Running a restaurant in Australia is not just about serving great food; it’s also about delivering seamless, fast, and secure customer service. In today’s fast-paced dining environment, the way you handle payments can have a significant impact on customer satisfaction, staff efficiency, and the bottom line. That is where EFTPOS (Electronic Funds Transfer at Point Of Sale) machines help you do it better.

Whether you own a fine dining restaurant, a casual cafe, or a busy takeaway joint, integrating the right EFTPOS terminal into your business can transform the way you operate. In this article, let’s explore together how an EFTPOS terminal can streamline your restaurant or takeaway operations, reduce wait times, and boost your customer experience. 

What Is EFTPOS and Why Does It Matter to Your Business?

EFTPOS (Electronic Funds Transfer at Point Of Sale) is a payment technology that allows customers to pay directly from their bank accounts using their debit or credit cards. In Australia, EFTPOS is widely used and trusted, with more customers preferring to go cashless every day.

Whether it's a traditional sit-down dinner or a quick takeaway, most people in Australia expect fast and contactless payment options. By installing an EFTPOS terminal or card machine, you're meeting customer expectations while reducing manual cash handling for your staff.

The Modern Aussie Diner Wants Speed & Convenience

Let’s face it, nobody likes waiting in line to pay. Whether it's a busy Friday night at a restaurant or a lunch rush at a takeaway, the faster you can process payments, the smoother your operations will be. 

Portable EFTPOS machines are a lifesaver in these scenarios. Staff can bring the payment terminal directly to the customer’s table or use it at the counter to speed up takeaway orders. No more back-and-forth trips or long queues at a single register.

Especially for takeaway restaurants, portable EFTPOS machines allow staff to take payments at the door for delivery services or at busy counters, keeping the flow moving and the orders coming.

Key Benefits of Using EFTPOS in Your Restaurant

1. Faster Payments and Shorter Queues

One of the most obvious benefits of using EFTPOS machines is the speed. A quick tap-and-go transaction takes just seconds, specifically with contactless payments becoming the norm. This reduces delay during busy hours, helping you serve more customers in less time.

2. Secure Transactions

Handling cash increases the risk of errors, theft, and losses. Card machines reduce the need for large amounts of cash on the premises, improving safety for your staff and customers. Additionally, electronic payments leave a digital trail, making accounting and reconciliation smoother.

3. Happier Customers

Imagine a customer with their family finishing their meal and waiting for ten minutes just to settle their bill; chances are, they won’t be thrilled. With an EFTPOS terminal, especially a portable one, you can process payments at the table, making the entire dining experience more convenient and enjoyable.

4. Integration with POS System

Most of the latest EFTPOS machines can integrate seamlessly with your restaurant's POS system. This means less manual entry for your staff and fewer mistakes during the checkout process. Orders are processed more accurately, payments are matched automatically, and the whole ecosystem becomes more efficient.

5. Flexibility for Takeaway and Delivery

With more Australian consumers ordering food online or opting for quick pick-ups, EFTPOS for takeaways is essential. Whether it’s at the counter, curbside, or via mobile delivery staff, having portable EFTPOS machines ensures you can accept payments anytime, anywhere.

Choosing the Right EFTPOS Machine for Your Business

When it comes to EFTPOS in restaurants, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. The needs may vary depending on the size and kind of service you provide.

Here are a few quick tips to help you decide:

• For dine-in restaurants: Opt for portable EFTPOS machines that allow tableside payments.
• For takeaway outlets: Go for compact and fast EFTPOS terminals with simple tap-to-pay features.
• For high-order locations: Choose a payment terminal that integrates with your POS to automate the entire billing process.
• For mobile food trucks or delivery drivers: Wireless or app-based card machines that connect via mobile network or Wi-Fi are ideal.

Pro Tip: How to Choose the Right POS System for Your Restaurant in Australia?

Things to Consider Before Choosing an EFTPOS Provider

Before you sign up with an EFTPOS provider, make sure to check:

• Transaction fees – Look for transparent pricing that suits your order volume.
• Contract length and hardware costs – Avoid long-term contracts with hefty exit fees.
• Customer support – Ensure the provider offers 24/7 support, especially if you run a busy venue.
• Integration capability – Check to see if it can work with your current POS or ordering system.

Future-Proof Your Restaurant with EFTPOS  

In today’s competitive hospitality landscape, embracing the right technology isn’t just helpful- it’s essential. Integrating EFTPOS machines into your restaurant or takeaway can dramatically improve service speed, reduce errors, and enhance the overall customer experience.

And when you pair the power of modern EFTPOS terminals with a complete restaurant technology solution, you set your business up for long-term success.

That’s where Foodhub for Business comes in. We are more than just an online ordering platform—we’re your partner in growth. From streamlined ordering to integrated payment terminals, we help restaurants like yours deliver smarter service, faster checkouts, and happier customers.

Looking to upgrade your payment experience? Partner with Foodhub and discover how simple, integrated EFTPOS can make your day-to-day operations more efficient.