There’s A Pancake Vending Machine That Makes Jian Bing From Scratch At Great World MRT

AI Pancake Robot is a new vending machine at Great World

If you’re Singaporean, you’re probably well aware that AI is everywhere, whether we like it or not. And the latest domain it’s come crepe-ing into is… pancakes. Specifically, Chinese-style egg pancakes known as jian bing.

Located in Great World MRT Station is an AI pancake robot that makes jian bing from scratch. As a certified foodie, I had to see just how well AI fares in the kitchen. 

The machine offers two types of pancakes: classic pancake ($3.80) and double egg pancake ($4.80). Customise it further by choosing from two sauce options: a secret sauce, heavy on soybean paste, and a spicy sauce. 

It accepts card, cash, and PayNow payments. Once completed, the machine will spring to life. 

First, a claw picks up an egg. 

Next, pancake batter is dispensed and spread thinly over a circular pan. 

The egg is then cracked over it, scrambled, and spread, with sesame seeds and green onions sprinkled onto it.

Once that’s cooked, an automated spatula flips the pancake. 

Sauce is then dispensed onto the pancake. The rotating pan ensures that it’s evenly spread over the surface.

The robot then transfers the pancake to another platform with flaps to fold the pancake. It adds two pieces of cui bing, AKA deep-fried wonton wrappers.

The machine folds the pancake and inserts it into a paper bag. 

The bag is then dispensed into a pick-up box—warm, fresh, and ready to eat. 

The whole process took about five minutes and drew a couple of curious onlookers from the passing crowd. The concept is certainly unique and fascinating, but the most important question remains: How does it taste? 

Short answer is: it’s alright. It tastes like how you’d expect a robot-made pancake to taste: a little bland, lacking in personality, but still warm, edible, and not too bad. It’s perhaps a decent option for those in a rush who need a quick bite, or if you’re simply fascinated and want to watch the robot in action. 

Overall, AI-made food may have its appeal in terms of convenience and novelty, but if you’re after quality and taste, I’d stick to the human chefs.

If you’re in the area craving human food, check out this comprehensive Great World Food Guide. Otherwise, if you have a late-night flight to catch, check out our guide to 24/7 eateries in Changi Airport instead! 

Address: 351 River Valley Road, Singapore 238384
Opening hours: Daily 24 hours
AI Pancake Robot is not halal-certified but does not use pork or lard.

Photos taken by Genecia Tan.
This was an independent visit by Eatbook.sg.