Digital menus for restaurants: understand, compare and choose

Which format should you choose?

A PDF preserves a fixed layout but usually requires replacing the file when content changes. An interactive menu stores sections and products separately, making targeted updates easier. Printed menus can remain available as a primary or alternative support.

What should you check before choosing?

• Readable on a narrow screen without horizontal zoom.
• Stable public address after content updates.
• Product-level allergen information.
• Languages that match actual guests.
• Clear limits for products, menus and plans.

How should you roll it out?

1. List sections, products, prices, allergens and languages.
2. Create a first version and have kitchen and front-of-house review it.
3. Test the printed QR code in its intended location.
4. Keep an accessible alternative for guests who cannot scan.
5. Assign responsibility for ongoing updates.

Which mistakes should you avoid?

• Pointing the QR code at a temporary file.
• Publishing without checking prices and allergens.
• Adding languages without a shared update process.
• Measuring scans without checking whether information is found.