QR Code Menus Are Technology for a Different Time

During Covid and through today, QR code menus have been the go-to fix for restaurants looking to speed up service without hiring more servers and for public health-related sanitary reasons during the pandemic. Then, much to my delight, I read that diners are revolting and want the return of the paper menu. According to a recent Wall Street Journal article, diner complaints were across generational lines and varied from squinting to read the menu, privacy concerns, trouble using the technology and even killing the restaurant’s upscale vibe.

While we are changed forever by how Covid-19 upended our lives, I dare say a menu no longer rises to the standard of a public health concern today. Here’s why printed paper menus need to take back their rightful place in dining.  

1. The Comfort of Familiarity

For many, the sight of a paper menu evokes a sense of nostalgia and comfort. It's a ritual that hasn't changed much over the years, reminiscent of past dining experiences. The feel of the paper, the sound of turning pages and the tactile experience of holding something physical can't be replicated by a digital screen.

2. A Break from Screens

In a world where we are constantly bombarded with notifications, emails and social media updates, a meal at a restaurant offers a brief respite. Using a paper menu allows diners to disconnect from the digital world, providing a much-needed break for their eyes and minds.

3. Ease of Use

While scanning a QR code might seem straightforward to some, it's not always the case for everyone. Older generations may find the process cumbersome or confusing. Paper menus are universally understood and require no tech-savviness to navigate, ensuring that everyone can easily access the information they need.

4. The Aesthetic Appeal

Restaurants often invest a lot of time and effort into designing their paper menus to reflect the ambiance and theme of their establishment. A beautifully crafted menu can enhance the dining experience, offering a visual and tactile delight that a smartphone screen simply can't match.

6. Technological Limitations

Not all diners have smartphones with internet access, and even if they do, connectivity issues can arise. In such cases, a paper menu is a reliable fallback. There's also the issue of battery life; no one wants their phone to die right when they're deciding what to order.

7. Personal Interaction

Paper menus can facilitate a more personal interaction with restaurant staff. When diners use a QR code, the interaction might feel more transactional. On the other hand, a server handing over a paper menu and discussing the options can create a warmer, more engaging dining experience.

It’s heartening to know that the preference for paper menus endures. They offer a sense of familiarity, ease and a break from the digital world that many diners cherish. As technology continues to advance, it's essential to remember the value of these simple, tangible experiences that connect us to our past and make dining out a truly enjoyable experience.

This blog was developed with inspiration from A.I.