Setting the Scene: POS Needs in Breweries & Taprooms

Breweries and taprooms operate very differently from traditional restaurants, and those differences have a big impact on what they need from a point-of-sale (POS) system. Instead of standard table service, these venues typically rely on tab-based ordering, with guests moving freely between the bar, patio, and event spaces—often placing multiple orders during a single visit. They also juggle a variety of offerings, from beer flights and growler fills to merch sales and rotating events. Accurate keg tracking and real-time inventory management are essential, as is the ability to support flexible ordering across taprooms, food hall setups, and outdoor areas.

With these unique demands in mind, let’s take a closer look at how GoTab and Toast approach the needs of brewery and taproom operators.

1. Tab & Mobile‑First Ordering

GoTab: Born for Tabs

GoTab pioneered Easy Tab: patrons tap or dip a card to open a tab, and it stays open throughout their visit—even as they move between the bar, tables, or the patio. Guest ordering via QR code or app-like browser experiences enhances convenience. Real-time authorization and “insufficient funds protection” guard against failed payments. Tab-sharing and easy group split pay further reduce friction.

Toast: Strong for Traditional Service

Toast supports tab-based orders via its handhelds, but doesn’t match GoTab’s frictionless roaming tabs. It’s robust where staff‑driven service is dominant rather than hybrid service models or guest-initiated mobile ordering.

Winner: GoTab leads in guest-driven, hybrid service model experiences.

2. Hardware & Ecosystem

When it comes to hardware flexibility, GoTab stands out by allowing operators to use virtually any web-enabled device—there’s no need to invest in proprietary hardware. This "bring your own device" (BYOD) model can lower upfront costs and makes it easier to support mobile and pop-up service models. In contrast, Toast requires operators to use Toast-branded terminals and tablets. While these devices are known for their durability, they come with a higher price tag and less flexibility.

For kiosk and kitchen display systems (KDS), both platforms offer robust solutions, but with some differences. GoTab provides access to KDS and kiosk functionality as add-ons, giving venues the ability to customize their setup based on need and budget. Toast also offers these tools, but they’re typically integrated at an additional cost within its ecosystem.

Regarding mobile and outdoor service, GoTab offers advanced tools like QR-code ordering zones, phone-only POS, and flexible routing options by service area—ideal for breweries and taprooms with patios, food trucks, or segmented zones. Toast supports mobile handheld devices, but they are tied to its proprietary hardware, making GoTab the more flexible option for operators with unconventional or evolving layouts.

If your venue thrives on flexibility—whether it’s BYOD setups, hybrid service zones, or adapting quickly to new service models—GoTab is the better fit. Toast, while durable and reliable, requires a more substantial hardware commitment and is better suited to standardized environments.

3. Pricing & Fees

GoTab takes a transparent, modular approach to pricing that makes it easy for breweries and taprooms to scale based on their needs. Entry-level plans start at just $15 per month and go up to $199 per month for more advanced features. Operators can add on specific tools—like handheld or tablet POS devices, kitchen display systems (KDS), or kiosks—for an additional $25 to $35 per month each. A flat transaction fee of about 10 cents per charge keeps payment processing predictable. Importantly, once you select your preferred setup, core features such as tabs, mobile ordering, and KDS are fully included in the platform pricing, so there are no surprises down the line.

Toast, on the other hand, advertises a $0/month starter hardware bundle and a $69/month entry-level software plan. However, the full suite of features is available only through custom pricing, and additional costs can stack up quickly. Tools like loyalty programs, advanced reporting, and payroll services are not included in the base price and must be purchased separately. Hardware is either leased or bought outright, adding to the long-term cost of ownership.

In short, GoTab’s pricing is more transparent and modular—ideal for breweries that want mobile-first, taproom-centric capabilities without the commitment to bundled hardware or expensive add-ons. Toast may offer a lower barrier to entry, but costs can climb quickly as features are added.

Visit the GoTab Pricing page for full details.

4. Support & Onboarding

• GoTab emphasizes hands-on onboarding, 24/7 real‑person support via chat, SMS, phone, and a dedicated account manager.
  
  
• Toast also offers 24/7 support, online resources, and onboarding services.
  
  

GoTab edges out with more proactive, real-time support during frequent taproom peak periods.

5. Inventory & Reporting

Toast is often recognized for its advanced reporting capabilities, particularly in areas like inventory tracking, labor management, sales trends, and multi-location oversight. Operators on forums like r/TheBrewery have pointed out its strength in back-end reporting, with one noting, “We use Toast… the back end stuff is great when it comes to sales reports.” That said, much of this functionality comes at an additional cost and is more relevant for larger, data-heavy operations.

GoTab also offers robust tools to support data-driven decisions, including real-time inventory tracking, batch KDS updates, 86’ing, smart prep routing, and integrations with popular accounting platforms. While Toast may offer more detailed and customizable reporting out of the box, GoTab provides the core operational insights most breweries need—without the added cost or complexity.

For breweries with multiple locations and a heavy reliance on analytics, Toast might still have the edge. But for many taprooms, GoTab’s reporting tools strike a solid balance between functionality and simplicity and are easily accessible around the clock via the GoTab Manager App.

6. Flexibility & Ecosystem Integration

GoTab is designed with flexibility at its core, making it especially well-suited for hybrid hospitality operations. It supports complex setups like multi-vendor environments, segmented service zones, third-party ordering channels, and offers an open API that enables seamless integration with a wide range of tools and systems. This makes it a strong fit for experimental or non-traditional brewery models—such as beer halls, pop-ups, and venues that include merchandise or event sales.

Toast also offers a broad set of integrations, including delivery platforms, payroll systems, and gift card functionality. However, it operates within a more closed ecosystem, meaning integrations often require formal approvals and tend to work best within Toast’s predefined workflows.

For breweries, this distinction matters: GoTab provides the adaptability needed for creative and evolving service models, while Toast is generally more optimized for standardized, single-site operations with consistent front- and back-of-house processes.

7. Real‑World Feedback from Breweries

Toast holds a significant share of the restaurant POS market, and its platform is widely used across many segments of the industry. With a broad set of integrations—from delivery platforms to payroll and gift card systems—it’s a familiar name, particularly for standardized, full-service dining concepts.

But when it comes to breweries and taprooms, GoTab is purpose-built to meet the unique demands of these operations. Created by operators who understand the nuances of brewery service—from roaming tabs and QR-based ordering to merch sales, food trucks, and multi-vendor beer halls—GoTab delivers the flexibility that brewery teams actually need. Its support for complex service zones, open API integrations, and third-party ordering makes it ideal for venues that don’t fit the one-size-fits-all mold.

While Toast works well in traditional restaurant environments, GoTab stands apart as a platform designed specifically for modern brewery models—where service styles vary, experiences are fluid, and growth often means scaling beyond the four walls of the taproom.

8. Choosing What’s Right for You

GoTab is the right fit for breweries and taprooms that value flexibility and guest-driven service. Its roaming tab functionality allows guests to move freely between spaces—whether they’re ordering at the bar, from a QR code at a table, or at an event station—without disrupting the flow of service. GoTab also supports a wide range of hardware configurations, so operators aren’t locked into a single set of devices or service zones. Its modular pricing makes it easy to scale without hidden fees or long-term contracts, and it's especially well-suited for hybrid operations that blend taproom service with outdoor areas, events, or pop-ups. On top of that, GoTab offers fast setup and around-the-clock support, making it a reliable partner for dynamic, fast-paced venues.

Toast, on the other hand, may be a better choice for breweries that prioritize detailed back-office reporting and analytics. It offers robust tools for inventory management, labor tracking, and multi-location oversight. Toast’s branded hardware is durable and built to work seamlessly out of the box, minimizing setup issues. Its ecosystem supports tight integrations across delivery platforms, payroll systems, and more—ideal for businesses running a standardized service model with consistent kitchen and food workflows.

Ultimately, the right choice depends on your operational style. For flexibility and innovation, GoTab leads the way. For structure and centralized management, Toast may be the better fit.

Final Takeaway - Toast vs GoTab for Breweries

GoTab shines in environments where flexibility and guest-driven service are key. Its EasyTab feature allows guests to open, manage, and pay tabs seamlessly from their own devices—no app or staff interaction required. GoTab also supports a bring-your-own-device (BYOD) hardware model, which gives operators more freedom and reduces upfront costs. Pricing is transparent and modular, with 24/7 access to real human support.

Toast, by contrast, offers a more structured approach. While it supports tabs, they tend to rely more on staff involvement. The platform requires Toast-branded hardware and follows a base-price model with additional costs for many features. Where Toast stands out is in its robust reporting and analytics tools, making it a strong choice for operations that prioritize centralized data and standardized workflows. While less flexible than GoTab, Toast provides a tightly integrated, all-in-one ecosystem that works well for traditional service models.

‍