Using the iPad to order at restaurants is becoming a reality.   OrderTalk, Inc., a leader in on-demand software and service solutions for the restaurant industry is announcing the launch of an iPad app that allows guests to order while in line or at their tables.  Guests can use an iPad, iPhone or an iPod Touch.

How It Works

OrderTalk created a proprietary ordering platform that is downloaded as an app which can then interact with servers, point of sale systems, or kitchen printers.  Enabling this type of electronic interaction speeds up service since it eliminates a lot of errors.

The Value

Patrick Eldon, CEO of orderTalk, Inc. says of the application, “This application is perfect for restaurants that want a ‘line buster’ approach so customers can order in line and then have their order ready when they get to the counter.” He goes on to say that, “It also works in casual dining, allowing guests to order and pay directly at their table from their personal or restaurant supplied devices.”

Interacting

For us, the consumer, orderTalk has created apps we can download for our favorite (participating) food places.  Once the app is installed it will allow you to place pick-up or delivery orders, browse and select menu items for in-location dining.  Going one step further, you can even pay your bill using orderTalk’s app.

These types of apps have been around but not to the extent that you actually send order information to the kitchen, get your meal and then pay your bill.  It sounds like orderTalk has created something that is more “full service”.

The iPad’s interface lends itself perfectly for this type of service interaction.  With more and more people eating out these days, it would be a welcoming experience to place orders and pay our bills directly from the device we already have with us anyway.

From the restaurant’s point of view this is a huge way to save costs due to the fact that updating menus means a simple change which is automatically seen by everyone – rather than having to print up new menus, etc.

As these types of applications are tested on the iPad it will be good to follow the adoption of them.  For some, they like interacting with wait staff and these types of apps move them further from human to human interaction.  For others, it will be a welcome addition to their busy lives.

What do you think about this type of service?  Would you welcome it or do you favor a more “personal” experience when dining?