Where to Put QR Codes in Your Restaurant (Placement Guide)

You have a QR code that links to your digital menu. Now the question is: where do you put it so customers actually use it?

Placement matters more than most owners realize. A QR code in the wrong spot gets ignored. A QR code in the right spot becomes a natural part of the dining experience.

The best placements (ranked by scan rate)

1. On each table

This is the highest-performing placement for dine-in restaurants. A small card or sticker on the table is right in front of the customer when they sit down. They see it, scan it, and browse your menu while they settle in.

• Acrylic table stands (the kind you use for specials or drink promotions)
• Laminated cards tucked into a menu holder or napkin stand
• Stickers applied directly to the table surface (use removable adhesive so you can replace them)

• The QR code itself (large enough to scan easily, minimum 3 cm)
• A short instruction: "Scan for our menu" or "View our full menu and specials"
• Your restaurant name or logo
• Optional: "Daily specials updated here" to encourage repeat scanning

2. On or near the entrance

Customers waiting for a table or standing outside deciding whether to come in will scan a QR code if it is visible. A window sticker, a standing sign, or a poster near the door lets people browse your menu before committing.

This is especially effective for:

• Walk-in restaurants without reservations
• Fast casual and counter-service spots
• Restaurants in high foot traffic areas where passersby are deciding where to eat

3. At the counter or register

For takeout, counter-service, and fast casual restaurants, the counter is where the decision happens. A QR code stand near the register lets customers scan and browse while they wait in line.

This also works for upselling. A customer who scans the full menu while waiting may add a dessert or drink they would not have ordered from just looking at the menu board.

4. On takeout packaging

Print the QR code on bags, boxes, stickers, or receipts. The customer takes your menu home. When they want to reorder, the QR is sitting on their kitchen counter. This turns every takeout order into a future marketing touch.

5. On your business card

If you network, attend events, or hand out cards to suppliers and partners, a QR code on the back of your business card links directly to your menu. Simple and professional.

6. On printed menus (yes, really)

Adding a QR code to your printed menu sounds redundant, but it serves a purpose. The QR links to the live version with current prices, seasonal specials, and items that might not be on the printed version. A small note: "Scan for today's specials and updated prices" gives customers a reason to use it.

Placements to avoid

Size and scanning distance

The minimum size for a QR code depends on how far away the customer's phone will be when they scan.

• Table card (30 to 60 cm distance): 3 to 5 cm QR code
• Counter stand (60 to 90 cm distance): 5 to 7 cm QR code
• Window or wall poster (1 to 2 metres distance): 10 to 15 cm QR code
• Outdoor sign (2+ metres): 15 cm or larger

When in doubt, go bigger. A QR code that is too large still works. One that is too small fails.

Design tips

Tracking scans

If you want to know how many people are actually using your QR codes, you need a QR code that supports analytics. Generic QR codes generated from free online tools typically do not track scans.

EasyMenus includes scan tracking on all plans. You can see how many people scanned your QR code, what device they used, and which menu items they viewed. This data helps you understand whether your QR placement is working and whether specific items are getting attention.

• Free QR Code Menu Maker for Restaurants
• How to Create a QR Code for Your Restaurant Menu (Step by Step)
• How to Update Your QR Code Menu Without Reprinting Anything

Ready to create your digital menu?

Join thousands of restaurants already using EasyMenus. Free forever — no credit card needed.