Uber Eats, DoorDash and Skip bring customers, no question. But when you add it up at the end of the month, a big part of your takeout sales went to commission, and you don’t even own the customer’s contact. The goal isn’t to leave the apps; it’s to make sure anyone who already knows you orders directly next time.

First, calculate what the apps really cost you

Commission depends on your plan and contract, and it’s usually a meaningful share of each order, plus any in-app advertising. Pull out your current agreement and, for one month, add up total app sales, total commission and fees, and your average order value. That tells you how much a direct order is worth to you.

Use the apps as a shop window, not your only till

For many guests, an app is their first contact with your restaurant. Use it: clean packaging, a small card with a QR code to your own website, and a reason to order direct next time, such as a fuller menu, a website-only dish or perks for regulars. Check your app contract for rules about marketing inside the bag.

A website that actually takes orders

A restaurant website isn’t just a business card. For direct orders you need:

  • A text menu with current prices, not a PDF
  • An order or reservation button that’s always within thumb’s reach on mobile
  • Fast loading on mobile, where most orders happen
  • Clear hours, delivery area and minimum order
  • Your Google profile’s “Order” link pointing to your own website

For North Grill, we built a website with the menu and direct online ordering so guests can order straight from the restaurant. See the North Grill website project, and the full restaurant website checklist.

Keep your customers

When guests order from your site, you can ask for their consent to stay in touch and send future offers. Follow Canada’s anti-spam law (CASL), which means clear consent and an easy way to unsubscribe, and that list becomes one of the most valuable things your restaurant owns.

Point your marketing at direct orders

Your Meta ads and Reels should send people to your website or your phone line, not to your app listing. With a website in place, install the Meta Pixel so you can see which ads brought orders. Our Meta ads service is built around exactly this.

Keep expectations realistic

Apps won’t disappear overnight, and they shouldn’t; they’re still useful for new customers. But if a small share of orders moves to direct every month, the commission difference over a year becomes significant.

Frequently asked questions

Should we leave the delivery apps?

Usually not. They’re useful for reaching new customers. The goal is to move repeat customers to direct ordering.

Is direct online ordering expensive to set up?

Options and costs vary. We look at your order volume and needs first so the solution fits your restaurant.

Should prices on our website differ from the apps?

Many restaurants price higher on apps to offset commission. Check the terms of your own contracts.

Related reading

Run a restaurant, café or bar in Toronto or Newmarket? See what we built for Shomal Restaurant, North Grill, Thornhill Pub and Gilaneh, and the results: restaurant marketing in Toronto. You can also read about Restaurant web design or book a review session.