How to set up online ordering for a restaurant in Canada

To take online orders you need an ordering page with your menu and prices, a way to take card payments that pays out to your bank, opening hours and pickup or delivery settings, and a reliable alert in the kitchen. With Platovo that costs $79.99 a month with 0% commission, plus Stripe's 2.9% + C$0.30 per domestic card payment.

By the Platovo team ยท Updated

The checklist

  1. Menu and prices

    Every dish with a short description, its price, and its options (sizes, add-ons, spice levels). Import it from a photo, PDF or your website, then check every price.

  2. Hours and timing

    Opening hours, how soon pickup orders are ready, and how far ahead customers may schedule. Platovo lets customers schedule orders for later, including while you are closed.

  3. Pickup and delivery

    Pickup only, or delivery by your staff with zones, fees and minimum orders.

  4. Card payments

    Platovo uses Stripe. You connect your own Stripe account; payments go there and Stripe pays out to your Canadian bank account. Stripe charges 2.9% + C$0.30 per domestic card. You can also accept cash on pickup.

  5. Taxes

    Platovo adds your province's sales tax to each order (13% HST in Ontario, for example), and you can set a custom rate. Check which of your items are taxable with the CRA or your accountant.

  6. Kitchen alert

    Pair an Android tablet with the Platovo kitchen app. New orders take over the screen with a sound that repeats until accepted. Send a test alert before going live.

  7. Share your link

    Add it to Google, your website and social profiles. See the Google guide.

What it costs

ItemCost
Platovo$79.99 a month plus tax; 14 days free
Commission on orders0%
Card processing (Stripe)2.9% + C$0.30 per domestic card
Android tabletAny recent Android tablet you own or buy

Questions restaurants ask

Do I need a business bank account?

Stripe pays out to a bank account in your business's name. Stripe asks for business and identity details when you connect.

Is there a setup fee?

No. Platovo has no setup fee and no contract.

Can I take orders in French?

Not yet. Platovo's customer pages are in English.

Sources

Take orders on your own page, at 0% commission.

14 days free. No credit card to start. Cancel any time.