photo: Courtesy of Philippe Chow Express
Following the example of the ATM machine and the self-serve gas pump, restaurateurs around the world have increasingly been incorporating automated components into the dining experience. By doing so, they reduce staff needs in these rough economic times – and further prove the prophetic genius of The Jetsons. For example, take Philippe Chow Express, Philippe's new West Village spin-off, where patrons order their dishes from a touch-screen menu. From computerized wine kiosks to sushi-laden conveyor belts, here are some more ways that restaurants are using technology to encourage guests to DIY.
Adour: At the NYC location of Alain Ducasse’s haute French restaurant, bar patrons browse the wine list (complete with tasting notes) via an interactive menu projected onto a touch-screen bar top.
Bamn!: This bright-pink spot in NYC’s East Village brings back the days of the Automat, with coin-operated machines vending pork buns and mini-burgers.
Clo: At this wine bar in NYC’s Time Warner Center, choices are made via a motion-activated list and then patrons fill their glasses from automatic dispensers using prepaid credit cards.
Evo Bistro: Thirty-two wines are available in three different sizes from the automatic dispenser at this Med bistro in McLean, VA.
Inamo: At this quirky London newcomer, diners can choose their own food and drinks, play digital Battleship and even order a taxi home via a touch screen.
Isobune: Diners at this SF sushi spot catch their own fish as it floats by on a moat.
Luckyfish: Lucille Ball would feel right at home at this LA sushi restaurant where patrons snag their dinner as it passes by on conveyor belts.
Pod: Not only does the sushi pass by on a conveyor belt at this Philadelphia spot, diners can choose between nine different colors to illuminate their “pod” seating.
Sakae Sushi: This conveyor-belt sushi chain has already conquered Asia, and now it's set its sights on NYC.
uWink: With locations in SoCal and the Bay Area, this Californian chain by the founder of Atari (and Chuck E. Cheese) lets diners order at interactive tabletops, which double as multiplayer game consoles.
– Justin Hartung