Tandem launches AI platform for restaurant operators

Tech entrepreneurs Bhavik Patel and Andrew Schwartz have launched Tandem, a Philadelphia-based AI company designed to support restaurant operations. The duo previously co-founded xtraCHEF, a back-office automation system that was acquired by Toast in 2021.

Tandem focuses on developing AI agents that integrate with existing restaurant systems rather than requiring new dashboards. These agents are designed to handle repetitive workflows and assist with tasks such as finance, labor, purchasing, inventory, and marketing. The platform also serves as a multiplayer workspace for human employees to interact with their AI counterparts.

Noted chef Michael Schulson has joined the company as a Founding Partner to guide product strategy. Tandem has secured initial seed financing and is currently running a pilot program across 100 restaurant locations.