Implementing new systems is expensive and mistakes can be devastating. And for some concepts it is possible that the presence of employees is actually a competitive advantage of a restaurant. Compared to grocery stores and gas stations, many people come to restaurants precisely because they want a little human interaction. Andy Wiederhorn, CEO of Fatburger, which is testing tablet systems at his restaurant chain, Buffalo's Cafe, doubts whether the technological improvements are panning out. be enough to keep up with mandated salary increases, especially when real people can be his best sales tool. “I think tablets have a place at the table, but it's pretty hard to ask questions, get suggestions from a tablet. I don't think they replace a server, they make them more efficient," Wiederhorn said. "We sell burgers and shakes and fries and [customers] want to talk to someone and say, 'Here's how I want it.' So I think in the hospitality industry, assuming that technology will take over workers is a false assumption.