KDS. Orders can be placed on hold, and completed orders can also be recalled on the Fresh KDS app. 

Fresh KDS offers three paid subscriptions: Essentials, Premium, and Enterprise. Each plan is billed per screen monthly. Here are the features included in the Essentials plan: 

• Order prioritization
• Move, hold, and recall order function
• Customized timers and alerts for order statuses 
• Service speed reports 
• Sound notifications

Restaurant owners who want their KDS software to accommodate modified orders and customer communication should consider the Premium plan. It includes the features included in the Essentials plan and: 

• Real-time ingredient counting (based on order tickets) 
• Advanced screen communication 
• Customizable order modifiers (color and text formatting)
• Real-time kitchen performance reports (including average ticket times and number of orders) 
• Automated and customizable customer messages 

Lastly, the Enterprise plan provides advanced customization options. From custom workflows to data integrations, restaurants can tailor their software to their needs. 

This tier also enables restaurant owners to simultaneously manage kitchens across multiple locations. At this scale, restaurants should be able to compare the performance of their locations using data. 

Device Compatibility 

Fresh KDS is compatible with tablets running iOS 13+ or Android 7+ operating systems. When creating your app, be sure to identify the types of devices commonly used by your market. iPads and Android tablets are easy to acquire, especially for smaller-scale restaurants and cafes. 

Loyverse

Caption: The Loyverse KDS app is designed to be used on tablets [Image: Loyverse KDS]

Loyverse has over 20 years of experience creating KDS, POS, and other software for restaurants. Its KDS software is built to strengthen customer loyalty towards a restaurant. It does this by ensuring customers receive top-tier service, including accurate and on-time orders.  

Loyverse KDS Software Features

Loyverse KDS prevents kitchen staff from making mistakes while fulfilling orders. It enables them to see all order details in a single dashboard. This includes information such as: 

• Items ordered (including quantities of each item)
• Modifiers
• Additional order notes 

Because it uses a single dashboard, staff can easily mark individual items or full orders as complete. Similar to other KDS software, it has an order timer. Kitchen staff can see the order timer’s color change depending on the waiting time. This prevents delays in order fulfillment and ensures customer satisfaction. 

Whenever a new order is added to the system, the KDS sends a sound alert to the kitchen staff. Restaurants with multiple kitchen stations can order KDS information using Loyverse KDS. The KDS software can be accessed across multiple screens so each kitchen station can monitor orders. 

Compatibility and Accessibility

Loyverse’s KDS app is compatible with iPads and Android tablets. Its tablet-based interface provides an intuitive user experience for kitchen staff. Loyverse KDS also has a dark mode setting to ensure kitchen staff can view the software. This is a good feature for restaurants with night shifts or low-light settings. 

One of Loyverse KDS’s unique features is that it’s available in more than 25 languages. A KDS system simplifies communication between a restaurant’s front-of-house and kitchen. An easy-to-understand app improves the efficiency of its users. You should build your KDS software with localization in mind so your market knows the app is built for them.  

LS Central 

LS Central (also known as LS Retail) has been providing modular business management solutions to restaurants for over 40 years. It lets restaurant owners add POS, self-checkout kiosks, and other functionalities to their KDS software. LS Central is used by global brands such as Starbucks, Hard Rock Cafe, Chili’s, and Bo’s Coffee. 

LS Central KDS Software Features

The LS Central KDS software ensures a restaurant’s kitchen and front-of-house are properly coordinated in handling orders. It provides a streamlined view of all orders. Furthermore, specific order information can be displayed in the respective kitchen station assigned to it. This allows kitchen staff to better organize their workflows. 

LS Central’s KDS software allows staff to organize order items by course or priority. It also displays order modifications and allergen information. In addition, restaurants can categorize orders for dine-in, drive-thru, takeaway, and delivery. 

Custom Kitchen Workflows 

As mentioned above, LS Central KDS allows kitchens to customize order routing. Aside from this, it enables restaurant owners to configure other information to their needs: 

• Order item information
• Layout 
• Styling 

One of the software’s unique features is that it can support custom operations. Restaurant owners can connect their KDS software to kitchen robotics and other systems to improve their workflows. To develop innovative KDS software, it should connect to other cutting-edge technology like AI POS systems and robotics. 

Lightspeed

Caption: Lightspeed’s KDS software enables kitchens to monitor all orders at the same time [Image: Lightspeed KDS]

Lightspeed’s KDS software is built for cafes, fine dining, full-service, and other types of restaurants. Its KDS software is designed to seamlessly connect to Lightspeed’s POS system. The Alinea Group, Five Guys, Cloverhill, Schooners, and Life House are some examples of restaurants that use Lightspeed KDS. 

Lightspeed KDS Software Features 

Lightspeed’s KDS software is built for iOS, iPadOS, and Android mobile devices. This provides a more portable KDS user experience compared to other KDS software companies. 

The software is compatible with hardware that supports web browsing. To ensure kitchens always get real-time order information, Lightspeed KDS has an offline mode. Even last-minute order modifications are instantly reflected on the system. Thanks to its reliable connectivity, dine-in, takeout, and delivery orders are displayed accurately. 

Order Tracking 

Lightspeed KDS aims to improve a kitchen’s efficiency and accuracy. To do this, it enables kitchens to track orders using specific filters such as: 

• Order status
• Order type
• Item level
• Ticket level 

Customer Support

A KDS software is built to support busy kitchens. Because of this, reliable customer support should be available. Lightspeed provides 24/7 customer support to address any concerns or issues as soon as possible. 

It also ensures a customer’s onboarding experience goes well. It provides one-on-one onboarding and a dedicated account manager to assist every customer along the way. 

RestroGreen

RestroGreen provides a kitchen management ecosystem to restaurants. In addition to order tracking, it has solutions for POS, inventory management, tableside ordering, and more. Its KDS app is compatible with Android, Windows, and other devices with a Google Play Store. It provides 24/7 customer support. 

RestroGreen KDS App Features 

RestroGreen enables kitchens to monitor and filter orders to help them prioritize requests. Changes and order notes are automatically updated in the system. In addition, orders can be directly routed to the appropriate kitchen stations, including: 

• Main kitchen
• Grill
• Bar
• Appetizer

As an order is being prepared, real-time updates are also reflected in the app. Similarly, instant alerts are sent whenever new orders are recorded. 

The RestroGreen app also monitors each order’s completion time. Managers and restaurant owners can use this information to evaluate and improve their kitchen’s performance. Completed orders remain in the system to help these evaluations. 

Digitized Workflows 

A KDS software like RestroGreen removes the need for physical order tickets. In a digital platform, coordination about orders is done through the KDS app. RestroGreen also provides tools for automated customer communication. Its app can send customers their restaurant bills through SMS or email.  

Crunchtime Kitchen

Crunchtime Kitchen is Kitchen Armor’s KDS software. Since 1991, Kitchen Armor has been creating products to help restaurants improve their workflows. Crunchtime Kitchen is found in the kitchens of Wood Ranch, King’s Fish House, Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar, and other establishments. 

Crunchtime Kitchen KDS Software Features 

Crunchtime Kitchen helps reduce order wait times without sacrificing quality and accuracy. Restaurant owners can configure each item’s order preparation time to improve guests’ meal pacing. Its routing options can also be customized based on the number of kitchen staff and orders. 

Performance Insights 

In addition to the standard KDS features, Crunchtime Kitchen provides in-depth kitchen performance insights. From order wait times to labor efficiencies, it has more than 20 built-in performance metrics. Restaurants can also add custom metrics for more detailed analysis. 

Performance insights enable restaurant owners to make data-backed decisions to improve efficiency. This ensures kitchen workflows are streamlined without reducing the quality of orders. 

Integrations

Crunchtime Kitchen enables restaurants to easily connect to other kitchen software and hardware. Through APIs, the software can connect to more than 65 POS software. From online ordering platforms to accounting solutions, Crunchtime integrates with software such as: 

• ControlPoint
• TeamAssist
• Toast
• Workday
• Heartland
• Ecolab
• Quickbooks
• Netsuite

KitchenGo 

Logic Controls has over 40 years of experience in helping commercial kitchens. Using its industry expertise, it created its own KDS software called KitchenGo. It streamlines dine-in, online, drive-thru, delivery, and curbside pickup orders in a single platform. 

KitchenGo KDS Software Features 

KitchenGo provides custom routing functions to improve order fulfillment accuracy. Aside from this, restaurant owners can add custom automations to the KDS software. 

KDS software should ensure dishes are served at the right temperature. KitchenGo provides a delayed routing feature to preserve food quality, especially for hot dishes. 

Live Reports

Kitchens need to adjust their workflows based on the available staff and number of guests. KitchenGo provides real-time capacity management tools to prevent order delays. 

Aside from this, the KDS software displays where a dish currently is. This helps kitchen staff know when to expect a dish in their station. 

KitchenGo also provides real-time business insights. Its live reports include:

• Bottleneck detection
• Training gap identification
• Recommendations for workflow improvements 

KitchenGo can also communicate with guests in real-time. SMS messages and mobile alerts can be sent by the system via APIs and integrations. Prompt communication helps improve a restaurant’s relationship with their guests. 

Dish Quality Monitoring

Good kitchen workflows should also include consistent dish quality. KitchenGo stores all recipes within the system. It allows you to upload images, videos, and other visual aids to show how a dish should be prepared.  

Thanks to this feature, restaurant owners can use the KDS software to help train employees. Multiple-location restaurants can also automatically sync recipes using KitchenGo.

SpotOn

Caption: The SpotOn KDS software allows kitchen staff to track orders without an internet connection using its offline mode [Image: SpotOn KDS]

SpotOn’s KDS software is designed for restaurants with full-service or counter service. Its restaurant management ecosystem also includes POS, marketing, and other solutions. It provides 24/7 customer support to help potential and current software users with their product. SpotOn is found in Necio Mexican Kitchen, The Mudpuppy, Hazel’s, Avize, and other kitchens. 

SpotOn KDS Software Features 

SpotOn’s interface ensures kitchen staff can easily see important order information. Ticket timers, order types, removed orders, and other information are automatically updated. For example, a removed item is immediately flagged in red on the system. This prevents order remakes or mistakes that cause profit losses. 

Order Management 

An offline mode is included in SpotOn KDS. This prevents missed or incorrect orders even without an internet connection. 

The software also includes a search feature for existing and completed orders. Whether an order needs to be reviewed or reopened, staff can do it in no time. 

The SpotOn KDS software is designed to be easy to use. When the screen is swiped left, kitchen staff can view the ticket queue. When a ticket is tapped, it enlarges the order and shows detailed information. On the other hand, double-tapping an order header immediately bumps it in the system. 

Built for Efficiency

Caption: Bimi’s 21-key bump bar is IP65-certified [Image: Bimi KDS]

While a digital version of a bump bar is helpful, some restaurants may need bump bar hardware. Luckily, Bimi manufactures bump bars to help kitchen staff organize orders using buttons. 

In a hectic kitchen environment, bump bar hardware helps cooks organize and mark orders as they are fulfilled. Bimi offers 20- and 21-key bump bars. The 21-key model is IP65-certified, which means it is dust-, oil-, and waterproof. 

Aside from this, Bimi’s bump bars allow staff to easily navigate their kitchen’s KDS software. Kitchens with non-touchscreen kitchen display systems are a great fit for this hardware. 

Designed for the Kitchen Rush

The best restaurant KDS software companies enable kitchen staff to track, organize, and easily view orders. While most KDS software ensures orders are fulfilled accurately and on time, the best apps offer flexibility. Restaurants need a system they can adjust to their staffing and inventory levels. In addition to accuracy, a top-tier KDS app also preserves a dish’s quality. 

In addition to using the best KDS software, you’ll need top-of-the-line hardware. Bimi manufactures restaurant KDS hardware built to withstand oil splatter and water spills. Its enclosed hardware is also dustproof. With over 15 years of experience, Bimi understands what it takes to create innovative KDS software for your market. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can restaurant KDS software created by the top KDS software companies automatically sync KDS and POS information? 

Yes, restaurant KDS software from the top KDS companies automatically syncs KDS and POS information. Restaurants use KDS software to coordinate order information between front-of-house and kitchen staff. 

Once an order is placed, the POS software sends it to the KDS software. Afterward, the kitchen staff can view the order items, quantities, and other relevant information. 

When an order is ready, the KDS software reflects this in the system. This also helps make the billing process easier because each item is accounted for in the POS system. 

2. Do all the top restaurant KDS software centralize dine-in, takeaway, and online order tracking? 

Yes, the top restaurant KDS software centralizes dine-in, takeaway, and online order tracking. All orders from various platforms are displayed in the KDS software. This allows kitchens to view and prioritize orders accordingly. 

The best restaurant KDS software ensures kitchens don’t miss any orders. To do this, all orders are centralized in a single dashboard. Similarly, any changes or cancellations are also reflected to prevent mistakes or losses. 

3. Is it easy to connect restaurant KDS software created by the top companies to KDS hardware? 

Yes, it is easy to connect restaurant KDS software created by the top companies to KDS hardware. One of the common features across the top KDS software is ease of use. This includes connecting KDS hardware and peripherals to add functionalities to the system. 

The best KDS software companies ensure they provide restaurants with a plug-and-play setup experience. Restaurant owners can easily connect KDS hardware such as: 

• Bump bar
• Additional display screens 
• Kitchen robotics 

4. Do all restaurant KDS software providers provide reports to help restaurants improve their workflows? 

No, not all restaurant KDS software provides reports to help restaurants improve their workflows. While all restaurant KDS software assist kitchens in order fulfillment, actionable data helps them improve. 

The top restaurant KDS software ensures restaurants can evaluate their kitchens’ performance (including employees’) using in-depth reports. Some of the best KDS software include built-in reports, while others offer customization features. 

5. Do all restaurant KDS software companies offer multi-language support for their apps? 

No, not all restaurant KDS software companies offer multi-language support for their apps. Localized app language affects its ease of use. Aside from this, multi-language support also improves order accuracy. When a KDS software is built for a local market, it prevents mistakes caused by miscommunication. 

6. Can you view completed orders using restaurant KDS software made by the top companies? 

Yes, you can view completed orders using restaurant KDS software made by the top companies. This helps kitchens double-check completed orders, which is helpful for disputes or evaluations. 

Some of the best KDS software companies have a filter function for completed orders. This reduces the time needed for order reviews. Kitchen staff can view completed orders based on specific menu items and other criteria. 

7. Is 24/7 customer support offered by all restaurant KDS software companies?

No, not all restaurant KDS software companies offer 24/7 customer support. Restaurant kitchens need reliable and continuous order management. When there is a software issue, it needs to be addressed immediately. 

Luckily, most of the best restaurant KDS software companies provide 24/7 customer support. A dedicated customer support team helps a restaurant KDS software company stand out. 

8. Do the top restaurant KDS software companies provide customized order routing features? 

Yes, the top restaurant KDS software companies provide customized order routing features. While all kitchen stations can access order information, customized routing helps improve accuracy and efficiency. Some of the best restaurant KDS software companies also enable users to add custom automations to their order routing. 

This feature sends specific order items to the relevant kitchen stations. Furthermore, it also helps kitchen staff properly pace order preparation. 

9. Can you connect all restaurant KDS software to other apps? 

No, you can’t connect all restaurant KDS software to other apps. Some KDS software only provides basic features. The good news is that the best restaurant KDS software companies allow users to add functionalities through integrations. 

KDS software can streamline more than just kitchen workflows. Restaurant owners can connect their KDS software to apps that help their business’s processes such as: 

• Accounting 
• Inventory management 
• POS 
• Employee management

10. Can some of the top restaurant KDS software help restaurants monitor the quality of their dishes? 

Yes, some of the top restaurant KDS software help restaurants monitor the quality of their dishes. Accurate order fulfillment should also ensure each dish’s quality remains consistent. 

Some of the top KDS software allow restaurants to store their recipes within the system. With this information, kitchen staff can check how well they’re following the recipe. They can also access visual aids to compare plating and other dish components. Features like this also help make training tasks easier.