Boston restaurant Shy Bird uses AI assistant Colette for backend operations, not customer service

Summary

Shy Bird, a Boston restaurant group, uses an AI system called Colette to handle backend operations like scheduling, payroll, and inventory management. While the restaurant industry is skeptical about AI replacing human intuition and connection, co-owner Sam Feldman emphasizes that Colette is designed to reduce administrative burdens, not replace staff. The article explores the tension between technology and hospitality, noting that even McDonald's faced backlash for AI use. Feldman argues that automating tedious backend work allows managers to focus more on customer service and team engagement.