Ocean Springs restaurant introduces new robot server
OCEAN SPRINGS, Miss. (WXXV)- An Ocean Springs restaurant is adding a high-tech twist to customer service.
Meet Sassy T2, the newest member of the team at Lancaster’s in Ocean Springs.
Owners Rodney and Tansy Lancaster say the robotic server has quickly become a big help in the dining room. “It definitely cut down on the time that the food’s sitting.”
Instead of waiting on a server to step away from a table, Sassy T2 delivers food straight from the kitchen, keeping orders moving and customers served faster. “If our girls are at a table taking an order and they have food come in the window, we don’t have to wait on her to get through taking that order then come back to the window. Our cooks put it on the tray and send it to the table. The girl’s already out here taking an order so she sees it happening, so she’ll go right over to the table to check and make sure they got everything. You still have contact with your waitress at all times.”
While many customers love the new addition, the Lancasters say some were a little hesitant at first. “You have some that are not quite sure, but when we explain what it’s doing, they feel a lot better about it. Again, we’re not looking to take jobs, we’re just helping what’s already here.”
The Lancasters stress the robot is meant to support their staff, not replace them. They say it helps create a fun atmosphere while employees stay focused on customer service and day-to-day operations. “It’s a little entertainment. She plays music and can sing happy birthday.” “The kids love it.” “It’s a fun asset to have.”
The Lancasters say they’re continuing to grow, with a second location set to open in Long Beach this summer. It will be inside the new Whiskey Hotel and they are hoping to open in June.
