How Ghost Kitchens Actually Make Money

Restaurant Business with Fexingo: Food Service, Hospitality, and Independent Operators · Sep 18, 2026 · 11m · transcript

Ghost kitchens promised a revolution in food delivery, but the margins tell a different story. We break down the real economics of virtual restaurant brands using third-party delivery platforms. From the hidden costs of packaging and platform commissions to the reality of customer acquisition, we examine why many ghost kitchen operators are struggling to stay profitable. Featuring insights from industry data on average order values and delivery fees, this episode reveals the hidden math behind the virtual dining boom and what it means for independent operators trying to survive in 2026…