QR code menu best practices: size, placement and design that gets scanned

A great digital menu is useless if guests don't scan it. These are the details that make a QR code menu effortless.

Size and contrast

• Size: on tables, aim for at least 3 × 3 cm (about 1.2 inches). For windows or posters read from further away, go larger. A rough rule is code width ≈ scanning distance ÷ 10.
• Contrast: dark code on a light background. Inverted (light on dark) codes fail on some phones.
• Quiet zone: leave a blank margin around the code. Don't crop it into a busy design.
• Brand colors: fine, as long as contrast stays high. Dishfolio's Pro plan lets you pick QR colors.

Placement

• On every table, at eye level when seated: table tents or stickers beat a single code at the door.
• In the window, so passers-by can browse before coming in (great for tourist areas).
• On takeaway bags, flyers and receipts, for repeat visits.
• At the bar or counter, for guests waiting to be seated.

Say what the code does

A bare QR code gets fewer scans than one with a short line next to it:

"Scan for our menu in English, Deutsch, Italiano"

Mentioning languages works especially well in tourist areas.

Use one code per spot, and track them

Give your window, tables and flyers different codes, each tagged with a campaign. Dishfolio's analytics show which source brings the most menu views, so you know whether the window sticker is worth it. For table ordering, each table gets its own code automatically.

Test before you print

1. Scan with an older phone and with the default camera app.
2. Test on mobile data, not just your Wi-Fi.
3. Check the menu opens in under two seconds.
4. Make sure the code still works if you change the menu. It should always point to the latest version.

Never reprint for a menu change

The biggest advantage of a digital menu is that the code doesn't change. Print good table tents once, then update prices, dishes and availability whenever you like.