Cardamom, a popular dining venue at the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis, is set to close its doors after the restaurant's decision to lay off front-of-house staff in favor of a QR code ordering system sparked controversy. The museum expressed that this move "does not align with our core values."
Mary Ceruti, the director of the Walker, emphasized the commitment to fostering a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors. "While we do not oversee the restaurant, our vision has always included a full-service dining option to enhance the museum experience," she stated.
Surprising to museum leadership, the layoffs resulted in the separation between the Walker and Cardamom. Chef Daniel del Prado's restaurant, which has been part of the Walker since 2021, cited industry shifts as a reason for laying off 16 employees.
A spokesperson for Cardamom revealed that the restaurant had struggled financially, explaining, "The restaurant was never profitable and is not immune to the ongoing challenges faced by eateries in Minneapolis." The QR code system was intended to streamline operations, allowing the restaurant to better align staffing with business needs while providing more stable hours for remaining employees.
In response to the layoffs, a protest was organized outside the Walker Art Center, highlighting community concerns. Cardamom is expected to cease operations within the next 60 to 90 days, and the museum is actively seeking proposals for a new dining establishment.
This development reflects a broader trend in the restaurant industry as establishments adapt to changing consumer preferences and operational challenges. The transition to technology-driven solutions like QR codes may redefine dining experiences in cultural venues, potentially influencing how future eateries engage with patrons.
