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The Restaurant Industry’s Worst Idea: QR Code Menus (theatlantic.com)

536 points by fortran77 · 1409 days ago · 636 comments on HN

Article summary

The article discusses the trend of using QR code menus in restaurants, which the author believes is a bad idea as it can lead to distraction and decreased human connection during meals. The author argues that QR code menus can also reduce privacy and may not be convenient for all customers. The article suggests that restaurants should consider the impact of technology on the dining experience and find a balance between convenience and human interaction. The author hopes that the future of restaurants will prioritize analog mealtime norms and undistracted human interactions.

Main themes

  • QR code menus
  • restaurant technology
  • human connection
  • privacy concerns
  • user experience
  • social isolation
  • technological competence

What commenters say

  • Some people dislike QR code menus and prefer traditional printed menus, citing issues with accessibility and user experience.
  • Others appreciate the convenience and efficiency of QR code menus, especially in certain dining settings like outdoor picnic tables.
  • There are concerns about the privacy implications of using QR code menus, as they may collect personal data without customers' knowledge or consent.
  • The quality of the user interface and user experience of QR code menus varies widely, with some being well-designed and others being frustrating to use.
  • Some commenters argue that the benefits of QR code menus, such as reduced waste and increased efficiency, outweigh the drawbacks.
  • Others believe that the use of QR code menus is a sign of a larger societal problem, where technology is increasingly replacing human interaction and leading to social isolation.
  • There are also discussions about the technical competence of restaurateurs and the challenges of implementing technology in the service industry.
  • A few commenters mention that they have had positive experiences with tablet-based ordering systems in restaurants, which can provide a convenient and efficient way to order and pay.