The Rise of Kitchen Commissaries:
What They Are, How They Operate, and Why They Work

Kitchen commissaries have emerged as a vital solution for many culinary entrepreneurs. These shared commercial kitchens offer a range of benefits, making them an attractive option for various food businesses. 

What Are Kitchen Commissaries?

A kitchen commissary, or shared kitchen, is a licensed, fully equipped space that food businesses can rent for preparing and storing their products. These facilities meet health and safety standards, serving caterers, food truck operators, bakers, meal prep services, and other culinary professionals.

How Do They Operate?

Kitchen commissaries operate on a rental basis, offering flexible plans to suit the needs of different businesses. Here’s a breakdown of how they typically work:

1. Membership and Scheduling: Businesses become members of the commissary and schedule their kitchen time in advance. 

2. Shared Resources: These kitchens provide access to a wide range of equipment and facilities, allowing businesses to save on the high costs of purchasing and maintaining their own equipment.

3. Compliance and Safety: Commissaries are designed to meet local health and safety regulations, ensuring that all food preparation is done in a compliant manner.

4. Community and Networking: Working in a shared kitchen space fosters a sense of community and opportunities for networking, collaboration, and learning from peers.

Why Do They Work?

Kitchen commissaries have become popular for several compelling reasons:

1. Cost-Effective: Renting space in a kitchen commissary is far more affordable than leasing and outfitting a private commercial kitchen.

2. Flexibility: The flexible rental options allow businesses to scale their kitchen usage up or down based on demand. 

3. Support and Resources: Many commissaries offer additional support services, such as business development workshops, marketing assistance, and access to a network of food industry professionals.

4. Reduced Risk: Using a commissary reduces the financial risk associated with starting a food business. 

Notable Kitchen Commissaries in North Carolina

APS’s delivery zone is home to several well-regarded kitchen commissaries, each offering unique benefits to food entrepreneurs. Here are a few examples:

1. City Kitch, 3 locations: 2200 Thrift Rd, Charlotte, NC 28208, 9545 Pinnacle Dr, Charlotte, NC 28262 and 601 Milner Dr, Greensboro, NC 27410 
2. Short Street Kitchen, 106 Short St, Kernersville, NC 27284
3. Sweet Spot Kitchen, 4416 Monroe Rd d, Charlotte, NC 28205
4. Chef’s Commissary, 7005 – H, 7005 Wilkinson Blvd, Belmont, NC 28012