How to Use QR Codes to Order Food in Chinese Restaurants

In China, using QR codes to order food has become extremely common, especially in casual restaurants, fast food outlets, hot pot places, and bubble tea shops. This system relies on smartphones and mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay or Alipay, replacing traditional paper menus and manual ordering.

1. How It Works

Find the QR Code
You’ll usually see a QR code on the table, on the wall, on the menu holder, or near utensils. Some restaurants even have a dedicated QR code for each table, so the system automatically recognizes your table number when you scan it.

Scan to Open the Menu
Use the “Scan” feature in WeChat or Alipay to scan the QR code. Many restaurants use a special mini program, which will automatically open the digital menu.

Choose Your Dishes
Menus are usually organized by categories (cold dishes, hot dishes, drinks, desserts, etc.) and include pictures, prices, and descriptions. Some even show popularity and recommended items. Once you’ve decided, simply click “Add to Cart.”

Confirm and Pay
Double-check your table number, dish selections, and quantity, then pay online—usually via WeChat Pay or Alipay. The order goes directly to the kitchen, so the waiter doesn’t need to take your order manually.

Add More Dishes
Want to order more while eating? Just open the QR code menu again and add your selections—it’s that simple.

2. Advantages

• Time-saving: No need to wait for a waiter; scan, order, and pay instantly.
• Easy to choose: Pictures and prices make it simple to decide what to eat.
• Language-friendly: Travelers can order by looking at images, avoiding mistakes due to language barriers.
• Order anytime: Want more dishes mid-meal? You can add them without calling anyone.

3. Tips for Foreign Travelers

• Payment: Most QR code systems require WeChat Pay or Alipay. If you don’t have a Chinese bank card, some apps allow linking international credit cards, or you can ask a local friend to pay for you.
• Internet connection: Some systems need Wi-Fi or mobile data. Without a Chinese SIM card, it’s best to connect to the restaurant’s Wi-Fi.
• Language: Most menus are in Chinese. You can use translation apps like Google Translate or WeChat’s built-in translator to help.
• Table number: Make sure you scan the QR code for your own table—otherwise, your food might end up at another table.

4. How It Differs from Other Countries

In Europe, the U.S., or Southeast Asia, QR codes are usually used just to view the menu or leave feedback. In China, QR codes are a full ordering and payment system. Once you pay, your order goes directly to the kitchen, so no extra confirmation is needed. This setup also reduces the need for waiters—many restaurants have almost no staff taking orders.