Japanese cafe unveils coffee making robot

A Japanese cafe has introduced a new barista to its coffee swilling customers - a robot called Sawyer.

The single-armed robot debuted in downtown Tokyo this week, asking customers in a flat tone: "Would you care for a delicious coffee?"

"I can make one better than human beings around here."

The robot then scans a ticket bought from a vending machine before grinding beans, filling a filter and pouring hot water over a cup for up to five people at a time, all with a screen displaying cartoon eyes.

Sawyer's other brews include cappuccino, hot chocolate and green tea latte and cost about $US3 ($A4.2) a cup and take a few minutes to make.

The Henna Cafe operator, travel agency H.I.S Co., says robots can increase productivity while also entertaining customers.

"An essential point is to increase productivity," said general manager Masataka Tamaki.

He said only one person needs to oversee the robot cafe, compared to several people needed at a regular coffee shop, so it can serve better quality coffee at a reasonable price.

Tamaki says it's not just about efficiency.

"We want the robot to entertain customers so it's not like buying coffee at a vending machine," he said.