Artificial intelligence continues to enter the restaurant industry from several angles, whether it’s automating back- and front-of-house services, marketing, or providing data-based predictions for inventory and staffing—to name just a few.
Now, a Dallas-based fast casual is leveraging the technology for creativity.
Velvet Taco has launched what it calls the Chat GPTaco as part of its weekly taco feature (WTF)—one of the first AI-generated menu items in the fast-casual dining scene.
Velvet Taco used ChatGPT 4 to create its newest Weekly Taco Feature, the Chat GPTaco.
Each week the chain offers a unique taco with pairings and flavor combinations not available on the regular menu. In the most recent debut, Velvet Taco’s Director of Culinary, Chef Venecia Willis, sought support and inspiration from the latest AI generator Chat GPT4.
Willis entered the chain’s core ingredient list into Chat CPT4, as well as restrictions on the total number of ingredients to be used. Willis then entered the formula several times into the generator before selecting the winning creation.
The result: flank steak, blackened shrimp, red chile aioli, chimichurri, crispy potatoes, grilled onion, queso fresco, jalapeno and cilantro on a corn tortilla.
Reflecting on teaming with AI, Willis said, “The use of Chat GPT in recipe development intrigued me, and the flavor combinations it proposed were surprisingly unique. I believe this technology could be a game-changer in our menu development process and help enhance the creativity involved in formulating and executing a cohesive menu item.”
Since 2011, Velvet Taco has continued to innovate. The menu features diverse, globally-inspired tacos made from scratch and has expanded to over 40 locations across the U.S.
Velvet Taco’s Chat GPTaco will be displayed on billboards across Dallas, Texas.
“Velvet Taco is all about breaking barriers and delivering the unexpected,” said Velvet Taco CEO Clay Dover. “The ChatGPTaco represents the marriage of food and tech and creativity in a way I’ve not seen before in the restaurant space. We’re really excited.”
The Chat GPTaco will be displayed on billboards across Dallas. It’s available for $6.25 from July 12-25 at all locations excluding food halls and colleges.
