Best Payroll
Software For
Restaurants
Running restaurant payroll is more complex than standard payroll. Tips, overtime rules, shift changes, and high employee turnover increase the risk of costly mistakes. The right payroll software can automate these issues, reduce compliance risk, and save hours each pay period. This page compares the best payroll software options built specifically for restaurants, based on real operational needs rather than marketing claims.
| Software | Best For | Handles Tips | Time Tracking | Price Range | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Small independent restaurants | Yes | Yes | Low to Mid | Best overall balance of ease and features |
 | Restaurants using Toast POS | Yes | Yes | Mid | Best POS integrated option |
 | Growing or multi location restaurants | Yes | Yes | Mid to High | Best for scaling operations |
 | Square POS users and tight budgets | Yes | Yes | Low | Best budget friendly option |
 | Very small restaurants on a budget (under ~10 employees) | Yes | Yes (Limited) | Low | Best low-cost alternative for small teams |
Best payroll software for small restaurants
Gusto is the easiest option for independent restaurants with under 50 employees. It handles tipped wages, overtime, and tax filings with minimal setup and a clean interface.
Best if you want payroll handled quickly without ongoing admin work.
Best payroll software for restaurants using POS
Toast Payroll is designed specifically for restaurants already using Toast POS. Payroll, tips, scheduling, and time tracking sync automatically, reducing manual errors.
Best if you already run Toast and want payroll tightly integrated.
Best payroll software for multi location restaurants
ADP Run is built for growing restaurant groups that need advanced reporting, multi location support, and strong compliance coverage.
Best if you are scaling or operating across multiple locations or states.
Best low cost payroll software for restaurants using Square POS
Square Payroll is a low cost option that works well for restaurants using Square POS. It covers the basics without unnecessary complexity.
Best if you want an affordable solution and already use Square tools.
Best payroll software for very small restaurants (budget option)
SurePayroll is a simple, lower-cost payroll option designed for very small restaurant teams that want straightforward payroll without extra features. It’s a good fit if you just need payroll handled reliably and you are prioritizing price.
Best if you have a small staff and want a budget-friendly payroll tool.
What matters most when choosing restaurant payroll software
When comparing payroll tools, focus on these factors first. Everything else is secondary.
- Accurate tip handling The software must correctly manage tips, tip pooling, and tipped minimum wage rules without manual work.
- Overtime and shift based wages Restaurants need payroll that accounts for variable schedules, split shifts, and overtime automatically.
- Time tracking and POS integration Payroll should sync cleanly with time clocks or your POS system to reduce errors and double entry.
- Local and state compliance support Wage laws vary by location. Built in compliance reduces the risk of fines and audits.
If a payroll system handles these four areas well, it is good enough for most restaurants.
Final recommendation
If you want the safest default choice, Gusto is the best starting point for most restaurants because it balances ease of use, reliable tip handling, and strong compliance support. If you already use a restaurant POS system, choosing payroll that integrates directly with it can save time and reduce errors. For very small teams on a tight budget, SurePayroll can be a simpler alternative. For multi-location or compliance-heavy operations, paying more for advanced support can reduce long-term risk.
The right payroll software should make this decision feel finished, not ongoing.
Disclosure: Some links on this page may be referral links, which means we may receive compensation if you sign up, at no additional cost to you.
Last updated January 2026
The Business Ops Guide 