6 Best iPad POS Systems for Aussie Restaurants

5 Best iPad POS Systems for Australian Restaurants

With Australia's mobile POS market expected to grow from USD 325.1 Million in 2024 to USD 795.3 Million by 2033, Aussie restaurant owners now have more options to choose from. Here we look at 5 leading platforms, checking out who they're for, their prices, what they do best, how they handle payments, and any downsides. 

Each system may differ from their different targeted businesses: new businesses or established restaurants needing detailed table management, or franchises looking for systems that can grow with them. Understanding these differences helps Aussie restaurant owners in making smart choices that fit both today's needs and future growth. 

Eats365

Eats365 is know as the best iPad POS system for multi-store and multi-brand restaurant groups. Eats365 promotes modular plans while their core POS module costs from A$25 to A$55, and expansion modules like online ordering, KDS, queue display from A$19 per month. Their key strength is its scalable ecosystem that lets you start with core POS and add modules like KDS, QR order and pay, kiosks, and loyalty without switching platforms.

In Australia, Eats365 integrates with local processors via third-party connections and their own payment, the 365pay, which supports Tyro adn Adyen across APAC.

Square POS

Square POS is a brilliant option for cafés, food trucks, and small to mid-size quick-service or counter-service venues that want a simple package with transparent pricing. Square offers a Free plan at $0 per month and a Plus plan at $129 AUD per month per location after a 30-day trial in Australia. The key strength is the tight bundle of POS, online ordering, hardware, and reporting in a single vendor with minimal setup. Payments are processed through Square’s own payment platform with local card rates, and you can also offer Afterpay in Australia.

Lightspeed Restaurant

Lightspeed's K-series is suitable for full-service restaurants and growing multi-site groups that need stronger inventory, menu engineering, and multi-location controls. Australian pricing is from around $79, $179, and $359 AUD per month for Starter, Essential, and Premium respectively. Lightspeed’s key strength is deeper back-of-house tooling like advanced insights, stock control, recipes, and multi-site management. Payments are typically via Lightspeed Payments, which the company positions as the default integrated option.

TouchBistro

TouchBistro’s price's listed only for north America from $69 per month, so Australian buyers usually need to request a local quote or work with an AU partner to confirm AUD pricing. A core strength is its iPad-first design and tableside flow that is easy for staff to learn. 

Impos

Impos’ key strength is its local footprint and configurability for complex hospitality operations. Pricing is quote-based and commonly delivered as a monthly SaaS bundle that covers software and support. For payments, Impos supports integrated EFTPOS through partners such as Tyro and Linkly, allowing you to keep your existing banking relationships and connect the POS to common Australian terminals.

Which iPad POS System Fits Your Restaurant

Choosing the right iPad POS system is more than just picking a piece of tech, it's a significant investment that could either boost your restaurant’s growth or become a frustrating problem. Australia’s hospitality scene needs smart, flexible technology that can truly adapt to your specific business requirements.

Choose the Best iPad POS by Restaurant Size

A. Startup Cafés & Market Stalls

Recommended: Square POS

• It offers a free plan with built-in payment processing.

• The initial costs are really low.

• It’s super easy to set up.

• Paid plans, starting from $49/month, unlock more advanced reporting.

B. Established Single-Location Restaurants

Recommended: Lightspeed Restaurant or TouchBistro

• These offer strong table and inventory management features.

• Lightspeed usually costs $40-120 + GST per month.

• TouchBistro is around $105 AUD monthly and has a very user-friendly interface.

C. Growing Restaurants & F&B Chains

Recommended: Eats365

• It offers module-based customization, which means you can tailor it as you grow.

• Starting at $25 + GST per month.

• It provides extensive CRM and reporting features.

D. Multi-Location Franchises

Recommended: Eats365 (Premium Choice)

• It allows for centralized management across different brands and locations.

• It supports operations in over 32 markets.

• Customer data is kept synchronized across all locations.

Future-Proof Your Australian Restaurant with Eats365

Choosing the right iPad POS system is crucial for growth. For Australian restaurants and franchises aiming for enterprise scalability and customization, Eats365 offers flexible, cloud-based solutions. Discover how our robust restaurant POS can empower your business. Request a personalised demo today and elevate your operations!

FAQs about iPad POS System for Australian Restaurants

What is an iPad POS system and why is it popular in Australian restaurants?

A: An iPad POS system uses Apple iPads as the interface paired with cloud-based software to manage restaurant sales, orders, and data efficiently. It's popular for its portability, ease of use, lower upfront costs compared to traditional registers, and real-time analytics that help streamline operations in Australian hospitality.

How can an iPad POS system improve the customer service experience?

A: By enabling tableside ordering and wireless order transmission to kitchens, iPad POS systems reduce errors and speed up service. Staff can take orders and payments anywhere in the restaurant, which enhances flexibility and customer satisfaction.

What should Australian restaurant owners consider when choosing an iPad POS system?

A: Owners should evaluate pricing (monthly fees plus transaction costs), key features like inventory and table management, payment processing methods, integration capabilities with existing software, offline functionality, scalability for business growth, and local support availability.

How does Eats365’s iPad POS system support growing Australian restaurants?

A: Eats365 offers a scalable, module-based iPad POS starting from $25 + GST per month, featuring extensive customization, CRM tools, and reporting. It supports multi-location management, making it ideal for restaurants and franchises aiming to expand efficiently.

Can Eats365’s iPad POS system integrate with common Australian payment processors?

A: Yes, Eats365 integrates with third-party payment processors including Tyro, Square, and major Australian banks, providing flexibility and compliance with local PCI standards, which helps streamline payment handling for restaurants.

What training or support do Australian restaurants need when adopting an iPad POS system?

A: Proper staff training on the system’s features is crucial to minimize errors and maximize benefits. Additionally, ongoing local tech support and regular system updates help ensure smooth operation and compliance with Australian tax and payment regulations.