Holding company Cali Group has joined forces with Miso Robotics, the innovator behind Flippy (the pioneering AI-powered robotic fry station), and PopID, a technology firm streamlining ordering and payments through biometrics.
Together, they announced the upcoming launch of CaliExpress by Flippy, heralded as the world's first fully autonomous restaurant. This establishment will deploy state-of-the-art food technology systems, automating both grill and fry stations by combining artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics.
CaliExpress by Flippy
Located in a prime retail spot in Pasadena, California, at 561 E. Green St., the new CaliExpress by Flippy will redefine the dining experience for guests.
Patrons will witness the robotic preparation of their meals after checking in with their PopID accounts at self-ordering kiosks, allowing for personalized order recommendations and seamless payments.
The restaurant's technological prowess promises an efficient and safe environment for employees. For customers, incorporating diverse technologies in CaliExpress by Flippy ensures the delivery of freshly prepared burgers at competitive prices.
A noteworthy feature is the grill robot, which grinds high-quality beef in real-time upon receiving an order, resulting in a l burger patty. Flippy, the renowned robotic fry station, adds to the menu by offering crispy, hot fries made from premium-grade potatoes.
"To our knowledge, this is the world's first operating restaurant where both ordering and every single cooking process are fully automated," John Miller, CEO of PopID and board member of Miso Robotics, said in a statement.
"The marriage of these various technologies to create the most autonomous restaurant in the world is the culmination of years of research, development, and investment in a family of revolutionary companies," he added.
Pseudo-Museum Experience
In addition to its culinary offerings, CaliExpress by Flippy will feature a pseudo-museum experience curated by Miso Robotics. Visitors can explore dancing robot arms from retired Flippy units, experimental 3D-printed artifacts from past developments, photographic displays, and more.
The space is crafted not just to provide food but also to motivate the upcoming generation of kitchen AI and automation entrepreneurs. Local schools and educational groups are encouraged to inquire about the tours, fostering inspiration and learning in culinary technology.
"AI-powered, robotic order-taking and cooking enables the major chains that feed America to substantially improve quality, consistency and speed," said Rich Hull, CEO of Miso Robotics.
"Miso is proud to partner with Cali Group and PopID to make CaliExpress by Flippy a reality. Flippy has been an incredible success story and now everyone in Southern California can come take a look - and a taste - for themselves," he added.