The Trend Of Delivery-Only 'Ghost Kitchens' Surges In Chicago

It’s not uncommon for restaurants to emphasize takeout and delivery options during the COVID-19 pandemic, but a rising trend takes it to the next level.

Ghost kitchens are popping up everywhere, including around Chicago.

They usually specialize in a certain item and focus on delivery, rather than offering a sit-down space, according to ABC 7 Chicago, which caught up with Kitchen United Mix and Present Tense.

Another option is Guy Fieri’s Flavortown, a chain of ghost kitchens by the Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives host, according to Eater Chicago. Locations have been popping up nationwide, including some near Chicago.

“Flavortown Kitchen is a delivery only restaurant featuring real-deal flavors from Chef Guy Fieri,” Flavortown’s website reads. “From our signature Bourbon Brown Sugar BBQ Wings to our award winning Mac N Cheese Burger, all of Flavortown’s favorites come straight to your door step.”

In late 2020, Red Lobster also jumped on board with the industry trend with a new ghost kitchen on South Wabash Avenue.

“We are thrilled to open our first ghost kitchen in the great city of Chicago. It will enable us to reach new guests who are not currently served by our existing brick-and-mortar restaurants,” Red Lobster CEO Kim Lopdrup said in a statement at the time. “Off-premise is a huge priority for Red Lobster...Opening a ghost kitchen is a natural next step in expanding our off-premise business. It will allow us to reach new customers who want great seafood with a touchless off-premise experience.”

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