What Is a Ghost Kitchen?

Ghost kitchens—also known as virtual or cloud kitchens—are commercial kitchens designed exclusively for preparing food for delivery or takeout, without any dine-in service. These facilities rely on online ordering platforms and third-party delivery apps, allowing restaurants to reach customers without the cost of a physical storefront.

Some ghost kitchens support a single brand, while others house multiple restaurant concepts under one roof. As a relatively new model, ghost kitchens are transforming the foodservice industry by offering flexibility, speed, and lower overhead.

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How Do Ghost Kitchens Operate?

Ghost kitchens fulfill orders through their own websites or by partnering with online ordering platforms. Many operate from shared commercial kitchens or dedicated cloud kitchen facilities, often supporting several brands from a single location.

By eliminating dining rooms, signage, and front-of-house staffing, ghost kitchens minimize costs and focus entirely on efficiency, consistency, and order volume—making them ideal for both new startups and established brands looking to expand.

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Can You Run a Ghost Kitchen From Home?

In some regions, you can operate a ghost kitchen from home—but this depends on local zoning, health codes, and business licensing requirements. Most ghost kitchens are located in licensed commercial facilities, which offer the necessary infrastructure for food safety, heavy-duty equipment, and streamlined delivery logistics.

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Must-Have Ghost Kitchen Equipment (By Cuisine)

Your equipment needs will vary depending on the type of food you serve. Here’s a breakdown of essential gear by cuisine:

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Pizza

To meet high demand and ensure consistent quality, a pizza-focused ghost kitchen needs:

• High-performance pizza ovens (conveyor, deck, or impingement)
• Dough mixers for bulk prep
• Refrigerated prep tables to organize sauces, cheeses, and toppings

Tip: Check out KaTom’s full line of pizza equipment to build an efficient pizza kitchen.

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Fried Foods

For kitchens focused on fried favorites like fries, wings, and tenders:

• Compact, high-efficiency countertop fryers
• Heat lamps to keep food hot between batches

KaTom’s fast food equipment selection is tailored for quick-service and high-speed operations.

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Salads & Smoothies

To support fresh, made-to-order dishes:

• High-powered blenders for smoothies and purees
• Refrigerated prep stations for easy access to greens, fruits, and toppings

Explore KaTom’s juice bar equipment to optimize for freshness and efficiency.

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Bowls & Tacos

Assembly-style menus require fast prep and consistent heating:

• Reliable rice cookers for grain bowls and burritos
• Food warmers to maintain protein and toppings at safe temperatures
• Refrigerated prep tables for easy ingredient access

Modular equipment setups make it easier to create efficient assembly lines.

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Asian Cuisine

For stir-fry, noodles, and dim sum:

• Commercial wok ranges for high-heat cooking
• Rice cookers for consistent results
• Steamers for dumplings, buns, and vegetables

KaTom offers a complete selection of Asian kitchen equipment to build your ideal setup.

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Optimize Small Spaces With Smart Equipment

Ghost kitchens often operate in compact environments, so choosing space-saving, ventless, or multi-functional equipment is essential. Countertop appliances are ideal for these spaces—they’re plug-and-play, easy to install, and adaptable for evolving menus.

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Don’t Overlook the Packaging & Delivery Station

An efficient packaging station is critical for smooth operations and customer satisfaction. Equip your ghost kitchen with:

• Commercial shelving for to-go containers and packaging supplies
• Stainless steel work tables for assembling orders
• Warming cabinets to keep food hot until pickup or delivery

This setup helps maintain food quality and speeds up the handoff process.

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Save with Energy-Efficient & Budget-Friendly Equipment

Energy-efficient equipment can lower long-term operating costs. Look for ENERGY STAR® certified appliances to reduce electricity and water usage without sacrificing performance.

For businesses on a budget, KaTom offers:

• Scratch-and-dent equipment: fully functional at reduced prices
• Flexible financing options: get started without overextending your capital

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Build Your Ghost Kitchen With KaTom

Whether you’re launching a new delivery-only brand or expanding a virtual kitchen concept, KaTom has the tools to help you succeed. We offer everything from heavy-duty cooking equipment and refrigeration to prep supplies, smallwares, and disposables.

Ready to outfit your ghost kitchen?
Browse KaTom’s full selection of ghost kitchen equipment and start building a setup tailored to your menu, space, and budget.