The last automat disappeared around 1991 — but the return 30 years later could not have been timed better, especially in the time of COVID. The contactless service is something that may appeal to those looking to stay as safe as possible, while still being able to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal.

Are there any automats left?

According to the New York Times, the last true automat closed its doors in 1991. More than two decades later, though, Eatsa has given the automat a 21st century makeover.

What happened to automats?

Automats seemed like the wave of the future in 1910, but by 1960, they were considered outdated. At the turn of the 20th century, the first Automats only competed with full-service restaurants, but by the century's final decades, they were outcompeted by faster food options like takeouts and drive-thrus.