Introduction
If you run a restaurant, café, takeaway, or food truck, your menu is one of your most important marketing tools. But a surprising number of businesses print menus on the wrong paper — resulting in flimsy, easily damaged menus that look unprofessional and don’t last.
Poor-quality menus fade, tear, wrinkle, and make your brand look cheap. Customers notice.
Choosing the right paper for menu printing instantly upgrades your presentation and gives customers confidence in your food quality.
Here’s a clear, expert breakdown of which paper types the UK hospitality industry uses — and which one is right for you.
What Paper Is Used for Menu Printing? (Simple Definition)
Menu printing typically uses 130gsm to 350gsm paper or card, depending on whether the menu is:
- Takeaway menu / leaflet
- Dine-in menu
- Reusable table menu
- Waterproof or wipeable menu
Printers commonly use:
- Gloss or silk coated paper (shiny or smooth finish)
- Uncoated paper (matte, natural texture)
- Laminated card (for reusable menus)
- Synthetic / waterproof stock (tear-proof, wipeable)
Key Questions People Ask (PAA)
1. What GSM paper is best for menu printing?
- Takeaway menus: 130gsm – 170gsm
- Premium takeaway menus: 170gsm – 250gsm
- Dine-in menus: 250gsm – 350gsm card
- Reusable menus: Laminated 350gsm or synthetic waterproof paper
2. Are menus printed on paper or card?
Both.
Takeaway menus use durable paper.
Dine-in menus use heavier card that feels premium.
3. What’s the difference between coated and uncoated paper?
- Coated (gloss or silk): Sharp colours, smoother finish → best for food images.
- Uncoated: Softer, natural look → best for rustic or minimal branding.
4. What paper lasts longest?
Laminated card or synthetic waterproof stock.
Ideal for busy restaurants where menus are reused daily.
5. Is laminated menu paper worth it?
Yes — it protects against spills, grease, fingerprints, and daily handling.
Perfect for dine-in and family restaurants.
Best Menu Paper Types (FAB Framework)
1. 130gsm Silk (Most Common for Takeaway Menus)
Feature: Lightweight, smooth, high-quality print
Advantage: Affordable for large quantities
Benefit: Ideal for leaflet drops and everyday takeaway use
2. 170gsm Gloss or Silk (Premium Takeaway Menus)
Feature: Rich colours and premium feel
Advantage: More durable and impressive
Benefit: Helps your brand stand out in a competitive market
3. 250–350gsm Card (Dine-In Menus)
Feature: Thick, rigid card stock
Advantage: Luxury appearance
Benefit: Creates a stronger first impression
4. Laminated Card (Wipeable Menus)
Feature: Coated with a protective layer
Advantage: Water-resistant and long-lasting
Benefit: Perfect for restaurants with high foot traffic
5. Waterproof Synthetic Paper (Tear-Proof)
Feature: Plastic-based, not paper
Advantage: Fully wipeable and durable
Benefit: Ideal for outdoor dining, pubs, and cafés
Common Mistakes to Avoid (Expert Tips)
❌ Using thin 100gsm paper for menus
It tears easily and feels cheap.
❌ Choosing gloss when your brand is rustic
Gloss is great for photos but doesn’t suit minimal or handmade brands.
❌ Ignoring lamination for dine-in menus
Menus used daily need protection from spills and fingerprints.
❌ Using the same paper for dine-in and takeaway
Different purposes require different durability.
Expert Tip:
For menus with a lot of images, always choose silk or gloss — colours pop more and food looks fresher.
How to Choose the Best Paper for Your Menu
Consider these factors:
- How often will the menu be handled?
- Does your restaurant offer dine-in, takeaway, or both?
- Do you need a premium feel or a cost-effective option?
- Do you want the menu to be wipeable?
- Do you deliver menus door-to-door?
Recommended choices by business type:
| Business Type | Best Paper |
|---|---|
| Takeaway / Fast Food | 130–170gsm Silk |
| Restaurant (Dine-In) | 250–350gsm Card |
| Cafés | 250gsm Card or Laminated |
| Pubs | Waterproof Synthetic |
| Leaflet Drops | 130gsm Gloss or Silk |
| Premium Restaurant | 350gsm Silk Laminated |
Final Thoughts + CTA
Choosing the right paper for menu printing directly impacts how customers see your brand. Premium paper makes your food look better, builds trust, and improves the customer experience before they even order.
If you want help selecting the perfect paper or need professionally printed menus, just tell me your menu type — I can recommend the ideal GSM, finish, and layout.
Ready to upgrade your menu quality?
Tell me your business type and I’ll suggest the best paper instantly.