Contactless menus became standard during the pandemic and have stayed that way — customers like them, they reduce printing costs, and menus can be updated instantly without reprinting. Here is a complete guide to setting up QR code menus for your restaurant.
Why QR Code Menus Work
Traditional printed menus are expensive to update, get dirty and worn quickly, and cannot be changed once printed. A QR code menu solves all of these: updating the online menu updates what every QR code links to instantly (no reprinting). Customers use their own phones, which are always clean. The menu can include photos, descriptions, allergen information, and even online ordering. And the QR codes themselves are cheap to print — one A4 sheet with multiple QR codes costs pennies.
Step 1: Create Your Digital Menu
First, create the online menu that the QR code will link to. Options include: Google Sites (free, easy, professional-looking), a page on your existing restaurant website, a PDF menu hosted on Google Drive (get a shareable link), a dedicated menu platform like Square Online or MenuDrive, or a simple Google Doc with your menu items.
For the simplest setup: create a PDF of your menu, upload it to Google Drive, set sharing to 'Anyone with the link can view', and copy the share link.
Step 2: Create the QR Code
1. Go to freepdfconvertor.com and click the QR Code tab. 2. Paste your menu URL into the text field. 3. Select 'Large' size (330px) for best print quality on table cards. 4. Click Generate QR Code. 5. Download the PNG file.
You now have a high-resolution QR code image ready to add to your table cards, signs, or menu covers.
Step 3: Design and Print Your QR Code Cards
Options for printing QR code table cards: Canva (free): Search 'QR code table card' in Canva templates, insert your QR code PNG, and print or export as PDF for a local printer. Microsoft Word: Insert the QR code image into a Word document, add text like 'Scan for Menu' and your restaurant name, and print on cardstock. Professional printing: Upload your design to Vistaprint, MOO, or your local print shop for professional-quality laminated cards.
Recommend size for table cards: 10 cm x 10 cm works well and is easy for customers to find and scan.
Step 4: Test, Place, and Maintain
Always test the QR code at your table before opening. Scan from the distance a seated customer would be (arm's length). Confirm the menu opens correctly. Place cards flat on tables or prop them up with small stands. For laminated cards, make sure the surface is clean and non-reflective — some glossy laminating films can cause scanning issues. When you update your menu, update the online version — the QR code link does not change, so all printed cards remain valid.
Advanced: One QR Code per Section
For large menus, consider creating separate QR codes for different sections — starters, mains, desserts, drinks — and placing the appropriate card on each table section or including all cards in a card holder. You can also create a QR code that links directly to an online ordering system, allowing customers to order and pay from their phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do customers need to download an app to scan the QR menu?
No. Modern iPhone and Android cameras scan QR codes natively. Just point the camera at the QR code and tap the notification.
What if I update my menu? Do I need to reprint the QR codes?
No. The QR code links to a URL — update the content at that URL and all existing QR codes automatically show the new menu. You only need to reprint QR codes if the URL itself changes.
Is it expensive to set up QR code menus?
The QR code is free to generate. Printing table cards costs a few cents each. The digital menu can be hosted for free on Google Drive, Google Sites, or your website. Total cost can be under £5.
Can I create multiple QR codes for different table areas?
Yes. You can create multiple QR codes pointing to the same menu URL, or different URLs for different sections. Use the batch QR code generator to create them all at once.