QR Code at the Table: More Efficiency, Less Waiting Time
A QR code at a restaurant table can do far more than just display the menu. Used correctly, it reduces waiting times, takes pressure off your staff and improves the guest experience simultaneously. This article shows you how to use QR codes at tables strategically.
What a Table QR Code Can Accomplish
| Function | Benefit for Guests | Benefit for Operators |
|---|---|---|
| Display digital menu | Instant information without waiting | No printing, no outdated menus |
| Link to ordering system | Order without calling a waiter | Fewer steps for staff |
| Review link | Quick feedback submission | More Google reviews |
| Wi-Fi connection | Connect automatically | No need to share password |
| Daily specials | See current specials | Upselling without staff effort |
Ordering via QR Code: The Two Models
Model A: QR Code → External Ordering Platform
You link the QR code to external ordering software (e.g. a POS system with online functionality, a restaurant booking page, or a simple Google Form). Guests order themselves, the order lands digitally in the kitchen.
Suitable for: High-throughput restaurants, fast-casual concepts, breakfast venues
Advantage: Lower staffing requirements for straightforward orders Disadvantage: Requires a compatible POS system
Model B: QR Code → Menu + Waiter Still Takes Orders
The QR code only displays the menu. Guests browse themselves, the waiter takes the order verbally or via tablet.
Suitable for: Service-focused restaurants, upscale dining
Advantage: Personal service is maintained Disadvantage: No direct time saving in the ordering process
Recommendation for most businesses: Start with Model B. The digital menu alone saves printing and update costs. You can add Model A later.
QR Code Displays at the Table: The Best Solution
The most popular option for table QR codes is the acrylic display. It stands visibly on the table, is easy to clean and looks professional.
Display tips:
- Height approx. 8–12 cm – clearly visible but not intrusive
- QR code on the front with a short explanatory text
- Use the back for Wi-Fi code or Google review link
- Acrylic displays are affordable at online print shops (from approx. $1–2 per piece)
Alternative: Stick the QR code directly onto the table card or integrate it into the table mat. For bars and cafés, small stickers on the menu are popular.
Creating the Right QR Code
Technically, for each table you only need one QR code – it points all tables to the same menu.
However, if you want table-specific data (e.g. which table scans most frequently to better allocate staff), you can create a separate QR code for each table. With QR Code Manager this takes just a few minutes – all codes managed centrally, each with its own analytics dashboard.
Step by step:
- Create account at qrcode-manager.org/registrieren
- For each table: "New QR Code" → enter destination URL → assign name (e.g. "Table 1", "Table 2")
- Download all codes at once
- Print and insert into displays
Paying via QR Code
Contactless payment via QR code is growing in the US, UK and across Europe. Three options:
1. PayPal link via QR code Create a PayPal.me link and link it to a QR code. Guests can transfer directly on their smartphone.
2. QR code on the bill Print the payment QR code on the bill. Guests scan and pay – the waiter doesn't need to bring a card terminal.
3. Link to your online ordering system with integrated payment If you use a POS system with online functionality, it often has its own payment feature accessible via QR code.
Example Workflow: Evening at a Restaurant with Table QR Codes
- Guests sit down, immediately see the QR display
- Scan → digital menu opens on smartphone
- Select drinks, call waiter (classic) or submit order via form
- After eating: scan QR code for Google review
- Payment: by card, cash or QR payment link
Result: Less waiting time for guests, fewer steps for staff, more Google reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many QR codes does a restaurant need? Minimum: 1 for the menu. Sensible: 2–4 (menu, Google reviews, Wi-Fi, events). With QR Code Manager you manage all of them centrally.
What if guests don't have a smartphone? Always keep some printed menus on hand. QR codes don't fully replace the printed menu – they complement it.
Do I need to buy a POS system for every table order? No. You can start with a simple Google Form. For professional use, a POS system with online functionality becomes worthwhile in the medium term.
How durable are the QR code stickers? Laminated stickers last 1–2 years with proper care. Acrylic displays are more durable and easier to swap when the QR code changes.
More on the topic: QR Codes for Restaurants – The Complete Guide · Create a QR Code Menu