I challenged an AI bartender to create a cocktail for me. I was surprised by the result

The device is modest, a simple table with a large tablet on top. Behind the countertop are rows of bottles—liquor, flavorings, juice, and all the works. You can make thousands of different drinks, co-founder Alex Snesarev told me. But the real fun of the AI ​​Barman is letting the AI ​​take the wheel — or in this case, the cocktail shaker.

The process is simple. There is a camera at the top of the tablet, which scans your face. It estimates your age based on your appearance — it put my age pretty close, within a year — and can spot signs of poisoning. If it looks like you’re on your way to a hangover, it might make your drinks a little weaker. You can also choose your preferred tastes, including whether you prefer bitter, sour or fruity drinks.

The next part is where you can get creative. You talk to the tablet as if you were a waiter. I didn’t have a specific drink in mind, so I kept a more general description: fruity, strong and something festive to celebrate my presence at CES. The AI ​​took my answer, analyzed it for about 60 to 75 seconds and came up with a custom drink for me: Weekend Fiesta Punch. The drink was packed with raspberry cola flavours, and 28 grams of whiskey (about one shot of liquor), and it perfectly matched the vibe I had in mind.

The drink was cold and refreshing, and emerged from a hidden hole in the table like a magic trick. It tasted similar to Dr. Pepper, with a cola base and fruity flavors. But the drink tasted less artificial or processed than opening a can of soda or soda, which was surprising considering the bartender who made it was completely artificial.

I really enjoyed my experience using AI Barmen. It felt like a unique experience. While the company is working with catering companies and special event vendors to bring the devices to people, Snesarev told me, AI isn’t about to completely replace local bar staff. But there’s a noticeable lack of human connection when using an AI bartender — that feeling you get when you walk up to the counter and put your trust in the person behind the bar to prepare you something delicious. You have to put the same trust in AI, and I was pleasantly surprised by the result, but AI is not human.

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