Why this iconic San Francisco pizza shop is going all in on QR codes—despite the skepticism

Chef Thomas McNaughton’s latest restaurant location needs to pump out pies fast, and it’s using the polarizing tech to help.

To San Francisco chef and restaurateur Thomas McNaughton, QR codes are an efficient way to serve a crowd. Sure, the codes—and restaurants that use them—have endured much loathing. And, yes, people still love to criticize them. But at the newest location of McNaughton’s Flour + Water Pizzeria, set to open later this month, QR codes are the star.