The future is now.
To kick off the week on a high note, my wife, son and in-laws decided to go for a last-minute impromptu dinner get-together. With schools revving up to return this week, it was also a reminder that fall is closing in fast. There was just enough time to grab one last lobster roll for the season.
Tipsy Toboggan in Fall River still had its Lobster Fest promotion running until the end of August, so it was the perfect opportunity.
The Newborn Timing Game
These days, as new parents with a newborn, my wife and I are still trying to master the art of being on time. Between naps, feedings, and the dreaded possibility of a meltdown (whether in the car or at the restaurant), every outing feels like a high-stakes operation. More often than not, the inevitable wins.
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So when we plugged in the address to Ferry Street, hoping to make our 5 p.m. reservation, the GPS estimated 5:07. “Great”, I thought to myself with a sigh.
A Call That Shocked Me
Wanting to be courteous, I called the restaurant to let them know we’d be a few minutes late. As the phone rang, I was completely unprepared for who – or what – would answer.
At first, it sounded like a well-spoken woman, but there was no background noise. No plates clattering, no voices, no bustle of a busy restaurant. That’s when I realized I was speaking to an AI service representing the Tipsy Toboggan.
“Hi, thank you for calling the Tipsy Toboggan, how can I help you?” it said.
“Yes, hi, I have a reservation at 5, and my wife and I are running six or seven minutes behind. I’m so sorry for the inconvenience,” I replied, worried about losing our table. Tipsy is a popular spot, and the last thing I wanted was to take up time meant for someone else.
“No problem at all,” the AI replied smoothly. “We’ll hold the table for you and it will be ready for when you arrive. See you soon!”
Flabbergasted by the Future
Simple as it sounds, I was blown away. I knew AI technology was advancing quickly, but I wasn’t prepared to interact with one for a restaurant reservation. Maybe it’s becoming old news fast, but when you experience it for the very first time, it feels futuristic.
The Lobster Roll Verdict
Oh, and for the lobster roll? A perfect 10 out of 10.
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Gallery Credit: Credit N8