digidenki Japan Digital Lifestyle

The ISSA restaurant chain in Japan introduced an interactive ordering and menu system for their customers.

Each table is equipped with a deatchable tablet PC like device featuring a 10 inch high resolution touch screen. Visitors can browse the menu, look for seasonal specialties or find a cocktail that suits their current mood.

Orders can be placed by simply clicking on the desired items and are then sent via WLAN to the kitchen and the order tracking system. It is also possible to check the current balance or re-order items separately.

This could be the first step towards replacing traditional menu cards and maybe also replacing the human resources necessary for taking orders and recommending meals to the customers.

A logical step would be to integrate FELICA RFID readers into these devices so customer could pay right at their desk using their mobile phones.

And who knows perhaps the next step would then be to abolish the tablet device completely and let the mobile phone handle everything from checking the menu, placing an order up to payment.