Taste Buds Kitchen: Innovating Culinary Entertainment for All Ages

Founded in 2007 by Jessi Brelsford in New York City, Taste Buds Kitchen has redefined culinary entertainment by offering engaging cooking classes, camps, and parties for individuals aged 2 to 99. The company's mission is to delight guests through hands-on cooking experiences that are both educational and entertaining.

In 2010, Taste Buds Kitchen established its flagship location in New York City's Chelsea neighborhood, providing a dedicated space for its diverse culinary programs. Recognizing the growing demand for interactive cooking experiences, the company began franchising in 2013, enabling passionate entrepreneurs to bring the Taste Buds Kitchen concept to their communities.

Taste Buds Kitchen offers a wide array of cooking events, including children's camps, family classes, adult BYOB workshops, corporate team-building sessions, and private parties. This versatility allows the company to cater to various demographics and occasions, setting it apart from competitors by emphasizing a comprehensive approach to culinary education and entertainment.

A key differentiator for Taste Buds Kitchen is its focus on creating memorable experiences rather than operating as a traditional restaurant. By providing stylish, upscale kitchen studios designed for hands-on participation, the company fosters a welcoming environment where guests can learn, laugh, and cook together, making it a unique player in the multi-billion dollar family entertainment industry.

Training

Taste Buds Kitchen provides a structured and comprehensive training program for its franchisees. The franchisor offers several types of training designed to prepare new franchisees and their staff and ensure operational consistency across locations. These include:

1. Initial Training Program: This training is conducted either at the corporate kitchen in Maryland, at the franchisee’s location, or virtually. It is mandatory for the franchisee, Operating Principal, and General Manager. Up to three attendees can participate at no cost, and the training must be completed at least 30 days prior to opening. It includes onboarding, operational methods, and use of instructional materials like the Operations Manual and marketing resources.
2. Refresher Courses and Supplemental Training: These are offered periodically and may be either optional or mandatory. Franchisees must cover the cost of tuition and all related personal expenses, including travel and lodging.
3. On-Site Assistance and Training: Upon request and based on personnel availability, the franchisor can send corporate trainers to the franchisee’s location. Franchisees are responsible for all associated costs, including a per diem fee for trainers.

Territory Protection

Taste Buds Kitchen offers limited territory protection to its franchisees. Upon signing the agreement, franchisees are assigned a designated Territory, typically defined by population size and average household income.

Within this Territory, the franchisor agrees not to open or license other traditional Taste Buds Kitchens, provided the franchisee remains in compliance with their agreement.However, the protection is not absolute. Franchisees may face competition from affiliate-owned locations and other franchisees, especially if territories overlap.

Furthermore, the franchisor retains the right to operate in the Territory through alternative channels, including online platforms, special events, and “Special Sites” such as airports or stadiums, which are not covered by the territorial protection.