Emerging restaurant technologies to watch in 2025

1. AI-Powered Tools for Personalisation

Artificial intelligence (AI) is making waves in restaurants, enabling tailored customer experiences that drive loyalty and revenue.

• Personalised Menus: AI can analyse customer order history to recommend dishes based on preferences or dietary needs.

• Dynamic Pricing: Algorithms adjust menu prices in real-time based on demand, time of day, or food availability, optimising profitability.

• Chatbots and Voice Assistants: AI-powered bots streamline reservation bookings and answer customer queries.

According to a report by Hospitality Insights, restaurants using AI for personalisation can see a 15-25% increase in repeat customers.

2. Advanced Self-Serve Kiosks

Self-serve kiosks are no longer limited to fast-food chains. In 2025, expect to see advanced kiosks equipped with:

• Voice Recognition: Allowing hands-free interactions for improved accessibility.

• Facial Recognition: Customising menu options based on customer profiles or loyalty accounts.

• AI Analytics Integration: Real-time insights into customer preferences and trends.

Kiosks also reduce labour costs and improve order accuracy, making them a valuable investment for high-traffic restaurants.

3. Smart Kitchen Equipment

IoT (Internet of Things) devices are transforming kitchens, improving efficiency and sustainability.

• Automated Cooking Systems: Machines that prepare meals with precision, reducing food waste and speeding up service.

• Energy-Efficient Appliances: Smart ovens and refrigerators that monitor energy use and reduce utility costs.

• Inventory-Tracking Sensors: Technology that tracks stock levels in real-time, ensuring fresh supplies and reducing waste.

A recent study by The Carbon Trust highlights that smart equipment can cut energy consumption by up to 30%, aligning with sustainability goals.

4. Augmented Reality (AR) Experiences

Augmented reality is creating immersive dining experiences, blending the physical and digital worlds.

• Interactive Menus: Customers can scan QR codes to see AR visuals of dishes, helping them make informed choices.

• Virtual Tours: Restaurants can showcase their ambiance or kitchen processes through AR, building trust and excitement.

• Gamified Loyalty Programs: AR games encourage repeat visits by rewarding points for completed challenges.

5. Advanced Delivery Solutions

The rise of delivery continues, with innovations enhancing speed and convenience.

• Drone Deliveries: Particularly in urban areas, drones can bypass traffic for quicker delivery times.

• Autonomous Vehicles: Self-driving cars or robots delivering meals are becoming a reality in some regions.

• Order Aggregation Platforms: Unified systems manage orders from multiple channels, streamlining operations.

Investing in these technologies not only enhances operational efficiency but also positions restaurants as forward-thinking leaders in a competitive market. A survey by PWC found that 70% of consumers prefer dining at establishments that embrace modern technology.

By adopting these emerging trends, restaurant owners can drive sustained growth, enhance customer satisfaction, and future-proof their businesses.