Just back from the bustling floors of the Bar and Restaurant Expo, our senses are still tingling with excitement from all the innovative technologies showcased. Robotics stole the show and captivated many, with bots that can cook fried rice, deliver food to guests and even dance for you. Let’s look at how these technologies are being used as we speak.

 

Burger Flipping Down to a Science

CaliExpress by Flippy is a new Pasadena restaurant serving one of America’s favorite dishes—burgers. What makes this restaurant so unique? It’s the world’s first fully autonomous restaurant. Upon ordering, their grill robot grinds high-quality beef in real-time, ensuring mouthwatering burger patties. Meanwhile, Flippy, the robotic fry station, serves up perfectly cooked fries made from top-grade potatoes. With a simple menu of burgers, cheeseburgers, and fries, CaliExpress aims to transform the dining experience for customers. Miso Robotics manufactures the robots.

 

The No-Attitude Robot Server

At Concord’s Cajun Crack’n seafood restaurant, innovation isn’t limited to the kitchen. Meet Rosie the Robot, a recent addition to the team who is already winning hearts and boosting service quality. Rosie, manufactured by OrionStar USA, assists with food delivery, and dish collection, and even plays promotional videos. While she doesn’t take orders yet, the possibilities for her role are endless, according to Teddy Williams, the vice president of sales at OrionStar USA. Rosie’s reliability and lack of attitude make her a hit among customers and staff. Despite concerns about automation’s impact on restaurant jobs, Rosie’s presence is viewed as complementary rather than threatening by both the company and waitstaff. As the debate over the role of robots in the hospitality industry continues, for now, human interaction remains an essential component of the dining experience.

 

Robot Bartender

In the season 3 premiere of The Kardashians on Hulu, ADAM, the beloved robot bartender, stole the spotlight at Kendall Jenner’s lavish party, commemorating the launch of her new signature bottle for the renowned 818 Tequila brand. ADAM’s advanced bartending skills captivated party attendees, including the Kardashian family, elevating him to the event’s focal point. As ADAM expertly mixed two signature margaritas using 818 Tequila, including one with a Tajin rim, his dexterity and versatility showcased the seamless integration of robotic technology into the entertainment and hospitality sectors, leaving a lasting impression on guests.

Richtech Robotics, the company behind ADAM, boasts remarkable adaptability to various environments, ensuring an unforgettable experience for celebrities and guests alike. This collaboration with The Kardashians underscores the versatility and potential of robotic platforms like ADAM in enhancing event experiences. For those intrigued, ADAM is available for event rental, offering a futuristic touch to any occasion and further solidifying his role as a pioneering figure in robotic bartending.

As robots become increasingly integrated into the hospitality industry to help ease labor and other industry challenges, the possibilities for enhancing guest experiences and streamlining operations are endless.

 

 

Sources:

Cbs.com
Richtechrobotis.com
misorobotics.com
openai.com

We had the exclusive opportunity to attend the Bar & Restaurant Expo, the highly anticipated yearly B2B event for bar and restaurant owners.  The 2024 venue in Las Vegas was a stunning backdrop, offering a unique setting to immerse ourselves in the excitement of new trends, products and technologies that are shaping the hospitality industry today.

 

Elevating the Drink Experience

At the expo, we witnessed live demonstrations of cutting-edge technology designed to elevate the bar experience. The Breville Commercial “The Smoke Bubble™ Kit,” was a standout, allowing bartenders to create food-safe bubbles that burst with natural wood smoke.  This unique method of garnishing cocktails with aromas like hickory, applewood and cherrywood is sure to intrigue your guests. Another fascinating technology we encountered was the Roxi-Ice dry ice on-demand machine, a fun and functional addition to any bar.

Robots

We’d be remiss if we didn’t talk about robots. Yes, robots that are almost reminiscent of the Jetsons’ loyal servant, Rosie. You might have had to do a double-take if you saw Plato, United Robotics Group’s “Cobiot” rolling around the floor show! This robot is meant to support your restaurant staff by serving your guests’ food directly, dynamically adapting to changing environments. There was even a Chicken Fried Rice robot from RobotLAB that could create this complex dish on its own with built-in compartments that store, measure, and dispense cooking oil and seasonings. All the operator needs to do is toss in egg, chicken, veggies, and rice with a touch screen to modify and start the cooking.

 

Beyond the restaurant, robots like these have many applications for room service, beach bars, beach clubs, bowling alleys, and even health care facilities.

 

Check out more photos and videos from the expo:

 

The restaurant industry faces a unique challenge: rising costs and a shrinking market. But instead of throwing in the towel, innovative restaurateurs are finding creative solutions. One key strategy gaining traction is shrinking their physical footprint while focusing on maximizing the dining experience.

As highlighted in a recent article by Nation’s Restaurant News (NRN), this approach is a departure from the traditional model of ever-expanding square footage. Restaurateurs are rethinking their spatial needs and opting for smaller spaces, prioritizing efficiency and a more intimate dining experience.

 

Here are some of the benefits of this approach:

• Reduced Overhead Costs: Smaller spaces mean lower rent and utility bills. This allows restaurants to invest more in high-quality ingredients, staff training, and technology.
• Enhanced Guest Experience: A smaller footprint allows for closer interaction between staff and guests, fostering a more personal and memorable dining experience.
• Increased Operational Efficiency: A streamlined layout can optimize workflow and improve service times.
• Greater Flexibility: Smaller spaces are often easier and cheaper to adapt to changing trends and customer preferences.

Example of Success:

The NRN article cites several examples of restaurants successfully implementing this strategy. One example is Chicago’s Tzuco, a Michelin-starred establishment known for its innovative tasting menus. Tzuco downsized its space in 2019, allowing it to focus on a more intimate dining experience with only 26 seats.

 

Beyond Square Feet:

While shrinking the physical space is crucial, it’s part of the story. Many restaurants also embrace technology and off-premise dining options to enhance the customer experience further. This could include online ordering, delivery services, and even prepared meal kits.

 

The Future of Restaurants?

The trend of downsizing physical space while focusing on experience is gaining momentum. As the restaurant industry continues to adapt, it will be interesting to see how this approach shapes the future of dining.

 

What do you think? Would you prefer a more intimate dining experience in a smaller space, or do you value the spaciousness of traditional restaurants?

As we enter 2024, the restaurant industry  is at a pivotal juncture, undergoing a transformative evolution driven by innovation and adaptation. A cornerstone of the global economy, the culinary landscape is grappling with challenges such as persistent labor shortages, leading to a surge in the exploration of automation and artificial intelligence to enhance efficiency while preserving the essence of hospitality.

The Dance Between Human Touch and Technological Precision

In response to staffing pressures, restaurants are integrating automation into their operations, employing AI-driven reservation systems and customer analytics for personalized service. Robotic kitchen assistants take on repetitive tasks, allowing human staff to focus on creativity and interpersonal aspects that elevate the dining experience. However, the delicate balance between technology and the irreplaceable human touch is crucial for restaurant operators. Technology should act as an enabler of hospitality, not a substitute for the warmth and individuality cherished by diners.

Upskilling in the Tech Era

The demand for tech-savvy employees is rising, prompting restaurants to invest in training programs to upskill their workforce. This enhances operational efficiency and makes the industry more appealing to job seekers. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, establishments position themselves as forward-thinking leaders in a competitive market.

Navigating Societal Currents and Customer Trends

The industry is changing along with wider societal changes such as climate shifts and economic fluctuations, affecting how supply chains and operations work. Customer preferences are shifting towards transparency in ingredients and health-focused foods. Menus reflect these changes with increased plant-based options and locally sourced, transparent supply chains.

Innovations Beyond the Plate

Restaurants are embracing innovative inventory systems and blockchain technology for farm-to-fork traceability. Innovations in food delivery, like drones and “dark stores” dedicated to online order fulfillment, demand a rethink of managing inventory and engaging with customers. Experiential dining and the rise of non-alcoholic beverages transform restaurants into immersive environments where every detail, from menu to glassware, contributes to a unique dining experience.

Adaptability in the Face of Change

The industry’s transformation is not occurring in isolation. Restaurants must remain agile, adapting their business models in real time to maintain profitability. Government regulations, health codes, wage laws, and food safety standards add layers of complexity, requiring constant vigilance and compliance. Simultaneously, restaurateurs are stepping up to address issues like food security and promote equitable access to nutritious food.

Charting a Course for the Culinary Future

As the restaurant industry balances tradition and technology, it becomes a small reflection of a broader transformation. Leaders in the field must exercise foresight and flexibility, ensuring that every meal served reflects a shared journey toward a more adaptive and conscientious future. In 2024, the culinary scene goes beyond mere food; it signifies an industry undergoing a significant transformation, where each dish tells a story of innovation, resilience, and a dedication to creating a more vibrant and sustainable future.

It’s a new year, and you’re looking for ways to enhance your restaurant operations. Embracing new, energy-efficient technologies in kitchen operations is a responsible move for businesses and a crucial step toward creating a more sustainable future. The significance of incorporating these advancements also contributes to cost savings down the road. As restaurants play a pivotal role in shaping consumer behavior, adopting energy-efficient technologies sets an example for responsible business practices and contributes significantly to the collective effort to build a greener and more sustainable world.

Restaurants can enhance their sustainability efforts by incorporating a variety of energy-efficient appliances into their kitchens. These appliances are designed to optimize energy consumption while maintaining high performance levels. Energy Star-rated equipment is crucial, as it signifies compliance with energy efficiency standards.

Among the types of energy-efficient appliances suitable for restaurant kitchens are:

 

Energy-Efficient Cooking Equipment: Includes induction cooktops, convection ovens, and griddles designed to minimize energy waste while providing precise temperature control. Look to include combi ovens that streamline labor—these versatile kitchen appliances combine convection and steam cooking methods in a single unit, allowing chefs to roast, bake, steam, and perform other cooking processes with precision and efficiency.

LED Lighting Systems: Upgrading to energy-efficient LED lighting reduces electricity consumption and provides better illumination in kitchen spaces.

High-Efficiency Refrigeration Units: Energy-efficient refrigerators and freezers, often equipped with advanced insulation and compressors, help conserve energy while preserving food at optimal temperatures.

Tankless Water Heaters: These heaters provide hot water on demand, eliminating the need for continuous energy consumption to maintain a reservoir of hot water.

Ventilation Systems with Energy Recovery: Utilizing ventilation systems equipped with energy recovery technology ensures that heat generated during cooking is recycled rather than wasted. Check out what Synergy Managing Partner Danny Bendas had to say about HVAC and more in NRN’s 6 restaurant equipment trends to watch for in 2024.

Dishwashers with Energy-Saving Features: Energy-efficient dishwashers with features such as heat recovery and low water usage contribute to overall energy conservation in restaurant operations.

Smart Thermostats and HVAC Systems: Implementing intelligent climate control systems helps regulate heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, optimizing energy use based on actual kitchen needs.

Solar-Powered Appliances: Where feasible, restaurants can explore solar-powered appliances, such as solar water heaters or solar-assisted cooking equipment, to harness renewable energy.

 

By integrating these energy-efficient appliances, restaurants can reduce operational costs and make substantial contributions to environmental conservation and sustainability in the foodservice industry.

 

Sources:

energystar.gov
nrn.com
energy.gov
openai.com

At the start of each new year, restaurant owners have a chance to reflect and make adjustments. The beginning of a fresh year means more than just a date change; it’s an ideal time to carefully rethink and strengthen how they run their businesses. Taking a close look at restaurant operations becomes crucial. This examination aims to boost efficiency, improve the dining experience, and ensure ongoing success in an ever-changing food scene.

 

There are several key areas within restaurant operations that owners should review at the start of a new year to enhance efficiency:

 

Menu Optimization: Analyze sales data to identify popular and less profitable items. Keep your menu lean by removing low-performing items. Streamlining the menu layout and descriptions, as well as considering pricing adjustments, can guide patrons toward high-margin offerings while simplifying decision-making . Introducing seasonal specials or limited-time offerings adds variety and encourages repeat visits, injecting a sense of excitement into the dining experience.

 

Staff Training and Scheduling: Review staffing levels, ensure adequate training, and optimize schedules to match peak hours. Consider cross-training employees to handle multiple tasks effectively.

 

Technology Integration: Explore new solutions to streamline operations, such as POS systems, online ordering, or reservation management tools. Ensure they integrate seamlessly and improve overall efficiency. Integrating AI technology into a restaurant can revolutionize operations. Implementing AI-driven systems for inventory management can optimize stock levels, minimize waste, and automate ordering processes based on predictive analytics. Moreover, utilizing AI-powered customer service tools, like chatbots or personalized recommendation engines, can enhance guest experiences, streamline reservations, and provide real-time assistance, ultimately boosting overall satisfaction and loyalty.

 

Customer Feedback Analysis: Collect and analyze customer feedback to identify areas for improvement in service, menu offerings, or overall dining experience. Consolidate and categorize feedback from various sources, including online reviews, surveys, and direct customer interactions, provides a comprehensive understanding of patrons’ experiences.

 

Energy Efficiency: Assess energy consumption and explore ways to reduce utility costs. This might involve upgrading to energy-efficient appliances or implementing practices to conserve resources. Implementing smart procedures like regular maintenance of kitchen equipment, optimizing cooking processes, and properly insulating the restaurant space can further minimize energy waste. Additionally, introducing motion-sensor lighting and adjusting thermostat settings during non-operational hours can curb unnecessary energy usage. You may even qualify for tax rebates for equipping your restaurant with energy-efficient appliances.

 

 

Health and Safety Protocols: Prioritize safety , from food safety to staff illnesses and beyond. Review and update health and safety protocols to align with current regulations and best practices, ensuring a safe environment for customers and staff. Make sure to keep up with any new health and safety laws that have been enacted in 2024.

 

Marketing Strategies: Evaluate past marketing efforts and strategize for the new year. Invest in targeted marketing campaigns, utilize social media effectively, and explore partnerships to attract more patrons.

 

Financial Review: Conduct a thorough financial review, including profit and loss analysis, to identify areas of improvement and set realistic financial goals and budgeting for the new year.

 

Supplier Relationships: Strengthen relationships with suppliers or seek new partnerships to ensure reliable and cost-effective sourcing of ingredients and supplies.

 

By reviewing and optimizing these aspects of restaurant operations, owners can lay a solid foundation for increased efficiency, improved customer satisfaction, and sustained success in the year ahead.

 

Sources:

Orders.co
energystar.gov
Webrestaurantstore.com
energy5.com
openai.com

In an era of technological advancement, restaurant operators face a dual challenge: ensuring food safety while optimizing their workforce for peak efficiency. What is the role of technology in addressing these critical aspects of restaurant management?  Read on for valuable insights for industry professionals.

Technology and Food Safety

Food safety is non-negotiable in the restaurant industry. Technology is now a powerful ally in this quest, with innovations like IoT sensors, data analytics, and real-time monitoring systems redefining how restaurants maintain the highest hygiene and safety standards..

• IoT Sensors: These devices enable continuous monitoring of food storage temperatures, alerting staff to any deviations, thus preventing spoilage and ensuring compliance with food safety regulations.
• Data Analytics: Advanced analytics tools analyze vast amounts of data, identifying potential issues early on, streamlining food safety audits, and minimizing risks.
• Real-time Monitoring: Technology offers real-time insights into food safety, allowing for immediate corrective actions when needed, preserving food quality, and safeguarding customer health.

Workforce Optimization through Technology

Restaurant operations have also benefited immensely from technology-driven workforce optimization. Automation, AI-driven scheduling, and employee training platforms revolutionize how operators manage their staff efficiently.

• Automation: Tasks like inventory management and order processing can be automated, reducing manual labor requirements and human error.
• AI-Driven Scheduling: AI algorithms consider factors like historical data, weather, and customer trends to create optimized staff schedules, improving labor cost management and ensuring a well-staffed establishment during peak hours.
• Employee Training Platforms: Technology-driven training programs enhance the skills and knowledge of restaurant staff, promoting consistency in service and food preparation.

Key Takeaways

1. Invest in Food Safety Technology: Embrace IoT sensors and data analytics to ensure food safety compliance, reduce waste, and safeguard your brand’s reputation.
2. Embrace Workforce Optimization Tools: Implement AI-driven scheduling and training platforms to streamline operations, reduce labor costs, and enhance staff performance.
3. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on technological advancements in food safety and workforce management, as they can provide your restaurant with a competitive edge.

By embracing technology in food safety and workforce optimization, restaurant operators can navigate the changing landscape with confidence, ensuring both operational efficiency and customer satisfaction in an increasingly competitive industry.

AI-assisted voice ordering is a trending topic in the restaurant industry. It refers to using artificial intelligence (AI) and voice recognition technology to facilitate and enhance the process of placing orders or making purchases using voice commands.

DoorDash is launching AI-powered voice ordering technology to help restaurants answer all incoming customer calls, addressing the issue of unanswered calls, which can lead to potential revenue losses. This innovation combines AI with live agents to ensure quick response times. It also provides personalized recommendations to customers and allows for orders in multiple languages, offering a seamless and efficient ordering experience. Additionally, DoorDash offers a white-label solution for restaurants to facilitate the delivery of phone orders, enhancing the overall customer experience. This initiative aims to help restaurants grow their sales and meet customer expectations.

Restaurant chain Wingstop is testing an AI solution to streamline voice ordering. In a pilot program, they use ConverseNow’s voice-AI virtual assistants to handle phone orders at select locations. These virtual assistants aim to provide a natural, conversational, and personalized phone ordering experience. The AI also processes phone orders like online orders, allowing employees to fulfill AI orders without additional training. The virtual assistants use machine learning to offer automated, dynamic, and personalized upselling offers based on Wingstop’s menu items. This technology aims to eliminate missed calls and hold times during peak hours, freeing up staff to serve in-person customers. Wingstop offers phone orders in English and Spanish, allowing customers to speak to a live person if preferred.

 

In What Ways Can AI Assisted Voice Ordering Help Your Restaurant?

 

Implementing AI-assisted voice ordering in a restaurant setting can greatly enhance efficiency, improve customer service, and boost sales. Here’s how you can use this technology effectively:

 

Personalized Recommendations: Implement AI algorithms to provide personalized meal recommendations based on customer preferences, order history, and current promotions.

Order Customization: Customers can customize their orders using voice commands, specifying ingredients, portion sizes, and special instructions.

Order Tracking: Provide real-time order tracking through voice updates or an online platform so customers can monitor the status of their orders.

Multilingual Support: AI systems can understand and respond to orders in multiple languages to accommodate diverse customer bases.

Voice-Based Customer Support: Implement a voice assistant for customer support, addressing inquiries, resolving issues, and providing information about the restaurant, such as hours of operation.

Drive-Thru Efficiency: If your restaurant has a drive-thru, AI voice ordering can streamline the process, reduce wait times, and enhance accuracy.

Accessibility Features: AI voice ordering systems may be able to provide more accessibility features to individuals with disabilities, offering options like voice commands or touch interfaces.

Data Analytics: AI can analyze customer order data for insights into popular items, peak ordering times, and customer preferences, which can inform menu updates and marketing strategies.

Marketing and Promotions: Utilize the AI system to promote special deals, loyalty programs, or new menu items to customers during ordering.

 

What Do You Need to Consider Before Implementing AI-Assisted Voice Ordering at Your Restaurant?

• Is the quality of the voice interaction natural and conversational, avoiding clunky robotic experiences? Voice AI should mimic normal speech patterns and allow fluent conversations.
• Can the technology perform well in challenging physical conditions, including noisy environments, rain, wind, and snow? Quality microphones and speakers are crucial.
• How quickly can the system integrate with your menu data? Look for voice tech that integrates easily and swiftly with your point-of-sale (POS) system.

Read more from NRN.com.

 

Sources:

Techcrunch.com
Chainstoreage.com
Nrn.com
Openai.com

In a world driven by technological advancements and changing consumer preferences, the fast-food industry is continuously evolving to meet the demands of modern customers. A prominent trend in this evolution is the widespread adoption of self-service kiosks in fast-food chains. These digital touchpoints are transforming how customers interact with their favorite eateries and redefining operational efficiency for restaurant businesses.

Embracing the Age of Self-Service

In recent years, self-service kiosks have taken the fast-food industry by storm. A shift in customer behavior towards convenience and speed has increased acceptance of these interactive terminals. A report from the National Restaurant Association revealed that over 60% of consumers agree that self-service technology makes their dining experience more convenient.

The Convenience Factor

One of the most significant advantages of self-service kiosks is the enhanced convenience they offer to customers. The ability to browse through a digital menu, customize orders, and make payments within a few taps is a game-changer. Kiosks eliminate the need to stand in long queues, resulting in quicker order processing and reduced waiting times – a win-win situation for customers and restaurants.

Personalization at its Best

Self-service kiosks provide a platform for customers to tailor their orders precisely to their preferences. Every detail is at the customer’s fingertips, from extra cheese to no onions. This ensures accuracy and enhances customer satisfaction by delivering orders exactly as desired.

Empowering the Customer

Fast-food chains are using self-service kiosks to empower their customers. These terminals offer detailed nutritional information, ingredient lists, and allergen alerts, enabling customers to make informed choices that align with their dietary needs and preferences.

Streamlining Operations

The advantages of self-service kiosks are not limited to the customer side. Fast-food chains are benefiting from streamlined operations and increased efficiency. With kiosks handling a significant portion of orders, staff can focus more on preparing and serving food. This redistribution of tasks results in smoother operations, reduced human error, and improved customer service.

The Human Touch

While self-service kiosks play a pivotal role in enhancing the fast-food experience, they do not replace the importance of human interaction. Many chains are finding a balance between technology and human service. Staff members are freed from taking orders, allowing them to engage more with customers, address concerns, and ensure a positive dining experience.

The Road Ahead

As the fast-food industry continues to evolve, self-service kiosks will likely remain prominent in restaurants worldwide. With technological advancements, we expect to see more sophisticated interfaces, increased integration with mobile apps, and further personalization options.

Integrating self-service kiosks in fast-food chains is not just a technological trend but a transformative shift in how restaurants and customers interact. These terminals provide unmatched convenience, personalization, and efficiency. As technology continues to reshape the dining experience, one thing is certain – the kiosk revolution is here to stay, redefining fast food for the better.

 

Decades ago, restaurants pioneered basic automation to enhance efficiency – early technologies like cash registers, mechanical calculators, and vending machines streamlined transactions and self-service. Automated coffee makers and buffet setups improved speed and consistency. Conveyor belts presented dishes in early sushi places, and kitchen appliances expedited food prep. Drive-thru windows emerged for faster service. These innovations formed the foundation for modern restaurant automation, showing a persistent drive to increase efficiency, minimize labor, and elevate customer convenience.

In the rapidly evolving landscape of the culinary industry, restaurants are increasingly embracing the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance various aspects of their operations. This surge in AI integration stems from its unparalleled ability to optimize processes, enhance customer experiences, and streamline decision-making. From personalized menu recommendations based on customer preferences to efficient inventory management and advanced culinary creativity, AI technologies are revolutionizing how restaurants function. As competition grows fiercer and consumer expectations become more sophisticated, restaurants find themselves compelled to harness AI-driven solutions to stay relevant and deliver unparalleled dining experiences.

 

How Are Restaurants Using Automation in 2023?

White Castle, a renowned fast-food chain, is making strides in embracing AI technology by partnering with SoundHound, a voice AI platform, to introduce voice ordering at more of its drive-thru lanes. This initiative is set to elevate the number of AI-powered drive-thru restaurants to around 100, constituting over a quarter of White Castle’s entire portfolio, by the conclusion of 2024. The company envisions enhancing customer experiences and operational efficiency, with many AI-supported locations operating 24/7.

 

 

Checkers Drive-In Restaurants, a U.S.-based fast-food chain, has partnered with Hi Auto to introduce AI voice technology in its drive-throughs. The collaboration involves deploying Hi Auto’s Spanish-language drive-through AI voice technology across over 350 Checkers and Rally locations. This marks the first instance of bilingual drive-through voice AI ordering in the industry.

Meanwhile, Chipotle founder Steve Ells has devised an intriguing concept for a semi-automated restaurant named Kernel, focusing on automation with a human touch. Securing $36 million in series A funding, Kernel plans to launch in New York City this fall, potentially establishing 15 more locations in the vicinity over the next couple of years. The innovative venture emphasizes plant-based ingredients and automation, yet further details about its unique approach remain undisclosed. These developments collectively underscore the ongoing surge of AI and automation within the restaurant industry, reshaping how eateries operate and engage with customers.

 

How Consumers Feel about Automation

PYMNTS’ exclusive report titled “Connected Dining: The Robot Will Take Your Order Now” is based on a survey of nearly 2,000 U.S. consumers conducted recently. The report delves into consumer sentiments towards various restaurant technologies and the factors driving those opinions. The study found that two-thirds of consumers are not interested in robotics-powered food preparation, with most of them concerned about the potential impact of automation on food quality and personalization. A notable 83% of respondents believed that food prepared by robots would be lower quality and less personalized compared to human-prepared meals. This concern aligns with a previous study that revealed around 4 in 10 consumers perceive a decline in personalized service at restaurants. Despite these concerns, automation is gaining traction in the industry, particularly in kitchen operations. Some consumers are embracing these innovations, especially younger demographics, who are more open to testing new tech, as evidenced by the positive response to autonomous robotic food service kiosks in certain restaurant chains.

As the restaurant industry continues to adapt to evolving consumer preferences and technological advancements, it’s evident that AI will remain a significant and growing component of restaurant operations.

 

 

Sources:

Nrn.com
verdictfoodservice.com
Pymnts.com