Mind-blowing robotics show high-tech potential

Robots may not yet be folding burritos or frying kung pao chicken, but they can slowly wheel up to your table, deliver a plate of fried rice, and wish you bon appetite in a low, mechanical tone.

This futuristic dining experience is on offer at the China International Import Expo, where a robotic canteen has been set up to demonstrate the latest endeavors to modernize the catering and retail industry through automation and artificial intelligence.

Diners place orders and pay using a mobile app. The system then assigns them a seat, and robots are dispatched to deliver their dishes.