In a restaurant in Madeira, it is normal to have local customers and visitors from several countries in the same room. Explaining dishes in different languages during service takes time. A QR code menu can help, as long as it is simple to use.
What it should show
Local dishes, clearly explained. Visitors may not know bolo do caco, espetada or black scabbardfish. One simple sentence about each dish prevents many questions.
Several languages. Start with the languages you hear most in your dining room. A few good translations are better than many with mistakes.
Prices that are always right. When a price changes, you update it once, without reprinting.
Allergens. This information has to be available to customers. In a digital menu, it can sit next to each dish, where it is easy to find.
Sold-out dishes. Removing a dish during service saves customers from disappointment and saves your staff time.
Mistakes to avoid
- Opening a PDF. On a phone, it forces people to zoom and scroll. A mobile-friendly page is easier to read.
- Heavy photos. Not every visitor has a good internet connection at the table.
- Doing away with paper. Some customers prefer it. Keep an alternative and check the rules that apply to your establishment.
- Hiding the code. Place it somewhere visible, with a line such as "See the menu here".
Try it yourself
You can explore our restaurant demo on your phone to see how it works. It uses fictional dishes and prices.
Where to start
List the questions your team hears most often during service. Those answers are the best basis for your first digital menu.