Make the menu readable, not just downloadable

PDFs are not automatically invisible

Google has documented processing text-based PDFs for search. Calling every PDF unsearchable would therefore be inaccurate.

The practical question is how easily guests find an answer. A large menu exported as an image may require zooming. A downloadable PDF can remain useful alongside a concise HTML version.

Keep one reliable source of information

• Match dish names and prices across both versions.
• Show validity or the last checked date.
• Have the operator verify dietary and allergen information.

The web version must not become a second, forgotten menu. Assign someone to update every published version when the menu changes.

Sources and background

• Google: PDFs in search results · 2011-09-01

Updated: September 17, 2026