Under the creative direction of the Corporate Director of Culinary, Chef Nalendra Anindita, JHL Collection is transforming dining experiences by incorporating augmented reality and interactive elements into its culinary offerings.
In an ever-evolving culinary landscape, food trends shift rapidly, with new restaurants emerging monthly and innovative concepts reshaping our dining experiences. The way we eat has transformed significantly, influenced not only by changing tastes but also by advancements in technology. Nowadays, it’s common to see diners snapping photos of their meals before taking a bite, capturing those moments not just for social media but as a way to remember the unique dishes they’ve enjoyed.
As technology continues to advance, its impact on dining becomes increasingly evident. From the convenience of food delivery apps to the rise of digital menus, these innovations have redefined how we interact with food. Some restaurants are pushing the boundaries further by incorporating augmented reality (AR) into their offerings.
In Asia, particularly in Japan and China, the use of robotic servers has become a fascinating aspect of dining. The Henn-na Hotel in Japan employs robots to serve food and drinks, showcasing how technology can create memorable dining experiences. This trend has also been embraced by the JHL Collection, which introduced robotic food delivery systems, such as BellaBot, to minimize contact during the COVID-19 pandemic. This innovative approach not only enhances safety but also adds a touch of novelty to the dining experience.
An Elevated Dining Experiences with AR Concept
When it comes to dining, the experience should be as memorable as the food itself. JHL Collection understands this sentiment deeply, positioning itself not just as a hotel operator but as a catalyst for tailored experiences that cater to every guest’s unique needs. With a vision to be the Light in Hospitality, JHL Collection embodies its guiding principles of LIGHT management—Limitless, Integrity, Growth, Helpfulness, and Thinking Outside the Box. These values are not just words on a wall; they are woven into the very fabric of the dining experience, ensuring that technology enhances every moment spent at their establishments.
As I reflect on my own dining experiences, I can’t help but appreciate how technology has transformed the way we interact with food. JHL Collection aims to achieve this transformation through augmented reality (AR), allowing guests to visualize dishes before making a choice. Chef Nalendra Anindita, the Corporate Director of Food & Beverage, emphasizes the importance of flexibility and adaptability in navigating the ever-changing landscape of the hospitality industry.
“Augmented reality for food isn’t a new concept; many have already implemented pop-up features. However, our goal is to educate. We collaborate with many small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and teams passionate about food and beverage, aiming to elevate the experience. One of JHL’s missions is to grow together, both internally and with our surroundings,” he explains.
Guests will have the opportunity to interact with a digital tree that showcases the harvesting process of honey through a captivating video, along with exploring interactive puzzles that enhance their understanding of the dishes on offer.
“When guests enter the restaurant and open the menu, they might find pop-ups and stories familiar. But we want to introduce an interactive element, like puzzles or quizzes. For example, upon entering, guests will see a honey frame that, when opened, reveals a tall tree. Have you ever seen the harvesting process? It will display a real video captured with drones, showcasing the entire experience. By clicking, guests can learn about the flavors, which come not from essence but from the bees, guiding them to the pollen of coffee and berries,” adds Chef Nalendra.
Different outlets across JHL hotels will feature unique AR experiences based on their signature menus. “For instance, at Episode Gading Serpong Hotel, the Peranakan theme will highlight the origins of the dishes, supported by a documentary that showcases our collaborations,” he notes.
In terms of culinary offerings, JHL Collection collaborates with SMEs to present dishes like Peking Duck and Laksa, along with their signature breakfast items, such as avocado dishes from their healthy corner. “We even grow our own ingredients; each hotel has a plantation and nursery garden supported by JSI Plantation,” Chef Nalendra shares.
Chef Nalendra Anindita’s Culinary Vision
Chef Nalendra Anindita, the Corporate Director of Culinary at JHL Collection, is the creative force behind the innovative dining experiences at all JHL properties. His passion for crafting menus ensures that each dish reflects his artistic vision while aligning with the restaurant’s style and guest expectations.
“I want my creations to be appreciated in my home country, and JHL Collection has embraced my vision,” he shares. This dedication motivates Chef Nalendra to ensure that every dish he presents is not only valued but also celebrated by guests.
To further enhance the dining experience and stay ahead of culinary trends, he actively engages with the food community. By subscribing to industry publications, participating in culinary associations, and exploring new dining spots, Chef Nalendra continuously seeks inspiration and knowledge.
Setting the Trend
As JHL Collection prepares to launch its augmented reality features in March during Ramadan, the team is committed to setting trends in the culinary world. “We aim to set the trend,” Chef Nalendra states, emphasizing the importance of thorough analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in their approach. The implementation of AR technology is not just a gimmick; it is a carefully planned initiative that encompasses everything from sourcing quality ingredients to maintaining the program’s practical and technological aspects. With a focus on innovation and guest satisfaction, JHL Collection is poised to redefine dining experiences, ensuring that every meal is not just a meal but a memorable journey for every guest.
