Direct Online Ordering: A Cost-Saving Solution for Restaurants

A Cost-Saving Guide for Restaurant Owners & Managers

For restaurant owners, offering direct online ordering is no longer optional—it’s essential. Customers expect seamless online ordering, but relying on third-party platforms like Uber Eats, Grubhub, and DoorDash can eat into profits with hefty commission fees.

This guide will show you how to set up direct online ordering without breaking the bank, helping you retain more revenue while still providing convenient food delivery. With solutions like ConstantCuisine.net, you can keep control of your brand, own your customer data, and use DoorDash for delivery without paying high commissions.

Why Restaurants Need a Direct Online Ordering System

The Problem with Third-Party Platforms

While third-party platforms like Uber Eats, Grubhub, and DoorDash offer convenience, they come with significant drawbacks that can hurt restaurant owners in the long run. High commission fees—sometimes reaching 30% per order—cut deeply into already slim profit margins. Beyond the cost, these platforms make it difficult to build customer loyalty, as diners often associate their experience with the app rather than the restaurant itself.

Another major issue is the lack of control over menu presentation and pricing. Third-party services may impose layout restrictions or encourage discounts that reduce profitability. On top of that, delayed payments and hidden fees can make cash flow unpredictable, making it harder to manage finances effectively.

Handling refunds and disputes through these platforms can be frustrating, as restaurants have little say in resolutions, yet still suffer the reputational damage. Additionally, the loss of customer data is a missed opportunity—restaurants are unable to track repeat orders or preferences, limiting their ability to offer targeted promotions and personalized experiences.

Perhaps most concerning is the impact on a restaurant’s online reputation. Reviews on these platforms are often outside a restaurant’s control, and negative feedback—whether related to delivery issues or other factors—can tarnish a brand without giving owners a chance to respond directly.

There is also the growing consumer preference for direct ordering to consider. Many customers prefer to order directly from a restaurant rather than through third-party apps. According to studies, customers are more likely to become repeat buyers when they order directly from a restaurant’s website because they feel a stronger connection to the brand and often receive better pricing.

With these challenges in mind, switching to a direct online ordering system isn’t just about saving money—it’s about taking back control of your business, your profits, and your customer relationships.

Benefits of Direct Online Ordering

By setting up your own online restaurant ordering system, you gain:

• Higher profit margins – Avoid the 15-30% commission fees charged by Uber Eats, Grubhub, and DoorDash.
• Brand control – Your restaurant name, not a third-party platform, is front and center.
• Better customer relationships – Own your customer data to send promotions and build loyalty.
• Flexible delivery options – With ConstantCuisine.net, you can sell food on DoorDash using their DoorDash Drive service without relying on their marketplace.

Step-by-Step Guide: Setting Up Direct Online Ordering

Step 1: Choose the Right Online Ordering System

Choosing an online restaurant ordering system that aligns with your needs and enhances efficiency is crucial. For example, with our exceptional customer support, you’ll have expert guidance every step of the way to ensure a seamless experience.

Key Features to Look For:

• Avoid exhorbant fees and hidden marketing costs of the big box brands (such as Uber Eats, GrubHub, DoorDash, etc.) – they cut into your profits.
• Custom branding – Your restaurant’s logo, colors, and menu should be fully customizable.
• Use a cost-effective delivery solution without losing flexibilty.
• POS system compatibility – syncs with your existing restaurant management tools.

Step 2: Set Up Your Online Ordering System

Once you’ve chosen a restaurant ordering system (such as ConstantCuisine.net) and signed up for their platform, setting it up is straightforward:

1. 1. Upload your menu – Include item descriptions, pricing, and high-quality images.
   2. Enable third-party delivery integration – This allows you to utilize an external delivery network at a set rate per order.
   3. Integrate payment processing – Choose options like credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or PayPal.
   4. Run test orders – Ensure the checkout process runs smoothly before going live.

Step 3: Connect Online Ordering to Your Website & Social Media

To drive traffic to your online restaurant ordering system, make it easy for customers to find and use.

Where to place your online ordering link:

• Website Homepage – Add a visible ‘Order Online’ button.
• Google Business Profile – Enable direct ordering from search results.
• Facebook & Instagram – Use pinned posts and ‘Order Now’ buttons.
• QR Codes – Place them on menus, receipts, and table tents to encourage mobile orders.

By optimizing visibility, you can redirect customers from Uber Eats and Grubhub to your direct ordering system.

How can I sell food on DoorDash without high commissions?

Many restaurant owners wonder this daily. The key is using DoorDash Drive through Constant Cuisine instead of relying on their marketplace.

How DoorDash Drive Works Through Constant Cuisine:

• Customers order directly through your restaurant’s website through the Constant Cuisine application.
• Constant Cuisine send a signal to request a DoorDash driver to handle delivery at a flat rate per order.
• You keep customer data and revenue, because you control the merchant processing, unlike when using the DoorDash marketplace.

This setup allows you to benefit from DoorDash’s delivery network while maintaining full control over pricing, branding, AND income.

How to Market Your Direct Online Ordering System

Encouraging Customers to Order Directly

To shift customers away from Uber Eats and Grubhub, offer:

• Discounts on direct orders (e.g., 10% off first-time orders).
• Exclusive menu items only available on your website.
• Loyalty rewards for repeat customers.

Where to Promote Your Ordering System

Maximize visibility with these strategies:

• Website Banners & Pop-Ups – Encourage direct ordering.
• Social Media Promotions – Highlight your commission-free ordering system.
• In-Store Marketing – Use QR codes on menus and flyers.
• Google Ads – Target local customers searching for “online ordering systems for restaurants.”

Overcoming Common Concerns About Managing a Direct Ordering System

Some restaurant owners worry that setting up and maintaining a direct ordering system will be too complex or time-consuming. However, modern platforms like ConstantCuisine.net offer:

• User-friendly dashboards that require minimal training
• Seamless integration with DoorDash Drive for delivery
• Automated order notifications to prevent missed orders

Conclusion: Why You Should Set Up Direct Online Ordering Today

As online ordering continues to shape the restaurant industry, staying ahead of the trends is crucial. According to the National Restaurant Association, consumer demand for convenient ordering options is at an all-time high, making it essential for restaurants to adopt cost-effective solutions that provide both flexibility and profitability. By setting up a direct online ordering system, restaurant owners can retain more revenue, build customer relationships, and reduce dependency on high-commission third-party platforms like Grubhub, Uber Eats, and traditional DoorDash listings.