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Haidilao Says Viral Restaurant Robot Was Following Pre‑Programmed Routine After Plate‑Smashing Video

The chain told NBC News the dance sequence was pre-programmed, with unusually close proximity to diners disrupting its motion.

Overview

  • Viral footage shows a humanoid at a Haidilao location knocking over dishes and flailing as employees struggle to restrain it.
  • Haidilao said the robot at its Cupertino site was brought closer to a table at a guest’s request, and the limited space affected its movement.
  • News outlets note they have not independently verified the clip, which has circulated with conflicting location labels including San Jose and China.
  • Three staff members are seen holding the robot by a neck strap and pulling it away from diners, with no injuries reported.
  • The episode intensified calls for obvious emergency stop controls and clearer staff procedures for consumer-facing robots.