Short answer: table tents are best for specials and promotions that change often, menu boards suit a fixed core menu shown at the counter, and QR code cards work well for a full digital menu without cluttering the table. Most venues use a combination rather than just one.
Table Tents
A table tent sits on the table itself and is the easiest format to swap out, which makes it the natural choice for anything that changes regularly — daily specials, seasonal drinks, a new dessert, or a limited-time promotion. Because it's replaced often, it's usually printed on a lighter, less expensive format than the main menu. See DXBStamps' table tent printing collection for formats.
Counter Menu Boards
A menu board at the counter or till works well for a fixed core menu that doesn't change from day to day — coffee and drink options, a set breakfast or lunch menu, or pricing that stays consistent. Because it's viewed briefly while ordering rather than read at length, a menu board generally needs a simpler layout than a full sit-down menu, prioritising quick scanning over detail.
QR Code Cards
A small printed card with a QR code linking to a digital menu keeps the table itself uncluttered while still giving guests access to a full menu, including photos or descriptions that wouldn't fit on a physical card. It's a practical option for venues that update pricing or dishes often, since the digital menu behind the code can be changed without reprinting anything. The trade-off is that it depends on guests having a phone on hand and a moment of patience to scan — some venues pair a QR card with a small physical table tent for specials, rather than relying on the QR code alone.
Choosing a Combination
- Fixed core menu, occasional specials: menu board at the counter plus a table tent for specials.
- Menu changes often: QR code card as the primary menu, with a table tent for anything you want to actively promote.
- Simple, small menu: a table tent alone may cover everything without needing a separate board or QR card.
Whatever combination you choose, it's worth finalising your main menu materials first — see our menu printing materials guide — since table tents and QR cards are usually designed to match it. For the complete opening list, see our main restaurant & café opening printing package guide.
