The Most Innovative US Restaurants: Where AI and Robots are Changing the Dining Experience

The U.S. restaurant landscape is undergoing a true technological revolution. From artificial intelligence that cooks dishes with gram-level precision to virtual reality that turns dinner into a journey to another world, innovations are making meals not just delicious but unforgettable experiences. These establishments not only streamline operations, reducing waste and costs, but also offer futuristic service that appeals to both tech enthusiasts and everyday food lovers. Here’s a selection of seven standout tech-driven restaurants across the country where cutting-edge gadgets meet cuisine.

Manhattan-based Icca transforms classic sushi omakase into an immersive VR experience. Guests wear virtual reality headsets synchronized with the food: imagine “flying” over the ocean hunting for fish, then tasting fresh sushi served by the chefs. This technology not only entertains but also tells the story of each ingredient - from the fish’s origin to traditional preparation techniques. The menu focuses on premium sushi with seasonal touches, complemented by steamed appetizers and matcha-based desserts. In 2025, the restaurant expanded its VR offerings, collaborating with Michelin-starred chefs for special evenings.

Tesla’s futuristic diner isn’t just about food - it’s a hybrid of entertainment, EV charging, and retro-futurism. Located at the intersection of Santa Monica Boulevard and North Orange Drive, the spot features 80 Supercharger stations, making it the city’s largest EV hub. Orders are placed via the Tesla mobile app with seamless payment, and dishes are delivered on roller skates by servers, adding to the theatrical experience. An open kitchen lets guests watch the cooking in action, while giant screens stream sci-fi films and Tesla promos. The menu, crafted by chef Eric Greenspan, includes classic American favorites: tuna sandwiches, club sandwiches, chicken & waffles, and grilled cheeseburgers on Tartine bread, all served in Cybertruck-inspired packaging. Opened in summer 2025 as Elon Musk’s pilot project, it has already become a hotspot for tech enthusiasts.

In the heart of Silicon Valley, Burger Bots showcases how robots can act as “sous-chefs” without replacing humans. Two ABB Robotics machines - the IRB 360 FlexPicker and YuMi - assemble burgers in just 27 seconds, handling everything from meat grinding to chopping vegetables, adding sauces, and plating fries. The system monitors inventory in real time, ensuring consistency and hygiene. Staff focus on service, while guests enjoy fresh, customizable burgers made with premium ingredients. The menu features classic burgers, cheeseburgers, and fries, with vegan options available. Opened in April 2025 at 160 W Main St as part of the Oishi Mirai Group, the diner operates from morning until night, drawing tech enthusiasts from across the Valley.

A Korean BBQ with robot servers offers a playful fusion of tradition and futurism. Two Navia Robotics units deliver dishes to tables, the terrace, and even across ramps - easing the workload for staff during peak hours. Kids are delighted by the “moving tables,” while adults appreciate the speed and contactless service. The menu stays true to authentic Korean flavors: grilled meats, soups, side dishes, and banchan. Located in Los Angeles, the restaurant uses technology to streamline service, turning dinner into a dynamic yet relaxed experience.

The conveyor sushi system at Kura Sushi is a tech playground for food lovers. The Kur-B robot delivers drinks, while the “sushi highway” with RFID sensors and Mr. Fresh domes keeps sushi fresh. Ordering is done via tablets with animations and Bikkura Pon prizes: after 15 plates, guests enter a toy lottery. The menu features fresh sushi plates under domes and hot dishes on express belts. Located in Tampa (and across the U.S.), this setup makes dining fun and efficient while keeping human staff for a personal touch.

Another sushi spot with a tech twist features the Peanut robot, equipped with cameras and sensors, delivering drinks while singing safety songs, and a monorail system bringing orders directly to tables. Robots also shape rice balls and roll sheets, minimizing contact. The menu includes fresh sushi and hot dishes. In Lynwood, this setup entertains families, addresses staffing challenges, and makes service lightning-fast.

Shinjuku Station Revolving Sushi Bar is an all-you-can-eat spot where two robots complement the conveyor belt by delivering special orders from tablets. A key tech feature is AI routing, making the process playful and efficient. This unique East Coast destination emphasizes freshness and entertainment, operating independently with a focus on marketing itself as a “tech differentiator.”