Kitchen Display System
Kitchen Display Systems (KDS) replace paper tickets with screens. Orders appear instantly, cooks mark items complete, and timing is tracked automatically.
Why It Matters
- •Eliminate lost or illegible tickets
- •Speed up kitchen communication
- •Track cook times automatically
- •Reduce food waste from errors
- •Coordinate multiple prep stations
Key Capabilities
Order Display
Clear view of incoming orders
Bump/Complete
Mark items done with touch or bump bar
Routing
Send items to correct stations
Timing
Track how long orders take
Priority Alerts
Highlight late or rush orders
Expo View
Coordinator screen for order assembly
Provider Comparison
Excellent KDS with station routing, timing, and expo view. Purpose-built for restaurants.
Limitations: Hardware cost
Square KDS available. Good for smaller kitchens. Runs on iPad.
Limitations: Less sophisticated than Toast
Kitchen display apps available. Basic functionality for simple operations.
Limitations: May need third-party solution
Lightspeed Restaurant includes KDS. Good station management.
Limitations: Requires Restaurant product
Common Questions
Paper tickets vs KDS?
KDS costs more upfront but pays off quickly. No lost tickets, automatic timing, and better communication. Essential for busy kitchens, nice-to-have for smaller operations.
How many KDS screens do I need?
One per major station (grill, fry, salad) plus one expo screen. Small kitchens can start with one screen. Add screens as ticket volume increases.
Best For
- ✓Restaurants
- ✓Quick service
- ✓Bars with food
- ✓Ghost kitchens