Toast vs Revel
Toast is opinionated software—it works a specific way and works well. Revel is a platform you configure to work your way. For most restaurants, Toast's approach is faster and easier. For complex operations with specific requirements, Revel's flexibility matters.
Our Verdict
Toast wins for most restaurants. Faster setup, easier training, better ecosystem. Revel wins for enterprise operations needing customization, multi-concept groups, or specific integrations Toast doesn't support.
Best for:
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Toast | Revel Systems | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Setup time | Days | Weeks | Toast |
| Customization | Moderate | Extensive | Revel Systems |
| Starting price | $0/mo (Starter) | $99/mo per terminal | Toast |
| Contract length | 2 years typical | 3 years typical | Toast |
| Payment flexibility | Toast only | Multiple processors | Revel Systems |
| Ease of use | Easy | Moderate | Toast |
| API/Integrations | Good | Excellent (open API) | Revel Systems |
| Franchise tools | Good | Excellent | Revel Systems |
Toast
Pros
- ✓Quick to deploy
- ✓Easier staff training
- ✓Strong ecosystem
- ✓Better marketing
Cons
- ✗Less customizable
- ✗Locked to Toast processing
- ✗Can outgrow it
Revel Systems
Pros
- ✓Highly customizable
- ✓Processor flexibility
- ✓Open API
- ✓Enterprise features
Cons
- ✗Longer implementation
- ✗Steeper learning curve
- ✗3-year contracts
- ✗Higher starting cost
In-Depth Analysis
The Implementation Reality
Toast: download app, configure menu, train staff, go live. A motivated owner can self-implement in a weekend. Revel: project plan, configuration calls, custom setup, testing phases. You'll want their implementation team. That's not bad—it's thorough—but budget accordingly.
Processor Lock-in
Toast requires Toast Payments. Period. Revel works with multiple processors, letting you negotiate rates or keep existing relationships. For most restaurants, this doesn't matter much. For high-volume operations where 0.1% matters, Revel's flexibility helps.
The Growth Question
Toast handles growth well until you hit enterprise complexity—50+ locations, multiple concepts, complex reporting needs. That's when Revel's architecture shines. If you're a single location dreaming of 100, start with Toast and plan to evaluate Revel later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Revel worth it for a single restaurant?
Usually not. Revel's strengths—customization, multi-location management, open API—don't matter much for single locations. You'd pay more and take longer to implement for features you won't use. Toast or TouchBistro are better fits.
Can I migrate from Toast to Revel later?
Yes, but it's a project. Menu migration, staff retraining, hardware replacement, integration reconnection. Budget 1-2 months and plan for the disruption. Do it between seasons if possible.