Restaurant operator Skylark to open 1st ghost kitchen in central Tokyo

Skylark Holdings Co., a prominent restaurant chain operator, is set to launch its inaugural ghost kitchen in central Tokyo, aiming to tap into the demand from professionals residing in high-rise apartments. According to company Chairman Makoto Tani, 74, this strategic move comes ahead of an anticipated consumption tax reduction on food products next year.

Skylark's existing restaurant chains, Bamiyan and Gusto, primarily operate in suburban areas near major roads. Tani pointed out that limited restaurant options are available around Tokyo's 23 administrative wards, particularly in residential complexes. Consequently, the company believes that a ghost kitchen could generate substantial profits.

The company intends to feature menu items from its existing restaurant chains that are well-suited for delivery. Tani suggested that customers could order Chinese-style rice bowls, fried noodles, and hamburger steaks through the ghost kitchen. Ghost kitchens exclusively cater to delivery and takeout, without offering dining areas. These establishments can function from compact spaces, lowering opening costs, while orders are processed online.

Skylark's decision to venture into ghost kitchens is driven by the government's planned consumption tax cut on food and beverages, which will decrease from 8 percent to 1 percent in April. As the 10 percent tax rate for dining out will remain constant, the company is gearing up for an increase in at-home consumption during this period.