QR codes for restaurants and cafes
From the table tent to the takeaway bag, QR codes save staff time and bring guests back. Here's where they work best and which code to use for each job.
Where QR codes help
Table menus
Link each table to your online menu. Update prices and specials without reprinting. Make it dynamic so you can switch to a brunch or holiday menu.
Make a Menu QR code →Guest WiFi
Put a WiFi code on the table card so guests join without asking for the password.
Make a WiFi QR code →Google reviews
Print a review code on the bill or receipt, when guests are happiest.
Make a Google Reviews QR code →Instagram follows
A code by the door or on cups turns guests into followers who see your specials.
Make a Instagram QR code →Reservations by WhatsApp
A WhatsApp code on flyers and the window takes bookings in a chat.
Make a WhatsApp QR code →Feedback
Ask for private feedback so you hear about problems before they become reviews.
Make a Feedback QR code →Example: a 30-seat cafe
A table card carries two codes: 'Scan for the menu' (dynamic, linked to the cafe's website menu) and 'Free WiFi' (static). The menu code is 3 cm wide in matte print so it reads from across the table.
The receipt has a third code: 'Enjoyed it? Leave us a review', which opens the Google review form. The owner checks scans per code in the dashboard each week and moves the review code to the counter when receipt scans drop.
Get it right first time
- Print table codes at least 3 cm wide; rooms are often dim.
- Use matte finishes to avoid glare from lights.
- Keep a few paper menus for guests who prefer them.
- Put one clear call to action next to each code.
Questions people ask
Restaurants & cafes
Do guests need an app to scan a menu code?
No. Phone cameras open the link directly in the browser.
Can I change my menu after printing the codes?
Yes. Link to a page you can edit, or use a dynamic code and change its destination.
Should I use one code or several on a table?
Two at most, each with its own label. The menu and WiFi are the most useful pair.
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