When selecting the right online ordering platform for your restaurant in Abu Dhabi, two popular options are EatEasy and ChatFood. Both platforms offer features that help restaurants manage orders, improve customer engagement, and increase sales. However, the right choice depends on several factors, including pricing, ease of use, integrations, and customer reach.
This comparison will analyze EatEasy vs ChatFood based on key features, pricing, restaurant benefits, and customer experience.
1. Overview of EatEasy and ChatFood
EatEasy
EatEasy is an online food ordering platform that connects restaurants with customers in the UAE. It is known for offering a user-friendly experience for both restaurants and customers. EatEasy provides its own app and website where customers can browse menus, place orders, and make payments.
Key Features of EatEasy:
- A centralized food delivery marketplace for the UAE.
- Large customer base from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
- Support for multiple payment methods, including credit/debit cards and cash on delivery.
- Available on iOS and Android apps.
- Commission-based revenue model for restaurants.
ChatFood
ChatFood is a direct online ordering system designed to help restaurants take control of their delivery and takeaway sales. Unlike marketplace platforms like EatEasy, ChatFood enables restaurants to create their own branded ordering system, reducing dependence on third-party aggregators.
Key Features of ChatFood:
- Zero commission direct ordering system.
- Integration with Instagram, WhatsApp, and Facebook.
- Loyalty programs and customer data insights.
- WhatsApp and chatbot ordering to streamline communication.
- Mobile-friendly, allowing restaurants to own customer relationships.
- Works with self-delivery or third-party delivery partners.
2. Pricing & Commission Fees
One of the most crucial factors in choosing between EatEasy and ChatFood is their pricing structure.
| Platform | Pricing Model | Commission Fees | Other Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| EatEasy | Marketplace (aggregator model) | 15-30% per order | Potential setup and service fees |
| ChatFood | Direct ordering system | 0% commission | Monthly subscription or transaction fee |
- EatEasy charges a commission on each order, meaning that restaurants pay a percentage of their revenue to the platform.
- ChatFood, on the other hand, charges no commission, but restaurants may need to pay a monthly fee based on the features they use.
Verdict: If you want to avoid high commissions, ChatFood is the better choice. If you prefer a large customer base without managing your own ordering system, EatEasy might be suitable.
3. Restaurant Benefits: Control, Branding & Integrations
Restaurants in Abu Dhabi must consider how much control and branding they want over their online ordering process.
EatEasy’s Benefits
✅ Access to a large customer base through their marketplace.
✅ No need to set up a custom ordering system—just register and list your restaurant.
✅ Handles delivery and logistics for restaurants that don’t have their own fleet.
✅ Offers a familiar aggregator model (similar to Talabat or Zomato).
⚠️ Challenges:
- High commissions (15-30%) cut into profit margins.
- Limited control over branding, customer interactions, and marketing.
- Customers remain loyal to the EatEasy platform, not necessarily to your restaurant.
ChatFood’s Benefits
✅ Own your customer database, helping with re-marketing and loyalty programs.
✅ 0% commission on orders means higher profit margins.
✅ Direct integrations with WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook allow customers to order easily.
✅ Supports self-delivery or third-party logistics, giving flexibility.
✅ Branded experience, allowing restaurants to maintain their unique identity.
⚠️ Challenges:
- No built-in marketplace, meaning you must attract customers yourself.
- Setup and subscription costs (depending on the plan).
Verdict: If you want better control over branding, lower costs, and more flexibility, ChatFood is the better choice. If you prefer plug-and-play access to a customer base without managing your own ordering, EatEasy is more convenient.
4. Delivery & Logistics
How a restaurant handles delivery operations in Abu Dhabi will also impact its choice.
| Feature | EatEasy | ChatFood |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery Support | Uses own delivery network | Supports self-delivery or third-party services |
| Logistics Management | Handled by EatEasy | Restaurant chooses delivery provider |
| Order Tracking | Yes | Yes (if using integrated delivery partners) |
| Flexibility | Limited (must use EatEasy’s system) | High (choose preferred logistics) |
- EatEasy provides full logistics, so you don’t need a separate delivery setup.
- ChatFood allows flexibility, letting you work with your own fleet or third-party services like Talabat Go.
Verdict: If you don’t have a delivery setup, EatEasy is easier. If you want logistics control and cost savings, ChatFood is better.
5. Customer Experience
The ease of ordering and the overall experience affect customer satisfaction.
| Feature | EatEasy | ChatFood |
|---|---|---|
| Ordering Process | Marketplace app | Direct orders via WhatsApp, Instagram, or web |
| Loyalty & Discounts | Limited loyalty features | Advanced loyalty programs |
| Payment Options | Credit card, cash on delivery | Online payments |
| Customization | No (limited to EatEasy’s interface) | Yes (fully branded experience) |
- EatEasy has a simpler marketplace interface, but customers remain loyal to the platform, not your restaurant.
- ChatFood enhances customer retention with direct orders and loyalty rewards.
Verdict: ChatFood wins in customer relationship management. EatEasy wins in terms of convenience for customers who use aggregator apps.
6. Marketing & Growth Potential
A restaurant’s ability to attract and retain customers is key.
| Feature | EatEasy | ChatFood |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in customer base | Yes | No (restaurant must attract customers) |
| Marketing Tools | Limited | Advanced tools (loyalty, retargeting, social media ordering) |
| Data & Insights | Limited | Full customer data access |
| Branding | No | Yes |
- EatEasy offers instant exposure but limits access to customer data.
- ChatFood gives marketing control via direct re-targeting and social media integrations.
Verdict: If you want to own customer relationships and run targeted campaigns, ChatFood is better. If you prefer an easy way to access a large audience, EatEasy is better.
Final Verdict: Which is Best for Your Restaurant in Abu Dhabi?
Choose EatEasy if:
✔️ You want a quick setup with a built-in customer base.
✔️ You prefer not handling delivery logistics.
✔️ You are comfortable paying 15-30% commission per order.
Choose ChatFood if:
✔️ You want to keep 100% of your revenue with 0% commission.
✔️ You prefer to own customer data and build long-term loyalty.
✔️ You have a marketing plan to drive traffic to your own website or social media.
✔️ You want flexibility in delivery operations.
Final Recommendation
For most restaurants looking to build their brand, increase profits, and control customer interactions, ChatFood is the better long-term choice.
However, if you need instant orders without managing an ordering system, EatEasy is the more convenient option.
Would you like help setting up ChatFood or EatEasy for your restaurant in Abu Dhabi? Let us know! 🚀
