"Better Days Robotic Kitchens, a new counter-service chain promising affordable Mediterranean-inspired meals prepared by robots, opened its first two locations across Miami this month. The restaurant company combines human chef-prepared ingredients with robotic cooking technology and currently operates in South Miami and Coral Gables, with a Brickell location coming soon. The restaurant takes a hybrid approach to food prep. Human chefs working in a central commissary kitchen handle the initial prep work—cutting vegetables, seasoning meats, and developing base flavors. The prepped ingredients are then delivered to individual locations, where robotic arms transfer them into temperature-controlled storage. When orders come in, the robotic system retrieves ingredients and uses algorithm-guided ovens to create the final dish. The menu focuses on customizable meals priced between $12 and $15, which include a main dish and two sides. Entree options include lemon dill salmon, tandoori chicken thighs in yogurt sauce, beef meatballs with Grana Padano, and pasta dishes like four-cheese mac and spicy rigatoni. Sides range from turmeric-roasted cauliflower to wild rice pilaf with dried fruit and nuts. The restaurant also offers Basque cheesecake and chocolate brownies for dessert. Customers can order through on-site kiosks, the restaurant’s website, or delivery apps including Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub. The company plans to expand to additional Miami locations, though specific neighborhoods haven’t been announced." - Olee Fowler
