The role of technology in enhancing the dining experience in Indian restaurants

Authored by Prateek Chaudhary, Managing Partner at Diablo Club, Dragonfly Experience, and One8 Commune Delhi.

Passé are the days when eating out was the only way for consumers to savour outside food. However, ever since technology has barged into our lives, not only have consumer preferences transformed, but at the same time, businesses have also altered their way of operating and functioning on a daily basis. Thus, in today’s fast-paced world, technology has become an integral part of our daily lives. From smartphones to smart homes, it has permeated every aspect, including the way we dine.

Technology has progressed to make our dining experiences more convenient, interactive, and personalized. In this scenario, as time has passed, the choice of ordering in vs takeaway, the means of payment from cash to digital payment, and ordering via the manual procedure to QR codes, technology has undoubtedly penetrated the sector like never before. Today, consumers want to see innovative technology that can help them improve their eating experience. As a result, it is safe to assume that the more quickly restaurants adapt to evolving technology breakthroughs, the more clients they will acquire and maintain.

Let’s look at some of the ways technology is enhancing the Indian Restaurant industry:

Contactless Ordering

It is certainly true that, since COVID-19 wreaked havoc around the world, the restaurant industry has expedited the implementation of contactless and online ordering technologies. Customers can now peruse menus, place orders, and make payments without making physical touch, thanks to QR codes on tables and mobile apps. The incorporation has reduced wait times and minimized the risk of spreading infections. Contactless dining has grown commonplace, delivering a smooth and secure experience for both consumers and employees. According to projections from the PRIME (POSist Restaurant Industry & Market Evolution) research, nearly one-third of Indian restaurants have been actively adopting QR code ordering technology since COVID-19.

Digital Payments: Go Cashless

As the pandemic spread over the world, contactless payment became an integral component of the dining experience. According to the Dineout report, more than 60% of respondents said they would prefer digital payment methods, such as mobile wallets, over dealing with cash or paying with credit cards at a restaurant. With the technology, restaurants can assist their diners in staying secure and safe by accepting payments through dip, tap, or swipe with this technology. This technology further removes the necessity for physical interaction between employees and customers, which is especially important in these exceptional times.

Digital Menus: Beyond Paper and Ink

The days of static and printed menus are long gone. However, as technology advances, eateries are adopting digital menus on tablets or smartphone apps. These menus feature not only enticing photographs and descriptions of dishes but also include additional information such as ingredient origins, nutritional values, and chef-recommended culinary items. Digital menus allow for real-time updates, assuring accuracy and flexibility in fitting client preferences and dietary requirements. Furthermore, this digital signage can display interesting facts about the dishes served, improving the overall eating experience. It is acceptable to assume that it assists diners in browsing menus and customizing orders.

Smart Kitchen Appliances: A Chef's Best Friend

Given the advent of new-age technologies, among others, artificial intelligence (AI) has brought a new dimension to the dining experience. Technology has not only changed the front of the house, but it has also changed the back. It has improved kitchen appliances by making them advanced. In this scenario, chefs can benefit from smart kitchen appliances integrated with AI in a variety of ways. These appliances ensure consistent, high-quality dishes with automated cooking procedures and precision temperature control. AI-powered recipe databases can recommend ingredient substitutions or generate personalized meals based on dietary preferences, making it easier for cooks to cater to a wide range of consumers.

Technological Advancements: Enhancing the Dining Experience

Without a doubt, technology has improved the dining experience by delivering ease, engagement, and personalization. The fusion of technology and cuisine has opened up new frontiers for both diners and culinary professionals, from digital menus to augmented reality, contactless ordering to smart kitchen tools. While some believe that technology diminishes the traditional charm of dining, it is evident that it has given a new dimension of excitement, efficiency, and creativity to the world of food. So, the next time you go out to eat, embrace the technology that await you and savour the joys that improve your dining experience.