What started as a health-safety solution during the pandemic is now generating growing frustration among diners of all ages who want traditional menus back.

What started as a pandemic solution for contactless dining has become a permanent feature in many restaurants—but growing numbers of customers say they’re tired of scanning codes just to see a menu.

Jaya Saxena is a former correspondent at Eater, and the series editor of Best American Food and Travel Writing. She explores wide ranging topics like labor, identity, and food culture. I keep ...