How QR Ordering Became a Diner Expectation In Singapore's F&B

Why QR Ordering Is No Longer a “Nice-to-Have” in Singapore’s F&B Scene

QR ordering is no longer viewed as a novelty or a temporary solution whereas it has become an expected part of the dining experience in Singapore. For many customers, walking into a restaurant and scanning a QR code to browse the menu or place an order now feels natural, convenient, and even preferred.

But how did this expectation come about, and why are more F&B businesses getting on board?

How QR Ordering Became the Norm in Singapore

The widespread adoption of QR ordering in Singapore can be traced back to a few key factors.

First, the COVID-19 period played a major role. With safe-distancing measures, manpower constraints, and hygiene concerns, many F&B operators turned to QR ordering out of necessity. There was lots of pushback from customers that were reluctant to place orders themselves and preferred ordering from a staff, but they quickly adapted and many realised they liked it due to convenience and speed.

In the past, customers had to wait for staff and then order, but with QR ordering, they are able to place orders immediately after they are seated without having to wait. Restaurants love this too as orders are placed faster, helping to improve table turnover, generating more profits during peak hours.

Second, Singapore’s population is highly mobile-savvy. With widespread smartphone usage, fast internet, and familiarity with e-payments, scanning QR codes felt intuitive rather than disruptive. Over time, customers began to associate QR ordering with efficiency and modern service.

Lastly, large F&B chains and popular brands helped shape customer expectations. As more chain restaurants, cafés, and quick-service outlets adopted QR ordering, customers started to see it as a standard, not an exception. What began as a workaround soon became a baseline expectation.

Why Customers Now Expect QR Ordering

Today’s diners value speed, control, and convenience. QR ordering delivers all three.

Customers like being able to:

• Browse the full menu at their own pace
• View images, descriptions, and prices clearly
• Order without waiting for staff during peak hours
• Add items or reorder easily without flagging someone down

For many, QR ordering also feels less pressuring and more comfortable, especially in casual dining or group settings. As a result, when QR ordering is absent, it can feel like a step backward rather than a premium experience.

On top of that, when customers feel less pressured, they are more likely to make

Why F&B Businesses Are Getting on Board

For F&B operators, the motivation goes beyond following trends.

Manpower challenges remain one of the biggest issues in Singapore’s F&B industry. QR ordering helps reduce repetitive tasks such as taking orders, explaining menus, and processing add-on orders — allowing staff to focus on food quality and service.

QR ordering also:

• Improves order accuracy by reducing miscommunication
• Speeds up table turnover during peak hours
• Enables upselling through modifiers, add-ons, and visuals
• Integrates seamlessly with POS, kitchen displays, and payments

More importantly, when paired with membership and CRM systems, QR ordering becomes a powerful engagement tool driving repeat visits through targeted promotions.

Getting Ahead of Expectations, Not Catching Up

What started as a response to operational challenges has now evolved into a customer expectation. F&B businesses that adopt QR ordering early — and implement it properly — are better positioned to meet modern dining habits while future-proofing their operations.

In Singapore’s competitive F&B market, it’s no longer about whether customers can use QR ordering, it’s about whether they expect it. And increasingly, the answer is yes. If you are interested to find out more about QR Ordering and how it can work with membership solutions to grow you're F&B revenue, click here to get in touch with us!