What is the dark kitchen controversy?

Author: Carey Howe  |  Last update: Friday, January 9, 2026

What is a dark kitchen? Nothing less than a kitchen space ready to host dozens of virtual restaurants, with no public, only accessible through relay courier requests. Alvalade residents fear that the days of peace on the neighborhood streets are about to end after the dark kitchen starts operating. Photo: Rita Ansone.

What is the dark kitchen concept?

A virtual restaurant, also known as a ghost kitchen, cloud kitchen or dark kitchen, is a food service business that serves customers exclusively by delivery and pick-up based on phone and online ordering.

What is the difference between a ghost kitchen and a dark kitchen?

Dark kitchens are restaurants that sell meals exclusively through delivery. Other names for them include cloud kitchens, ghost kitchens, or delivery-only restaurants. Ghost kitchens do not have seating capacity for in-house diners or walk-ins, as they focus only on delivery.

Which brands use dark kitchens?

They launched Deliveroo Editions in 2017 which attracted brands such as Dishoom, Chilango, Rosa's Thai and Five Guys who are charged a fee by Deliveroo to cover rent, rates, waste management and marketing support in exchange for use of a dark kitchen facility.

Is it a good idea to have a dark kitchen?

All kitchens get their fair share of wear and tear, but some show it less than others. A dark kitchen is a good choice if you think your cabinets are going to need to stand up to frequent spillages and knocks. A dark surface can be more forgiving than a light one, and won't instantly show up scuffs and stains.

Inside a Very Busy Delivery Only "Dark Kitchen" in London, "ATCHA" Serving up Healthy Indian Food...

Is it a good idea to have a black kitchen?

Black kitchens are simultaneously modern and timeless. Black is neutral, so it can be combined with any color. Kitchens in anthracite look elegant, unique and refined. Messes are less visible on dark surfaces.

Are dark kitchen countertops out of style?

Black countertops exude a sense of sophistication and elegance that never goes out of style. They can seamlessly complement a wide range of kitchen styles, from modern and minimalist to traditional and rustic.

What is the best color for dark kitchen cabinets?

Light hues like white or gray work especially well when paired with dark cabinets.

Can I run a dark kitchen from home?

Yes, you can operate your dark kitchen from home. Just make sure you have enough space for all the equipment you need. Running a cloud or dark kitchen space from your home can save costs because you won't have to worry about paying rent.

Are dark kitchen cabinets coming back in style?

According to the pros, dark wood cabinets aren't going anywhere anytime soon, despite the colorful kitchen cabinet trend. If anything, they're making a major comeback. So, if your kitchen still has dark wood, don't worry — you're very much “on trend,” but there is a catch to making them work for your space.

What is the failure rate of ghost kitchens?

Since the initial investment is lower with Ghost Kitchens, it attracts operators with less experience. Also, the operator will likely have less working capital to withstand a startup's burn rate. This led to a higher failure rate than the industry failure rate, 60%.

Is Dirty Burger a ghost kitchen?

Dirty Burger is one of the fastest growing Ghost Kitchen Burger chains. We pair with some of the largest kitchens around the country to bring our signature taste and experience to customers nationwide.

What is a shadow kitchen?

A ghost kitchen, otherwise known as a shadow kitchen or dark kitchen, is a professional cooking facility that is set up solely for carryout or delivery.

Does DoorDash allow ghost kitchens?

By centralizing these operations, DoorDash simplifies the process for restaurant owners, reducing complexity and allowing them to focus on what they do best—creating exceptional food. Participating restaurants in the DoorDash Ghost Kitchen Partnership Program get to experience a variety of rewards.

How would you describe a dark kitchen?

The concept of dark kitchens revolves around selling meals exclusively through delivery. Thus, they are kitchens optimized for food delivery. Typically, these kitchens are located where there is high demand for food delivery. Dark kitchens are fully equipped with everything the staff needs to produce food.

What is the Devil's kitchen myth?

Legend ties the caves to Hindu mythology, suggesting they were the cooking grounds of the Pandavas, thus earning the moniker 'kitchen. ' The origin of the term 'Devil' remains shrouded in mystery, with some speculating it is linked to the bats inhabiting the caves.

How do you bring natural light into a dark kitchen?

Mirrors!

The bigger the mirror, the brighter and lighter your kitchen will feel. Mirrored splashback, gloss subway tiles, high-gloss cabinets, and glass worktops will all harness the power of their light-reflecting qualities to brighten a dark kitchen.

Can I turn my garage into a ghost kitchen?

In the broadest sense, the answer is “yes, in most cases.” But the devil is in the details. You have to make sure the building meets safety codes, the equipment meets fire and food service requirements, and you havr all the required permits, waivers, exceptions, and insurances.

Are dark kitchen floors in style?

A kitchen with dark flooring and carefully selected decor looks chic and sophisticated which is always in style.

Should cabinets be lighter or darker than walls?

Size and space: Consider the size and space of your kitchen. In smaller kitchens, lighter cabinets and walls can create the illusion of space and make it feel larger and more airy. On the other hand, in larger kitchens, darker cabinets can anchor the space and prevent it from feeling too expansive.

What is a moody kitchen?

Moody kitchens are having a moment. Unlike the light and bright look of white kitchens, on-trend dark kitchens create a sophisticated feel using deep paint colors on walls or cabinets, reclaimed finishes, stylish lighting, and sleek appliances.

What color to paint a small kitchen to make it look bigger?

White kitchens are on-trend and this is the best colour for visually opening up a space. If you want to go for something brighter, yellow can create a welcoming, sunny kitchen, giving a country vibe even in the middle of a city.

What are the disadvantages of dark countertops?

Cons of Dark Countertops
  • High Maintenance for Clean Appearance. One of the main drawbacks of dark countertops is that they tend to show every smudge, fingerprint, or leftover food particle. ...
  • Limited Light Reflection. ...
  • Susceptibility to Scratches and Chips. ...
  • Cost Considerations.

What kitchen countertops never go out of style?

5 kitchen countertops that never go out of style – timeless choices to suit any homeowner
  • Marble.
  • Quartz.
  • Granite.
  • Butcher block countertops.
  • Soapstone.

Are grey kitchens out of style?

A grey kitchen is timeless, can adapt to any furnishing style and still be designed in a variety of ways. Due to their neutrality, grey kitchens always look modern and can be combined with different wall colors, countertops and floors.

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