Your menu is what customers see first, so setting it up clearly and completely helps you get found and get ordered from. This guide walks you through creating categories, adding items, packs, and modifiers on the Chowdeck Vendor Dashboard.
Step 1: Create menu categories
Before adding items, organize them into categories (e.g. Rice, Drinks, Mains).
On your Vendor Dashboard, go to Menu → Categories.
Tap Add a new category.
Enter a category name and save.
Repeat for all the categories you need.
Step 2: Add menu items
Once your categories are ready, start adding items:
Go to Menu → Items and tap Add new item.
Select the category it belongs to.
Fill in the required fields:
Name (e.g. Jollof Rice)
Description (highlight key ingredients clearly — avoid vague terms like "tasty" or "delicious")
Image (must reflect the actual serving — clear, well-lit, and accurate)
Pricing
Toggle In Stock and Publish if it's currently available, then save to new item.
Step 3: Add packs (containers)
If packaging costs are separate from the item price:
Go to Menu → Packs and tap Add a new pack (e.g. "Medium Container") with its price.
When editing a menu item, scroll to Select Pack and choose the relevant pack.
Step 4: Add Modifiers, Add-ons, and Options
Menu customization is now organized into three separate tabs:
Modifiers and Add-ons — customizable extras a customer can apply when ordering an item (e.g. spice level, extra toppings). These are optional for the customer.
Option Items — lets you create a reusable option (like a side or drink) either from scratch, or directly from an existing menu item.
Note: an option item created from an existing menu item can't be edited directly — you'll need to update the original menu item instead.
To add any of these, go to the relevant tab under Menu, tap Add, and fill in the name, price (if any), and which item(s) it should apply to.
How do I delete a menu item?
Go to Menu → Items on your Vendor Dashboard.
Select the item you want to remove.
Tap Delete.
Guide to creating a great menu on Chowdeck
To attract more orders and reduce customer confusion, make sure your menu is clear, visually appealing, and easy to navigate:
Use high-quality, realistic photos — customers choose with their eyes, so upload appetizing, accurate images of your products.
Write concise, specific descriptions — highlight key ingredients and flavors rather than vague terms like "tasty" or "delicious."
Organize by category — group items into clear sections like Main Dishes, Pastries, or Drinks.
Enable customization — let customers personalize meals with option groups (e.g. toppings or spice levels).
Disclose allergens or dietary info — list common allergens like nuts or dairy when relevant.
Keep your menu updated — regularly review availability and pricing so your menu reflects what's actually on offer.