How to create it
Publish the menu online first. A page on your own website is easiest to read on a phone; a PDF works too but needs zooming on small screens.
Use an address that will not change when you update dishes or prices. Replace the content behind the link instead of creating a new link each season.
Paste the address into the generator and choose colours that match your table cards while keeping dark modules on a light background.
Test the downloaded code with mobile data switched on and Wi-Fi off, the way a guest without your network password would use it.
Printing and placement
- For table stands and coasters read from about 40 cm, a code of 3 to 4 cm is enough. On a window sticker read from the pavement, plan for 15 cm or more.
- Write a short line next to the code such as “Menu” or “Scan for the menu”, so guests know what to expect before they pick up their phone.
- Restaurant tables get wiped often. Use a wipeable stand or laminated card, and replace it when the code gets scratched.
Common mistakes
Uploading a new file under a new address
If you upload the spring menu as menu-spring.pdf and delete the old file, every printed code that points to the old name now leads to an error page.
Menu PDF in print resolution
A 30 MB PDF exported for the print shop takes a long time to load on a weak connection. Export a smaller version for the web.
No printed alternative
Not every guest has a phone with them or wants to use it at dinner. Keep a few printed menus ready for those who ask.
Web page or PDF
A menu built as a normal web page adapts to the screen width, loads quickly and can be read by screen readers. A PDF keeps your print layout but forces guests to zoom and scroll sideways. If you only have a PDF, put it on your own domain so you control the address.
Questions
This is a static QR code: the content sits in the code itself and works without our server.
Static and dynamic QR codes explainedCan I change the menu without reprinting the code?
Yes, as long as the address stays the same. Edit the page or overwrite the PDF at the same location, and the printed code shows the new version.
Do I need a separate code for each table?
Not for a menu. One code can be printed on every table, because all guests should see the same page.
Will the code show how many guests scanned it?
No. A static code goes directly to your link without passing through our server. If you want numbers, use the statistics of your own website.
Can the code also connect guests to our Wi-Fi?
One code can only do one thing. Print a separate Wi-Fi code next to the menu code and label both clearly.