The Futuristic Way Philadelphians Will Soon Be Able To Grab A Burger
The robots are here and they want to make us hamburgers. Sounds like a science fiction movie, right? Nope, it's real ... and the burgers are reportedly delicious. Although the world's first automated vending machine for hamburgers, RoboBurger, is currently only available in the Newport Centre Mall in Jersey City, New Jersey, Biz Journals reports that the company behind the innovative food concept is looking to expand into Philadelphia by the end of the year.
As Biz Journals notes, it only takes about six minutes for the vending machine to complete the five-step process to make the burgers, and they're completely customizable. Consumers can choose their own condiments, for example, using a touch screen. Even better, per Eat This, Not That, the burgers feature high-quality grass-fed beef patties and only cost $6.99. No, you don't have to carry around 28 quarters just in case you're hungry. Credit cards are accepted, and so are Apple Pay and Google Pay. The 12-square-foot vending machines come complete with built-in refrigerators, griddles, and self-cleaning systems, and dispense burgers in two bays.
Finally, the hamburger-making robots are here
RoboBurger was the brainchild of CEO Audley Wilson, who officially co-founded the company in 2019, along with partners Dan Braido and Andy Siegel. His idea for a robot chef in a plug-in vending machine, however, goes back much farther. "I started RoboBurger in my garage 17 years ago," Wilson said via PR Newswire. "Now there couldn't be a better time to bring it to life and have everyone experience it. RoboBurger gives everyone freshly grilled, delicious burgers — while ensuring a safe, contactless experience. RoboBurger always comes out piping hot and is never pre-cooked and kept warm."
The company is headquartered in Newark, New Jersey, but is currently looking for retail partners in Philadelphia, per Biz Journals. If the concept gains traction, the vending machines could soon be installed in dorm rooms, hospitals, and airports, as well as other spaces where hot food options may not be readily available.