While restaurants are heavily investing in new technologies, only 21% are currently utilizing AI, revealing a significant gap between potential benefits and current adoption. Many restaurant operators harbor misconceptions about AI's role and capabilities, particularly in full-service settings where personalized human interaction is valued. However, AI applications in quick-service restaurants for tasks like voice-activated drive-thrus have shown promising results in enhancing customer experience and operational efficiency. Beyond customer-facing roles, AI offers substantial behind-the-scenes advantages, such as inventory management and demand forecasting, helping reduce costs and improve decision-making. Despite skepticism around AI and its perceived overhype, the technology is already delivering returns for innovative operators, suggesting that those willing to understand and integrate AI into their operations will likely gain a competitive edge in a challenging industry landscape.