About .menu domain
.menu is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) operated by the registry WhatBox? (Wedding TLD2, LLC). It was delegated to the root zone in November 2013 as part of ICANN's New gTLD Program. The registry utilizes ARI Registry Services for backend operations. As a product, it is a standard, unrestricted gTLD sold through accredited registrars.
Who can register .menu domain
Registration for .menu domains is open to anyone globally, with no geographic or professional restrictions. The registry's application indicated it would welcome all registrants seeking a .menu domain following its Sunrise and Landrush periods. No specific verification or documentation is required beyond standard ICANN requirements for contact accuracy.
How to register .menu domain
- Search for your desired .menu domain name's availability using any ICANN-accredited registrar's search tool. It's wise to check for premium name listings, as the registry utilizes services like Afternic and NameJet for premium distribution.
- Compare prices, registration term lengths, and add-on services like WHOIS privacy from several registrars, as these can vary. The standard minimum registration term is one year.
- Complete the checkout process with your chosen registrar, providing accurate registrant contact information as required by ICANN policy.
- After purchase, verify your contact details via email and configure your domain's DNS settings, such as nameservers, to point to your hosting provider.
Typical uses of .menu domain
The .menu extension is commonly adopted by businesses and individuals within the culinary and hospitality industries, particularly restaurants, cafes, food bloggers, and catering services. It provides a direct, memorable, and topic-relevant web address for showcasing food offerings, digital menus, recipes, and culinary content. Users choose it over more generic extensions to immediately signal their site's focus on food and dining, enhancing brand clarity and search relevance.
Tips for registering .menu domain
- Domains are registered on an annual basis, with a standard minimum term of one year.
- The registry has established premium domain names, which are distributed through partners like Afternic and NameJet and may carry higher initial and renewal prices.
- WHOIS privacy services are typically available through registrars, subject to their individual offerings and ICANN's policy on proxy/private registration.
- The registry enforces standard ICANN policies for domain transfers, including applicable lock periods after registration or changes.