Last week, Super Nintendo World officially opened at Universal Studios Hollywood, which means that the highly anticipated Toadstool Cafe is also open.
The new Toadstool Cafe is named after Toad from the Mario Brothers universe, and features dishes and decor inspired by the iconic video games. For instance, as soon as you pull up to the restaurant, you'll notice the giant red-capped mushroom exterior. Then on the inside, the restaurant is filled with oversized mushrooms and familiar green pipes. As for the food, you can expect a "carefully curated and eclectic menu perfected and prepared fresh daily by Chef Toad." Some options include the Toadstool Cheesy Garlic Knots, the Super Mushroom Soup, Power-Up Spaghetti Marinara, and a Princess Peach Cupcake.
Video Game Character Cafes
The Toadstool Cafe at Super Nintendo World is Now Open
Trend Themes
1. Video Game Themed Restaurants - The Toadstool Cafe at Super Nintendo World is part of a growing trend of video game themed restaurants opening around the world, providing opportunities for franchises to build immersive brand experiences through food and ambiance.
2. Virtual Reality Dining - With the rapid advancement of virtual reality technology, there is an opportunity for restaurants to create immersive VR dining experiences that allow customers to fully enter and interact with a digital restaurant environment based on their favourite video game franchises.
3. Augmented Reality Menu Displays - Incorporating augmented reality technology into menu displays can provide customers with interactive experiences that enhance their understanding of menu items as well as create a more engaging atmosphere in video game themed restaurants.
Industry Implications
1. Gaming - Gaming companies can explore partnerships with food service providers and create branded restaurants or pop-ups to promote their game franchises in a new way.
2. Restaurant - Restaurants can capitalize on the popularity of video games by creating immersive experiences and menus, especially in areas with a strong gaming culture and community.
3. Virtual Reality - With the rise of virtual reality technology, there is an opportunity for gaming companies and restaurants to collaborate and create innovative virtual reality dining experiences, providing a unique value proposition to customers.