The technology from start-up LoveBite combines the chat of a human waiter with videos of dishes and cocktails so diners can view the food and drink on offer.
Diners scan a QR code at the table to access videos of each dish and speak to the AI assistant for more information. They can also use tablets supplied by the menu.
The virtual waiter’ “personality” and the look and feel of the visuals are customised to complement the restaurant’s vibe and brand, can speak in almost any language, and can also be programmed to make recommendations.
LoveBite claims that diners who view the dish videos typically spend 5% to 10% more which could bolster sales in a sector that has continued to struggle after the covid pandemic.
LoveBite founder and CEO Gareth Hughes said: “Diners should never have to order blind again, nor should anyone be left hanging when waving to attract the attention of an overly busy waiter.
“Our Video Waiter is a world-first – an AI invention to transform the dining experience everywhere. It allows diners to view authentic videos of each dish while getting recommendations and ordering from a highly knowledgeable, multi-lingual waiter that is always available. For restaurants, this means happy customers, higher spend per customer and lower costs”
LoveBite Video Waiter is available in several London restaurants, including Gura Gura in Covent Garden, La Doc in Balham, and Masalchi by Atul Kochhar in Wembley Park.
LoveBite AI is a UK start-up redefining the dining experience by merging authentic dish videos with cutting-edge conversational AI.
LoveBite solutions help restaurants provide better service and achieve higher average spends. They include Video Menus and the world’s first AI Video Waiter.
Founded by hospitality tech entrepreneur Gareth Hughes, the LoveBite team are experts in conversational AI and skilled media creation. LoveBite has developed a flexible technology platform that uniquely combines videos and AI to create stunning customisable solutions.
LoveBite is so helpful and we’ve seen a massive increase in dessert sales. The customers are really enjoying it and we’ve had such great feedback.” commented Rebecca Cuthbetson, Marketing Manager at Ikigia Ramen in Edinburgh
“Guests are visibly excited when they see videos of the dishes” added Umesh Uthaman, Manager of Masalchi, owned by Michelin star chef Atul Kochhar.
Artificial intelligence is transforming almost every aspect of life and business – seamlessly integrating into nearly every facet of our daily activities—from how we shop and work to how we manage our health and entertain ourselves. This technology is now setting the stage for a new frontier in the culinary world, particularly within the bustling restaurant scene of London.
AI’s integration into London’s restaurants also suggests a future where culinary experiences are more interactive and tailored, yet streamlined and efficient, reflecting a broader trend of AI’s role in redefining traditional industries by bridging the gap between digital innovation and human-centric service.
The UK’s hospitality industry is a significant economic driver, employing around 3.5 million people and directly contributing £93 billion annually, according to UK Hospitality.
