Menu format guide · Updated October 11, 2026
QR menu vs PDF menu: which works for your restaurant?
A QR code can open either format. The real decision is what guests see after they scan: a fixed document or a structured mobile menu.
First, separate the QR code from the menu
A restaurant QR code encodes a link. It does not make the linked content readable, current or accessible on its own. You can link to a PDF, a menu image, your website or a hosted digital menu. Test the destination as a guest would, without an owner login.
A PDF preserves your document layout. That may suit a carefully designed short menu, but an A4 page of small text is difficult to browse on a phone. A structured web menu can reflow dishes for smaller screens and offer search and filtering.
Compare digital QR, PDF and paper menus
| Consideration | Qrezy digital QR menu | QR-linked PDF menu | Printed menu |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guest access | Phone browser via QR or link | PDF viewer via QR or link | No phone or internet required |
| Reading on small screens | Layout can adapt to the phone | Depends on document design; may need zoom | Depends on print size and contrast |
| Changing prices | Edit the published menu | Replace the file, ideally at the same URL | Update and reprint |
| Search and dietary filters | Qrezy includes dish search and a veg filter | Text search may work; no interactive dietary filter | Ask staff or read the menu |
| QR code reuse | Yes, while the menu address stays the same | Yes, while the PDF URL stays the same | Not applicable |
| Accessibility | Depends on implementation and testing | Depends on tagging, text and document layout | Offer large print or staff assistance |
| Cost | Qrezy has a Free plan and prepaid upgrades | Depends on document design and hosting | Design, printing and replacement costs |
A PDF can be a reasonable starting point
Choose a PDF when you already have a readable, accessible document, prices rarely change and you can keep one reliable public link. Avoid requiring a document-hosting login. Check selectable text, file size and phone layout.
Generate a free QR for an existing PDF link →A structured menu suits frequent changes
Choose a digital menu when you change prices, availability or seasonal dishes, want dish photos and dietary markers, or need search and categories. Qrezy keeps the same published menu address when you edit its content.
Explore digital menu features →Don't trade one guest problem for another
- A menu image is not searchable text. A web page is not automatically accessible either; check the actual experience.
- A static QR can keep working after a PDF update only if the exact public file URL stays the same.
- Provide a paper or staff-assisted alternative for guests without a phone, internet or confidence using QR codes.
- Keep prices and dietary information accurate in every format. Ask staff about allergies; Qrezy does not verify allergens or nutrition.
- Qrezy combines interactive menus with table-side ordering, cart, and staff buzzer alerts—far beyond a static PDF file.
Moving from PDF to a QR web menu
Build your restaurant profile, upload clear menu photos for an AI draft or enter the dishes manually, review the result, and publish. The AI workflow currently accepts photos, not direct PDF or spreadsheet imports. Print the new QR only after testing the final menu address.
QR and PDF menu questions
A QR code is a way to open a link. That link can point to a PDF or to a structured digital menu. A PDF keeps its document layout; a web menu can resize for phones and provide search, categories and filters.
Yes, if your hosting service lets you replace the document while keeping the exact public URL. If the link changes, a static QR code still opens the old link. A stable Qrezy menu address lets you edit menu content without replacing the code.
No. A properly tagged PDF with selectable text can be accessible, while a poorly built web menu may not be. Image-only menus and tiny fixed layouts are harder to use. Test your actual menu with text zoom, keyboard navigation and assistive technology.
Not necessarily. Some guests prefer a printed menu, lack a phone or have limited connectivity. A QR menu can complement a small set of printed menus instead of replacing every alternative.