How is technology affecting the restaurant industry?

Technology continues to redefine how we live, work, and eat, and the restaurant industry is no exception. From the rise of AI-driven recommendations to automated kitchens, the modern dining experience is more connected, efficient, and personalised than ever before.

Here are six of the biggest ways technology is changing the restaurant industry in 2025, for better and sometimes, for worse.

1. AI-driven reviews and reputation management

Online reviews have always mattered, but in 2025, they’re smarter and faster. AI-powered platforms now aggregate customer sentiment across social media, Google, and delivery apps in real time. That means you can gain instant insight into guest satisfaction.

For restaurateurs, managing digital reputation is now about more than responding to bad Google reviews. It’s about using data analytics to understand trends, fix issues before they spread, and turn feedback into actionable business intelligence.

2. Connecting with guests through social and storytelling

The relationship between you and your customers is more direct than ever. Chefs and owners use platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Threads to share behind-the-scenes moments, recipes, and even livestream cooking sessions.

Social storytelling helps restaurants build communities, not just customer lists. In 2025, diners want to know and connect with the people behind the food, and tech gives restaurateurs the tools to turn that authenticity into loyalty.

3. Frictionless convenience: Mobile, delivery, and beyond

The modern diner expects speed, personalisation, and zero friction. Mobile ordering, contactless payments, and smart kiosks are now industry standard. AI-powered systems can even predict popular orders based on weather, time of day, or local events.

Restaurants, in turn, are leveraging this data to optimise staffing, reduce waste, and keep menus agile updating items on the fly to match ingredient availability or seasonal trends.

4. QR codes evolve into smart menus

During the pandemic, QR codes exploded. Since then,  they’ve evolved into full “smart menus.” In 2025, scanning a QR code might pull up an interactive menu with photos, allergen filters, and AI-powered wine pairings.

These digital menus also allow for instant feedback and loyalty integration, giving guests more control and restaurants more insight than ever before.

5. Location intelligence and personalised marketing

Geolocation tech has matured from simple check-ins to powerful location intelligence. Restaurants can now identify and engage nearby customers with personalised offers, or retarget diners who haven’t visited in a while.

Ethical use of this data is key. But when it’s done right, it allows businesses to deliver marketing that feels timely, relevant, and personal, never spammy.

6. Digital loyalty and smart discounts

Coupons have gone digital, and AI has made them smarter. Instead of blanket discounts that erode brand value, modern loyalty programmes reward behaviours like repeat visits, referrals, or sustainable choices.

These programmes not only boost retention, but also create deeper connections between restaurants and their most loyal guests.

Technology is no longer optional. It’s the backbone of how modern restaurants attract, serve, and retain customers. While not every innovation will be a perfect fit for every restaurant, those who embrace the right tech will be the ones shaping the future of dining.

Reach out to our experts now to learn more about the right technology for you and your restaurant.