Do I need a local server to run multiple billing counters?+
No. Each terminal connects directly to the centralised cloud server and operates independently, so there is no back-office machine to buy, maintain or back up. It also means one terminal failing has no effect on the others — unlike client-server setups, where a server failure stops every counter at once.
What happens to my counters if the internet goes down?+
Every terminal keeps billing on its own local database, independently of the others and of the cloud. Nothing queues and no customer is turned away. Each terminal syncs its transactions once connectivity returns, so an outage delays reporting rather than stopping service.
How do I make sure all counters show the same price and offers?+
Because each terminal holds a local menu copy for offline billing, changes apply when a terminal syncs. Run a fixed daily sync as part of the opening checklist, sync again after any mid-day change, make it one named person's responsibility per shift, and verify last-sync times on the dashboard. Followed consistently, every counter stays identical all day.
Can I add a billing counter during peak hours?+
Yes. Install the app on a device and log in. There is no cabling, no server registration and no vendor visit, so an extra counter can be opened for a lunch rush and closed afterwards.
Can I avoid card terminal fees?+
Largely, yes. Card terminals carry both a rental and a per-transaction fee, while standard UPI QR collection carries neither. Digital UPI display devices cost a fraction of a year's card terminal rental and can be bought online. Most QSR customers will scan without prompting, so moving the bulk of transactions to UPI is one of the simplest margin gains available.
How does ChefDesk confirm a UPI payment?+
Through integrated callbacks with payment providers including Paytm and NoCash. When the payment succeeds, the provider notifies ChefDesk and the bill settles automatically against the order — no cashier checking a phone, no manually marking bills paid, and no manual reconciliation of UPI collections at close.
Can I still accept cards?+
Yes. ChefDesk works with standard card terminals alongside UPI. The aim is not to refuse cards, only to stop paying terminal fees on transactions that would have been UPI anyway.
Does it handle token numbers and order-ready displays?+
Yes. Each order generates a token at payment, the kitchen marks items ready, and the customer-facing display updates so customers wait at tables rather than crowding the counter.
Do self-service kiosks work with the same system?+
Yes. Kiosk orders enter the same queue, route to the same kitchen stations and appear in the same reports as counter orders. Kiosks absorb peak queue without extra cashier headcount and generally lift average ticket through consistent upsell prompts.
Can I control menus and prices across several outlets centrally?+
Yes. Push menu, price and offer changes from one dashboard to every outlet, subject to the same sync procedure — outlets pick up changes as their terminals sync.
What hardware do I need?+
Android tablets, Android touch POS terminals or Windows PCs, from any brand, plus thermal printers and displays. There is no proprietary hardware and no local server. At QSR bill volumes, device specification matters — see our Android device guidance for what to buy.
How long does implementation take?+
Two to three days for a single outlet. Chains usually pilot one location to settle the menu structure and sync SOPs, then roll out to the rest.
