Card machine for restaurants

A card machine for restaurants has to walk to the table, split a bill six ways and take a tip without fuss. Here's what I set up for London restaurants and why.

Last updated

Paying at the table, done properly

In a restaurant the bill is the last thing guests remember. A machine that comes to the table, splits fairly and takes a tip quickly turns that moment into a good one, and frees the table sooner.

What matters most

  • Portable machines with a battery that lasts a full service
  • Bill splitting by amount or number of guests
  • Tipping with preset amounts
  • Reliable connection across the dining room, with 4G backup
  • Daily payouts for suppliers and staff costs

What I usually set up

One or more portable machines for the floor, sometimes a countertop one at the bar. If you want ordering and payment on one handheld, I'll show you SkyTab.

In most cases your first card machine is free. I set it up at your premises and stay your contact afterwards.

Taking deposits for group bookings? Use pay by link.

HOW IT WORKS

Three steps. I do the paperwork.

  1. Send your statement.

    Upload it or snap a photo. It takes two minutes.

  2. I compare the market.

    I check your rates against my partner providers and show you the difference in plain English.

  3. I handle the switch.

    If you want to move, I deal with the paperwork and the notice to your old provider, with no downtime.

QUESTIONS

Questions

Can customers add a tip on the machine?

Yes. Tipping can be switched on, with preset amounts or a custom figure.

Can the machine split the bill?

Yes. Most current terminals let you split by amount or by number of guests.

Do I need a full point of sale system?

Not always. If you already have a till you like, a standalone portable machine is enough. If you want ordering at the table too, look at SkyTab.

Ready to cut your card fees?

Send your statement today and I'll come back to you with what I find.

Get my free statement check