Meet West Virginia’s newest restaurant helper at 1942 Tacos & Tequila

NEWELL, W.Va. (WTRF) — It’s got cat ears and whiskers, and it’s ready to serve you chips.

1942 Tacos & Tequila in Newell has a smart delivery robot helping them out with the small stuff, and this barrel-shaped guy is ready to become your dinner buddy.

It’s a new machine that doesn’t have any tough jobs and isn’t looking for any tips—he just wants to wander around and smile.

The Pudu smart delivery robot found its way to the Mexican restaurant along Route 2 a few weeks ago, and is designed to be a helper rather than a replacement for any staff.

The China-built device has been programmed to roll up to any table and start a conversation with anyone who happens to be sitting there.

It has a sense of humor, will get upset if you tap it too much, and will take a nap when it has nothing better to do.

“You just press the screen and it goes wherever you want it to go.”

Jose Leon, 1942 Tacos & Tequila Manager

While it has four separate delivery trays, staff says after a few spilled drink incidents rolling over the tile floor, it’s mainly put in charge of amusement.

They say children and adults alike are delighted by its squeaky voice and cheerful demeanor.

It will warn you about handling hot food, say excuse me if you’re in its way, and even has a gift for music.

It actually has the music when you send it to the table, it does some music, and when it’s someone’s birthday you can put on the birthday song.”

Jose Leon, 1942 Tacos & Tequila Manager

The restaurant is located at 610 Washington St. in Newell–and the bot can’t wait to meet you.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTRF.