The 10 Best Restaurant Phone Systems in 2024 (Chosen by Experts)

Highlights in this blog

  1. Key Features: Modern restaurant phone systems should have multiple lines, automated attendants, voicemail, and integration with POS and CRM systems to enhance customer service and operations.
  2. VoIP Benefits: VoIP systems offer significant cost savings, scalability, and advanced features like auto-attendants and call forwarding, providing clear and reliable communication.
  3. Top Providers in DFW: Providers like NTI Technologies, 8×8, and Grasshopper offer robust systems for managing reservations and orders, improving customer satisfaction and restaurant operations.
Home » The 10 Best Restaurant Phone Systems in 2024 (Chosen by Experts)

Whether you like it or not, phone calls are still people’s preferred method of communication when they’re looking to get in touch with their local pizzeria about a table booking, or food order.

When people want hot food – they phone.

So, despite what you might hear having a restaurant phone system that works well is as important in 2024 as ever.

Not only that, when setup correctly and connected to all of your systems, a modern phone system for your restaurant can transform the way you keep track of your clients, and reward loyal customers.

This article is intended to guide restaurant owners through what might seem like the unnecessarily complicated acronyms, abbreviations and complex terminology in the world of business and restaurant phone systems.

As a restaurant owner in the Dallas Fort Worth area, you know that a reliable phone system is crucial for managing reservations, takeout orders, and customer inquiries. A well-designed phone system can streamline your operations, improve customer service, and ultimately boost your bottom line. In this article, we’ll explore the best phone systems for restaurants, focusing on the key features to look for and the top providers in the DFW area.

Key Features to Look for in a Restaurant Phone System

When choosing a phone system for your restaurant, consider the following essential features:

  1. Multiple lines and extensions: Ensure your system can handle multiple calls simultaneously and route them to the appropriate staff members.
  2. Automated attendant and call routing: An auto-attendant can greet callers and direct them to the right department or employee, saving time and improving efficiency.
  3. Voicemail and message-taking capabilities: Customers should be able to leave messages when your staff is unavailable, and your system should make it easy to retrieve and respond to those messages.
  4. Call waiting and call transfer: These features allow your staff to manage multiple calls and transfer them seamlessly between employees.
  5. Caller ID and call logging: Identifying callers and keeping records of call history can help with customer service and dispute resolution.
  6. Integration with POS and CRM systems: Integrating your phone system with your point-of-sale and customer relationship management systems can streamline operations and provide valuable insights into customer behavior.
  7. Mobility and remote access: With features like mobile apps and remote access, your staff can stay connected and responsive even when they’re away from the restaurant.

The Types of Phone Systems for Restaurants Available in 2024

There are several types of phone systems available for restaurants, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:

Traditional landline systems

These systems use physical phone lines and are known for their reliability, but they can be expensive and lack advanced features.

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) systems

VoIP systems use the internet to make and receive calls, offering cost savings, flexibility, and a wide range of features.

Hybrid systems

These systems combine elements of traditional landline and VoIP systems, providing a balance of reliability and advanced features.

Cloud-based systems

Cloud-based phone systems are hosted entirely online, offering easy scalability, low upfront costs, and remote access.

Benefits of VoIP Phone Systems for Restaurants

For many restaurants, VoIP phone systems offer the best combination of features, affordability, and flexibility. Some of the key benefits include:

Cost savings

VoIP systems can be up to 50% cheaper than traditional landline systems, according to a study by the Small Business Administration.

Scalability and flexibility

With VoIP, you can easily add or remove lines as your restaurant grows or your needs change.

Advanced features and integrations

VoIP systems often come with a wide range of features, such as auto-attendants, call forwarding, and integrations with POS and CRM systems.

Improved call quality and reliability

Modern VoIP systems offer high-definition audio and reliable service, ensuring clear communication with your customers.

Easy installation and management

Many VoIP systems can be set up quickly and managed through user-friendly online portals.

The Best Restaurant Phone System Providers in DFW

If you want a properly setup and thoroughly thought-through restaurant phone system, you’re going to want a professional to install it for you. Below are some recommended installers, or DIY phone system options too.

NTI Technologies

Known for professionalism, speed of work, and completing a thorough job – NTI Technologies comes highly recommended.

It’s no wonder we’ve got over 178 reviews with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 on Google.

With a ton of happy customers like Jennifer:

If you’re looking for some DIY options, here are some recommended VOIP phone systems for Restaurants:

8×8:

  • Features: Auto-attendant, call forwarding, voicemail, mobile app, integrations with popular business apps like Salesforce and Zendesk.
  • Pricing: Plans start at $12 per user per month, with more advanced plans offering additional features and integrations.

Grasshopper:

  • Features: Virtual phone numbers, call forwarding, voicemail, mobile app, automated attendant, and custom greetings.
  • Pricing: Plans start at $26 per month for one phone number and three extensions, with additional numbers and extensions available for an extra cost.

Mitel:

  • Features: Automated attendant, call routing, voicemail-to-email, mobile app, integrations with CRM systems, and call center functionality.
  • Pricing: Plans start at $20.99 per user per month, with more advanced plans offering additional features and scalability.

Ooma:

  • Features: Virtual receptionist, call forwarding, voicemail, mobile app, and integrations with popular business apps like Salesforce and Google Workspace.
  • Pricing: Plans start at $19.95 per user per month, with additional features available in higher-tier plans.

Phone.com:

  • Features: Automated attendant, call forwarding, voicemail, mobile app, integrations with CRM systems, and customizable hold music.
  • Pricing: Plans start at $12.99 per user per month, with more advanced plans offering additional features and minutes.

Dialpad:

  • Features: Automated attendant, call routing, voicemail, mobile app, AI-powered voice transcription, and integrations with popular business apps like Salesforce and Google Workspace.
  • Pricing: Plans start at $15 per user per month, with more advanced plans offering additional features and customer support options.

Other notable options include:

  • RingCentral: Known for its robust features, integrations, and reliability. Plans start at $19.99 per user per month.
  • Nextiva: Offers a range of plans with features like auto-attendants, call forwarding, and mobile apps. Prices start at $18.95 per user per month.
  • Vonage: Provides flexible plans with features like call groups, virtual receptionists, and integrations with popular business apps. Plans start at $19.99 per line per month.

When comparing providers, consider factors like pricing, features, customer support, and contract terms to find the best fit for your restaurant.

Ultimately, you need a system that works well straight away. Missed calls means missed customers. The cost of not getting your phone system setup properly from the word go is too high to risk.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Phone System for Your Restaurant

In addition to the features and benefits outlined above, consider the following factors when selecting a phone system for your restaurant:

  1. Restaurant size and number of locations: Choose a system that can accommodate your current needs and scale as your business grows.
  2. Budget and cost considerations: Look for a system that offers the features you need at a price point that fits your budget.
  3. Ease of use and staff training: Select a system that is intuitive and easy for your staff to learn and use. Also consider what staff will be using the system, and what their different roles might be
  4. Reliability and customer support: Choose a provider with a track record of reliable service and responsive customer support.
  5. Integration with existing systems: Ensure that your new phone system can integrate seamlessly with your existing POS, CRM, and other business systems. This way you can keep track of who is calling, how frequently and how valuable your phone system actually is.
  6. Future growth and expansion plans: Consider a system that can adapt to your future needs, such as adding new locations or expanding your service offerings.

By carefully evaluating your options and selecting a phone system that meets your restaurant’s specific needs, you can improve your operations, enhance customer service, and set your business up for long-term success in the competitive Dallas Fort Worth restaurant market.