How much does restaurant management software cost in Ireland?
The cost has three main parts: the subscription, the hardware in the venue and any extras you add. Exact figures depend on the quote, so get what each quote includes in writing.
Short answer
- Restaurant software is usually paid through a subscription, and the exact figure is set in the quote.
- The cost depends on the modules you use and the equipment your floor and kitchen need.
- Compare two or three written quotes for the same list of modules, so the figures are like for like.
- A till, if you need one, is a separate cost that the software does not include.
- Ask your accountant how VAT applies to the subscription before you budget for it.
What you pay for
The cost components of restaurant software
| Component | Online (e.g. 4restaurants.net) | Installed on site |
|---|---|---|
| Platform and hosting | Monthly subscription for the online application | A licence, plus your own server and back-ups |
| Restaurant modules | Bookings, menu with recipe cards, kitchen orders and stock, in one application | Depends on the chosen supplier |
| Hardware | Devices for the floor and kitchen, and any till, at their own cost | The same, plus a dedicated computer |
| Guest messaging | Not included; confirmations use the channels you already have | A messaging integration, set up separately |
| Maintenance and back-ups | The vendor’s responsibility, to confirm in the contract | You, or an IT administrator |
What the rules say
- VAT returns go to Revenue through ROS. The software does not file them, so check the records you need with your accountant.
- If you take payments, check with your accountant which till and receipt arrangements apply.
- Menus must show clear prices, and allergen information for non-prepacked dishes (EU Regulation 1169/2011, Article 44).
A practical example
Example, for illustration: a 50-seat Dublin bistro. The software covers bookings, the QR menu, kitchen orders, stock and reports; hardware and any till are a separate cost.
First-year cost: twelve monthly subscriptions plus the equipment, paid once. Compare that with your turnover.
Common mistakes
- Comparing only the base subscription, ignoring the modules you need such as stock or shift records.
- Forgetting the cost of a till and its connection, if your venue needs one.
- Paying for an expensive set-up before checking whether you need it.
- Choosing the cheapest offer without checking the equipment and modules you need.
How 4restaurants.net helps
- One monthly subscription, with the costs set out in the quote.
- Bookings, menu, kitchen orders, stock and shift records in one account.
- You set up the menu and recipe cards as you prepare them.