[Wall Street Journal] Restaurants Try to Make It Easier to Pay, Keep Kids Entertained; Bigger Tips for Electronic Waiters?
The appetizer order is promptly taken. The check is presented and processed the moment you are ready to pay. The children are entertained throughout the meal. But it isn’t the waiter you have to thank for this efficient dining experience.
A growing number of restaurants including Chili’s Grill & Bar, EAT -2.60% Applebee’s, and Chevys Fresh Mex are using or testing small, interactive computer screens at the table. Diners can see glossy pictures of food, order menu items, and pay a check without a waiter.
Some of the devices also offer videogames, often for a fee, movie trailers, and news articles. Some have advertising; many plan to add it. Device makers hope to charge liquor companies for ads and retailers for coupons.
News
