reen Papaya may seem to be just another run-of-the-mill Vietnamese joint with Pho and Bun and all the vermicelli anyone could ask for. Although they do carry all the usual Vietnamese accoutrements they have also managed to become digi-tech pioneers in Calgary. Green Papaya is the first restaurant to offer text message take-out ordering. You simply have to punch in the quantity of the dish desired and then the dish’s number and text it to the Green Papaya text ordering number. You will receive a confirmation text and a time to pick up your food. Now you know why every Vietnamese place has numbered menu items. They’re all prepared for the future of technology – a world where customer service will be null and void, taken over by intelligent machinery. Do you like online communities? You better, because it seems like soon enough human interaction will become a pesky inconvenience.

Anyway, gadgets aside, the food at Papaya is traditional and tasty. If you venture out to Green Papaya for your first Vietnamese culinary experience try the Special Vermicelli ($11) with pork, shrimp and spring roll. This is a classic, well-balanced meal that is quite tasty. Have a jack fruit shake or a jello coffee with your meal (both $4.50). Vietnamese drinks are always surprising and delicious. The fried banana smothered in vanilla ice cream for dessert is a must ($5.25). The tasty traditional food, the trendy décor and the texting technology make Green Papaya a spot worth visiting. –J.T.