Uploaded May 2026 | Updated September 2026, 18 hours ago
Despite the many opportunities AI presents for independent restaurants, from marketing strategy to customer engagement, many owners and operators remain hesitant in adoption. Beyond implementation costs as a top concern, over one-third of respondents from our 2026 Independent Restaurant Industry Report felt a lack of relevance to their businesses—suggesting a gap in understanding these tools can translate into sustainable growth.
Stephanie Perrone, Principal and thought leader in Deloitte's Travel and Hospitality practice with a focus on Tech, AI and Data Strategy, provides an overview of AI solutions most found in restaurants, and chef-owners share specific examples of how they are making AI work for their businesses. This session serves to bridge the gap between AI potential and restaurant application, offering research-backed strategies you can implement immediately.
Despite the many opportunities AI presents for independent restaurants, from marketing strategy to customer engagement, many owners and operators remain hesitant in adoption. Beyond implementation costs as a top concern, over one-third of respondents from our 2026 Independent Restaurant Industry Report felt a lack of relevance to their businesses—suggesting a gap in understanding these tools can translate into sustainable growth.
Stephanie Perrone, Principal and thought leader in Deloitte's Travel and Hospitality practice with a focus on Tech, AI and Data Strategy, provides an overview of AI solutions most found in restaurants, and chef-owners share specific examples of how they are making AI work for their businesses. This session serves to bridge the gap between AI potential and restaurant application, offering research-backed strategies you can implement immediately.
