Patrons at the newly opened Kitchen 67 Brann’s Café can control a digital jukebox using tableside iPads, charge their phones wirelessly, access the internet with a wi-fi connection or engage in a videoconference at a specially designed table. A glass video wall and LED ceiling tiles that can change the interior color scheme (think high-tech mood ring) or display graphics add to the wired vibe.

The 4,500-square-foot Grand Rapids, MI, fast-casual restaurant is conveniently connected to a new prototype Verizon Wireless store, where guests can browse while waiting for a table or order or, if they prefer, tuck into a pressed sandwich or steakburger next door while waiting for their new mobile device to be configured.  

“Verizon Wireless is the ideal neighbor for Kitchen 67,” says Johnny Brann Jr., who masterminded the concept.  “Our tech-forward concept compliments Verizon’s innovative products and services. The collaborative efforts we are working on will enhance the customer experience for our customers and theirs.”

Brann, whose family owns the 110-seat Grand Rapids, MI restaurant, expects the technology angle will be seen as a point of difference for Kitchen 67, which borrows many of the menu favorites from the family’s 10 sports-themed casual spots across Michigan. If the prototype does well, he plans to expand it to other locations.