A menu designed for the table
A menu is handled constantly, often near food and drink, and read in all kinds of lighting. It needs to be clear, durable and easy to update when prices or dishes change. Decide how often the menu will change before choosing the format: a seasonal menu might justify heavier stock and finishes, while a menu that changes weekly may suit shorter digital runs. A useful brief includes the size, the number of pages or panels, the quantity and how long each version will be in use.
Single cards
A4 or A5 cards, printed on one or both sides, suit set menus, specials, drinks lists and events.
Folded menus
A folded menu gives each course or section its own panel. Plan which panel the reader sees first so the fold supports the order of reading.
Takeaway and event menus
DL leaflets work as takeaway menus or door drops, while event menus can be printed with the date, venue or guest details.
Paper & finishes
A heavier stock helps a menu hold up to repeated handling. Coated stocks show food photography clearly; uncoated paper gives a natural feel and less glare under lights. FSC-certified stocks are available.
Lamination helps a menu resist spills and wipe clean, which matters for menus used every day. Soft-touch lamination, foil and spot UV can give a premium menu a distinctive feel. Tell us how long the menu will be in use so the finish suits.
Folding and finishing
Menus are trimmed, creased and folded in-house. Creasing before folding helps heavier stocks fold cleanly without cracking.
For longer menus, such as a drinks list or hotel information, a stitched booklet can be a good alternative. Our leaflet folds guide explains the common fold types.
Litho or digital printing?
Digital printing suits short runs and menus that change often, as there are no plates and versions are easy to produce. It also allows event menus with names or table details.
For a large quantity of the same menu, such as a group of venues or a takeaway door drop, B2 litho may be the more economical route. We will recommend a process for your specification.
Mailing & trade print
Takeaway menus are often delivered as door drops or included in local mailings. We can produce the menus and advise on distribution options, including door drop and partially addressed mail.
We also produce unbranded menus for agencies and resellers under NDA, and can print matching items such as business cards, vouchers and loyalty cards.
Helpful guides
All guides
Silk vs Gloss vs Uncoated Paper
How silk, gloss and uncoated papers differ in colour, glare, feel and writability, and which one suits brochures, leaflets, letterheads and reply forms.
Read the guide
Leaflet Folds Explained: Roll, Z, Gate and Cross
Every common leaflet fold with finished sizes from A4 and A3, roll fold vs Z fold, gate fold tips, creasing heavier stocks and folds for mailings.
Read the guideFrequently Asked Questions
Have a print specification in mind?
Tell us about the format, quantity, artwork and how you plan to use the finished piece, and we will come back with a recommendation and a clear quote.
- Print, data and mailing under one roof in Keighley
- ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 27001 and FSC certified
- Royal Mail Mailmark and PostAim (Ireland) mailings
- Family-owned and producing since 1980