A smart restaurant entails a variety of innovative restaurant technology to support operations. Food tech companies are creating restaurant automation systems that allow businesses to operate accurately and efficiently. 

Launching a smart restaurant is a newer concept that is taking the restaurant industry by storm. If you have an entrepreneur mindset and would like to create something unique, a smart restaurant might be right for you. But first, what exactly is a smart restaurant? Read on to learn everything you need to know. 

Smat Restaurant: Definition 

A smart restaurant is an eatery that utilizes technology to streamline operations. It’s a revolutionary concept that incorporates restaurant tech solutions to provide customers with better and quicker service. From ordering your food to paying the bill, there are many basic processes that a smart restaurant can do in a flash. 

Smart Restaurant Features 

Launching a smart restaurant or converting a traditional one is a smart move (no pun intended). Here are seven features of a smart restaurant that will take your business to the next level. 

1. Tableside Devices 

Pay at table restaurants offer a multitude of convenient solutions to guests. Customers are able to use these devices to view the menu types, place orders, request assistance, pay the bill, and more. Since they offer DIY solutions to every party, many popular duties are reduced for the wait staff. 

For example, if customers are placing orders and paying without the help of one of the waiters, the staff has fewer tasks to manage. With this in mind, tableside devices are especially helpful if your business is understaffed. It’ll certainly be valuable if your team ever experiences work overload, too. 

2. QR Codes 

Almost every smart restaurant has a custom QR code somewhere in the establishment, if not on every table. With a quick scan, customers can view the menu and place orders. It’s a straightforward yet innovative feature that simplifies standard practices. Plus, it’s more sanitary for both customers and staff. 

If you’d like to design a functional and professional QR code, book a demo with SproutQR today! 

3. Online Ordering Apps 

Partnering with delivery service providers is ideal for brand awareness and profitability. Not only does offering delivery expand your reach, but it can streamline in-house restaurant operations. 

Many delivery apps have smart features, such as points for a customer rewards program and menu item recommendations. The first step toward operating a smart restaurant is to ensure that you offer the ultimate convenience to your customers. And what’s more convenient than ordering meals in the comfort of your own home?

If you’d like to make your restaurant more efficient, use an integrated POS system. This will allow the host(s) to sync information from every delivery partner in one place. Say goodbye to multiple tablets and multitasking with this simple solution. 

4. Concierge Services 

Even though concierge services don’t always accompany tech solutions, it’s a smart decision to implement them. The purpose of a concierge team is to provide the ultimate service to guests. 

Whether you operate a single restaurant or a hotel chain, concierge services can elevate the customer experience. From recommending items from the menu to local tourist destinations, hiring this kind of team is a foolproof way to make your restaurant feel a bit more upscale. 

Operating a smart restaurant is all about leaving a good impression. Hiring team to ensure that customers have the best experience possible is a sure way to accomplish this task.

5. Inventory Management Software

One of the best additions to a smart restaurant is a tool to accurately take inventory. A restaurant inventory management system can help business owners lessen food spoilage, decrease inventory shrinkage, save time, and boost profits. 

Say goodbye to taking inventory manually, guesstimating stock quantities, overspending, and late deliveries. With the right software, inventory control can be a breeze. 

Want to improve your inventory management techniques with a user-friendly app? Book a demo with BlueCart to get started! 

6. Order In Advance Options 

Allow customers to order dishes ahead of time. Even though this tactic goes hand in hand with delivery apps, the ability to order ahead of time is only seen in fast casual or quick service restaurant chains. Apps and eCommerce websites usually offer this option, and the convenience can influence many consumers to choose your restaurant over others. 

Whether your customers are on the go or would like to skip the line, ordering meals in advance boasts many perks. Plus, it gives you ample time to prepare and serve more customers in the long run. That sounds like a win-win for everyone! 

7. Voice Ordering

Voice ordering for restaurants is one of the more recent innovations within the industry. Customers enjoy using this feature, as it eliminates a lot of errors due to its high level of accuracy. You’ll often see this feature in casual restaurants; however, it’s certainly one of the most high-tech and advanced restaurant solutions. 

Frequently Asked Questions About a Smart Restaurant

The idea of a smart restaurant is new to many people, even those in the food and beverage industry. If you’d like to learn more about what makes a great restaurant a go-to option and which features can make a restaurant “smart,” we’ve got you covered! 

What Are the Features of a Good Restaurant?

Several of the best features of a good restaurant include:

• High-quality ingredients
• A variety of beverages 
• Stellar customer service 
• A comfortable atmosphere
• Quick and efficient operations 
• Safety and cleanliness
• A convenient location
• Easy-to-read menus 

What Are the Three Core Elements of a Successful Restaurant?

The three core elements of a successful restaurant include:

1. Food. A successful restaurant can’t exist without serving delicious food. Ensure that the menu items sound appealing, contain the freshest ingredients, and are prepared to perfection. 
2. Marketing. Without implementing an effective marketing strategy, any success your restaurant experiences will be thanks to sheer luck. Ensure that you design a complete strategy upon launching a restaurant. If you’re trying to revamp an already-existing restaurant, consider all of the elements of your current business model and choose strategic initiatives that best suit it. 
3. Customer Service. The way the restaurant staff treats customers is a major determinant of its success. A restaurant can serve the most exquisite meals and display stunning decor, but if the service isn’t positive, it can quickly diminish the restaurant’s reputation. Ensure that you hire a friendly and attentive staff that can maintain customer satisfaction. 

What Are the Qualities of a Five Star Restaurant?

Five star restaurants usually include the following qualities:

• An attentive wait staff
• Unique meal options 
• A prix fixe menu
• A wine pairing for each course
• High-quality types of alcohol
• A warm and inviting ambiance 

What Are Qualities of a Smart Restaurant? 

Some of the qualities that you’ll likely find in a smart restaurant include:

• Kiosks 
• Touchscreens 
• QR codes 
• Mobile apps
• Voice ordering features 
• Tableside devices
• Robotic serving technology 

Why Do Smart Restaurants Stand Out?

Smart restaurants stand out for the way they implement innovation and unique features. By adding smart technology to their business model, many restaurant owners are able to offer customers a much more enjoyable experience. 

Work Smarter, Not Harder 

Sometimes, adding smart technology to a restaurant business is more effective than traditional methodologies. As the food and beverage industry evolves, you’ll want to find ways to stand out amongst your competitors. By launching a smart restaurant, business owners and customers alike can be more efficient.