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Why do your restaurant need QR Code in 2025
Feb 14, 2025
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According to Statista, three-quarters of quick-service restaurant customers in the United States say they want to use their smartphones to place their orders. Beyond multifunctional mobile apps, small businesses and even large chains can automate their services with QR codes – simple digital solutions that are now used in 75% of restaurant menus worldwide.
QR codes are becoming increasingly popular with customers themselves. The use of mobile QR code scanners is expected to reach over 100 million users in the US by 2025 – a 40% jump from 2025.
In this article we’ll show:
- How does QR code technology work?
- What are the benefits of QR code restaurant?
- How can QR codes be used to increase profits and improve processes?
- Where to start integrating the solution into your restaurant's operations?
- How can you organise payment acceptance and other operations through QR code scanning?
What is a restaurant QR Code
QR (quick response) code menus allow customers to scan a digital barcode with their smartphone camera to access restaurant menus and ordering systems. These unique matrix barcodes can store data in many forms – alphanumeric, numeric and binary.
When a customer scans a QR code with their phone's camera, the scanner quickly recognises the unique pattern using position markers in the corners to properly align and read the code. The black and white squares are converted into binary data, which is then decoded to reveal useful content such as a website, menu or support page.
Benefits of restaurant QR codes
By using the power of QR codes, your business can benefit in the following ways:
- Cost savings – medium-sized restaurants can save approximately $5,000 per year by eliminating the need to print physical menus;
- Improved operational efficiency – streamline service by enabling customers to order directly from their mobile phones;
- Improved customer experience – with fewer staff required to take orders, staff can focus more on personalised service, ensuring a better and more attentive customer experience;
- Faster service – customers can order and pay when they're ready, without having to wait for a server;
- Lower staff costs – by automating tasks such as order taking and payment, restaurants can operate efficiently with a smaller team, reducing labour costs while maintaining service quality;
- Increase sales opportunities – QR codes can be integrated into upselling strategies by suggesting popular items, combinations or promotions to the customer's device, potentially increasing sales;
- Improved data collection – track customer behaviour through QR-based systems (e.g. which items are most frequently viewed or ordered) and use this data to optimise menus and promotions.
However, the implementation of QR code menus also presents security challenges. Hackers have used QR codes for malicious purposes, from phishing attempts to gain unauthorised access to virtual wallets. Customer data collected through these systems could end up in the hands of third-party companies, raising privacy concerns.
Gourmet restaurants often find that QR codes take away from their personal touch, so they're rarely used here.
How to use QR codes in restaurants
QR is a connectivity tool that engages customers offline and drives them to order online, creating a single omnichannel sales funnel. Because of its simplicity and affordability, it is now actively used by almost every organisation: the global QR code label market is expected to reach USD 3.5 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 8.7% from 2023 to 2033.
Restaurants often place QR codes on tables via stickers or table tents to replace traditional paper menus and provide access to simple online menus, sophisticated ordering platforms and gamification.
But in general, it's the easiest way to automate the processes you need in customer service and management, where you can put any logic you want. Here are the top use cases in 2025.
Digital menus
QR codes placed on tables, walls, or receipts allow customers to scan and view the menu on their phone. This saves time for both staff and customers, and reduces the need for physical menus that need to be cleaned frequently. Restaurants can also update the digital menu in real time, adding daily specials or removing out-of-stock items without reprinting.
When designing the user flow for restaurant aggregator Foodclick, we made the QR code the main tool for interacting with the core functionality of the app. Once scanned inside the restaurant, the user is presented with advanced features: main and bar menus with flexible display of items (it reads geolocation and shows prices for alcoholic drinks to circumvent legal restrictions), the ability to leave a review after dinner and leave a contactless tip.
Online-ordering
After scanning a QR code, customers can browse the menu and place orders directly from their device. The system integrates with the restaurant's order management software to notify the kitchen and staff. It minimises errors caused by miscommunication, speeds up order processing and reduces the number of trips servers have to make.
For high-traffic businesses, QR codes can provide a way to place orders remotely: after scanning, the customer makes a purchase, provides a contact number and receives a message about when to pick up the order. An online map can also be integrated so that the user can plan a route to the store or restaurant, like we did while building an app for Beerpoint – beverages and drinks brand with 100+ beer stores in their retail chain.
Online payments
QR codes can be linked to secure payment platforms such as mobile wallets (e.g. Apple Pay, Google Pay) or restaurant-specific apps. Customers can view their bill and pay with their phone without waiting for a cheque or credit card terminal. This speeds up table turnover and reduces the need to handle cash or cards.
Learn more how to implement web payments for your restaurant to avoid common pitfalls and limitations
Reservations & Check-ins
QR codes on marketing materials or websites can direct customers to a reservation page. Some restaurants place QR codes near the entrance, allowing guests to scan and automatically check in. This helps restaurants keep track of guests, improve seating efficiency and provide a contactless experience. QR codes can also be used for staff management: the kitchen can scan them for shift reporting or access to storage areas.
Look how we develop a parking access control system using QR codes.
Hippo Parking. Parking access control system
A parking management that allows the owner of the solution to provide permanent entry for employees, sell subscriptions, receive payment for a one-time parking or leave guest passes.
Special offers & Loyalty programs
Restaurants can offer QR codes that link to promotions and discount coupons, allowing customers to easily scan the code to access special offers and sign up for newsletters. You can place exclusive offers underneath QR codes to create more sales potential or special limited-time menu sections. This creates an engaging way to encourage repeat visits and build long-term relationships with guests.
QR codes can also be integrated into the operation of mobile applications with a loyalty programme. For example, for our client, the major seafood retailer John Dory, we organised a system for collecting points and discounts. Integration with Apple Wallet was also provided for quick access to the digital loyalty card.
John Dory. Multifunctional loyalty programme app for a large seafood retailer
We created a cross-platform mobile application for a fast-growing seafood retail chain that combines a loyalty programme, customer support chat, product showcase, interactive map of all points of sale and unique promotional offers.
Customer feedback
QR codes on receipts or tabletop displays can link to quick feedback surveys, allowing customers to rate or comment on their experience. Restaurants can collect valuable customer satisfaction data without the need for paper forms or direct staff involvement. This real-time feedback helps restaurants address issues immediately and improve service.
Scanning QR codes also helps you get only verified reviews - only from customers who have actually been to your restaurant and ordered. This feature is only available once the service has been completed, starting with opening a digital menu for ordering.
Virtual waitlists
QR codes can also be used to manage virtual waiting lists. Walk-in guests can join queues digitally and receive up-to-the-minute updates on their wait times.
For restaurants with a large number of tables or cafes in food courts, the process can be organised as follows: a hostess meets the guest at the entrance, sits them at a table and gives them a QR code. The QR code takes the user to the online menu, where a table has already been assigned. Once the order is placed, it is sent to the kitchen. When it is ready, it is brought to the table. Payment is made at the cash register on the way out.
Cashless tipping
Many restaurants integrate tipping options into the payment flow after customers scan a QR code to pay. The platform prompts diners to select a tip amount (e.g. preset percentages or custom amounts), ensuring that tips are easily processed and distributed to staff. This encourages tipping in cashless transactions and makes the process more convenient, especially for customers who don't carry cash. Read more about how to implement cashless tipping solutions for your business in our article.
Olga V.
Business Manager
Want to implement QR codes in your restaurant service? Let’s discuss the details!
How to set up QR-code restaurant menu
QR code menu design requires careful attention to both appearance and usability. Choose a clean, professional template that matches your restaurant's brand and style.
Understanding customer priorities
Toast research shows that 26% of customers can't read small text on digital menus. Larger fonts and good spacing between items make a big difference. QR codes are convenient, but 14% of customers find them difficult to use. The core team should know how to help customers who need assistance with scanning.
Designing accessible navigation
A well-organised menu helps customers find what they want quickly. Your digital menu should have:
- Clear headings for different meal types;
- Search options to find items quickly;
- Easy to see prices;
- Buttons to move between sections.
Mobile optimisation techniques
The menu should load quickly no matter what device or network people are using. Try the QR code on different phones and lighting conditions to make sure it works reliably. QR codes work best when they're at eye level and at least 3х3 cm on tables.
Strategic item placement
Menu engineering focuses on two main elements: customer needs and margin contribution. High margin items placed prominently on your digital menu will increase their visibility and sales potential. Research shows that 42% of customers rank variety as their top menu priority. This makes strategic category organisation essential to maximise orders.
Price anchoring techniques
Price presentation is an important part of customer decision making. Premium items positioned at the top of the menu create an anchor point that makes other items look more reasonable. This pricing strategy guides customers to profitable menu choices while maintaining their perception of value.
Using images and descriptions effectively
Visuals have become critical to the success of digital menus. Toast research shows that 66% of diners prefer menus with food photography, and that number rises to 77% among 18-24 year olds. Here are some proven strategies to make the most of this trend:
- High-quality photos of signature dishes;
- Clear, detailed item descriptions;
- Ingredient lists and dietary information
- Mobile optimised image sizes for fast loading.
Your digital menu should include brief but detailed descriptions for each item, highlighting key ingredients and unique preparation methods. This will help customers make informed choices based on their priorities and dietary needs.
Note that your QR code menu will need to be updated regularly with current prices, promotions and seasonal items. This flexibility allows you to adjust your menu strategy based on performance data and changing customer priorities.
Olga V.
Business Manager
Ready to implement QR-codes? Start with a free consultation with our team
Implementing payment integration
Payment integration is a vital element of modern QR code menu systems. Restaurants report a 15% increase in table turnover after implementing QR code-based payments.
QR code payment options
QR code payment systems work in two main ways:
- Customer-presented mode – diners present their QR code for staff to scan;
- Merchant presented mode – restaurants display QR codes for customers to scan with their devices
These systems support multiple payment platforms and increase convenience with options such as Apple Pay, Google Pay and credit cards. The process begins when customers scan the code, select their payment method and complete the transaction through a secure portal.
Security considerations
Security remains a top priority when setting up QR code payments. Restaurants need to protect against unauthorised access and data breaches with strong encryption protocols. Dynamic QR codes offer better security than static ones because they resist tampering and copying attempts.
Restaurants should take the following steps to keep payments secure:
- Monitor and update QR codes regularly;
- Check transaction reports daily;
- Set up HTTPS protocols;
- Choose a secure QR code generator.
Transaction optimisation strategies
Optimising QR code payments focuses on speed and efficiency. Figures show that this type of payment can reduce transaction times by up to 15 minutes per table. The success of the system depends on proper POS (point-of-sales) integration. With the right solution, such a system can:
- Send orders directly to kitchen displays;
- Enable continuous service with flexible tab management;
- Support group ordering functionality;
- Maintain up-to-the-minute inventory;
- Track hours of operation.
Track and analyse performance with QR codes
The success of QR code menus depends on tracking performance metrics and understanding customer behaviour, patterns and priorities.
Essential metrics to monitor
Scans are a great way to understand menu engagement. These metrics form the basis of QR code analysis:
- Total scans, which show total reach;
- Unique scans that show unique customer interactions;
- Geographic scan locations to learn about regions;
- Device types and operating systems used;
- Average session length and bounce rates.
Restaurants use these metrics to identify peak usage times and popular menu items. For example, scan location data helps restaurants understand regional priorities and adjust their menu.
Using analytics tools
Google Analytics works with QR code systems to provide full tracking capabilities. Restaurants can view detailed reports on customer interactions, session length and pages viewed per visit. The analytics dashboard shows up-to-the-minute data to help respond to changing customer behaviour.
Restaurants can create custom research reports to examine specific campaign results. These reports explain user engagement patterns and conversion rates, helping to make smart decisions about menu placement and pricing. QR code analysis also informs restaurant owners about operational efficiency. Monitoring peak ordering times and popular items helps optimise inventory and staffing levels.
Data-driven menu updates
Customer behaviour data effectively optimises menu design and pricing. Dinner Trend Report shows that 34% of diners check menus while choosing a restaurant. Restaurants use this information to showcase popular items and adjust pricing based on demand – updating their digital menus by tracking the most viewed and best-selling items. This evidence-based method helps refine menus based on what customers prefer and order.
Olga V.
Business Manager
Looking for a tech partner to improve your business? Book a slot to make a first step!
How to maximise sales with QR codes
Studies show that QR code ordering systems increase average order values by about 35%, showing their power to drive sales growth.
Impulse purchase triggers
Digital menus tap into the psychological triggers that drive impulse purchases. Customers can browse and order without feeling rushed or judged. The smooth ordering process feels more like a game than spending money.
Customers are more likely to make additional purchases. The digital format allows restaurants to place promotions and time-sensitive offers right where customers can see them. Restaurants can highlight daily specials or limited time offers with eye-catching banners and front page promotions.
Cross-selling strategies
QR code menus excel at intelligent cross-selling through automated suggestions based on the customer's selection. The digital platform displays 'often bought together' items below the current selection and shows complementary items through strategic pop-ups. This automated system captures sales opportunities that servers may miss.
Smart cross-selling methods include:
- Drink pairings to match food choices;
- Customised garnishes and appetisers;
- Value packs and combo meals;
- Seasonal pairings for special offers.
We faced too many challenges when building cross-selling functionality for the fast-growing delivery app Yapoki. Read about how we avoided them and set up automated menu item reflection based on different variables in the customer request.
Upselling techniques
Graphs from the Deloitte report show that customers spend 20% more per order through QR code menu upselling. The solution makes them feel more relaxed about customising their orders without staff interaction.
Restaurants can quickly implement proven upselling strategies with QR code menus. According to Salesforce data, 65% of consumers prefer self-service options. Digital upselling works particularly well because the system naturally suggests premium ingredients, larger portions or speciality drinks.
Thoughtful design that puts the customer experience first, proper technical integration with existing systems, and regular maintenance supported by data analysis will turn your QR code solution into a dynamic sales tool by combining strategic item placement, intelligent payment processing and evidence-based optimisation.
FAQ
What are QR codes for restaurants?
QR codes for restaurants are scannable codes that give customers instant access to various services via their smartphones. Common uses include accessing digital menus, placing orders, making payments and signing up for loyalty programmes. By using QR codes, restaurants can reduce printing costs, streamline operations and offer a contactless dining experience. These codes are often placed on tables, signage or receipts to give customers a quick and convenient way to interact with restaurant services.
Do people like QR codes at restaurants?
Yes, many customers appreciate the convenience of QR codes in restaurants. According to the survey, 68% of consumers have used QR codes at least once in the past year, with 48% using them specifically to view restaurant menus. This trend is particularly strong among younger generations, with 83% of Gen Z and 81% of Millennials reporting QR code usage. However, some diners, particularly in older demographics, may prefer traditional menus due to familiarity or discomfort with the technology. Overall, QR codes have become widely accepted for improving efficiency and providing a contactless dining experience.
How do menu QR Codes for restaurants work?
Menu QR codes allow customers to access a restaurant's digital menu by simply scanning a code with their phone's camera. Once scanned, the phone directs users to a website or app that displays the menu, where they can browse options, view updated prices and check item availability. Some systems even allow customers to order and pay directly from the menu interface. Restaurants benefit by saving on printing costs, enabling instant menu updates and improving service speed. The system enhances the dining experience by reducing wait times and allowing staff to focus on customer care.
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