Introduction

If you’ve ever held a flimsy takeaway menu that bends instantly, you already know the problem:
The wrong GSM paper makes your menu feel cheap and customers notice.

Your menu is the first impression of your food. Whether it’s a dine-in menu or a takeaway leaflet, the paper weight (GSM) plays a huge role in how customers perceive your brand.

The good news? Choosing the right GSM isn’t complicated. A few simple guidelines can help you create menus that look premium, feel solid, and last longer.

Let’s break down the best GSM for menu printing in the UK, based on menu type and usage.

GSM means Grams per Square Metre it measures how thick and durable the paper is.

For menu printing:

• Lower GSM = thinner, flexible paper
• Higher GSM = thicker, premium card stock

Typical menu GSM ranges from 130gsm to 350gsm, depending on whether it’s a takeaway leaflet, dine-in card, or laminated menu.

If you want to see real menu options and samples, you can check the Takeaway Menu Printing section on Social Media Max — it shows popular GSM choices used by UK takeaways.
👉 https://socialmediamax.co.uk/product/takeaway-menu-printing/

Key Questions People Ask (PAA-based answers)

1. What GSM is best for takeaway menus?

130gsm–170gsm silk is the most common affordable, durable, and perfect for letterbox drops.

2. What GSM is best for restaurant dine-in menus?

250gsm–350gsm card gives a premium feel and lasts longer.

3. Is 130gsm good for menus?

Yes, for takeaway leaflets. It’s cost-effective and works well for high-volume printing.

4. What GSM lasts longest for menus?

Printed menus that last longest use:

• 350gsm card with lamination
• Synthetic waterproof menus (tear-proof)

5. Should menus be printed on paper or card?

• Paper (130–170gsm): Best for takeaway leaflets
• Card (250–350gsm): Best for dine-in menus

Best GSM for Menus (FAB Framework)

1. 130gsm Silk (Most Popular for Takeaway Menus)

• Feature: Lightweight but strong
• Advantage: Affordable for mass printing
• Benefit: Perfect for leaflet drops and delivery menus

2. 170gsm Gloss or Silk (Premium Takeaway Menu)

• Feature: Thicker feel, vivid colours
• Advantage: Looks more professional
• Benefit: Stands out among competitors

3. 250gsm Card (Entry-Level Dine-In Menu)

• Feature: Rigid, higher quality
• Advantage: Doesn’t bend easily
• Benefit: Ideal for cafés and quieter restaurants

4. 350gsm Card (Premium Restaurant Menu)

• Feature: Thick and durable
• Advantage: Luxury look and long lifespan
• Benefit: Perfect for restaurants that reuse menus daily

5. Laminated Menus (Any GSM + Protection Layer)

• Feature: Coated to prevent stains and wear
• Advantage: Wipeable, long-lasting
• Benefit: Essential for busy restaurants, pubs, and family dining

You can compare these paper options and order samples directly from the Takeaway Menu Printing page:
👉 https://socialmediamax.co.uk/product/takeaway-menu-printing/

Common Mistakes to Avoid (Expert Tips)

❌ Using 100gsm or lower — too thin for menus, tears easily.
❌ Using gloss when brand style needs matte — consider your aesthetic.
❌ Skipping lamination for dine-in menus — menus wear out fast.
❌ Choosing high GSM for door-drops — unnecessary extra cost.

Real Use Case Example

A local takeaway used 130gsm for years. It worked fine for leaflet drops but looked too basic for in-restaurant browsing.
We upgraded them to 250gsm laminated card the result?

• Menus lasted months instead of weeks
• The brand felt more premium
• Customers spent longer browsing and ordering

Small GSM changes = big impression shifts.

How to Choose the Best GSM for Your Menu

Ask yourself:

• Will customers reuse the menu or throw it away?
• Is the menu for dine-in or takeaway?
• Do you need a premium feel?
• Is cost or durability more important?

Best GSM Recommendations by Menu Type

Menu Type	Recommended GSM
Takeaway leaflet / door drop	130gsm–170gsm
Small restaurant menu	200gsm–250gsm
Full dine-in menu	300gsm–350gsm
Wipeable / reusable menu	350gsm + lamination
Outdoor or heavy-use menu	Synthetic waterproof

Final Thoughts + Call to Action

Choosing the right GSM for your menu completely transforms how customers see your brand. Thicker paper feels premium, lasts longer, and builds trust while the wrong GSM can make even great food look cheap.

If you want help selecting the best GSM for your takeaway or restaurant, you can explore real print options, sample papers, and professional layouts here:

👉 Takeaway Menu Printing – Social Media Max
https://socialmediamax.co.uk/product/takeaway-menu-printing/