Kernel Builds Core OS & Automation For Distributed Fast Casuals Of The Future

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Kernel Builds Core OS & Automation For Distributed Fast Casuals Of The Future
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After two years of operating in stealth mode and $36mm of capital raised, Chipotle founder Steve Ellsโ€™ latest NYC-based concept Kernel opened its doors for friends and family this week for a sneak peek. The restaurant leverages trends like plant-based alternatives as well as automation, and is completely designed to be consumed off-premise. The core business model relies on a hub-and-spoke commissary that supplies pre-cooked food to small-footprint satellite restaurants that donโ€™t require the use of any kitchen ventilation, just electric impingement ovens and automated salad mixers with three staff members working the line. With Kernel, Ells is looking to eliminate a lot of the so-called โ€œwasteโ€ of the traditional fast casual experience by eliminating POS systems, order boards, and front-of-house staff. According to SEC documents, he contributed roughly $9mm of his own capital to fund initial operations. Over the past few days, HNGRY sent in beta tasters to get an early look at the startupโ€™s progress and automation IP.

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