A robot stir-fries a dish at a restaurant in Harbin, capital of Heilongjiang province. [Photo provided to China Daily]

"A robot cook can help save operational costs of about 200,000 yuan annually, according to our research of college cafeterias," Ge said. "And a robot can be more efficient and environmentally friendly," he added.

They also never take a lunch break.

Tian Xuefei contributed to this story.

How robot cook works

? The robotic cook has highly precise movements.

? It can put together an entire dish, step-by-step.

? The automated arms can place food in fryers, add water and measure ingredients and condiments.

? It can interact with other electrical kitchen equipments, such as pancake turners and blenders.

? It can speak different dialects and cook local cuisines.

Chef robots in different colors and sizes, which are designed by Harbin-based Haiying Robot Manufacturing Company. [Photo provided to China Daily]