A table for two: Designing restaurant experiences for the AI era

Loved ones often celebrate Valentine’s Day with shared meals, meaningful conversations, and moments that become lasting memories. But behind every seamless celebration is an experience designed far from a restaurant’s dining table. As diners grow more discerning about where and how they spend, restaurant operators that stand out are those that elevate the dining experience through technology, data, and compassionate leadership.

“It is possible for us to infuse hospitality while simultaneously inserting technology that makes it easier for both the guest and the employees,” said Chip Wade, CEO of Union Square Hospitality Group, in a conversation with Senior Partner Ben Mathews

For more on the rapidly evolving restaurant landscape and how leading operators are balancing innovation with hospitality, explore the insights below.

‘How many new memories did we create?’ Rethinking restaurant success

What US consumers want from restaurants in 2026

How the world’s largest restaurant franchise operator uses AI

‘The demise of the dining room is greatly exaggerated’: Cava’s CEO on dining’s next chapter

What’s on the menu? Revenue growth techniques for restaurants