How to order meals via WeChat/Alipay QR codes?

In China, QR code ordering has become the mainstream dining method, covering over 90% of restaurants. Below is a detailed guide on how to operate it:

Step 1: Preparations

1. Download and register for WeChat/Alipay
2. WeChat: Search for "WeChat" in the app store, download it, and bind it to your phone number (international numbers are supported).

3. Alipay: Search for "Alipay", registration requires binding to a phone number or email (it is recommended to use a Chinese phone number to unlock more features).

4. Bind payment methods (key step)

5. WeChat Pay:
   • Go to "Me" → "Services" → "Wallet" → "Bank Cards", bind international credit cards such as Visa/MasterCard (some merchants support them).
   • If you don't have a Chinese bank card, you can prepay through the "TourPass" mini-program (passport real-name verification required).

6. Alipay:

   • Go to "My" → "Bank Card" → Bind international credit cards (you need to activate the "International Version" function).
   • Or use the "Tour Card" to prepay the electronic wallet (supports foreign bank cards).

7. Enable QR code scanning permissions

8. In your phone settings, allow WeChat/Alipay to use the camera function so that you can scan QR codes.

Step 2: Full Ordering Process

1. Scan the table QR code

2. The tables in restaurants usually have QR codes labeled with “Ordering”. Open the "Scan" function in WeChat or Alipay and scan the code.

3. Enter the ordering interface

4. After scanning, it will automatically redirect you to the restaurant's ordering mini-program (such as "No Waiting for Delicious Food" or "Palm Life"), which is often available in both Chinese and English.

5. Translation function: If the page is in Chinese, you can use WeChat’s "Long press text → Translate" or Alipay's built-in translation tool.

6. Select dishes

7. Browse by category (appetizers, main courses, drinks, etc.), click the "+" button to add dishes.

8. Special requests: You can note "Less Spicy" (少辣), "No Coriander" (不要香菜), etc.

9. Submit the order

10. Confirm the dishes and click "Proceed to Checkout". The system will display the total amount and discount information (e.g., full reduction, coupons).

11. Pay the order

12. Choose "WeChat Pay" or "Alipay Pay", complete the payment by entering the password/fingerprint/facial recognition.
13. Payment receipt: After successful payment, an order number will be displayed. Some restaurants may require you to show this page to the server.

Step 3: Notes

1. Network requirements

2. Ensure your phone has internet access (it is recommended to purchase a local SIM card in China or connect to the restaurant's WiFi).

3. Language barriers

4. Large chain restaurants (such as Haidilao, Starbucks) support English interfaces, while smaller restaurants can use translation apps to photograph and recognize the menu.

5. Invoice issuance

6. After payment, select "Issue Invoice" in the mini-program, fill in the enterprise tax number or personal information, and the electronic invoice will be sent to your email.

7. Common issues

8. Failed payment: Check if your bank card supports cross-border transactions, or switch to prepaid functions.
9. Invalid QR code: Contact the server to update the QR code.

Step 4: Alternative Solutions (if unable to scan)

• Manual ordering: Directly inform the server "I need manual ordering" (I need a paper menu).
• Food delivery platforms: Order via Meituan or Ele.me APP for pickup at the store.