What is a scratch kitchen?

A scratch kitchen is a type of restaurant or food service establishment where all menu items are made from scratch, using fresh and local ingredients whenever possible. This means that dishes are prepared on-site from raw or minimally processed ingredients, rather than relying on pre-packaged or pre-made items.

Scratch kitchens typically prioritize quality, flavor, and creativity in their dishes, as they have complete control over the ingredients and cooking methods used. This can often lead to more diverse and unique menu offerings, as chefs have the freedom to experiment and adapt their recipes based on seasonal availability and customer preferences.

In a scratch kitchen, you can expect to find a wide range of freshly made items, including house-made breads, pastas, sauces, dressings, and desserts. Many scratch kitchens also take pride in sourcing their ingredients locally and sustainably, supporting small farmers and producers in their community.

Overall, dining at a scratch kitchen can be a more authentic and satisfying experience, as each dish is crafted with care and attention to detail. It can also provide a greater sense of transparency and trust between the kitchen and the diners, as they can see exactly what goes into each meal.