How to make a QR code menu
Design your menu, publish it to a public link, and download the QR code that points to that link. Print the code on table tents, stickers or the front window, at least about 2 cm (0.8 in) across, and update the published menu whenever prices change; the QR code stays the same.
Two ways to do it in CatalogProFlow
| Option | What guests see | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Share a menu design | Your printed menu as a page they can view and zoom on their phone | Restaurants that already have a designed menu |
| Share a catalog | A browsable list of dishes with photos and prices; guests can pick items and send an order | Takeaway, pre-orders, catering and cafés that take orders |
Option 1: share your menu design
- Open your menu design (or start from a menu template) and finish it.
- Choose Share online and switch on the public link. Anyone with the link can view the menu.
- Download the QR code shown in the same window.
- When you change the menu later, open Share online and choose to update the public version. The link and QR code stay the same, so printed codes keep working.
Option 2: share a catalog guests can order from
- Add your dishes as products (name, price, description, photo), or import them from a spreadsheet.
- Create a catalog, choose a design and share it. You get a link and a QR code.
- Guests browse on their phone and send an order to you.
Where to put the QR code
- Table tents: a Scan & connect or today's special tent with the code on one side.
- Stickers on tables or the counter.
- The front window or door, so people can read the menu before they come in.
- Takeaway bags, receipts, flyers and business cards.
Tips so it actually scans
- Print the code at least about 2 cm (0.8 in) square; bigger if people scan from further away.
- Dark code on a light background with a clear margin around it.
- Add a few words next to it: “Scan for our menu”.
- Test it with two or three different phones before printing a batch.
- Keep a few printed menus for guests who don't use smartphones or have no signal.
You can also add a QR code for any link (Wi-Fi details page, reviews, booking) to a design from the editor's brand panel with a free account.
Keep the menu easy to read on a phone
- Use a menu layout with big dish names and prices; tiny print is hard to read on a phone screen.
- Mark vegetarian, vegan, halal, gluten-free or spicy dishes clearly, the same way throughout.
- Put prices and any service charge where guests expect them.
Questions
- How do I create a QR code for my menu?
- Publish your menu design with Share online, then download the QR code shown there. It opens your menu on any phone.
- Do I need a new QR code when the menu changes?
- No. Update the published version of the same design and the link stays the same, so the printed code keeps working.
- How big should a QR code be on a table?
- At least about 2 cm (0.8 in) square; 3–4 cm is easier to scan in dim light.
- Can guests order from the QR code menu?
- If you share a catalog instead of a menu design, guests can choose items and send an order to you.
- Do guests need an app to scan the QR code?
- No. Most phone cameras scan QR codes directly and open the menu in the browser.
- Should I still have paper menus?
- Keep a few. Some guests prefer paper, and phones can run out of battery or signal.