The First AI-Managed Restaurant Opens in China

The innovative restaurant “24 Seasons” has officially opened in Hangzhou, China. It is the city’s first establishment where artificial intelligence and robotic systems manage all operational processes, according to Kazinform citing local media. The two-story restaurant is designed as a single technological ecosystem. Robotic manipulators handle thermal processing of food, dessert and beverage preparation, while mobile platforms deliver orders to tables and maintain cleanliness. According to manager Cai Haitian, the fleet of eight robots currently performs over 60% of all tasks. Human involvement is minimized. A staff of five is only engaged in payment processing and preliminary ingredient preparation. The project’s key technical feature is the digitalization of the gastronomic experience. The chef robots’ software contains over 100 recipes based on the movements of professional chefs. AI algorithms control heating intensity and stirring dynamics, ensuring authentic flavors. Implemented by the local tech company Xialinghui, the project has both commercial and infrastructural significance. The restaurant is officially included in the social dining system of Xihu district. Citizens over 60 years old are eligible for up to 50% discounts. Local authorities note that the restaurant serves as a testing ground for robotics technologies. Data collected from real-world operations will be used to improve technologies and scale solutions across the food service market.