What is a KOT? (Kitchen order ticket)
How a KOT works
The waiter or cashier takes the order, and a KOT goes to the kitchen. In many restaurants it is still a handwritten slip; in others it prints on a small thermal printer in the kitchen, or shows on a kitchen screen. The cook prepares the dishes on the KOT and marks it done.
Why KOT mistakes cost money
Hard-to-read handwriting, a slip that falls behind the counter, or a change at the table that never reaches the kitchen: each one means a wrong or late dish, wasted food and an unhappy guest.
One order, several kitchens
If your tandoor, main kitchen and bar make different dishes, one order can need several KOTs. A good billing system splits the order and sends each kitchen only its own dishes.
| What | Handwritten KOT | KOT in AppZet Billing |
|---|---|---|
| Reaching the kitchen | Waiter walks the slip over | Sent the moment the order is saved |
| Several kitchens | Separate slips written by hand | Split automatically, one KOT per kitchen |
| Status | Shouted across the counter | Preparing, Ready and Served on the KOT screen |
| Cancellations | Not recorded | Cancelled with a reason you can review |
- A KOT is created from every order and sent to each kitchen that makes those dishes.
- The KOT screen shows each kitchen its own tickets; staff tap Start preparing, Mark ready and Mark served.
- Print KOT gives a paper ticket when you need one.
- Online store orders create KOTs just like counter and table orders.
Frequently asked questions
What does KOT stand for?
Kitchen order ticket. Some restaurants also call it a kitchen order token.
Do I need a screen in the kitchen?
No. You can start with a printed KOT and add a kitchen screen later.
What is the difference between a KOT and a bill?
The KOT is for the kitchen and has nothing to pay. The bill is for the customer and has prices and GST.