A QR menu is a digital menu that guests open by scanning the QR code on the table with their phone camera. It opens in the browser as a web page, with no app to install. The business updates the menu from a dashboard, and changes apply to every table instantly without reprinting the QR code.
How does a QR menu work?
A QR (Quick Response) code is a two-dimensional barcode that stores a web address. Modern phone cameras recognise QR codes and offer to open the address inside. For a QR menu, that address is the page holding the business's digital menu.
1
The guest scans the code
They open the camera, point it at the QR code and tap the link that appears.
2
The menu opens in the browser
The menu is shown as a mobile-friendly web page.
3
The guest browses
They move between categories, see photos, descriptions and prices, and pick their language and currency if offered.
4
The business updates the menu
Prices, items and availability change in the dashboard; the QR code stays the same.
QR menu vs printed menu
Printed menu
QR menu
Price updates
Redesign and reprint
In the dashboard, in seconds
Sold-out items
Waiter tells guests
Marked as sold out
Foreign languages
Separate print or none
Guests choose their language
Item photos
Raise printing costs
Can be added to every item
Allergen info
Limited space
Detailed per item
Hygiene and wear
Passed hand to hand, wears out
On the guest's own phone
You do not have to drop printed menus altogether. Keeping a few printed copies for guests without a phone, or who prefer not to use one, is good practice.
What makes a good QR menu?
Fast loading: the menu should open in seconds even on mobile data, with large images resized automatically.
Readable design: comfortable text size on small screens, enough contrast and easy category navigation.
On-brand: the business's colours, logo and typefaces, so the menu feels part of the place.
Easy management: bulk price changes, sold-out marks and hiding items should take a few taps.
Its own address: the menu should live at a permanent address that belongs to the business, with the QR code pointing to it.
Who is a QR menu for?
Restaurants, cafés, bars, patisseries, hotels and beach businesses benefit most. Businesses whose menus change often, that host tourists or that have many items save the most on printing and updates.
Is a QR menu enough, or do I need a restaurant management system?
A QR menu digitises your menu but does not manage orders or payments. For waiters taking orders, orders reaching the kitchen on a screen and checks kept at the till you need a restaurant management system. In CG Menu both plans share one dashboard; start with the QR menu and move up when you need to.
How to make a QR code menu, from preparing the content to printing the QR code and placing it on tables. Step-by-step guide with photo and printing tips.
