In Havana, the Doña Alicia restaurant offers a glimpse into the future amid Cuba’s ongoing struggles with power outages and technological limitations. This eatery has integrated modern features such as digital menus, Alexa-enabled assistance, touchless bathrooms, and even a food-delivering robot. For many, like 64-year-old government worker Sonia Pérez, visiting the restaurant feels like stepping into a cinematic experience, given the stark contrast with the technological realities outside.
While automation is common in many parts of the world, implementing such advancements in Cuba is particularly challenging due to frequent power cuts and a scarcity of modern technology. The restaurant, which opened seven years ago, gradually introduced technology, starting with tablet menus, followed by Alexa services, and eventually welcoming Doña Alicia—a robot named after the owner’s grandmother—who assists human waiters.
Guests are welcomed with digital menus displayed on screens at their tables, enabling them to browse and order traditional Cuban dishes like savory pork steak and pasta. The bar enhances the dining experience by offering drinks such as mojitos and freshly made daiquiris. For those less comfortable with technology, human servers are available to assist. Despite its innovative approach, the restaurant’s prices remain aligned with other private establishments, rendering them unaffordable for many Cubans amidst the island’s inflation.
Manager Yadiel Hernández highlights that these technological improvements create a unique and appealing atmosphere, drawing customers intrigued by the novel experience of having a robotic assistant. Despite Cuba’s limited internet access, which only became widely available on mobile devices in 2018 and remains unreliable due to the energy crisis, Doña Alicia continues to navigate and overcome these challenges.
The Evolving Landscape
The technological advancements at Doña Alicia restaurant signify a growing trend toward modernization in Cuba, providing a glimpse into potential future developments across the island. For ordinary Cubans, this represents a step forward in bridging the technological gap and embracing innovations that could enhance daily life. As more establishments adopt similar practices, there may be increased demand for reliable energy sources and improved internet connectivity, potentially driving infrastructural developments.
However, the affordability of such experiences remains a significant barrier, highlighting the broader economic struggles faced by many citizens. While the restaurant’s offerings are largely out of reach for the average Cuban, its success may encourage similar businesses to explore technological solutions, gradually transforming the local hospitality industry. This evolution could lead to increased employment opportunities, skill development, and a renewed focus on modernizing infrastructure to support technological advancement throughout the region.
