The Florentine Chicago is launching a digital-free dining option: Starting Friday, diners will be able to choose whether they want to go text- and e-mail-free for their meal. If so, they can check their devices with staff who will store the phone in secure charging stations.
To which we say, what’s next — no knives and forks?
Our digital appendages are necessary so we can look occupied and unconcerned when our companion is late; pay the bill or show a Groupon or loyalty card; quickly research and settle interesting debates that come up in conversation at table; and how else, for the love of mercy, would we photograph every dish we consume?
Gizmodo, Slate and others point to the growing relationship between food and technology and remind us that smartphones, in 2014, are not merely an annoying distraction. Just try to enjoy a meal without one. We dare you.
Apple files for a patent on a restaurant reservation and ordering system
— Eater
How to take a perfect food photo
— Gizmodo
The empty jar vs. the glowing screen
— Slate
30 touch screen table designs
— Trend Hunter
Applebee’s just killed the most annoying thing about eating out
— Business Insider