Choosing fonts
Select font pairings and understand locked vs. unlocked font options.
Font pairings
MenuSquared uses font pairings, with a heading font and a body font that work together. Each template offers curated pairings that have been tested for readability and visual harmony.
- Heading font: Used for your restaurant name, section titles, and other display text. Often a serif or decorative typeface.
- Body font: Used for item names, descriptions, prices, and other content text. Typically a clean sans-serif for readability.
Each pairing is labeled with a name (e.g., "Parisian Classic", "Editorial Chic") and shows the font families used (e.g., "Instrument + Inter").
Locked vs. unlocked fonts
Templates handle fonts in one of two ways:
- Locked fonts: The template's typography is integral to its design and cannot be changed. The font pairing is fixed, and you'll see a lock indicator in the font settings. Templates like Brutalist and Atelier Sushi use locked fonts.
- Unlocked fonts: You can choose from a curated set of font pairings. Each template offers 3–6 pairing options that are designed to work with its layout. Most templates fall into this category.
Why lock fonts?
Some templates achieve their distinctive look through specific typographic choices. Locking fonts ensures the template always looks as intended. If you need different fonts, try a template with unlocked font options.
Custom font selection
For templates with unlocked fonts, you can choose your pairing in two places:
- Design System (Settings): Set a default font pairing that applies to all new menus. This is your restaurant's typographic identity.
- Editor Branding tab: Override the default for a specific menu. Useful when you want a different look for a seasonal or special-occasion menu.
The advanced view in the editor also lets you browse all available pairings with live preview. Click any pairing to apply it instantly.
Tips & frequently asked questions
Can I upload my own fonts?
Currently, MenuSquared uses a curated font library. Custom font uploads aren't supported yet, but the available pairings cover a wide range of styles from elegant serifs to modern sans-serifs.
Will fonts look the same in PDF export?
Yes. MenuSquared loads fonts before generating PDFs, so your exported menu will match what you see in the editor preview.
Why does my font change when I switch templates?
If you choose "Apply defaults" when switching templates, the new template's default font pairing replaces your current one. Choose "Keep settings" to preserve your font choice.