Uncanny and unappetizing: appetites spoil as AI images take over food menus
Summary
Some restaurants are using AI to create images for their menus to save money, but many customers find these AI-made pictures of food unappealing and misleading. This trend is causing a mix of reactions as restaurants try to balance cost savings with customer expectations for real and attractive food images.Key Facts
- AI-generated images of food menus are being used by some restaurants to reduce costs.
- Many consumers find AI food images looking strange, unappetizing, and inaccurate.
- A 2026 report said 26% of restaurants use AI for marketing, scheduling, orders, and inventory.
- A San Francisco cafe faced vandalism after putting up AI-generated menu images.
- The Denver Jamaican barbecue pop-up used ChatGPT to create AI food images instead of hiring a designer.
- Restaurant experts say AI should be used behind the scenes because bad AI food pictures can drive customers away.
- Some restaurants are choosing to promote hand-drawn or real photos to show authenticity.
- AI often fails to get food textures and colors right, making the images look unnatural.
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