I'm sure there are productive uses for an iPad, but converting your restaurant's menu to an iPad format isn't one of them, as Foreign Policy blogger Brian Fung boldly declares.
At the very least, "westerners" shouldn't be chided for "being confused" or "not getting it." If your business plan involves spending $500 on a substitute for an almost costless alternative that works just as well (paper, ink), then you either don't need to make a profit, or you'll be out of business quickly. The iPad starts at $500. Simply put, this technology is for people who have too much money. There is no need for it. It will change nothing. Smaller and easier is the future, and honestly, the iPad ain't small and using a touchscreen ain't that easy.