Fully automated 'robot' restaurant opens in Germany
Diners can order food from a touch-screen computer at their table, which sends their order directly to the kitchen, which is located in the roof of the building. Human chefs prepare the food, which is then sent down tracks that weave everywhere throughout the restaurant. Simple gravity powers the plates, cups, and silverware, which are guided down the tracks to the appropriate tables.
The restaurant is not a fast food affair, however, as it offers a wide variety of entrees including steaks and salads. And diners can use the touch-screen computers to look up the organic ingredients of different dishes, and even send e-mails and text messages. Besides the cooks in the roof, there are a few human employees on the ground floor that are available to answer people's questions.
So far, people seem to love it. 'S Baggers is booked out for weeks in advance, with many customers commenting on the fun that the experience offers.
The restaurant's owner, Michael Mack, said he thought of the idea about 10 years ago, while hosting a dinner party, and rushing back and forth from his kitchen to the dining room.
"I wanted to come up with a complete new restaurant system," Mack said, "one that would be more efficient and more comfortable."
Besides marking a unique niche in the industry, the automated concept is also a good economic decision. The restaurant saves labor costs by not having to hire waiters, and diners save a few bucks by not having to tip them.
Mack has patented the system, and plans to open a second restaurant next year. He's also working with other interested restaurants from around the world, including several leading fast food chains that are interested in adopting the concept.
Source: BBC News
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