The world's first café designed specifically for dates with artificial intelligence companions is set to open in New York City this December, creating what many are calling an unsettling new chapter in modern relationships.
The AI Dating Café Concept
EVA AI, an AI relationship application, is launching this groundbreaking pop-up café in New York City where patrons can engage in real, in-person dates with their digital companions. While romantic relationships with artificial intelligence are not entirely new—online communities dedicated to AI partnerships have been growing—this represents the first physical space specifically designed for such encounters.
Press images reveal a dimly lit restaurant space devoid of human presence, with each table featuring only a glowing smartphone screen displaying the smooth, artificially generated face of an AI companion. The visual presentation underscores the isolation that critics say this concept both reflects and potentially exacerbates.
Addressing the Loneliness Epidemic
The emergence of AI dating services comes amid a growing loneliness crisis in modern society. Recent statistics indicate that nearly one in three men and one in four women under age 30 report having interacted with AI partners. While this demonstrates a clear demand for connection, experts question whether AI companionship provides a healthy solution.
Dr. Jasmonae Joyriel, founder of Ignite Anew and a licensed psychologist specializing in sex and relationships, explains that AI companionship appeals to fundamental human needs. "AI companionship taps into the very human need to feel loved, protected, and chosen," she notes. However, she expresses concern about the physical manifestation of this trend, stating that "bringing this into a physical space exploits a vulnerable population for financial gain."
The Psychological Impact of AI Relationships
According to relationship experts, the fundamental problem with AI companions lies in their perfection. "A.I. will never leave you, never invalidate you, never grow tired of you," Dr. Joyriel points out—qualities that real humans cannot consistently provide.
This creates several concerning dynamics according to mental health professionals:
- AI relationships create unrealistic expectations about human connection
- They avoid the natural discomfort and awkwardness that build emotional resilience
- They don't allow for organic human moments and unexpected connections
- They may reinforce avoidant attachment styles by providing complete control
Arkadiy Volkov, RP, a registered psychotherapist and founder of Feel Your Way Therapy in Toronto, warns that over time, AI companions can "make ordinary relational discomfort feel intolerable and not worth it." Instead of helping people develop relationship skills, these digital partners may actually make authentic human connections more challenging to form and maintain.
The Limitations of Artificial Intimacy
While there might be some utility for extremely socially anxious individuals—providing a sense of acceptance and comfort in public settings—the overall consensus among experts is concerning. Shanni Liang, LCSW, PLCC, notes that "AI is very addictive because it won't reject you and it tells you what you want to hear; there's no conflict or tension."
Real human relationships involve navigating imperfect moments, from awkward conversations to differing opinions and emotional complexities. These challenges, while uncomfortable, are precisely what build emotional intelligence and resilience. As Dr. Joyriel emphasizes, "real humans are messy, imperfect beings with emotions, values, and perspectives that will be unique to yours."
The AI dating café represents the latest attempt to eliminate the imperfections inherent in human connection. However, experts agree that genuine connection develops through navigating these very imperfections rather than avoiding them through artificial alternatives that offer only the illusion of intimacy.
