NoshList by Nosh is a free iPad app for restaurants to manage waitlists and notify customers of table openings via text messages and phone calls. The app helps you sidestep the cost of a buzzer system and the mess of a paper clipboard system.
How it Works
The app shows the waitlist, broken down by color coded status, size of party, name, time arrived, quoted wait time, actual wait time, notification readout for text or call, and buttons to seat and remove a customer from the list. A readout at the base of the screen tells you how many are waiting, how many you've seated, and average wait times based on group size.
To use, enter the customer's name, party size, and phone number. The app tracks in realtime the customer's calculated wait. When the time has lapsed, the customer is notified via text, or you can activate a phone call notification from the display. The app also tracks the customer's history over time via his or her phone number.
Reviews
Overall, the app has garnered positive reviews:
“Awesome multi device integration… You update one device and instantly the other device has the information. Excellent for my staff to be able to see who’s waiting.”
“Great insights and super helpful. Hard to believe it’s free!”
We agree that the interface is clean and user-friendly, with an easy-to-learn workflow. Plus, you have the convenience of using it on iPad or iPhone. All the pertinent information is there to track, manage, and streamline the seating process. If you're looking for a free option to start a wait list system or replace an outdated one, check out NoshList on the App Store.