Using Custom Hang Tags to Elevate Your Restaurant’s Packaging and Brand

Think hang tags are just for clothing? Think again.
For restaurants that sell bottled sauces, meal kits, gift boxes, or branded merch, custom hang tags are a small detail that delivers a big branding impact.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to design, use, and print custom hang tags that elevate your packaging, create memorable customer experiences, and help your restaurant stand out—both on-site and online.

🎯 Step 1: Understand Why Hang Tags Matter for Restaurants

Hang tags aren’t just labels—they’re mini billboards that communicate your story, style, and care. Whether you’re using them on jars of chili oil, custom T-shirts, coffee bags, or staff uniforms, hang tags say:

• "We pay attention to detail."

• "Our brand is professional."

• "This product is worth remembering."

💡 Many restaurants use hang tags to add QR codes, thank-you messages, or ingredient lists—turning each product into an extension of the brand.

🖼️ Step 2: Decide What to Put on Your Hang Tag

Here are the most popular content types for restaurant hang tags:

Keep the message short and readable—2–4 lines max, unless you’re using both sides.

🖌️ Step 3: Design Your Hang Tag

Designing a good hang tag starts with structure. Here's what to keep in mind:

Format

• Vertical or horizontal orientation

• Rounded or angled corners

• Single or double-sided

Size Recommendations

• 2" x 3.5" (same as a business card, very popular)

• 2" x 2" (great for square logo-focused tags)

• 2" x 4" (for extra info or ingredient listings)

Design Tips

• Use high-resolution logos

• Keep text legible and fonts clean

• Use brand colors to keep consistency

• Leave space for a hole punch (top center or corner)

🎨 No designer? Many print shops (like ours) offer free layout support or easy-to-use templates.

🧷 Step 4: Choose a Finishing Option

Depending on your brand and product, you can attach your hang tags in various ways:

• Natural twine or jute – Perfect for rustic, artisan, or eco-conscious vibes

• Thin string or ribbon – Good for elegant or gift-style products

• Plastic loop ties – Durable and professional

• Safety pins – Ideal for uniforms or cloth merchandise

🔗 Hang tags can also be punched and stapled to bags, tied around bottles, or hooked onto containers.

🖨️ Step 5: Print and Order Your Tags

Look for these specs when ordering:

• 14pt or 16pt cardstock – Durable, premium feel

• Matte or Gloss finish – Matte = writable, Gloss = vibrant colors

• Die-cut or custom shape – For creative edge styles

• Hole punched – Confirm placement (top center is most common)

Most print shops have low minimums (starting at 100 pcs) and offer bulk pricing for larger orders.

🔁 Step 6: Keep Tags Updated for Promotions or Seasons

Hang tags are a great place to test limited-time offers or seasonal content:

• "Scan for 10% off your next order!"

• "This tea blend is only available this spring."

• "Try our new chili oil – now available online."

Since they’re easy to update and switch out, hang tags let you keep packaging fresh without redesigning everything.

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s on a bag of house-roasted coffee beans, a jar of handmade salsa, or a chef’s uniform hanging in your merch corner—custom hang tags help bring your brand to life.

They're affordable, versatile, and help transform ordinary packaging into an intentional, branded experience your customers will remember.

Need help creating hang tags for your restaurant products?
We offer custom sizes, full-color printing, punch hole finishing, and low minimums—perfect for takeout packaging, gift sets, merchandise, or even staff uniforms.

Let your packaging speak before the product even gets opened.

Want a printable checklist version of this guide for your team? Let me know and I’ll create one for you!