Virtual Restaurants: A Singular Dining Experience

As far as most experiences go, we like to keep ours decidedly on the side of the real, but with the internet increasingly taking over more aspects of our lives, that’s becoming a bit more difficult. Thankfully though, the digital realms haven’t managed to find adequate replacements for some things, eating and drinking chief among them, until recently perhaps.

The NY Times points to the strange trend of virtual bars and restaurants that are popping up on the web, a concept that is becoming so popular in fact, that one such establishment, Air Yakiniku, is now the 29th most searched site on Yahoo. Combining the comforting psychology of the crackling fireplace videos of yesteryear with interactive elements both real and digital, this virtual Korean BBQ joint invites visitors to participate in a one-of-a-kind dining experience that takes the idea of eating alone to new heights.

Users are instructed to print out paper aprons to keep the “grease” from spattering on their clothing and encouraged to have real bowls of rice and dipping sauce on hand to add an extra layer of engagement. From there diners can select from amongst slices of chicken, pork and beef and watch on screen as they cook (complete with sound effects). When a bell goes off, the meat is done and you’re able to, one would imagine, eat, but therein lies the problem. And while the payoff might be a bit lacking, at least you’re not left holding a check (in any form).

Still, as odd as the experience might be, we could imagine it being somewhat entertaining with the addition of a social component – a group of far-flung friends suddenly leaning against the same virtual bar, let’s say. But until that day comes, we’ll continue to make plans to meet up far from the realms our respective computer screens.

[via NY Times]