Quick Answer

QR code menus are common in China. You scan a code on the table, open a menu in WeChat, Alipay or another mini program, choose items, confirm the order and pay. The hard parts for foreigners are translation, table number, payment method and whether the menu is inside WeChat or Alipay. Official payment guidance says foreign visitors can use mobile payments through Alipay and WeChat Pay, and Shanghai’s food-delivery guide shows how ordering and payment flows often work inside Chinese apps.

If the menu is too difficult, ask staff for help, use screenshot translation, or order from pictures.

Basic Workflow

  1. Sit down and look for a QR code on the table.
  2. Scan it with WeChat or Alipay.
  3. Confirm the table number if shown.
  4. Translate categories and item names.
  5. Add dishes to cart.
  6. Choose quantity, spice level or options.
  7. Submit the order.
  8. Pay if required before cooking.
  9. Keep the order page open in case staff asks.

WeChat or Alipay?

Some restaurants use WeChat mini programs. Others use Alipay mini programs or standalone web menus. If one scan method does not open correctly, try the other app or the phone camera.

Translation Tips

Use your phone’s screenshot translation. If the menu blocks copying text, take screenshots of categories and item pages. Look for photos, sales count and common labels:

  • 招牌: signature dish
  • 推荐: recommended
  • 辣: spicy
  • 微辣: mildly spicy
  • 不辣: not spicy
  • 米饭: rice
  • 饮料: drink

Payment Problems

If payment fails, do not keep submitting the same order. Ask staff whether you can pay at the counter. Try Alipay, WeChat Pay or cash. Some restaurants let you order first and pay after eating; others require prepayment.

Allergies and Dietary Needs

QR code menus are not ideal for serious allergies. Use translated written notes and confirm with staff. Do not rely only on app translation for medical-level dietary restrictions.

Common Mistakes

Ordering from the wrong table

Check the table number on the page.

Accidentally ordering delivery or pickup

Some restaurant apps include dine-in, takeaway and delivery modes. Choose dine-in if you are seated.

Missing required options

Many dishes require spice level, size, soup base or add-ons before you can submit.

Thinking the order went through when payment failed

Check whether the order shows paid or submitted.

Useful Phrase

我看不懂菜单，可以帮我点餐吗？

I cannot understand the menu. Could you help me order?

Sources Checked

Last source check: 2026-05-27

  • Payment service guide for overseas visitors to China — The State Council, PRC

URL: https://english.www.gov.cn/news/202404/11/content_WS6617c858c6d0868f4e8e5f4d.html

Supports: Overseas visitors can use mobile payments, bank cards and cash; Alipay and WeChat Pay can link international cards including Visa and Mastercard; mobile payment limits and cash/card guidance are described.

  • How to use food delivery apps Meituan and Ele.me — Shanghai Municipal Government

URL: https://english.shanghai.gov.cn/en-UsefulApps/20240109/89844b5729d64b199463a156bc8ef43d.html

Supports: Guide for foreigners/tourists covering account creation, menus, orders, payment and delivery tracking on Meituan and Ele.me.

  • China further streamlines mobile payments for foreigners — The State Council, PRC

URL: https://english.www.gov.cn/news/202403/02/content_WS65e26742c6d0868f4e8e4881.html

Supports: Chinese authorities and major payment apps have worked to streamline payment for foreign visitors.

Disclaimer

App interfaces, payment rules, station practices, hotel policies and local procedures may change. Treat this guide as a source-checked practical guide, then verify important details with the official service, your hotel, transport staff or your card issuer before relying on it in an urgent situation.