On the second floor of a seemingly ordinary New York building, Sendo stands out as a sushi counter that offers a unique dining experience through the innovative use of artificial intelligence. This intimate space, entirely crafted by AI technology, blends Edo-era inspiration with contemporary design, making it the first restaurant in the world to embrace such a forward-thinking approach.
The designer of this unique project is Makoto Ishi, known for his work with renowned establishments like Mokbar and Tonchin restaurants in New York. The decision to use AI came from a desire to create something distinct. Guy Allen, owner of Sendo, explained, “We were inspired by the unique capabilities of new (at the time) visual AI models like Midjourney and Dall-e. After working with several designers, we weren’t seeing the correct mix of modern, traditional, and minimalistic renderings we originally had in mind. We started experimenting with AI and realized this tool could translate our ideas more precisely into a full design.”
This choice wasn’t just a gimmick; the team used thousands of prompts, spending hours refining their vision to ensure the AI could accurately render their concept of a warm, welcoming sushi counter that honors its roots while feeling contemporary.
The real challenge lies in transforming digital designs into a physical space. “Our designer and architect put together measurements to fit the space,” Guy Allen, owner of Sendo, noted. “The hardest part was finding the materials to match our AI rendering. We researched every type of wood to match the walls and floors and spent months searching for the right marble for our bar.” This attention to detail shows that even the most advanced technologies require a human touch to bring ideas to life.
Walking into Sendo, you’re enveloped in a serene atmosphere of cherry and walnut woods, clean lines, and subtle greenery. The polished black marble dining counter, where just ten guests can savor their sushi, serves as the centerpiece of this innovative design. It’s a space that feels both modern and rooted in the traditions of Edo-era Japan, showcasing how AI can effectively combine diverse influences into a cohesive vision.
Sendo also challenges our perceptions of creativity and craftsmanship, proving that technology can enhance rather than replace human intuition and artistry. As someone who often admires both design and cuisine, it’s exciting to see how AI is shaping new experiences in both spaces.
In New York, where restaurants can often feel repetitive, Sendo truly stands out as a beacon of originality. It showcases the remarkable potential of AI not just in culinary arts but also in design, proving that innovation can create unique dining experiences that captivate the senses. However, it also highlights that AI still needs a human touch; the design team spent countless hours refining their vision and sourcing materials to ensure every detail felt thoughtfully curated.
