How about trying robot-crafted chicken wings?
Written by Wes Davis, a weekend editor specializing in the latest tech and entertainment news. With a background in tech journalism since 2020, Wes has covered a wide range of topics including news and reviews.
In rural America, there’s a lesser-known secret: some of the best fried delicacies can be found at gas stations (or, as I discovered on a recent road trip, surprisingly delectable tikka masala). However, a convenience store chain is aiming to revolutionize this notion with the introduction of a robotic fry cook to replace the traditional human cook, who may sometimes carry the scent of a recent smoke break while expertly preparing fried chicken liver.
Re-Up, the convenience store chain, has unveiled “The Wingman,” a robotic fry cook developed by Nala Robotics. This innovative machine submerges fry baskets into hot oil, coats chicken wings in sauce, and then deposits the finished product into containers for customers to enjoy (as depicted in the accompanying video). Promising “advanced artificial intelligence technology,” the company states that customers can expect fully customizable fried chicken, french fries, and various other menu items from this automated chef.
According to a statement from the company, “The Wingman is immune to illness, capable of working continuously, and proficient in preparing a wide range of dishes, thereby enhancing quality and reducing labor expenses.”
However, Re-Up’s vision extends beyond just incorporating robot fry cooks. Founder Michael Salafia emphasizes that “by leveraging AI capabilities, we can offer our patrons convenient, personalized, and secure shopping and dining experiences.” While I personally always felt secure in the presence of Chet, who never failed to remember my usual order, it seems like the future is now upon us, ushering in a new era of culinary automation.
Re-Up currently operates nine stores, with plans for expansion, including a recent opening near Melbourne Orlando International Airport in Melbourne, Florida. Additional locations in Georgia, Mississippi, Florida, and Alabama are detailed on Re-Up’s website, which showcases an intriguing image of a robotic arm playfully dipping its mechanical finger into a latte:
An image depicting a robotic arm delicately touching the surface of a latte.
The concept of robotic kitchens is not entirely novel, with major chains like McDonald’s and Chipotle exploring robotic advancements in their operations. Nala introduced its Wingman machine in 2022, along with other automated solutions for sandwich-making and pizza preparation. While the idea of robotic chefs may indeed represent the future of culinary experiences, certain challenges such as cost-efficiency, maintenance reliability, and operational complexities need to be addressed. It’s hard to envision this future when witnessing a robot struggle to plate a sandwich, although human cooks like Chet have also had their share of mishaps, like serving a sunny-side-up egg with a broken yolk.
