Best Practices for Using QR Codes in Restaurants / Cafes

Over the last few years, especially after the pandemic, QR codes have become essential in restaurants and cafes. They're not just about going contactless anymore. They're helping the F & B industry improve customer experience, save printing costs, and get real-time insights. Nowadays, diners prefer scanning a code instead of touching a physical menu. 

Whether you're a small cafe or a busy dine-in restaurant, using QR codes for restaurant menus & orders isn't just a trend, it's now a smart business move.

What All You Can Do with QR Codes in Your Restaurant

If you are only using a digital menu QR code, you're barely scratching the surface. Here are some practical ways restaurants and cafes are using them:

• Menus (dynamic or static)
  
• Ordering systems (table-wise or self-order)
  
• Payments (linked to wallets or UPI)
  
• Review collection using a restaurant review QR code
  
• WiFi access (scan to connect)
  
• Loyalty programs and event promotions
  
• Social media or Google profile linking

Best Practices to Use QR Codes the Right Way

1. Choose Dynamic QR Codes

Unlike static ones, dynamic codes allow you to update the link anytime without changing the printed code. That means you can change the menu, switch offers, or fix broken links without reprinting. They also come with analytics. You can see how many people scanned it, when, and where. This is key if you want to make data-backed changes.

At Digi QR Code Generator, we let you create both static and dynamic QR codes for free, with editing access anytime.

2. Optimize Menu Experience

If your QR links to a heavy PDF, most users will bounce. Your QR code for the restaurant menu should lead to a mobile-friendly webpage. It should be readable, well-categorized & quick to load.

3. Clear CTAs

Don’t just place a code and expect people to know what it’s for. Add clear instructions like “Scan to Order” or “Scan for Feedback.” It improves engagement.

4. Placement & Visibility

Keep QR codes at table corners, ordering counters, or on takeaway packaging. Avoid placing them on textured or reflective surfaces. Ensure proper lighting and size for easy scanning.

 5. Brand It

Use custom QR codes for restaurants. Add your logo, brand colors, and design frame to build trust and look professional. We offer free customization, and it genuinely helps with branding.

6. Don’t Overload One QR

Each code should have a single objective. If you want to link to multiple things (menu, order, feedback), use a single landing page or microsite instead.

7. Test Regularly

Broken links hurt your image. Test your QR codes regularly, especially if they link to third-party sites.

8. Use Scan Analytics

When you use a restaurant QR code ordering system, make sure it lets you view scan data. Knowing what time people scanned most or which items were ordered can help you make smart operational changes.

9. Make It Accessible

Use alt text for screen readers, offer multilingual menus if your audience is diverse & use high-contrast colors for visibility.

10. Train Your Staff

Your staff should know how to help guests scan, especially older customers or those unfamiliar with the tech.

What to Look for in a Good QR Code Generator:-

• Both static & dynamic code creation
  
• Unlimited edits
  
• Scan analytics
  
• Free QR code generation
  
• Format flexibility (JPG, SVG, PDF)
  
• Branding options

QR Codes Are Simple Tools with Smart Impact

If you are running a restaurant or cafe, adopting QR codes is a simple step that can lead to smarter operations & better customer experience. The important part is using them correctly.

At Digi QR Code Generator, we make it easy. You can create free, fully custom QR codes for menus, orders, or reviews and update them anytime. With features like scan analytics, branding options, and no hidden charges, we’ve built a tool that works for real businesses like yours. Try it today!

FAQs

Q1. What is the best type of QR code for a restaurant menu?
Ans. Dynamic QR codes are ideal for a restaurant menu because you can update the content anytime without needing to reprint. They also allow you to track scan activity and make real-time adjustments easily

Q2. Are QR codes free for restaurants?
Ans. Yes. At Digi QR Code Generator, we let you add your logo, colors, and frames at no cost. Customization helps in maintaining brand consistency and builds customer trust

Q3. How to track how many times a QR code was scanned?
Ans. Use a dynamic QR code generator with built-in analytics to see scan count, time, and location. It gives you valuable insights to optimize your menu, campaigns, or customer flow

Q4. What is a QR code menu?
Ans. A QR code menu is a scannable code that links customers to your digital food and drink menu. It replaces printed menus, making updates easier and the dining experience more contactless

Q5. How do I create a QR code for my cafe?
Ans. You can easily create one using a free tool like Digi QR Code Generator. Just paste your menu link. Customize it with your cafe’s branding, download it, and print it for display