How to put a logo in a QR code for a restaurant table

A QR code on a restaurant table should open the right menu quickly, even when the lighting is dim or a guest is holding their phone at an angle. A logo can make the card feel like part of your restaurant, but a logo that covers too much of the code can make scanning unreliable.

Use a direct menu link, add a small logo, and test the code on the printed card before putting it on every table. The QR Code Generator creates QR codes for links and lets you add colors and a logo.

Make the QR code

1. Open the QR Code Generator and choose the link option. Enter the complete URL guests should visit, including https://.
2. Open that URL in a new browser tab and check that it loads the correct menu on a phone. If the page needs a password, sign-in, or staff access, guests may not be able to use it.
3. Add your restaurant logo and choose colors that keep the code easy to distinguish from its background. Use a dark code on a light background unless you have a clear reason to do otherwise.
4. Generate the code, then save or export it using the available option. Place it in a simple table card layout with a short instruction such as “Scan for the menu.”

Before printing a full batch, print one card at the size you plan to use. Scan it with at least two different phones, from the distance a guest would normally hold a phone, and confirm that it opens the intended menu page.

Choose the menu link and logo treatment

Link straight to the menu

A direct menu link takes guests to the information they came for with fewer taps. It works well if the address is stable and the menu is easy to read on a phone. If your menu changes seasonally, keep the same web address and update the page behind it. A printed QR code that contains an old address will not update itself.

Use a landing page when you need more choices

A restaurant page can offer a menu, allergen details, reservations, or ordering. This can be useful, but it adds another step before guests reach the menu. Open the page on a phone and check that the menu link is obvious near the top.

Keep the logo small and the code clear

A QR code has built-in error correction, which can help it scan when a small part is covered or damaged. That does not mean any size logo will work. As a cautious starting point, keep the logo around 10 to 15 percent of the code's width, and avoid covering the three large corner markers. Leave a clear light border around the code so a phone camera can tell where it ends.

Use a logo with clear edges and enough contrast. A complicated image, thin lettering, or a logo with a transparent background may blend into the pattern. For more detail about logo size, see why a logo can make a tiny QR code unreadable. If you are choosing colors, QR code colors that still scan explains why contrast matters.

Choose a card guests can scan comfortably

For a table card, begin with a code at least 1.5 inches (about 3.8 cm) wide, then test it at the table. A glossy finish, reflections from overhead lights, a curved surface, or a code placed behind glass can interfere with a camera. A matte card and a flat, unobstructed position are usually easier to scan.

Fix a QR code that will not scan

1. Check the printed size. Make the code larger and test again from the distance guests will use. Avoid shrinking it to fit beside too much text or decoration.
2. Increase contrast. Use a dark pattern on a light, plain background. Avoid pale code colors, busy backgrounds, and low-contrast combinations.
3. Reduce or remove the logo. If the logo overlaps the pattern or a corner marker, make it smaller or leave it off. Generate a fresh code and test that version before printing more cards.
4. Check glare and placement. Move the card away from direct reflections and make sure table numbers, holders, or stickers do not cover the code's border.
5. Verify the link itself. Scan the code and read the address that opens. If it points to the wrong page, create a new code with the correct URL and replace the printed card.

Do not judge the design only on a computer screen. A code that looks sharp when enlarged may become too small or washed out on a table card. Test one real print under the lighting in your restaurant, then use the same file and print settings for the remaining tables.

Keep the printed code useful

Place the card where a guest can reach it without moving plates or leaning over another person. Keep the instruction short and readable, and make sure it does not compete visually with the QR code. If the card gets scratched, stained, or faded, replace it and scan the replacement before putting it back into use.

If you change the menu address, test the printed code again. A code that points to an outdated page can still scan perfectly, so confirm the page content as well as the camera response.