Travelers at Barcelona Airport can now experience a glimpse into the future of dining with SELF, the world’s first AI-powered robotic restaurant in an airport.
Launched by Areas, a leading travel hospitality company, this groundbreaking concept combines artificial intelligence, robotics, and a streamlined customer experience to revolutionize airport dining.
A New Era of Airport Dining
Located in the commercial area of Terminal 1, near Gate B24, the 137-square-meter restaurant offers an innovative, fully automated experience. Customers place their orders via touchscreens, receive a QR code and order number, and watch as a robotic arm prepares and delivers their meals. SELF is capable of managing up to six orders simultaneously, ensuring efficiency while maintaining quality and freshness.
While fully automated, SELF isn’t devoid of human interaction. Areas has hired staff to assist travelers, handle special requests, and enhance the overall experience. The robotic system is equipped with machine vision technology, allowing it to adapt and optimize service in real-time, ensuring smooth operations.
SELF ha sido desarrollado con innovación e ingeniería española de la mano de IJRRobótica y AEV, y en colaboración con partners como @Mastercard, @AEVOfficial, KUKA, @ICGSoftwareGrup, @MahouSanMiguel, @CocaColaEP, @frit_ravich, @lavazzagroup, Montaraz, Gufresco, @Danone,… pic.twitter.com/IDy1UoGSSq
— Areas Iberia (@Areas_ES) January 31, 2025
Designed for the Future Traveler
The concept behind SELF is the result of years of research and market analysis conducted by Areas. With the increasing demand for fast, efficient, and contactless dining solutions, the company identified the need for a futuristic, AI-powered restaurant that could meet the evolving expectations of modern travelers.
Developed with Spanish engineering and innovation, the project involved collaborations with top technology and hospitality brands. IJJRobótica, AEV, and KUKA worked on the robotics, while ICG provided the software. Payment processing is handled by Mastercard, and major food and beverage suppliers like Mahou San Miguel, Coca-Cola, Lavazza, and Danone stock the shelves with fresh products, including sandwiches, salads, premium coffee, and desserts.
Sustainability at Its Core
SELF is not just about innovation—it also aligns with Areas’ “Areas for Change” sustainability strategy. The restaurant incorporates:
- Energy-efficient LED technology to reduce energy consumption.
- FSC-certified paper packaging, which is 100% recyclable.
- Eco-friendly uniforms are made from organic cotton and designed in collaboration with Clothink.
These initiatives reflect Areas’ commitment to responsible business practices while ensuring a seamless and eco-conscious dining experience for travelers.
Barcelona: The Perfect Testing Ground
Barcelona Airport, one of the busiest in Spain and Europe, was strategically chosen as the launch site for SELF due to its technological and digital innovation ecosystem. With Areas’ global headquarters also based in the city, the company aims to refine the concept here before considering expansion to other airports.
Sergio Rodríguez, CEO of Areas Iberia, describes the project as a milestone in travel hospitality, emphasizing that it showcases Areas’ leadership in pioneering innovative dining solutions.
For now, SELF remains exclusive to Barcelona Airport, offering travelers a unique, high-tech dining experience that could set the standard for the future of airport restaurants worldwide.
