QR code menus have transformed from a pandemic necessity to a permanent fixture in modern hospitality. They offer restaurants flexibility, cost savings, and valuable customer insights. Here's everything you need to know about implementing QR code menus effectively.

Why Use QR Code Menus?

Instant Updates

Run out of a dish? Price change? New seasonal special? Update your digital menu instantly without reprinting. Dynamic QR codes mean the same printed code always shows your current menu.

Cost Savings

Traditional menu printing is expensive, especially for restaurants that change offerings frequently. Digital menus eliminate reprinting costs entirely.

Hygiene Benefits

No more handling menus touched by dozens of customers. QR codes provide a touchless experience that many diners now prefer.

Multilingual Options

Link to a menu page that offers multiple languages. Serve international tourists without printing separate menus for each language.

Analytics and Insights

Track when customers scan, which items they view most, and peak browsing times. Use this data to optimise your offerings.

Types of Digital Menus for QR Codes

PDF Menu

The simplest option—upload your existing menu as a PDF and link to it. Quick to implement but limited in interactivity.

Pros: Easy, uses existing design, works offline once loaded

Cons: Not mobile-optimised, hard to update, no analytics

Website Menu Page

A dedicated page on your restaurant website with your menu. Mobile-responsive and easy to update.

Pros: Mobile-friendly, easy updates, integrates with website

Cons: Requires website maintenance, basic functionality

Dedicated Menu Platform

Services like Square, Toast, or dedicated menu apps offer rich features including photos, descriptions, allergen info, and ordering capabilities.

Pros: Feature-rich, professional appearance, often includes ordering

Cons: Monthly fees, dependency on third-party service

Custom Web App

A bespoke solution built specifically for your restaurant. Maximum flexibility and branding control.

Pros: Fully customised, unique features, complete brand control

Cons: Higher development cost, requires technical maintenance

Step-by-Step: Setting Up Your QR Code Menu

Step 1: Prepare Your Digital Menu

Before generating a QR code, you need somewhere to point it:

Audit your current menu: Update prices, remove discontinued items, add new offerings
Add photos: High-quality images increase orders by up to 30%
Include allergen information: Mark items containing common allergens
Write compelling descriptions: Describe dishes enticingly but accurately
Organise logically: Group by course, type, or dining occasion

Step 2: Choose Your Menu Hosting Solution

For most restaurants, we recommend:

Small cafes/bistros: Website page or simple PDF
Mid-size restaurants: Dedicated menu platform (Square, Toast)
Large or multi-location: Custom solution or enterprise platform

Step 3: Generate Your QR Code

Use a dynamic QR code generator so you can update the destination URL without reprinting. Enter your menu URL and customise the design to match your branding.

Critical: Use a dynamic QR code. When your menu URL changes or you switch platforms, you can update the redirect without replacing table tents.

Step 4: Design Table Displays

Your QR code needs an attractive, durable display:

Table tents: Freestanding cards that sit on tables
Stickers: Adhere directly to tables or menu holders
Acrylic stands: Professional, reusable displays
Laminated cards: Easy to clean, budget-friendly

Step 5: Train Your Staff

Ensure staff can:

Explain how to scan QR codes to unfamiliar customers
Offer physical menus as an alternative when needed
Report any scanning issues immediately
Answer questions about menu items not on the display

QR Code Menu Design Best Practices

Size and Placement

QR codes should be at least 3 x 3cm (1.2 x 1.2 inches) for comfortable scanning across a table. Larger is better—4 x 4cm is ideal for varied lighting conditions.

Clear Instructions

Not everyone knows what to do with a QR code. Include text like "Scan to view menu" and consider adding a small phone icon.

Brand Consistency

Match the QR code colours to your restaurant branding. Include your logo if it fits without compromising scannability.

Backup Information

Print your website URL below the QR code for those who prefer typing. Consider adding your WiFi details on the same display.

Keeping Physical Menus Available

While QR codes offer many benefits, don't eliminate physical menus entirely:

Some customers prefer traditional menus
Not everyone has a smartphone (or charged battery)
Accessibility needs vary—large print menus serve some customers better
Power outages can affect digital systems

Keep a small stock of physical menus available on request. Consider laminated menus that can be sanitised between uses.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Poor Mobile Experience

If your menu page isn't mobile-friendly, you're creating frustration. Test thoroughly on various phone sizes. Text should be readable without zooming.

Slow Loading

Hungry customers won't wait for a slow page. Optimise images, use efficient hosting, and test loading speed regularly.

Broken Links

Check your QR codes weekly. A broken link means frustrated customers and lost orders.

No Fallback

What happens when the WiFi goes down? Have a backup plan—whether that's printed menus or a staff member who can recite options.

Ignoring Accessibility

Screen readers should be able to navigate your digital menu. Use proper heading structure, alt text for images, and sufficient colour contrast.

Measuring Success

Track these metrics to optimise your QR code menu:

Scan rate: How many tables scan the QR code?
Peak times: When are most scans happening?
Popular items: Which dishes get the most views?
Time on menu: How long do customers browse?
Conversion: Do views lead to orders? (if using ordering platform)

Get Started Today

Ready to create your restaurant's QR code menu? Our free generator creates dynamic, trackable QR codes that you can update anytime. Start with a simple link to your menu page and upgrade as your needs grow.