The world of cooking and food has been reinventing itself for years to reach more audiences and homes. If you are looking for new flavors, textures and combinations, almost anything goes to attract the attention of diners. On the more environmental topic, technology also plays a fundamental role, whether with robotic waiters or virtual reality experiences. In recent months, a proposal has re-emerged that is not far from this aspect.
This is Le Petit Chef, a mapping system that has been circulating in restaurants around the world since 2015. Created by artists Filip Sterckx and Antoon Verbeeck from the Skullmapping studio, it consists of the projection of a colorful and immersive environment with the collaboration of a cartoon: a miniature chef. This character is in charge of virtually recreating the dishes ordered by customers until they arrive at the table, identical to their digital version.
Since its launch, the project has caused a sensation in cities around the world, including Barcelona in 2021. Currently, more than 45 restaurants around the globe enjoy the Le Petit Chef experience, in locations as diverse as Toronto, Leipzig, Gibraltar, Osaka or Zanzibar. There is also a location in Spanish territory that offers this curious experience: the Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife in Adeje, in the southwest of the island.
The TikTok account Planes Brutales has shared the Tenerife version of this project on its profile. The price per person is 95 euros, and their website gives several details on how to enjoy dinner. The duration fluctuates between an hour and a half and a full two, recommending that diners enter the restaurant 30 minutes early. Likewise, you can choose different simultaneous menus to promote different experiences.
During the reservation process, menu dishes can be modified to suit the tastes of each client. Different restaurants offer vegan options and those with fish as the main element. Another option available is full payment in advance, during the reservation. There is also the classic method of making payment once the dinner has concluded at the establishment in question.
The images have caused reactions of various kinds in the publication of Planes Brutales. “I pay only for the experience, it seems innovative to me and if the food is good it is God,” said one user. “I am an old school cook, from grandma's kitchens and delicious food, on the plate food that supported families, not that,” read another response.
