Create a QR Menu — The Practical Guide for Restaurants.

A QR menu is a menu accessed via a QR code at the table. The guest scans with their phone camera — the menu opens instantly in the browser, no app download.

Two variants:

• Static QR menu: The code shows a fixed, saved menu. Updates require editing in the dashboard — the QR code itself stays the same.
• Live QR menu: The code shows a menu that updates sold-out tags or daily specials in real time. Guests see changes instantly.

Rule of thumb: 1 cm of code per 10 cm of reading distance. For the table, 3 × 3 cm is enough. On the door (outside window) make it 6-8 cm, so passers-by can scan from 1-2 meters.

Important:

• High contrast (black on white is best — colorful codes on gray often fail to scan)
• No glossy paper (reflections kill scanning)
• Rings/frames with "SCAN MENU" labels work better than naked codes — guests immediately know what to do
• Stickers, tablecloth print, or A-frame stands — all three work

Three classic spots:

• Table: A-frame stand or tablecloth print. Nothing fancier — guests shouldn't have to search.
• Entry door / shop window: Attracts foot traffic. If the online menu matches the print quality, you win reservations from passers-by.
• Toilet: Sounds weird, works. Guests often re-check the menu there — ideal spot for specials or wine pairings.

Avoid: middle of the printed menu (folding destroys the code), bar counter (too small), interior wall with bad lighting.

Build your own QR menu in under 5 minutes:

1. Upload a photo of your current menu at menu-magic.com. Print PDF, phone photo, scanned template — all work.
2. AI extracts dishes, prices, allergens. You review, fix (usually nothing).
3. Pick one of 4 AI designs. It becomes both your print PDF and live QR menu.
4. Download the QR code. 300 dpi PNG, print-ready for stands, stickers, tablecloths.
5. Set it up. Print the A-frame stand at any local print shop and put it on the table.

The QR code stays valid forever — you never swap table stands again.

• Code too small: Under 3 × 3 cm and scanning often fails. Better too big than too small.
• Code on a busy image: Pictures distract from the code. Plain white background works best.
• QR only, no caption: Add "Scan menu for more languages" or "View menu on your phone" — guests want context.
• Multiple codes side by side: If you place menu, website and social media codes together, guests scan the wrong one. One code per stand.
• Code only inside the printed menu, never separately: When the guest closes the print, the code is gone. Have one on the table too.