Meet Bella, the robot with cutting-edge technology that just launched at The View Cafe and Bar. She brings a down-to-earth approach to the fine-dining experience at the new Heights hotel in Portland’s culinary-forward neighborhood. Bella, created by Chinese tech firm Pudu, was designed to serve and engage with customers. She enhances customer experience within the coffee shop environment.
Bella’s sporting female weight is 55 kg (121 lb). Thanks to her cutting edge obstacle avoidance technology, she moves with grace and speed through the cafe. This clever creation means she can make her way through crowded spaces without obstructing onboard service. Attendees are in for a treat with exuberant performances by Bella. She’s even programmed to serve cake, hold conversations, and sing Happy Birthday at birthday parties!
This is how Mike Deadman, assistant manager of The View Cafe and Bar, introduced Bella. To this, he was inspired by the similar technology he had seen in cafes and restaurants worldwide. He made clear that Bella isn’t meant to replace staff already on the ground but instead help support them.
“I think [Bella] will complement existing services but I certainly don’t think it’ll replace the human touch,” – Mike Deadman
Bella’s launch comes after a successful trial at Bella Italia throughout 2022. At The View Cafe and Bar, she truly shines as a technological marvel. She charms patrons with her magnetic personality. When a person pets Bella’s fur, she offers positive feedback such as, “Whoa, your hands are warm! With this simple interaction comes a powerful personal connection to the diners.
The investment in Bella was significant, at a cost of just under £9,000. Deadman promises her arrival won’t mean layoffs for the cafe’s team of baristas. Rather, Bella’s mission is to enrich the dining experience by complementing and augmenting service from human employees.
Automation is sweeping across every industry, and Bella is at the forefront in the hospitality space. She represents a watershed moment in combining technology with people-powered service. Just as good at developing customer relationships, she efficiently multitasks. This experience and skills makes her an invaluable asset at The View Cafe and Bar.
