I really had an idea that the automat would take off in a post-covid world as a place to get quick hot food with little to no contact. It didn't take off...but it may be taking root:
@spottyfox - Yeah, it's not a TRUE Automat, but given food safety and waste issues, I can see why they went with this model.
@dolari the foods are prepared/placed by humans.
Have you ever been to one? I was before they went out here in NYC.
@Holocluck - Never been, sadly. I figured putting a barrier between people would help with Covid contagion. On top of that, Lissa came up with the idea of an app that would even open the doors for you once someone ordered food, for even less contact.
@dolari There’s also the matter of packaging or plates; even if the utensils were bagged there’s the matter of handling their wrapper as well.
@dolari I saw this earlier this week. I'm disappointed by this particular implementation because you can't just go in and snag a waiting meal. You have to order in advance and they stick your food in a cubby for pickup.