A good business concept adapts to the needs of the time. Vegas Test Kitchen was a brilliant solution for the mid-pandemic crisis that left many restaurants empty. It became a successful and popular venue that allowed over 70 chefs to test new dishes and concepts in a multi-concept restaurant with patio seating, live music, and various food options.
After serving the Las Vegas community for more than two years, the sponsors have decided to end the incubator project for good. However, they will not go quietly. They will host an outdoor food festival in early June, featuring dozens of chefs who have participated in the program. They’ll offer a range of cuisines from bagels and pizza to sushi and vegan eats. Vegas Test Kitchen will continue to serve its loyal customers until its final closure in the summer.
Jolene Mannina, Founder of Vegas Test Kitchen
Vegas Test Kitchen was founded by Jolene Mannina. She is the former director of Life is Beautiful and the founder of Secret Burger, a culinary pop-up organization. Mannina has a lot of experience in the food industry and wanted to give opportunities to local chefs to showcase their skills and learn from each other before opening their restaurants. She also wanted to provide a unique dining experience for the customers, who could order from multiple businesses in the same transaction using a smartphone or computer.
It has hosted many chefs by hosting a regular calendar of regular dining concepts and one-time pop-ups. Only local chefs prepare and serve anything they want at the establishment. Some popular dishes served at Vegas Test Kitchen were pie, sushi, and sandwiches; however, chefs are free to prepare anything.
Successful businesses have been launched at Vegas Test Kitchen. An example of a launched restaurant was the Bodega Bagel, which Chef Sonia El-Nawal opened in Henderson. Unfortunately, the establishment was closed after only six months. However, the most successful business at the Vegas Test Kitchen is Yukon Pizza which has been part of the program for over two years and is now located at the Huntridge Center.
DTP, the financier
DTP funded the test kitchen, and according to the agreement, the business was to run for five years. Due to a decline in sales, the financier has to pull the plug on the entire project before the end of the five years.
While Vegas Test Kitchen is gone for good, Mannina sees the concept being revived soon but in a busier neighborhood. For now, she is grateful to all the chefs that have been part of the journey. After its closing festival in June, the Vegas Test Kitchen will be closed forever.
