Ghost Kitchens – The New Norm in Dining?
Ghost kitchens, also known as cloud or virtual kitchens, are changing the face of the restaurant industry. These digital-only establishments, devoid of traditional storefronts, have surged, especially during the pandemic. While they existed before COVID-19, their growth skyrocketed as indoor dining became risky. These kitchens can be standalone or operate within existing restaurants under different names. Companies like The Local Culinary and Virtual Dining Concepts are betting on this model. However, while it offers a lucrative avenue for some, it raises concerns about labor exploitation, high fees from delivery apps, and the potential sidelining of smaller players.
- The Rise of Virtual Dining: Ghost kitchens have become increasingly popular, with many seeing them as the future of the restaurant industry.
- Labor Concerns: The model can obscure labor practices, potentially leading to the exploitation of kitchen staff and delivery drivers.
- Economic Implications: While ghost kitchens can be profitable, third-party delivery app fees can significantly cut restaurant revenues.
The article is “What’s It Like Working in a Ghost Kitchen? We Couldn’t Get Close Enough to Ask.”