Guide
How does QR code ordering work?
QR code ordering works in six steps: the diner scans the QR code on their table, the menu opens in their phone browser, they choose items and options, pay by PayNow or card (or add to a tab), the order prints in the kitchen with the table number, and staff serve the food. The restaurant needs only the QR codes, an ordering system, and a printer or screen in the kitchen.
Updated
Step by step
The six steps of QR code ordering
Diner scans the table QR code
Each table has a unique QR code that encodes your menu link plus the table number. The phone camera opens it in the browser — no app needed.
Menu loads on the phone
The diner sees your live menu with photos, prices and dietary tags, with sold-out items already hidden. They can switch language.
Diner builds the order
They pick items and modifiers (size, spice level, add-ons) and add notes such as allergies. Upsell suggestions appear at checkout.
Diner pays or adds to the tab
Depending on your settings they pay now by PayNow or card, or the order is added to the table’s running bill.
Order reaches the kitchen
The ticket prints on the right station printer or appears on the kitchen display, labelled with the table number and time.
Food is served
Staff deliver to the table on the ticket. Diners can reorder any time from the same QR.
Checklist
What you need to set up QR ordering
- A QR ordering system — software like FnB Matters that hosts your menu and receives orders
- Table QR codes — one per table, on stands or stickers
- Something to receive orders — a kitchen printer, tablet, or a phone for small stalls
- A payment account — for PayNow and cards, usually set up under your UEN
- Wi-Fi or mobile data — for the printer or tablet. Diners use their own data
Payment flow
Pay-first vs pay-later: which should you choose?
| Pay first | Pay later (tab) | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Diner pays when placing each order | Orders add to a table bill, paid once at the end |
| Best for | Hawker stalls, cafés, quick service | Restaurants, bars, hotpot, zi char |
| Walk-out risk | None | Low — manage with card-on-file or staff check |
| Extra orders | Each round paid separately | Easy — one bill |
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Is QR code ordering safe for diners?
Yes, when the QR codes are your own. Use tamper-evident stands or laminated stickers and check them occasionally so nobody can paste a fake code over yours. Payments run through licensed payment processors; the restaurant never sees the diner's full card number.
What if a diner has no phone or a flat battery?
Staff take the order on the POS and attach it to the table. QR ordering is an option, not a requirement.
What is the difference between a QR menu and QR ordering?
A QR menu only shows your menu — diners still order through staff. A QR ordering system lets them place and pay for the order themselves, and sends it to the kitchen.
See it running with your menu
Get a 20-minute walkthrough with your own menu loaded. Free to start. No setup fee and no lock-in contract.