Written by
James Mitchell
Ghost Kitchen Operations Director & Industry Expert
Quick Answer
These terms are largely interchangeable, but subtle differences exist. Dark kitchens typically operate in secrecy without public branding, often run by delivery companies. Ghost kitchens are delivery-only operations that may have brand presence online. Cloud kitchens emphasize tech-enabled, multi-brand operations. In practice, the UK market valued at £88.4 billion globally in 2025, uses all three terms for the same concept: delivery-only commercial kitchens.
The explosion of food delivery has created confusing terminology. Dark kitchens, ghost kitchens, cloud kitchens, and virtual restaurants all describe similar concepts, but understanding the nuances helps you choose the right model for your business. With 750 ghost kitchens operating in the UK as of 2020 (compared to 7,500+ in China), this market continues to grow rapidly.
Key Terms Defined
Ghost Kitchen
A delivery-only kitchen not tied to a traditional restaurant, operating independently in its own or shared space. Food is ordered exclusively through delivery apps.
Dark Kitchen
A leased kitchen space where restaurants prepare delivery-only menus without dine-in options. Often operates under existing restaurant brands.
Cloud Kitchen
Similar to ghost kitchen but emphasizes tech-enabled operations and multi-brand capabilities from a single facility.
Virtual Restaurant
A delivery-only brand that exists online without physical dining space, often operating from existing restaurant kitchens.
Dark Kitchen vs Ghost Kitchen: Core Differences
Brand Visibility
Dark Kitchen
Often operates in secrecy, no public signage, hidden location
Ghost Kitchen
May have branding and online presence, focuses on delivery platform visibility
Practical impact: Dark kitchens are truly 'invisible' to the public
Ownership Model
Dark Kitchen
Often run by large delivery companies for private-label brands
Ghost Kitchen
Independent operators or restaurant brands expanding delivery
Practical impact: Dark kitchens more corporate, ghost kitchens more entrepreneurial
Space Type
Dark Kitchen
Purpose-built delivery facilities with multiple operators
Ghost Kitchen
Can be shared, dedicated, or repurposed restaurant spaces
Practical impact: Dark kitchens tend to be larger, multi-tenant facilities
Public Knowledge
Dark Kitchen
Deliberately low profile, consumers often unaware
Ghost Kitchen
Brand-focused, customers know it's delivery-only
Practical impact: Dark kitchens prioritize operational secrecy
Cost Comparison: Which Is Cheaper?
Dark Kitchen (Shared Facility)
Established brands expanding delivery
Ghost Kitchen (Independent)
New delivery-only concepts
Cloud Kitchen (Multi-brand)
Running multiple virtual brands
Price factors: Location greatly affects costs. London dark kitchen facilities range £1,800-£3,500/month, while Manchester and Birmingham offer £900-£2,400/month. Use our cost calculator for accurate estimates based on your city.
Pros and Cons: Making the Right Choice
Dark Kitchen Model
Best for: Brands expanding delivery without major investment
Advantages:
- Lower setup costs in shared facilities
- Prime delivery locations pre-selected
- Shared infrastructure reduces overhead
- Often includes tech stack and support
- Optimized for delivery efficiency
Disadvantages:
- Less control over operations
- Competition with co-located brands
- Limited customization options
- May require minimum order volumes
- Tied to facility provider's terms
Ghost Kitchen Model
Best for: Independent operators building delivery brands
Advantages:
- Full operational control
- Build your own brand identity
- Flexible space arrangements
- Can operate multiple brands
- Scale at your own pace
Disadvantages:
- Higher initial investment
- More operational complexity
- Need to source own location
- Handle all tech and logistics
- Higher risk for new operators
Which Model Should You Choose?
Choose a Dark Kitchen If:
- You're an existing restaurant expanding into delivery
- You want lower setup costs and faster time to market
- You prefer managed facilities with included infrastructure
- You're testing a new concept before major investment
Choose a Ghost Kitchen If:
- You're building a brand-new delivery-only concept
- You want full control over operations and branding
- You plan to operate multiple virtual brands
- You have capital for higher upfront investment
Where to Find These Kitchens in the UK
Major Dark Kitchen Operators:
- • Deliveroo Editions - London, Manchester, Birmingham
- • CloudKitchens - London, Nottingham
- • Karma Kitchen - London locations
- • The Spacehouse - Multiple UK cities
Ghost Kitchen Spaces Available:
- • London - 200+ spaces (£1,500-3,500/mo)
- • Manchester - 50+ spaces (£900-2,400/mo)
- • Birmingham - 40+ spaces (£800-2,200/mo)
- • Browse all UK cities
Ready to Start Your Delivery Kitchen?
Whether you call it a dark kitchen, ghost kitchen, or cloud kitchen, we can help you find the perfect space. Browse verified commercial kitchens across the UK with transparent pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dark kitchens and ghost kitchens the same thing?
Essentially yes, though subtle differences exist. Dark kitchens often operate more secretively without public branding, while ghost kitchens may have stronger brand presence on delivery platforms. Both are delivery-only commercial kitchens without dine-in service.
Which is more expensive: dark kitchen or ghost kitchen?
Dark kitchen shared facilities typically have lower setup costs (£2,000-£5,000) but may charge higher monthly rent (£1,500-£3,500). Independent ghost kitchens have higher setup costs (£3,000-£15,000) but more flexible rental options (£800-£2,500/month). Total cost depends on your specific arrangement and location.
What is a cloud kitchen vs ghost kitchen?
Cloud kitchens emphasize technology-enabled operations and multi-brand capabilities. They're essentially ghost kitchens with advanced tech infrastructure for managing multiple virtual brands from one location. The terms are often used interchangeably in the industry.
Can I run my own brand in a dark kitchen?
Yes, most dark kitchen facilities allow independent brands. However, some facilities run by delivery companies may prioritize their private-label brands. Always clarify branding rights and visibility when evaluating dark kitchen spaces. See our UK kitchen directory for options.
Related Resources
James Mitchell
Ghost Kitchen Operations Director & Industry Expert
With 15 years in the food service industry, James Mitchell has managed operations for multiple ghost kitchen networks across the UK. He specializes in delivery-only kitchen models, kitchen equipment procurement, and helping startups scale their food businesses efficiently.
Areas of Expertise
Credentials
- MBA in Hospitality Management
- Former Operations Director at major ghost kitchen operator
- Food Hygiene Level 4 Certified
- 15+ years food service industry
- Managed 20+ dark kitchen locations