A QR menu replaces a paper menu
Guests browse items and prices on their phones, then tell a server what they want. It is easy to introduce because the service workflow changes very little, but staff still take orders.
- Displays items, descriptions and prices
- Can be updated online
- May not have a cart or order-management screen
QR ordering submits an order
Guests choose quantities and send an order. Staff then acknowledge and manage the order in a separate interface. This can reduce manual transcription, but does not eliminate table service.
- Cart and submit action
- Optional table identification
- Staff-facing order status
Choose by the problem you need to solve
If your goal is simply a digital menu, a view-only QR menu might be enough. If you want guests to submit items directly, choose an ordering solution and test the complete workflow.
- Browse-only requirement: QR menu
- Customer self-ordering: QR ordering
- Inventory, receipts and payments: verify separate POS integrations
Names can be misleading
Some suppliers call full ordering products “QR menus,” while others use “ordering” for a limited workflow. Ask for a complete real-world demonstration instead of relying on the label.