Revel POS: Is It Great for Your Restaurant?
Hey there,
I’m Jeff, a restaurant consultant living in sunny Florida.
I’ve spent years working with restaurant owners, helping them streamline operations, boost sales, and enhance customer experience.
Today, I’d like to discuss my opinions and experience with Revel POS, a well-liked point-of-sale system. We’ll discuss the subject, “Is it great for your restaurant?”
As an industry veteran, I understand the significance of finding the right point-of-sale (POS) solution for your business.
The right system can simplify your operations, help you manage your inventory and employees, and create a smooth customer experience. Conversely, incorrect decisions might result in inefficiency, lost revenue, and angry clients.
Revel POS has been gaining popularity among restaurant owners, and I’ve worked with a few clients who have implemented this system.
In this article, I’ll discuss my experiences with Revel POS, highlight its most useful features, and provide my thoughts on the service. When you’re done here, you should have a much clearer picture of whether Revel POS will work for your eatery. All right, let’s start from the beginning.
What is Revel POS System?
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of Revel POS, let’s first establish what it is and how it functions as a restaurant point-of-sale system.
Restaurants, retailers, and service organizations may all benefit from Revel Systems’ iPad-based, cloud-based point-of-sale (POS) technology.
Their restaurant POS solution has gained popularity among restaurant owners for its flexibility, ease of use, and comprehensive features.
As a restaurant consultant, I’ve had the chance to work closely with different POS systems, and I must say Revel’s iPad POS has impressed me.
The system provides a seamless, intuitive interface that makes it easy for restaurant staff to navigate through orders, payments, and other essential tasks.
It’s a huge improvement over old-fashioned registers, and it’ll free up more of your time to focus on what matters: servicing your clients.
One thing I’ve noticed while working with clients who use Revel POS is the system’s adaptability.
It’s designed to cater to various restaurant types, from fine dining establishments and quick-service restaurants to food trucks and coffee shops.
So, whether you run a cozy little café or a bustling burger joint, Revel POS can be tailored to your specific needs.
In the following sections, I’ll discuss why Revel POS could be the ideal choice for your business and the primary features that set it apart from other restaurant POS systems.
Cloud-Based Technology: The Future of POS Systems
I’ve worked in the restaurant business for a long time, and I’ve seen a big technology change over that time. Due to its many advantages over conventional, on-premise systems, cloud-based POS solutions, like Revel’s iPad POS, are growing in popularity.
In my experience, I’ve observed that cloud-based solutions are the future of POS systems, and here’s why:
First off, cloud-based point-of-sale systems provide unmatched accessibility. You can observe your sales statistics, inventory, and other vital information with Revel iPad POS and an internet connection.
This degree of flexibility has been a game-changer for many of my clients since it allows them to monitor their restaurant operations even when they aren’t physically present at the site.
Second, systems that use the cloud, like Revel POS, are renowned for having strong security features. The platform Revel uses industry-standard encryption to safeguard your private information.
Additionally, because your data is saved on the cloud, you won’t have to be concerned about losing crucial data due to theft or technical problems.
Another advantage of cloud-based POS systems is their scalability. As your restaurant grows and evolves, your POS system should be able to keep up.
Revel’s iPad POS makes adding new terminals, locations, or menu items easy without the hassle of expensive hardware upgrades. I’ve seen this firsthand with clients who have expanded their businesses seamlessly using Revel POS.
Lastly, cloud-based systems are known for their automatic updates and maintenance. With Revel POS, you don’t need to worry about manually updating your software or dealing with downtime due to system maintenance.
The platform takes care of these tasks behind the scenes, ensuring your POS system is always up-to-date and running smoothly.
Considering these benefits, it’s no surprise that cloud-based POS systems like Revel iPad POS are gaining traction in the restaurant industry.
In the next sections, I’ll delve deeper into the specific features that make Revel POS a potentially great choice for your restaurant.
Key Features of Revel POS for Restaurants
As a restaurant consultant, I’ve learned that considering the system’s functionality is essential before making a final purchase. A good point-of-sale system may help you save time and energy since it has everything you need.
In my opinion, Revel POS has a powerful collection of functionality that is ideal for restaurants and meets many of these criteria. Let’s examine what makes Revel POS unique by focusing on some of its most prominent features:
- Inventory Management: Revel POS simplifies the complex task of managing a restaurant’s stock of food and supplies. The platform lets you track your stock levels in real time, helping you make informed decisions about ordering and waste reduction. I’ve seen clients significantly reduce food waste and save money using Revel’s inventory management tools.
- Real-Time Reporting and Analytics: Revel POS offers a comprehensive reporting suite that provides valuable insights into your restaurant’s performance. You can access real-time sales data, labor reports, and customer analytics, allowing you to make data-driven decisions and improve your bottom line. I’ve witnessed clients spot trends, identify areas for improvement, and capitalize on opportunities using Revel’s reporting features.
- Employee Management Tools: Managing your team is crucial for the success of your restaurant, and Revel POS offers robust employee management tools to help you do just that. The platform allows you to create schedules, track employee hours, and monitor performance. Plus, you can set custom permissions for different roles, ensuring your staff has access to the appropriate features and information. These tools have been a godsend for many of my clients, helping them manage their teams more effectively and efficiently.
- Table Management and Tableside Ordering: Revel POS provides a visual table management feature, making it easy for your staff to track table status, guest count, and seating arrangements. The tableside ordering functionality allows servers to take orders and process payments directly at the table using an iPad, reducing errors and increasing efficiency. I’ve seen this feature improve service speed and customer satisfaction at several restaurants I’ve worked with.
Revel POS provides numerous features for restaurants. In the following sections, I will elaborate on more functionalities, including integrated payment processing and online ordering, and how they can improve the restaurant’s operations.
Integrated Payment Processing and Online Ordering
In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, providing seamless payment options and convenient online ordering capabilities is crucial for any restaurant. I’ve seen firsthand how these features can significantly impact a restaurant’s success. Revel POS excels in both these areas, offering integrated payment processing and online ordering integration that can elevate your customers’ experience.
Integrated Payment Processing: Revel POS supports various payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, mobile wallets, and gift cards. The system is designed to process payments quickly and securely, ensuring customers have a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Revel’s platform is PCI-DSS compliant, which means it meets the stringent security standards required for handling card payments.
In my experience, the integrated payment processing feature has helped clients reduce errors and streamline their payment processes, leading to happier customers and improved cash flow.
Online Ordering Integration: As the restaurant industry evolves, online ordering has become a critical component of many businesses. Revel POS offers seamless integration with online ordering platforms, allowing customers to place orders directly from your website or through popular third-party apps.
Your POS receives the orders automatically, saving you time and minimizing the possibility of human mistakes. Many of the businesses I’ve dealt with have benefited greatly from Revel’s online ordering integration in terms of income and customer pleasure.
By providing integrated payment processing and online ordering capabilities, Revel POS makes it easy for you to offer your customers a convenient, enjoyable dining experience.
In the next sections, I’ll discuss how you can customize Revel POS to suit your restaurant’s unique needs and how it compares to other POS systems regarding pricing and customer support.
Customizing Revel POS for Your Restaurant’s Needs
As a consultant for eating establishments, one of the things I like most about Revel POS is its flexibility.
No two restaurants are the same, and it’s essential to have a POS system that can be tailored to your specific requirements. Revel POS offers a high degree of customization, ensuring it can be a perfect fit for your restaurant, regardless of its size, concept, or target market.
Menu Customization: Revel POS allows you to easily create and customize your menu. You can add various item categories, modifiers, and even ingredient-level tracking to ensure your menu is precisely how you want it.
This level of customization has been particularly beneficial for my clients with diverse or complex menus, as it helps streamline the ordering process and reduce errors.
Layout Customization: Revel’s platform enables you to customize your floor plan, creating an accurate representation of your restaurant’s layout. This feature helps with table management and enhances communication between the front-of-house and back-of-house staff. I’ve seen this functionality significantly affect service efficiency at several establishments.
Third-Party Integrations: Revel POS offers a wide range of third-party integrations, allowing you to connect with other essential tools and platforms used in your restaurant. From accounting software and customer relationship management systems to loyalty programs and delivery services, Revel’s integrations can help you create a seamless ecosystem for your restaurant’s operations.
Customizable Hardware: Revel POS is designed to work on iPads, offering a sleek, modern look that many restaurant owners find appealing. The system also supports various peripherals, such as barcode scanners, cash drawers, and receipt printers, allowing you to build a hardware setup that meets your unique needs. In my experience, the customizable hardware options have helped clients create an efficient, user-friendly workspace for their staff.
By offering a high degree of customization, Revel POS ensures that your POS system can grow and adapt to your restaurant. In the following sections, we’ll delve into Revel POS pricing and customer support and how it compares to other popular restaurant POS systems on the market.
Revel POS Pricing: Is It Worth the Investment?
As a restaurant consultant, I often help my clients weigh the costs and benefits of various POS systems. When selecting the best solution for your restaurant, pricing is a crucial aspect to consider. Revel POS has a competitive pricing structure, but is it a worthwhile investment?
Revel Systems’ pricing model is primarily based on a subscription plan. The cost includes a monthly fee for software usage and additional charges for hardware, installation, and any add-on features you may require.
While Revel’s pricing might be higher than some other POS systems, I’ve found that its value often justifies the cost.
When evaluating the price of Revel POS, it’s crucial to consider its comprehensive features, customization options, and scalability.
In my experience, clients who have invested in Revel POS have seen significant improvements in their overall efficiency, reduced errors, and enhanced customer experience, ultimately leading to increased revenue.
Additionally, the cloud-based nature of Revel POS means you won’t have to worry about costly hardware upgrades, software updates, or maintenance. The system automatically handles these tasks, ensuring your POS is always up-to-date and running smoothly.
Of course, it’s essential to consider your restaurant’s unique needs and budget when evaluating the cost of a POS system.
However, from my experience working with various clients, I can confidently say that Revel POS can be a smart investment for many restaurants. In the next sections, I’ll discuss Revel’s customer support and training and how it compares to other POS systems in the market.
Revel POS Customer Support and Training
Reliable customer support and comprehensive training resources are critical when implementing a new POS system.
As a restaurant consultant, I have observed the significance of having an efficient and knowledgeable support team to assist clients in addressing concerns.
Revel Systems offers various support and training options, ensuring that you and your staff can make the most of your POS system.
Customer Support: At Revel Systems, you can count on getting customer support whenever you need it. We offer 24/7 assistance via phone, email, and live chat.
Their support team is known for being knowledgeable and responsive, promptly addressing any issues or concerns.
From my experience working with clients using Revel POS, their support team has been instrumental in resolving issues and ensuring a smooth implementation process.
Training Resources: You and your staff may learn the ins and outs of the Revel POS System with the many available training materials. You won’t be able to succeed without these tools.
These resources include online tutorials, webinars, and a comprehensive knowledge base. Revel offers on-site training and installation services for an extra fee, ensuring a smooth transition to the new system.
Many clients have found these training resources invaluable in helping their teams become proficient with Revel POS.
In my experience, having access to robust customer support and training resources is essential for successfully implementing a new POS system. Revel Systems delivers in this area, providing the necessary support to help your restaurant make the most of its investment.
In the final sections, we’ll compare Revel POS to other popular restaurant POS systems on the market and wrap up our discussion on whether Revel POS is a great fit for your restaurant.
Comparing Revel POS to Other Restaurant POS Systems
As a restaurant consultant, I’ve worked with various POS systems, and I understand that choosing the right one can be daunting.
Considering how Revel POS compares to other leading restaurant POS software is crucial. I have some comparisons that might be helpful for you in making a wise decision.
Revel POS vs. Square for Restaurants
Square for Restaurants is another popular iPad-based POS system known for its simplicity and ease of use.
While Square offers competitive pricing and an intuitive interface, Revel POS stands out for its comprehensive features, advanced customization options, and scalability.
Revel POS might be a more suitable option for restaurants that require robust inventory management, tableside ordering, and in-depth analytics.
Revel POS vs. Toast
Toast is a popular Android-based POS system designed specifically for restaurants. Revel and Toast offer extensive features, third-party integrations, and customizable hardware options.
However, Revel POS has an edge in its cloud-based technology, allowing for better accessibility and seamless updates.
On the other hand, Toast might be a better fit for those who prefer an Android-based system and are willing to forgo some of the benefits of a cloud-based solution.
Revel POS vs. TouchBistro
TouchBistro is an iPad POS system offering a more affordable pricing model than Revel POS. While TouchBistro provides solid features, Revel’s platform is more comprehensive and scalable, making it a better fit for larger restaurants or those with more complex needs.
If budget is a significant concern, TouchBistro might be worth considering, but if you require a more advanced solution, Revel POS could be the better choice.
While other systems might have specific advantages, Revel’s comprehensive solution, cloud-based technology, and scalability set it apart. In the final section, I’ll discuss whether Revel POS is a great fit for your restaurant.
The Impact of Revel POS on Customer Experience
As a restaurant consultant, I cannot stress enough the importance of providing a memorable and enjoyable customer experience. Your POS system plays a significant role in shaping that experience, and Revel POS has several features designed to enhance your customers’ satisfaction.
- Faster Service: Revel’s tableside ordering feature allows servers to take orders and process payments directly at the table using an iPad. This reduces the time spent running back and forth between the table and the POS terminal, resulting in faster service. I’ve witnessed how this feature has helped my clients improve their table turnover rate and increase customer satisfaction.
- Accurate Orders: Revel POS’s menu customization and modifier options help minimize errors in the ordering process. Servers can quickly and easily input orders with specific modifications, ensuring the kitchen staff receives accurate information.
- Seamless Payment Processing: Revel’s integrated payment processing supports various payment methods, providing customers with a smooth and hassle-free checkout experience. The platform’s PCI-DSS compliance also protects your customers’ sensitive data during the transaction. I’ve seen how offering a secure and convenient payment process can positively impact customer satisfaction and loyalty.
- Online Ordering Integration: Revel POS facilitates online ordering via integration with other systems, so your consumers may place orders from your website or through other popular applications. Online food ordering is becoming more popular, and its convenience might attract new consumers and encourage repeat visits.
- Personalized Service: Revel’s customer relationship management (CRM) tools and customer analytics provide insights into your customers’ preferences and behaviors. Using this data, you may improve your customers’ experience by tailoring marketing campaigns, discounts, and other promotions to their interests.
Revel POS offers numerous features that can positively impact your customers’ experience, leading to increased satisfaction and loyalty. By streamlining your operations, reducing errors, and providing a seamless, enjoyable dining experience, Revel POS could be a great choice for your restaurant.
Conclusion: Is Revel POS the Right Choice for Your Restaurant?
In my experience as a restaurant consultant, I’ve seen the significant impact a reliable and comprehensive POS system can have on a restaurant’s success. Revel POS offers extensive features, customization options, and scalability, making it a strong contender in the restaurant POS market. Is this the best choice for your restaurant, though?
In terms of features, Revel POS stands out with its tableside ordering, inventory management, customer analytics, integrated payment processing, and online ordering integration. These features can streamline your operations, reduce errors, and enhance customer experience, increasing revenue and growth.
Pricing-wise, Revel POS may be on the higher end than some other systems, but its value often justifies the cost. The cloud-based technology ensures seamless updates and maintenance, while the customizable hardware options provide flexibility for your restaurant’s unique needs.
Revel Systems provides extensive customer support and training materials so you and your team can master the system. The 24/7 customer support and comprehensive training resources can be invaluable in ensuring a smooth implementation process and ongoing success.
In conclusion, Revel POS could be a great choice for many restaurants, especially those looking for a comprehensive, scalable solution that can adapt to their needs. In contrast, it’s essential to consider your restaurant’s unique requirements and budget. Revel POS is a top competitor because of its competitive cost, robust feature set, and positive effect on restaurant operations and customer satisfaction. Investing in Revel POS could elevate your restaurant’s performance and create memorable dining experiences for your customers.
Jeff Smith is a Restaurant Consultant with over 20 years of hospitality experience ranging from server to owner and general manager. He focuses on Restaurant POS technology as well as restaurant marketing. Make sure to check out our world famous restaurant resources page for a comprehensive offering of hand picked resources and tools to help your business. You can also check out some of our other restaurant business articles.