Keeping catering menus up to date just got a lot simpler. ezCater’s new public menu API enables real-time menu syncing, making it easier for restaurants to keep menus current and accurate. Instead of submitting changes to ezCater by email, restaurant operators can now push updates straight from their middleware or POS system — so menus will be able to reflect what’s currently available.

Checkmate is the first middleware provider to integrate with the menu API, giving restaurants that use both platforms the ability to sync and edit their catering menus directly from the Checkmate dashboard. The integration is currently in a pilot phase, and restaurants with compatible menu structures can opt in now. The integration will soon expand to additional third party providers, so even more restaurants can take advantage of streamlined menu management.

Wondering exactly how this works and the impact it could have on your business? ezCater’s Senior Restaurant Tech Partnership Manager, Sofia Pilar, shares a rundown of what restaurants can expect.

Q&A with Sofia Pilar: Everything you need to know about the menu API integration

What is an API integration, and how does it apply to menus?

An API integration essentially allows the exchange of data between two different systems. Our current integration allows order information to be exchanged between ezCater’s ezManage system and our catering partners’ aggregator or POS system. 

Before this integration, menu changes or updates required an email or outreach to ezCater, but now restaurant partners can push menu updates from their middleware or POS system directly into ezCater’s environment, making the changes in minutes.

How does this integration improve efficiency for restaurant operators?

One of the biggest advantages of the API is that it allows restaurants to update menus on their schedule, without relying on —or waiting for—  ezCater to make those changes.  

This is especially helpful when adding or removing limited-time offer items, like ones that rely on seasonal ingredients (think summer citrus salads or pumpkin-themed items). 

Before this integration, restaurants would have to wait for our support team to update their menu, which isn’t always convenient in a fast-paced restaurant environment. Now, you can swap menu items within minutes, eliminating the need to contact our customer care team and avoiding unnecessary back-and-forth.

Another great example is a holiday menu update. Let’s say a restaurant wants to add a special item for Valentine’s Day. Instead of contacting us in advance, they can make the update themselves — even the night before.

This integration also removes menu and pricing tier limitations, allowing each store to have a unique menu. This is a big upgrade for some of ezCater’s multi-unit partners.

What if I don’t currently work with Checkmate?

Right now, Checkmate is our first partner to integrate to ezCater’s public menu API. If your restaurant doesn’t currently use Checkmate, you could consider switching or explore some of our other integration partners here. You can always contact our team at api_support@ezcater.com for guidance.

Is this integration available for independent and small catering businesses?

Absolutely. This integration is designed to be accessible to everyone. Our hope is that all catering partners can opt into and leverage this integration, and we’re continually making upgrades to expand the integration capabilities, as well as our integration partners.  

Can I still reach out to ezCater’s support team if needed?

Of course, our team is always available to help. This integration is meant to streamline menu updates, but our menu specialists are still here to provide guidance and answer questions. In fact, with these automation improvements, our team can take on a more consultative role — helping partners with more complex questions, like how to optimize their menus.

Are there any menu limitations with this integration?

Very complex menus with multiple nested options may require extra setup. If you’re not sure whether your menu setup will work, the best solution is to talk to one of our integrations specialists. They’ll work directly with you and help determine whether the new API is compatible with your needs. Partners can reach out to the menu team through the Settings tab in ezManage or by emailing menus@ezCater.com.

Get started with ezCater’s menu API integration today

With ezCater’s new menu API integration, it’s easier than ever to keep catering menus up to date. When changes take minutes — instead of days — it reduces overhead, speeds up onboarding, and helps ensure accuracy, so you can focus on delivering great food and an even better guest experience. Visit ezCater’s integration page to learn more.