How to turn your PDF menu into a QR code menu (in about 10 minutes)

Step by step: convert a PDF or scanned menu into a fast, mobile-friendly QR code menu, review prices and allergens, and print QR codes.

By the Dishfolio team · October 18, 2026 · 2 min read

You already have a menu, probably as a PDF from your designer or printer. Here's how to turn it into a mobile-first QR code menu without retyping a single dish.

What you need

Your menu as a PDF (a text PDF or a scan both work) or a link to the menu on your website
10 to 20 minutes
A Dishfolio account (the free plan works to try; imports are on Pro)

Step 1: Import the PDF

In Dishfolio, choose Import PDF and upload your file. Text PDFs are read directly. Scanned pages are read by an AI vision model, and before credits are used on scanned pages you see the cost and approve it.

Dishfolio extracts:

Categories and dishes, including descriptions
Prices, including sizes and variants (small/large, glass/bottle)
Your design cues: main colors and fonts, matched to the closest theme

Step 2: Review what's flagged

Nothing goes live automatically. Items are marked for review when:

a price is unclear or missing
the currency is ambiguous
the source mentions allergens (Dishfolio never guesses allergens, so you confirm them)
text was hard to read on a scan

The review screen shows the original text and, for scans, the highlighted region of the page next to the editable dish.

Step 3: Pick a theme and make it yours

Choose one of six themes and adjust colors, fonts and photos. Preview on phone, tablet and desktop. Add blocks like a chef's pick, opening hours or a gallery.

Step 4: Add languages (optional)

Enable the languages your guests speak. Translate by hand or with AI in seconds. Allergen and dietary claims are always marked for a human check. See How to create a multilingual menu.

Step 5: Publish and print your QR codes

Publish with one click, then download QR codes as SVG or PNG for table tents, windows and flyers. The QR code always points to your latest version, so you never need to reprint after a price change. Tips on size and placement: QR code menu best practices.

Common questions

What about a very long menu? Pro imports up to 30 pages, Business up to 60.

My PDF has two columns. That's fine: column layouts are detected automatically.

Do I lose my design? The import maps your palette and fonts to the closest theme. You can fine-tune the rest in the editor.

Frequently asked questions

Can a scanned paper menu be converted to a digital menu?

Yes. Dishfolio reads scanned pages with an AI vision model, flags anything it's unsure about, and lets you review each dish before publishing.

How long does it take to convert a PDF menu?

The import itself takes a minute or two. Most restaurants spend 5 to 15 minutes reviewing flagged items and choosing a design.

Will my QR code change when I update the menu?

No. Your QR code always opens the latest published version, so you can change prices and dishes without reprinting.

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