“We’ve been called the Nespresso for lettuce; you literally put the plant pod in, and watch it grow.”
Using such overpriced gadget for growing low price, high volume lettuce is utterly idiotic. But growing aromatic herbs for kitchen or cocktail makes sense, especially for a restaurant. Some herbs need to be really fresh to have their maximum flavor.
Check a few back issues of Organic Gardening or Popular Mechanics; you will likely find a project which can be completed by yourself at a fraction of the price complete with parts lists and directions.
But it might not look as "cool" or come with the $7,000 price tag and bragging rights?
Indoor out of season hydroponics while worthwhile in a select few circumstances is not exactly cutting edge.