Diana Farah

DUBAI: Kimura-ya, popular Japanese restaurant in Dubai, has introduced state-of-the-art robot servers in collaboration with SoftBank Robotics, making dining an innovative and entertaining experience for guests.

The robots, nicknamed “Peanut,” deliver dishes directly to diners’ tables, blending cutting-edge technology with traditional Japanese hospitality.

Executive General Manager Yoshinobu Anzai told Arab News Japan the inspiration behind the initiative: “I wanted to introduce something unique and entertaining. Many restaurants in Dubai just have waiters, but with these robots, families, especially kids, can enjoy a memorable experience.”

Anzai highlighted that the robots, which speak some Japanese phrases like “Irasshaimase” (welcome), reinforce the authentic Japanese atmosphere Kimura-ya strives to create.

The collaboration with SoftBank Robotics began when the technology company approached Kimura-ya at the perfect time. “When we were first considering robots two years ago, they were too expensive. But now, the timing and pricing were right, so we moved forward,” Anzai said.

Operationally, the robots have proven invaluable during busy periods.

“They help when we’re short-staffed or during peak hours when serving heavy plates can be challenging,” Anzai said. “This frees our waiters to spend more time conversing with customers, enhancing the overall dining experience.”

Kimura-ya currently has a total of four robots deployed across its UAE branches, and plans to expand their use to other locations across the UAE and potentially the wider Arab world, including Saudi Arabia.

“Whenever we open new branches, we’re considering implementing robot service, depending on the style and space of the restaurant,” Anzai said.

Jeca Roxas, Assistant Restaurant Manager at Kimura-ya, told Arab News Japan how the robots have transformed daily operations.

“The robots really help us provide better customer satisfaction. We see how amazed and happy our guests are when their food is delivered by a robot,” Roxas said. “It has also made our work smoother. Before, we had to carry heavy trays, but now the robots take care of it, allowing our staff to focus on engaging with customers.”

Roxas said that the robots have improved staff well-being, too.

“Since the robots handle the physical part of serving, we’re less tired at the end of the day and can spend more time upselling or attending to customers’ needs,” she added. Guests, especially children, have embraced the robots, often requesting to have their meals delivered by them.

In the heart of Dubai, Kimura-ya combines traditional Japanese flavors with innovative service, offering diners a glimpse of Japan’s technological expertise.