Looking at the Future of Restaurants Through a Virtual Lens

Ask for the bill at many restaurants today and you might be invited to use a kiosk, tablet, or another device. As technology advances, the restaurant industry is trying out trends to improve their customer experience and increase their bottom line.

Several restaurants are already venturing into virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) for these purposes.

How Restaurants are Using VR and AR to Improve the Customer Experience

One of the most common uses of AR and VR today is for marketing purposes. The restaurant industry is no exception. Some restaurants encourage customers to use apps like Google Lens to share images of virtual meals when they consider their menu options. Culvers, among other restaurants, succeeded in using AR games to enhance the dining experience. It is also common for voice-activated technology to be tied into restaurant apps so customers can place reservations using smart tech.

Examples of VR or AR Increasing the Bottom Line

Another common use of AR or VR technology in the restaurant industry is to create simulations that are more affordable than their alternatives. For example, KFC is using VR to train employees because the method is faster and more practical than conventional strategies. Other restaurants have used AR to visualize expansions, floorplan, and menu changes so that stakeholders can make better, more cost-effective decisions.

Future Predictions for AR and VR in the Restaurant Industry

As AR and VR become expected features of consumer experiences in stores, hotels, and other major industries, the restaurant industry will most likely continue using the trending technology in new ways.

Companies like Kabaq, which develops menu apps, are beginning to work with restaurants to allow customers to preview menus through AR. VR games tied to restaurant brands or offered on restaurant tabletop tablets are also likely to grow in popularity.

Restaurateurs should expect to incorporate more visual VR and AR in the future to improve both customer experience and the bottom line.