In a bustling city street, a customer walks into a cozy café. She’s greeted with a warm smile, guided to her table, and instead of flipping through a menu, she simply scans a QR code with her phone. Within seconds, her order is placed — no waiting, no delays.
Now picture another scene: a family of four at a classic diner, passing around a well-worn paper menu, laughing over their choices. Two restaurants, two very different menu experiences — and yet both aiming for the same goal: delighting customers and increasing orders.
In today’s fast-paced food business, your menu isn’t just a list — it’s a strategy. With technology redefining dining habits, one question keeps popping up:
Should you stick with traditional paper menus or switch to QR code menus?
While the right menu format can shape the dining experience, one thing is certain — no matter your menu choice, the real game-changer for growing your restaurant and getting more customers in 2025 is getting listed on foodpanda.
Let’s explore which menu option suits your business best — and how a foodpanda listing can take your customer reach to the next level.
The Big Picture: Why Menu Formats Matter
Think of your menu as your restaurant’s handshake—your first impression. A well-presented, easy-to-use menu not only helps customers order faster but also influences how much they order and how satisfied they feel. That’s why your menu format matters.
But more than the format, visibility is key. Because what’s the point of a great menu if no one sees it?
That’s where foodpanda comes in.
First Things First: Why Listing with foodpanda Is Your Best Bet
Before we get into paper vs. QR code menus, here’s something crucial: getting listed on foodpanda should be your first step if you want to attract more customers.
Here’s why:
>Instant Visibility: Thousands of hungry customers browse foodpanda daily. By listing your restaurant, you put your menu right in front of them—even if they’ve never heard of you before.
>Easy Digital Menu Setup: When you join foodpanda, your digital menu is built into your listing. No need to print or build complex QR systems.
>In-App Promotions: Attract more orders with built-in discounts, deals, and featured listings.
>Customer Trust: Being on a well-known platform builds credibility. Customers are more likely to try your food if it’s backed by the foodpanda brand.
>Operational Support: You’ll get tools, insights, and delivery support that streamline your service.
✅ Pro Tip: Want to test QR menus without going all-in? Start by listing on foodpanda—you’ll already have a digital menu ready to go, and your online presence gets a major boost.
QR Code Menus: The Digital Way
QR code menus are exactly what they sound like—customers scan a code on their phone to view your menu. Here’s why many modern restaurants are leaning into it:
Pros:
Touchless & hygienic: Perfect for post-pandemic expectations.
Real-time updates: Ran out of that special burger? Just remove it from the digital menu.
Lower printing costs: No more reprints for price changes or typos.
Faster service: Orders are placed directly from phones in some setups.
Cons:
Tech barriers: Not all customers are tech-savvy.
Internet required: A weak connection can ruin the experience.
Less personal: Some diners prefer speaking to a server or browsing a physical menu.
Traditional Paper Menus: The Familiar Friend
There’s still something charming about flipping through a printed menu. For many eateries, especially those catering to older audiences or with rustic vibes, paper menus still work great.
Pros:
Easy to understand: No learning curve—just read and order.
Customizable look: Stylish designs can enhance brand feel.
No tech needed: Doesn’t rely on Wi-Fi or mobile data.
Cons:
Costly to update: Every small change needs a reprint.
Hygiene concerns: Needs regular cleaning.
Limited analytics: No customer insights or tracking.
So… Which Menu Type Should You Choose?
It’s not always a matter of one OR the other. Many restaurants go for a hybrid model—keeping paper menus while adding QR codes on tables or receipts. This way, you cater to everyone.
But no matter which format you choose, remember: a great menu won’t help unless people know about your restaurant. That’s why your first and most impactful move should be getting listed on foodpanda.
Bonus Section: How foodpanda Helps You Go Digital Without the Headache
Going digital doesn’t need to be overwhelming. When you partner with foodpanda, much of the heavy lifting is already done:
✔ Digital menu? Auto-generated.
✔ Visibility? Built-in audience.
✔ Promotions? One-click setup.
✔ Payments & logistics? Already handled.
Whether you’re a cozy cafe or a busy hawker stall, joining foodpanda puts you on the map—literally and digitally.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to modernize your restaurant, choosing between QR code menus and traditional menus is important—but getting your food in front of customers is even more important.
So here’s the plan:
Start by listing your restaurant on foodpanda.
Then, explore menu formats that work best for your customers. With foodpanda by your side, you’ve already won half the battle.
FAQs: Quick Answers for Curious Restaurant Owners
1/ Do I need to know tech to use QR code menus?
Not at all! There are plenty of simple tools available, and platforms like foodpanda handle your digital menu for you.
2/ Is a paper menu still okay in 2025?
Absolutely. For certain locations and demographics, paper menus still work best. But combining it with digital options can expand your reach.
3/ What if my internet is unreliable?
You can keep printed menus as backup while using QR codes when the connection is stable. Also, foodpanda allows customers to browse and order even without visiting your physical location.
4/ How much does it cost to join foodpanda?
There are no setup fees. You only pay a commission per order. It’s a low-risk way to grow your customer base.
5/ How do I get started with foodpanda?
Simple! Head to the self-signup portal on your country’s foodpanda page, fill in your restaurant details, and you’ll be up and running in no time.
