In Episode 11 of Behind the Tab, we continue the conversation with Noel Rodriguez, a longtime hospitality professional and Customer Success leader at GoTab, to unpack a deceptively simple question:

What do operators think is “new” in restaurant technology—and what actually isn’t?

From Kitchen Display Systems and buzzers to QR ordering and hybrid service models, Noel explains why many “new” tools have been around for years—and why success depends less on the technology itself and more on how it’s introduced, trusted, and supported.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why KDS adoption succeeds when teams transition intentionally

• Why some “outdated” tools still exist for good reason

• The biggest misconception about hospitality technology replacing service

• Why hybrid service models reduce friction for guests and staff

• The soft skills that matter most in hospitality—but never show up on a resume

If you care about service, operations, and technology that actually works on the floor, this episode is for you.