ChowNow is a commission-free online ordering platform for restaurants, providing branded ordering websites, apps, and integration with Google, Instagram, and Yelp. Unlike marketplace delivery apps, ChowNow charges a flat monthly fee rather than per-order commissions, helping restaurants maintain margins.
ChowNow positions itself as the restaurant-friendly alternative to marketplace delivery apps like DoorDash and Uber Eats. Its commission-free model appeals to restaurants seeking to build direct customer relationships. It competes with other direct ordering platforms like Square Online and Toast's online ordering.
Commission-free direct ordering backed by DoorDash's delivery infrastructure. Combines direct ordering with optional marketplace delivery drivers.
Online ordering integrated with Toast's POS system. Seamless restaurant operations integration but requires Toast POS commitment.
Part of Square's ecosystem with easy setup and low cost. Simpler than ChowNow but less restaurant-specific marketing and integration features.
ChowNow's flat monthly fee versus marketplace commissions of 15-30% per order creates a clear ROI story. Restaurants processing significant order volume save substantially compared to marketplace fees.
ChowNow helps restaurants own customer data and relationships rather than ceding them to marketplace apps. Branded ordering experiences build restaurant loyalty over platform loyalty.
Unlike marketplace apps, ChowNow does not provide delivery drivers (though it integrates with third-party delivery). Restaurants without their own delivery infrastructure must still rely on external drivers.
ChowNow competes with DoorDash Storefront (direct ordering), Toast Online Ordering (POS-integrated), Square Online (SMB), and marketplace apps like DoorDash and Uber Eats for restaurant ordering spend.
ChowNow provides commission-free direct ordering for restaurants, while DoorDash is a marketplace charging per-order commissions. ChowNow saves on fees but lacks DoorDash's consumer marketplace discovery and delivery fleet.
For restaurants with sufficient direct order volume, ChowNow's flat fee is significantly cheaper than marketplace commissions. The value depends on the restaurant's ability to drive customers to direct ordering channels.