Estacada, Oregon — In the wake of the pandemic, one Estacada restaurant owner has embraced innovation to enhance the dining experience for her patrons and alleviate the strain on her hardworking staff.
Sherry Andrus, owner of a popular steakhouse and bar, has introduced “Plato,” an endearing small robot designed to assist servers during busy hours. Contrary to misconceptions, Plato’s presence is not about replacing humans; instead, it aims to complement the exceptional service that Andrus’s restaurant has become known for.
The Cazadero Steakhouse
Plato, one of only twenty robots of its kind in the world, debuted in April and quickly caught the attention of locals and intrigued diners from afar. The idea of a robot seamlessly navigating a bustling dining room to deliver delectable dishes garnered widespread curiosity and excitement. Numerous supporters from different states expressed their eagerness to visit the restaurant and experience the novelty of having Plato serve their meals.
However, with every innovation comes apprehension, and Sherry Andrus faced some initial backlash. Some diners were hesitant about the idea of being served by a robot, expressing their reservations about AI and technology in a hospitality setting. Andrus acknowledges these concerns but is eager to clarify the true purpose of Plato.
Contrary to the misconceptions, Plato is not replacing any of the dedicated humans employed at the steakhouse. Instead, it works in harmony with the servers and bartenders, acting as an efficient assistant during busy periods. For the restaurant’s hardworking staff, Plato’s presence is a game-changer, especially on hectic evenings. With the robot handling food delivery, servers can now devote their full attention to patrons, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable dining experience.
“Andrus said, ‘As a server, as a bartender, I don’t have to be stressing that bell is dinging and all these people’s food is up. I know Plato is there. I can focus on you 100% [and] Plato can bring the food as soon as I am done,'” recounts one of the servers at the steakhouse. “I could go to those people and go, ‘How is everything?’ And they can go, ‘I need some ranch dressing,’ and I’m like, ‘Let me go grab that for you.’ I am not replacing one single person with Plato.”
Sherry Andrus is no stranger to the challenges faced by restaurant owners in the region. The pandemic, a decline in customers, rising costs, and a labor shortage have tested her resilience over the past five years. Moreover, being situated in a remote location like Estacada comes with its own set of recruitment difficulties. The limited pool of local talent often makes hiring a struggle, prompting Andrus to explore innovative solutions.
With Plato by her side, Andrus can offer better support to her dedicated staff, even if some diners are initially unsure about the robot’s presence. While Plato may not win over everyone, those who embrace the technological advancement will benefit from improved service and quicker response times.
“It’s just being open-minded enough to understand why the tool was implemented in the first place,” Andrus emphasizes. “I want them to have more quality time with the guests, and that’s what Plato helps us do.”
Andrus assures diners that while Plato may bring your dinner plate, it’s essential to continue tipping the servers who work diligently to ensure a memorable dining experience. Thanks to Plato’s assistance, guests can expect shorter wait times, hotter food, and an overall heightened level of attention from the restaurant’s attentive staff.
In conclusion, Plato, the unassuming robot, is making waves in the hospitality industry for all the right reasons. Embracing technology as an ally, Sherry Andrus’s steakhouse in Estacada sets a commendable example of how innovation and human interaction can harmoniously coexist to create an unforgettable dining experience for all who venture through its doors.
p.s. We love small business, so we think Plato is great if it helps her stay in business, Check them out, they are worth the drive. https://cazontheriver.com/
