Tech Advances Boost Restaurant Industry

Apps, online services help lead to record restaurant sales

A gluttonous Christmas dinner won't quell our appetites for plates of expertly-prepared food, according to a new report by the National Restaurant Association that forecasts record-high restaurant sales in 2013.

Restaurant sales are expect to hit all-time high of $660 billion next year, up 3.8 percent over 2012. More diners means restaurants will need more workers, and industry employment is expected to reach 13.1 million and post its strongest employment gain in eight years, according to the restaurant association.

The promising projections are welcome in an industry that has only recently sprung to life after being hammered in the recession.  But the strengthening economy isn't the only factor prompting diners to trade in a night at home with dirty dishes for a night out at their favorite eateries. New restaurant technology that makes dining out a faster and easier experience is encouraging more time-starved customers to eat out.