As we approach 2025, we’re all wondering which restaurant technology trends will dominate over the next year.
The industry is at a pivotal moment.Technology continues to evolve, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible while addressing some of the industry’s biggest challenges. But with so many cool tools and trends vying for attention, it’s becoming harder for operators to separate hype from what will truly make a difference.
From advanced POS systems, robotics, AI, and drones, all of the latest tools promise to change how restaurants operate. Yet, amid all this innovation, the heart of the business remains the same: delivering exceptional hospitality. The key is using technology to support that mission, not replace it. Here’s a look at the restaurant technology trends our team thinks are poised to shape the industry in 2025 and beyond.
Advanced POS Systems
Advanced POS systems are evolving beyond their traditional role as simple cash registers and becoming the central nervous system of modern restaurant operations. These systems refine the order processing flow such that servers, and even patrons, can enter orders directly into the system, and it communicates real-time with the kitchen. It can handle the payment transactions and supports various payment methods, including credit cards, mobile and contactless payments.
These systems can now integrate with other technologies like online ordering platforms, inventory management tools, loyalty programs, and advanced analytics. This consolidation of features into a single platform enables restaurants to manage operations more efficiently, reduce errors, and enhance both the employee and guest experience. In an industry where speed, accuracy, and adaptability are critical, advanced POS systems provide the foundation for streamlined workflows and data-driven decision-making.
The trend toward advanced POS systems will accelerate even further in 2025 as restaurants continue to prioritize technology that delivers personalized guest experiences and greater operational efficiency. Features like AI-driven recommendations, real-time sales insights, and mobile compatibility are becoming standard, enabling restaurants to respond to customer needs dynamically. As dining preferences shift and off-premises channels grow, advanced POS systems that integrate seamlessly with delivery and takeout services will be essential for staying competitive. This evolution ensures that POS systems remain a cornerstone of restaurant technology, driving both profitability and innovation.
Robotics and Kitchen Automation
Robotics and Kitchen AutomationRobotics and kitchen automation started to make some noise in 2024. This restaurant technology trend is likely to redefine restaurant operations in 2025, addressing some of the industry’s most pressing challenges including labor shortages, operational efficiency, and consistency in food preparation.
Automated cooking systems, robotic arms, and food assembly lines are already being piloted in fast-casual and quick-service restaurants, streamlining repetitive tasks like frying, chopping, and assembling dishes. These technologies can operate continuously without breaks, significantly increasing output during peak hours while reducing the margin for human error. For restaurants, this means faster service, more consistent food quality, and the ability to reallocate staff to more guest-focused roles.
Beyond efficiency, robotics and automation provide a solution for rising labor costs and high turnover rates, enabling restaurants to optimize labor distribution and reduce dependency on hard-to-fill positions. These systems also bring advanced capabilities, such as integrated data tracking for inventory management, automated cleaning processes, and enhanced food safety protocols.
In 2025, more restaurants are likely to adopt these technologies, not only as a response to operational pain points but also as a competitive differentiator. Using robotics to streamline kitchen workflows and improve consistency, restaurants can enhance their ability to meet guest expectations while maintaining profitability in an increasingly challenging industry landscape.
AI
While AI has the potential to revolutionize the restaurant industry, many operators are still in the process of figuring out how to use their data effectively.
According to a survey conducted by TouchBistro, while 95% of the restaurants reported using some form of AI, the most common applications were still relatively basic, such as AI-assisted inventory management, AI menu optimization, and AI reservations/bookings.
While AI is used in some drive-thru operations today, in 2025, AI will bring enhanced customer service and more sophisticated chatbots. They’ll continue to take orders and upsell to assist with front-line service.
The biggest challenges with AI come from the lack of standardization of the data and that existing data is often siloed in a system and hard to extract or integrate into an analytics platform. This means many restaurants are still making decisions based on incomplete information or they are relying on manual data compilation which is extremely time-consuming and prone to errors.
It’s also important to note that restaurant operators want to be cautious of too much dependance on AI, which can take away from the personal touch that consumers want in certain dining experiences.
Vendor and Technology Consolidation
One of the biggest restaurant technology trends, we believe, is vendor and technology consolidation and this topic isn’t getting enough attention.
Today, the overwhelming amount of technology used daily in restaurants has become increasingly complex, creating fatigue for both employees and management.
As restaurants rely on more tools and automation to handle everything from AI and loyalty programs to online ordering and food safety systems, the sheer number of vendors and integrations has become challenging. Employees must juggle multiple platforms day in and day out and what was supposed to deliver efficiencies ends up taking more time, costing more, and creating operational headaches.
Restaurant operators need streamlined, integrated platforms. The tools must solve technical problems and allow restaurants to focus on what they do best: creating memorable guest experiences. By adopting fewer, smarter solutions, restaurants can embrace innovation without losing the personal touch behind hospitality. It’s not about replacing human interactions but using technology to deliver a greater impact.
Technology Supporting Hospitality
While this isn’t so much a trend, it’s the underlying reason we use technology.
In the restaurant industry, technology is there to enhance hospitality rather than replace it, reinforcing the importance of human connection in delivering exceptional guest experiences. Tools like advanced POS systems, AI-driven personalization, and automation are not designed to eliminate the human touch but to free up staff from repetitive, time-consuming tasks so they can focus on engaging with guests.
For example, AI can streamline back-end processes, such as inventory management or predictive analytics, while front-of-house staff can devote their attention to creating memorable interactions that build customer loyalty. The goal is not to remove people from the equation but to empower them with tools that make their jobs easier, more efficient, and more enjoyable.
When used thoughtfully, technology becomes an enabler of hospitality by providing deeper insights into guest preferences, streamlining workflows, and reducing friction throughout the dining experience. Features like personalized menu recommendations, faster payment options, and real-time order tracking improve the guest experience without overshadowing the warmth of human service.
By striking the right balance between automation and personal interaction, restaurants can elevate their service standards, creating a modern yet welcoming environment that keeps customers coming back. Ultimately, technology should serve as a silent partner, supporting operations while allowing that genuine human connection to shine.
What’s Next
Going forward, the challenge is not just about adopting the latest tools, but they also must be used in a way that supports what restaurants do best: serving people.
Whether it’s advanced POS systems, robotics, AI, or vendor consolidation, these restaurant technology trends offer opportunities to streamline operations, enhance guest experiences, and stay competitive. However, the ultimate success of these technologies will depend on how well they can help deliver hospitality. In 2025 and beyond, the restaurants that thrive will be those that embrace innovation without losing sight of the human connection at the heart of the dining experience.