A QR code menu lets guests browse on their own phone, lets you change prices and specials in seconds, and saves reprinting every time something changes. Here's how to set one up properly.
1. Decide what the code opens
You have two good options:
- A PDF of your menu. This is the quickest option if you already have a designed menu. Export it as a PDF, keep the file small (under a few MB), and make sure the text is readable on a phone without zooming in too far.
- A menu page on your website. This works best on phones, is searchable, and is easier to keep accessible. Use it if your website makes updates easy.
Either works with a dynamic QR code. Use one: menus change, and you don't want to reprint table cards when they do.
2. Make the code
- Choose PDF (and upload your menu) or Website (and paste the link).
- Give it a name you'll recognise, like "Table tents – main menu".
- Style it with your colours and logo, and add a frame that says "Scan for menu".
- Download it as SVG or PDF for printing.
3. Put it where people look
- Table tents or stickers on every table. Put the code on the side facing the seat.
- The front door or window, so passers-by can see the menu before they come in.
- The counter, for takeaway customers.
- Receipts and takeaway bags, linking to your online ordering or reviews.
On a table, a code of 4–6 cm works well. For a window, go much bigger (see the print size guide).
4. Keep a paper option
Not everyone has a phone with them, wants to use it, or can read small screens easily. Keep a few printed menus available. Make sure allergen information is easy to find whichever format a guest uses: UK food businesses must be able to tell customers about the 14 major allergens in their food.
5. Update it whenever you need to
This is where a dynamic code pays for itself:
- Changing prices or dishes? Upload the new PDF or edit the web page. Every printed code shows the new version straight away.
- Specials, set menus, Christmas? Point the code to a seasonal menu, then switch it back afterwards.
- Different menus by time of day? Use separate codes for breakfast and dinner cards, or just switch where one code points.
6. See what's working
Scan statistics show how often guests open the menu, your busiest hours and which codes get scanned. Use a separate code for each placement to compare tables, windows and takeaway bags.
Checklist before you print
- The menu opens quickly on mobile data, not just Wi-Fi.
- Text is readable on a small phone.
- The code is dark on a light background, with a clear margin around it.
- The frame says what it's for: "Scan for menu".
- You've test-scanned a printed copy at table distance.
Create your menu QR code. Change it any time, and track every scan.