Restaurants can use more than one channel. The useful question is what each channel does for the business and what it costs to serve an order through it.
Discovery and destination
A marketplace can introduce a restaurant to diners browsing its catalogue. A direct ordering page gives guests a destination connected to the restaurant's website and branding. Direct ordering still needs promotion and a good experience; software alone does not create demand.
Compare like-for-like costs
Use the provider terms that apply to your restaurant. Separate commission, subscriptions, per-order charges, payment processing, promotions and delivery. Compare the same volume and fulfilment model rather than assuming all marketplace sales move to a direct site.
Review ownership and workload
Ask how menus are updated, where the order is received, how support works and what customer information the restaurant can use. Consider the time the team spends reconciling channels as well as the software bill.
A practical direct-channel launch
- Publish a reviewed menu and verify checkout and handoff.
- Add a clear ordering link to the website and profiles you control.
- Explain the direct ordering option to existing guests through appropriate channels.
- Measure direct orders, repeat visits and total costs over time.
Use the cost calculator and LineForge's fee explanation to review the economics.