London diners' orders being taken by AI 'video waiters' for first time
The world's first AI 'video waiter' is being introduced into London restaurants.
The technology from Paddington-based tech start-up LoveBite combines the chat of a human waiter with videos of dishes and cocktails so diners can view the food and drink on offer.
Diners scan a QR code at the table to access videos of each dish and speak to the AI assistant for more information. They can also use tablets supplied by the menu.
The virtual waiter' 'personality' and the look and feel of the visuals are customised to complement the restaurant's vibe and brand.
They can talk in any language and made recommendations.
LoveBite claim diners who view the dish videos typically spend 5% to 10% more.
The development comes as restaurants are increasingly looking to trim their numbers of front of house staff because of the rising costs of employing them.
This week they have been hit by a double whammy of higher National Insurance bills and above inflation increases in the National Living Wage.
LoveBite founder and CEO Gareth Hughes said: 'Diners should never have to order blind again, nor should anyone be left hanging when waving to attract the attention of an overly busy waiter.
'Our Video Waiter is a world-first - an AI invention to transform the dining experience everywhere. It allows diners to view authentic videos of each dish while getting recommendations and ordering from a highly knowledgeable, multi-lingual waiter that is always available. For restaurants, this means happy customers, higher spend per customer and lower costs'
LoveBite Video Waiter is available in several London restaurants, including Gura Gura in Covent Garden, La Doc in Balham, and Masalchi by Atul Kochhar in Wembley Park.
Umesh Uthaman, manager of Masalchi, owned by Michelin star chef Atul Kochhar, said 'Guests are visibly excited when they see videos of the dishes.'
LoveBite has also launched in the US with trials due to start this month.
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