Restaurant Menus
Restaurant and takeaway menu printing in Tooting. Laminated, folded or waterproof menus in A5, A4 and A3, with free design set-up and short runs.
- No design yet? We set up the artwork free of charge when we print the job.
- Tight deadline? Same-day printing is possible on many jobs if your file is ready early. Call to check first.
- Can't get here? Collect from Gatton Road, or have it delivered in the UK for a quoted charge.
Menu printing near you
A menu is your hardest-working piece of print. It has to sell the food, survive sauce and fingers, and be replaced each time a price goes up. We print menus for restaurants, takeaways, cafes, pubs and dessert parlours around Tooting, in short runs that make sense for independent businesses. Short runs also let you change your prices without throwing away a box of old stock.
Common menu formats
| Format | Good for |
|---|---|
| A4 single card, laminated | Cafes, simple lunch menus |
| A3 folded to A4 | Restaurants with several sections |
| A4 folded to DL | Takeaway menus to go through letterboxes |
| A5 card | Specials, desserts and drinks |
| Tall thin, 99 x 297 mm or so | Cocktail lists and set menus |
| Waterproof or wipe-clean | Terraces, cafes and busy kitchens |
For door drops and collection counters, a folded leaflet is much cheaper than a laminated menu. Read our guide to takeaway menus that work for layout ideas.
Making menus last
- Encapsulation seals the menu in a plastic pouch with a clear edge. It is the most wipe-clean option.
- Laminating adds a protective layer to the paper. It is smart and easily cleaned, but water can eventually get in through the cut edges.
- Synthetic waterproof paper cannot soak up water, and can be folded. See non-tear materials, which can also suit outdoor menu boards.
- Heavy uncoated card suits short-lived or daily menus, where you print little and often, and it has a pleasant, natural feel.
Layout that helps you sell
People do not read a menu the way they read a book. They scan it. These simple points can help:
- Keep categories in a logical order, from starters to desserts, so that people can find things.
- Use short, appetising descriptions, rather than a long list of ingredients.
- Be careful with price columns. A list of aligned prices invites people to compare on cost alone.
- Do not fill every space. White space makes a menu easier to read, particularly in dim light.
- Use type large enough to read in low light, especially for older diners. We suggest at least 10 to 11pt for dish descriptions.
- Test your menu by reading it at a table in your restaurant, at the same light level as in the evening.
Allergens and other legal points
UK food businesses have to provide allergen information. Rules are different for ready-to-eat food packaged on the premises, so check the Food Standards Agency guidance for what applies to you. A line on the menu asking customers to speak to staff about allergies is common. Prices must include VAT when shown to consumers, and any service charge should be clear. Check all these details yourself, because we print what you approve. Some large chains must also show calorie information.
Menu design and turnaround
You do not need a designer. Send your dish list, prices, logo and any photos, and we will lay out the menu free of charge when we print it. We will send you a proof, and we keep your artwork on file, so a price change is an easy, low-cost reprint. Many menus with ready artwork can be printed the same day if you contact us early. Encapsulation and large quantities take longer. Call 020 8133 4499 with what you need.
For the rest of your table, take a look at table talkers, placemats and coasters.
Questions we hear about restaurant menus
What is the best way to make a menu waterproof?
Encapsulation seals it in plastic, and synthetic waterproof paper resists water and handling. Standard lamination protects the surface, but water can still get in at the edges.
How much does menu printing cost?
It depends on size, quantity, paper and finish. Tell us what you need and we will quote. For takeaway leaflets, see our flyer prices.
Can you print a small number of menus?
Yes. Short runs mean you can change prices without wasting a large order.
Can you design my menu?
Yes. Send your dishes, prices, logo and any photos, and we will lay it out free of charge when we print.
Do I need to put allergens on my menu?
You must provide allergen information, though not necessarily on the menu itself. The Food Standards Agency explains your options.