Spyce, the robot-powered Boston restaurant created by MIT grads that received $21 million in funding last year, announced Thursday that it is temporarily closing next week, with plans to reopen “in the coming months.”
“Although we’ve felt like there are many things we’ve gotten right, we’ve been listening to you all closely, and we know there are several ways we can make your experience even better,” the Spyce co-founders wrote in a note to the restaurant’s email list Thursday.
A Spyce spokeswoman told RB that the concept plans to open a new location in Harvard Square, while also updating the original Downtown Crossing location, necessitating its closure. A new menu will be introduced at both restaurants, she said.
Spyce, which garnered headlines when it opened, along with the cash infusion from tech investors and well-regarded chefs, serves globally inspired bowls that are prepared in induction-heated woks operated by robots. Orders are placed via touchscreen tablets, with most menu items under $8.
During the closure, Spyce will revamp its kitchen to “suit a variety of culinary techniques,” according to the email.
“We were inspired to rethink our style of cooking and creating to give you new and far more opportunities to customize your lunch and dinner experience,” the email said. “Depending on your dietary preferences, allergies, moods and interest of the moment, our culinary team is working hard on a brand-new menu that features warm bowls and introduces salads at Spice.”
The new design will be faster and “more seamless,” according to the company.
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