# Restaurant Menu Import Guide

Source: https://getnimki.com/guides/menu-import/
Updated: 2026-10-11

> Learn how Nimki menu import works: prepare CSV or Excel, select a worksheet, map columns, review dishes, preview and add them before publishing.

## Bring your menu. Give it a careful once-over.

Your spreadsheet gets the work started. A clear review helps make sure the dishes, prices and choices are ready for your team.

### Start from a useful file.

Use CSV, XLSX or XLS, with one selected worksheet for the import.

### Review before adding.

Check column mapping, individual dishes, sizes and extras.

### Publish when ready.

New dishes are added as unavailable so you can finish checking them.

## 01 · Prepare the spreadsheet.

Use a clear header row and consistent dish names, categories and prices. Start from the simple-dishes or sizes-and-extras sample if you are building a new file. The current limit is 5 MB and 500 dishes.

- CSV, XLSX or XLS
- One selected worksheet
- PDF and photo files are not supported

## 02 · Match the columns.

Choose the worksheet and header row, then map the source columns to the menu fields. Review hidden rows and exclusions. If the mapping changes later, recheck the dish review rather than assuming the earlier decisions still apply.

## 03 · Review the dishes.

Correct names, categories, prices and supported choices. Review source issues, exclude rows deliberately and confirm the included dishes. Ingredient-linked choices and importing several worksheets together are outside the current journey.

## 04 · Preview, confirm, then publish.

The preview checks the reviewed import against the current catalog and configuration. Confirm the dishes to add them as unavailable. Existing dishes and orders stay in place; make the new items available from Menu when your checks are complete.

## If a connection interrupts the last step.

Use the saved-result check before starting again. A result that has not been confirmed is not the same as a failed import. If a draft has expired, restart its review as directed rather than assuming it was added.

## Questions & answers

### Can I upload a photo of the menu?

Not currently. Prepare a CSV, XLSX or XLS spreadsheet instead.

### Can I sell imported dishes immediately?

Imported dishes are added as unavailable. Review them in Menu and publish them when they are ready to sell.

## Keep exploring

- [Restaurant Menu Management](https://getnimki.com/features/menu-management/)
- [Restaurant POS Setup Checklist](https://getnimki.com/guides/opening-checklist/)
- [POS for Cafés](https://getnimki.com/solutions/cafes/)

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