Smack in the heart of the neighborhood Amazon calls headquarters, there’s a robot running errands for guests, including delivering food to Astra Hotel’s comfy rooms. Here’s why this example of AI is a vision of the future while also making for the best kind of selfie subject.
Welcome to South Lake Union
Before Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen’s Vulcan juggernaut began developing the neighborhood in the early 2000s, SLU was known as a gritty part of the city. In Seattle’s pioneer days, it was home to lumberyards and various forms of commerce, as well as being an affordable place to live for the growing population. (HistoryLink offers an excellent self-guided walking tour of the area.)
Fast forward to 2007 when Amazon moved into the area, the neighborhood began filling up with towering office buildings and the amenities useful in attracting tech workers. Why, yes, there’s a buzzworthy pub that serves local craft beer and has an indoor mini golf course. And there are now nearly a dozen hotels in the neighborhood.
Of course, the pandemic was tough on the businesses that counted on the growing number of employees who suddenly started working from home, but that’s changing as people return to the office and in-person meetings resume.
On a recent weekday, when I checked in for an overnight stay, the lobby was downright lively, especially at the locally owned espresso bar near the entrance. Oh, thank heaven for an afternoon doppio expertly made by the crew at Caffe Ladro.
Properly caffeinated, I got settled in my room with a gorgeous view of the Space Needle and started whittling away at a long to-do list before heading back down to meet up with a friend for dinner at Optium. That’s when I met Sparky in the elevator.
Sparky’s personal pronouns are…
… they/them. And please don’t feel snubbed if Sparky doesn’t engage in conversation. They’re likely on a mission.
This delightful diversion that looks a little bit like R2D2 delivers towels and other essentials, as well as Uber Eats or Door dash orders. No need to tip!
While Astra Hotel doesn’t offer traditional in-room dining, meals and snacks from the restaurants are available for delivery, Sparky-style.
On a clear day, my friend and I would have probably headed up to the beautiful rooftop bar for a happy hour. But Seattle was doing its soggy Seattle thing so we headed straight to dinner at the restaurant.
When executive chef Kalen Schramke first launched the menu, the focus was veggie-forward but a recent pivot opens the door to more traditional fare with a Mediterranean accent. Hello, grilled chicken and that Instagram-ready burger? Served alongside hand-cut fries.
Those craving plant-based dishes should definitely start with the outstanding deep-fried cauliflower on a brilliant Romesco and the roasted beets partnered with a mellow goat cheese.
As my friend and I caught up over troll caught salmon and creamy mushroom risotto, I kind of wished we had opted to have Sparky deliver the food to the room. Because, you know… how often do you have the opportunity to have a robot come to your door bearing dinner?
Forbes reported on this AI trend back in 2017, noting that nearly all departments of the hotel industry could use some assistance. Are we there yet? No, but getting closer.
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