Top Print Materials Every Restaurant Needs
Running a successful restaurant is about more than good food. It is about experience, brand presence and clear communication. Print plays a vital role in all three. From the moment a customer sees your menu to the last receipt in their takeaway bag, printed materials are what hold your brand together in the physical space. Don't just take our word for it, Uber vouches for it too.
Whether you run a café, takeaway, pub or fine dining venue, this guide walks through the essential print materials every restaurant needs — with practical tips on how to design and use them effectively.
At Brightside Print & Design in Stratford, London, we help hospitality businesses across the UK bring their brand to life with professional, fast-turnaround restaurant printing services.
1. Printed Menus (Dine-in and Takeaway)
Your menu is your most important print asset. It sets the tone, communicates your brand and guides what your customers order. First impressions matter — a well-designed, high-quality menu can increase perceived value and improve upsell.
Types of menus:
A4 or A3 laminated menus for table use
Folded takeaway menus (A4 to A5 or trifold)
Chalkboard-style printed inserts for specials
Print tip: Use heavy stock (at least 250gsm) for dine-in menus, and opt for gloss or matt lamination for durability.
Explore our Flyer and Leaflet Printing for folded takeaway menu options.
2. Table Talkers and Tent Cards
Table talkers are small folded displays that sit on your tables and showcase:
Drinks offers
Lunch specials
Loyalty schemes
QR codes for ordering or reviews
They help upsell and inform without needing staff input.
Recommended format: 350gsm card, printed double-sided, scored and delivered flat for easy folding.
3. Loyalty Cards and Vouchers
Repeat visits keep your restaurant thriving. Printed loyalty cards are a simple but effective way to bring customers back.
Examples:
Buy 6 coffees, get the 7th free
10 percent off your next visit
Voucher codes for online orders
Use uncoated card stock if stamps will be used.
Pair with our Stationery Printing for matching cards, note slips or thank-you cards.
4. Branded Packaging Inserts
Whether you're delivering food or packaging retail items like sauces, a branded insert creates a personal touch.
Include:
Thank-you notes
Promotions for next orders
QR codes for reviews or follow-up
Short story about your brand
A6 or DL flyers work best here and can be printed affordably in bulk.
5. Posters for In-store Promotion
Posters are perfect for showcasing:
New menus
Happy hours or events
Seasonal dishes
Best sizes: A3 for indoor wall space, A2 for windows or entrance doors.
Use vibrant design and place them where footfall is highest.
See our Poster Printing to get started.
6. Branded Business Cards
If your restaurant hosts events, offers catering, or runs a private hire service, business cards are still useful.
Include:
Contact details
Opening hours
Website or booking link
Social handles
Business cards give your venue a professional edge and are handy at networking events, pop-ups or tastings.
7. Event Flyers and Promo Materials
Whether it is a live music night, wine tasting, or new branch launch, printed flyers drive interest and attendance.
Distribute locally, hand out with receipts, or leave on community boards.
Recommended print: A5 double-sided, 170gsm silk or gloss.
For restaurants, print materials are not just operational. They are part of the experience. Every menu, card, flyer or sign adds to how customers feel, what they remember and whether they return.
By investing in thoughtful, high-quality print, you make your food shine before it ever hits the table.
Need help creating a full print set for your restaurant? Contact Brightside for tailored advice, fast turnarounds and professional results.