IBM Supercomputer Watson Generated The Townsend’s Cocktail Menu Tonight

Cognac Spritzer, Gin Cocktail, and Vodka Punch. [Photo: The Townsend/Official]

IBM supercomputer Watson is getting into mixology by guest bartending at The Townsend tonight. The menu was originally concocted for a private event for Accenture, a professional services company. But director of hospitality Justin Elliott decided to share the digital cocktail love to the drinking public, starting at 5 p.m.

The mixologist computer created the cocktails by gathering information about the party’s attendees and larger drinking trends. Using the app’s final recipes, the Townsend team slightly tweaked the app’s final recipes, resulting in the three cocktails being served tonight, including interesting combinations like the vodka punch made with condensed milk and sparkling wine. Elliott described the drinks as "pretty palatable."

The recipe generating app was created by IBM and Bon Appetit last summer. It examines "the science of complementary flavor compounds," an archive of over 9,000 recipes, various cooking techniques, and more to cook up various new dishes. Watson even has a cookbook.

Definitely one of the crazier menus I've ever printed up. Guest Bartender: @ibm_watson #computerbartender #robotoverlords @thetownsendaustin

A photo posted by JD Elliott (@jdanelliott) on Dec 10, 2015 at 5:10pm PST