The restaurant app landscape has evolved dramatically. Customers now expect seamless, personalized experiences that rival the best e-commerce platforms. Here are the must-have features for any restaurant app in 2026.
1. Contactless Everything
The pandemic permanently changed customer expectations around hygiene and convenience.
Essential Contactless Features:
QR code ordering: Customers scan and order from their table
Digital payments: Apple Pay, Google Pay, card on file
Digital receipts: Email or SMS confirmations
Contactless pickup: Curbside and locker systems
Why it matters: 78% of customers prefer contactless options even post-pandemic. It's not just about safety—it's about speed and convenience.
2. AI-Powered Personalization
Generic menus are dead. Modern apps use AI to personalize the experience.
Smart Personalization:
Order history recommendations: "Your usual?" prompts
Dietary preference filters: Vegan, gluten-free, halal options
Time-based suggestions: Breakfast items in morning, dinner at night
Upsell intelligence: Relevant add-ons based on cart contents
Real impact: Restaurants using AI personalization see 35% higher average order values and 50% more repeat orders.
3. Loyalty & Rewards Integration
Loyalty programs drive repeat business, but they need to be seamless.
Modern Loyalty Features:
Points on every order: Automatic tracking, no cards needed
Tiered rewards: Bronze, Silver, Gold status levels
Birthday bonuses: Automated special offers
Referral programs: Reward customers for bringing friends
Gamification: Challenges and achievements
The numbers: Customers in loyalty programs order 2.5x more frequently and spend 40% more per order.
4. Real-Time Order Tracking
Transparency builds trust. Customers want to know exactly where their order is.
Tracking Features:
Live status updates: Preparing → Ready → Out for delivery
Estimated time: Dynamic ETAs that update in real-time
Driver location: Live map for delivery orders
Push notifications: Updates at each stage
Customer satisfaction: Apps with real-time tracking see 60% fewer "where's my order?" calls and 4.5+ star ratings.
5. Flexible Ordering Options
One size doesn't fit all. Give customers choice in how they receive their food.
Multi-Channel Ordering:
Delivery: Third-party or in-house fleet
Pickup: Curbside, counter, or locker
Dine-in: Pre-order for table service
Catering: Large orders with advance scheduling
Scheduled orders: Order now, receive later
Business benefit: Restaurants offering all options see 45% higher order volume than delivery-only competitors.
Conclusion
The restaurant app market is competitive, but the right features can set you apart. Focus on what your customers actually use, measure everything, and iterate based on data.
At Restrova, we build all these features into our restaurant ordering platforms. Get in touch to see how we can create a custom app that drives real results for your business.
