Seven-Eleven Japan introduces automated ramen cooking robots in Saitama

Seven-Eleven Japan, in collaboration with SoftBank Robotics, has introduced the ‘STEAMA’ steam-cooking robot to approximately 40 stores in Saitama Prefecture. The machine is designed to prepare various types of ramen, such as soy sauce, miso, and Iekei styles, from frozen specialized products in under one minute.

While the technology offers rapid preparation and potential solutions for labor shortages and food waste reduction, users have noted practical challenges. Specifically, the lack of eat-in spaces at many locations makes consuming the hot meals difficult for pedestrians, suggesting the service may be better suited for regional areas where customers have access to vehicles.

The menu has recently expanded to include items like Taiwan Mazesoba and meat udon, reflecting ongoing refinements to the service despite its limited geographic rollout.