The Future of Food Halls: How GoTab is Redefining the Food Hall POS Experience

Food halls are reshaping how we dine—offering variety, flexibility, and community in one shared space. But behind the scenes, running a successful food hall presents unique operational challenges, especially when it comes to the point-of-sale (POS) system. That’s where GoTab comes in.

GoTab isn’t just a POS system. It’s a guest-centric, operator-empowering platform that was purpose-built for dynamic, multi-vendor environments. Here are the most unique features GoTab delivers for food hall concepts:

1. Guest-Centric Tabs That Move Across Vendors

Unlike traditional POS systems that tie orders to a table or stall, GoTab assigns tabs to individual guests. This core distinction enables a seamless experience across the entire venue. Whether ordering fries from Vendor A and tacos from Vendor B, guests can keep everything on a single tab.

That means no repeated swiping, no duplicate payments, and fewer interruptions—just one frictionless checkout at the end. Behind the scenes, GoTab automatically splits the transaction and routes the right funds to the right vendors.

2. Built-In Revenue Sharing and Vendor Payouts

Managing multiple vendors with different commission structures can be a logistical headache. GoTab simplifies it all. Operators can assign custom percentages for each vendor (e.g., 30% for one, 28% for another) and GoTab automatically calculates payouts. Remittances happen seamlessly on the back end, saving time, reducing errors, and ensuring accuracy.

The platform also supports flexible tip sharing models, allowing operators to distribute tips proportionally across vendors and food hall staff based on sales.

3. Fully Flexible Ordering Experiences (Phone, Kiosk, Counter, or RFID)

GoTab gives guests the power to order how they want:

• Scan a QR Code: Browse menus, place an order, and pay—all from a mobile browser (no app needed).
  
  
• Use an RFID Card: Tap to order at each stall, with all charges consolidated under a single tab.
  
  
• Walk Up to a Stall: Traditional ordering with the option for operators to integrate handheld devices or kiosks.
  
  

This hybrid approach gives every guest the autonomy to order on their terms—while reducing wait times, increasing throughput, and improving satisfaction.

4. Easy Tab™: Personalized Service, Streamlined Tech

GoTab’s exclusive Easy Tab feature combines human interaction with tech convenience. A bartender or server can open a tab by dipping a card into a handheld POS, prompting the guest to enter their phone number. The system texts the tab to the guest’s phone, putting them in full control.

From there, they can continue ordering from any vendor in the food hall—all on the same tab—and close out when they’re ready.

5. Group Ordering and Tab Sharing

With GoTab, group dining becomes seamless. A parent can open a tab and share it via text with their kids. A company can issue RFID cards to a group of employees for a lunch event. Everyone orders independently, and it all funnels to the same tab.

This is especially valuable for families, parties, or corporate groups that want freedom to explore without logistical hassle.

6. Intelligent Identity and Reorder Recognition

GoTab remembers returning guests. If a diner has used GoTab before—at any GoTab-powered venue—their profile is instantly recognized. That means no re-entering phone numbers, no lost order history, and no repeated steps.

This smooth re-engagement increases repeat business and makes every visit feel personalized and intuitive.

7. Automated Fulfillment Texting

As soon as an order is marked as ready on the kitchen display system, GoTab sends a fulfillment text to the guest. Vendors don’t need to call out names or manage complicated text workflows manually. It’s fast, efficient, and enhances the guest pickup experience.

8. Hardware Flexibility and Sleek Design

GoTab runs on Android devices, meaning operators aren’t locked into proprietary hardware. From slick Samsung tablets to pocket-sized handhelds with Bluetooth card readers (or tap on glass), GoTab’s hardware setup is both affordable and aesthetic.

It’s perfect for food halls that prioritize brand presentation and layout customization.

9. Designed for Modern Operators and Guests

GoTab combines the best of both worlds: powerful back-end automation for operators and elegant, intuitive ordering for guests. From consolidated reporting for food hall owners to per-vendor dashboards and payout automation, GoTab takes care of the complexity so operators can focus on what really matters—hospitality.

The result? Shorter lines, smoother service, higher guest satisfaction, and more revenue for everyone involved.

GoTab is already powering forward-thinking food halls like Golden Mill (CO), The Market at Malcolm Yards (MN) and many others. If you're planning a new food hall or looking to upgrade your POS, it might be time to explore how GoTab can transform your operations.

Learn more about GoTab for food halls or book a demo today.

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