Kura Sushi USA Rolls Out Robotic Waiters Systemwide

Kura Sushi USA, the Japanese concept known for its revolving sushi service model, is taking its tech-forward approach up a notch by rolling out delivery robots, along with a new tablet feature that includes self-checkout and self-drink menu ordering, at all 37 locations.

Now, guests can order drinks at their tables via tablets and have them delivered by the robots. When guests place drink orders, Kura Sushi’s servers are notified, and they then place the beverages and condiments on the robot and program it to deliver the items to the appropriate table.

Kura Sushi says the new tech allows more time for servers to engage and check in with customers.

The robots also add to the restaurant concept’s interactive technology. The Kura family of companies pioneered the revolving sushi concept, in which food orders are delivered to tables using a revolving conveyor belt. Before the latest technology was added, guests ordered their drinks from waitstaff but still placed food orders, which were delivered via the conveyor belt, using tablets.

“Our unique restaurant service model serves to bring Japanese culture and tradition to our guests through a stimulating experience with authentic Japanese dishes and conveyor belt technology, as it’s enjoyed in Japan. We are continually looking for new developments to enrich the guest experience and are elated to be able to bring these new elements to our eater-tainment restaurants,” says Hideto Sugimoto, director of system and menu development at Kura Sushi USA.

The Japanese concept isn’t the only brand looking to robotics to free up waitstaff. Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant announced earlier this week that it’s piloting a hospitality robot at one of its locations that runs food and drinks to guests and helps bus tables.

Robots like these, along with others that automate repetitive tasks, were front and center at the 2022 National Restaurant Association Show last month. Here’s a look at some of the latest in automation.