Every release we build starts with one question: What do operators really need right now to run their restaurants better?
The answer to that question shaped every feature of the NorthStar Summer Release 2025. This release isn’t just about adding features, it’s about building technology that meets operators where they are and pushes their business forward.
The NorthStar Summer Release 2025 was designed for operators who are tired of being boxed in by “one-size-fits-all” systems. Every enhancement we’ve made is rooted in real conversations with QSR and fast casual operators from owners juggling busy shifts to managers frustrated by bottlenecks. We built these updates to bring more control, more flexibility, and more freedom to run restaurants your way.
What We Heard From You
We know the daily grind. Tip-outs that take forever. Online orders that bottleneck in the kitchen. The stress of training new staff while keeping the service smooth. These challenges aren’t just “technology gaps”, they’re real operational headaches that cost you time and impact your guest experience.
This release is designed to fix that.
Highlights of the Summer Release
Tipping Made Effortless with tipOUT
No more spreadsheets, no more end-of-night headaches. tipOUT automates tip pooling and distribution, so your team leaves happy and every penny is accounted for.
Guests Who Feel Known (OpenTable Integration)
Our bi-directional OpenTable integration syncs guest profiles, reservations, and order history so your team can deliver personalized service every single time
Out-of-Stock Alerts That Actually Work
Guests don’t want to hear “Sorry, we’re out of that.” On-screen and printable out-of-stock alerts keep everyone on the same page, eliminating last-minute guest disappointments.
Advanced Deposits for More Flexibility
Events, pre-orders, or large groups? Advanced deposits let you collect partial payments upfront and the balance later, seamlessly.
Training Without Pressure
Training Mode allows new hires to explore every function of the system without touching live operations, making onboarding faster and less stressful.
Faster Orders, Happier Guests (Enhanced OLO Integration)
Online orders hit the kitchen the moment they’re placed. No delays. No chaos. Just faster service that keeps guests coming back.
Control What’s Ordered (Restricted Menu Items by Job)
With job-based restrictions, you can control what gets ordered, reduce mistakes, and protect your inventory during busy shifts.
A Stronger Tech Ecosystem
With Sparkyfly integration and enhanced OLO functionality, we’re giving operators the flexibility to choose a tech stack that fits their business, not the other way around.
Why This Release Feels Different
This release isn’t about flashy features. It’s about tools that make your life easier, your service faster, and your guests happier.
When we say “built for operators,” we mean it. Every feature is a response to conversations we’ve had with restaurant leaders who told us what they need to thrive in a fast-changing market.
Let’s Talk About What’s Next
The NorthStar Summer Release 2025 is live and it’s built for you.
…and there’s even more under the hood with new features and enhancements made to NorthStar.
