Over Fifteen years ago, the concept of a tech-driven restaurant was brought to life on Wardour Street in Soho. INAMO opening in 2008, stood out not just for its excellent pan asian food but for its avant-garde integration of technology. We were introduced to the client and project by third party recommendation and through various early feasibility appraisals and design ideas we became part of the successful project team selection to implement the design brief.
You can catch the full podcast episode about Inamo here: INAMO PODCAST
The INAMO Experience
Projectors embedded in the ceiling beamed images onto tabletops, where integrated mouse mats allowed patrons to order food and drinks with ease. The restaurant even provided the unique feature of customizable virtual tablecloths. Customers could peer into the kitchen, settle bills, and engage in various activities—all projected onto their tables. While the idea of robot waiters was on the table, it never materialized. We have worked on various sites for Inamo over the years, The original Wardour Street site remains together with the site at Covent Garden, showcasing a technological marvel that was truly ahead of its time. Other developed kiosk units and development of the food offer has been seen in various food halls.
The integrated technology was the point of difference and initial reason to get you to dine at Inamo. It however was supported by the quality of the food and drinks offer to keep you coming back.
Challenges in Creation
Wardour Street, the inaugural location, presented a myriad of challenges. Operating within a complex area filled with recording studios, the construction schedule had to accommodate restricted working hours due to noise restrictions and accommodation for recording hours whilst also the partial residential nature of the adjacent sites also prevented nightime working. The landlocked basement setting further complicated matters, requiring meticulous planning for a bar and kitchen with delivery issues and ongoing general access. Integrating technology, including projectors with potential heat buildup, demanded careful consideration of air flows to maintain optimal temperatures within sealed ceiling voids.
The Evolution of Technology
As subsequent restaurants emerged, technology evolved. Hand movements replaced mouse mats, pushing the boundaries of interactive dining. The INAMO concept, initially groundbreaking, continued to elevate itself with each iteration.
Some of the modern day restaurants we now are so familiar with on the high street, show in a partial way their origins or evolution in ideas, from what was achieved with Inamo at Wardour Street. Matters of screens showing the kitchen preparing food, electronic walk away payment through the app and customer interaction with the app inputs and outputs are all adapted or representative of what many restaurants are now doing through their online and instore digital presence.
Future Prospects
While the term “gimmick” may not entirely capture the essence, the technological draw of INAMO continues to captivate patrons. Amidst the ever-growing landscape of restaurant technology, the focus remains on complementing the dining experience rather than overshadowing it. Basic necessities like till systems and music zoning have evolved into sophisticated audio-visual setups, including cinema spaces and sports bars. Technology today is a layered environment to supplement your dining experience.
Emerging Trends
Looking ahead, the future holds promise for innovations like customer-based payments, exemplified by establishments like Wagamamas. Simplified and portable till systems, accompanied by an increased use of screens in kitchen operations, signal a shift towards efficiency and adaptability.
The rise of technology in hospitality is viewed as both positive and negative. It introduces new job opportunities, particularly for the tech-savvy younger generation. The under-30 demographic, having grown up with technology, is seen as naturally adept at integrating it into the industry.
Words of Wisdom for Tech Integration
For businesses contemplating technological integration, forward thinking is key. The advice is to future-proof operations, recognizing that technology evolves rapidly. What was once hardwired with Cat 4 cables has now transitioned through to modern Cat 6e, with an ever growing reliance and reversion to WiFi systems. The guiding principle is to consider how technology may function in the future.
In conclusion, our experience of providing our services on INAMO restaurants is not just a chapter in culinary history but a testament to the transformative power of technology in shaping the dining experience. As the dining experience continues to evolve, the integration of technology promises to be a dynamic and exciting journey for both patrons and restaurateurs alike.
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