Turin's Shaker is Italy's first bar staffed by a robot, which mixes cocktails from more than 70 different liqueurs and makes coffee any way you wish. Olivia Palamountain reports

Italy's first robotic bar, Shaker, has opened in Turin courtesy of tech company Makr Shakr, which creates mixologist and barista robots.

The Turin establishment features a sophisticated robot bartender capable of crafting a wide array of coffee drinks and cocktails, taking orders via a dedicated app.

Named Toni Compatto, the modular robotic arm at the centre of this innovative venture can produce more than 60 beverages per hour. The automated barista offers an extensive menu ranging from classic Italian cappuccinos to strong espressos and iced lattes, utilising a selection of 70 different ingredients suspended from the bar's ceiling.

Emanuele Rossetti, CEO at Makr Shakr, says: "In Italy, the art of coffee is almost sacred, and integrating robotics into this tradition might seem audacious. However, we've designed Toni Compatto not just to make coffee, but to perfect it, proving that precision and tradition can coexist and elevate the experience of every coffee lover."The project, developed in collaboration with Italian coffee giant Lavazza and spirits producer Martini & Rossi, aims to showcase how human-robot synergy can enhance the coffee experience.While Toni Compatto assembles the drinks with mechanical precision, a human bar manager adds the finishing touches, such as garnishes or latte art, ensuring a blend of technological efficiency and traditional craftsmanship.Customers can place their orders via tablets, choosing from a vast choice of customisable options before collecting their drinks from designated spots on the counter.

Despite the high-tech approach, Rossetti assures that the essence of Italian coffee culture remains intact: "Italians will still be able to have a friendly conversation at the bancone while sipping on their customised cappuccino," he says.

The opening of Shaker has sparked discussions about innovation in Italy's culinary traditions.

The venue doubles as a cultural hub, hosting events and debates on the intersection of technology and gastronomy.

As Shaker opens its doors to the public, it remains to be seen how Italy's coffee aficionados will respond to this robotic barista. Will Toni Compatto's precision and efficiency win over traditionalists, or will the human touch of a skilled barista remain the preferred choice?

Further venues for Mark Shakr robots include Bali and Amsterdam, as well as certain cruise ships. Get the full scoop from Globetrender here.