Overview

Menu Categories are used to organize menu items within a menu. Categories control how items are grouped and displayed for both Customers and employees during order entry.


Categories live inside a menu and are required before any menu items can be added.

Menu hierarchy reminder:

  • Create a Menu

  • Add Categories to the menu

  • Add Menu Items to each category

Each menu can have multiple categories, and each category can contain unlimited menu items.

Accessing Menu Categories

  • Go to Admin

  • Select Menu Manager


  • Choose the menu you want to work with

  • Click Add Category


Creating a Menu Category

When adding a new category, complete the following fields:

  • Category Display Name: This is the name that will display to Customers and employees. Use clear, descriptive names such as Appetizers, Sandwiches, Sides, or Desserts.
  • Description or HTML Editor: Add details or a short description for the category here. You can type your own text or paste in HTML code.
  • Currently Shown At: Select the location(s) where this category should be available.
    If a location is not selected, items in this category will not appear for that location.
  • Shown to Customers: Controls whether the category is visible in Online Ordering:
    • Shown: Customers will see this category
    • Hidden: Category is internal-only for logged-in employees
  • Prep Item Category: Leave unchecked
  • Minimum Prep Time (optional): Sets a minimum preparation time for items in this category.
    This can be used to prevent short-notice orders for items that require additional lead time. Choose from minutes, hours or days in the dropdown.
  • Image: Click Choose File to upload an image that will display as the menu banner or button.
    • Image requirements: Minimum size: 912 px x 256 px. Use a clean, wide image that crops well on different screens

Click Save This Information


Editing or Reordering Categories

  • Categories can be edited at any time by selecting the category and clicking Edit Category

  • Categories can be reordered using drag-and-drop

  • The order of categories controls how they appear in Order Entry and Online Ordering


Important Notes

  • Categories must exist before menu items can be added

  • A menu can have multiple categories

  • Category settings apply to all items within the category

Next Steps

Once your categories are created:

  1. Add items to each category
    → Menu Manager: Add Menu Items

  2. Configure item behavior if needed:

Support

If a menu item isn’t appearing or you’re unsure which fields to use, CaterZen Support Center can help review your setup. 


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