When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Spice Kitchen Incubator
Why Spice Kitchen Incubator is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Spice Kitchen Incubator is an inspiring business incubator located in Salt Lake City that uniquely serves refugees, immigrants, and disadvantaged community members passionate about launching their own food businesses. Founded as a partnership between the International Rescue Committee (IRC) and Salt Lake County Mayor’s Office for New Americans & Refugees, this program provides a nurturing environment where culinary entrepreneurs can develop sustainable businesses while preserving their traditional cuisines. What sets Spice Kitchen Incubator apart is its comprehensive support system: participants receive hands-on technical assistance, affordable access to commercial kitchen spaces, and tailored training on commercial kitchen operations and food safety. Additionally, the incubator fosters community through its "Spice on 9th" market and café, which doubles as a vibrant small business hub where entrepreneurs sell their packaged products and interact with customers. This unique combination of education, resource access, and community engagement makes Spice Kitchen Incubator an exceptional place for food entrepreneurs to meet up, collaborate, and grow their ventures together. By helping participants cultivate viable food businesses, the program not only supports economic self-sufficiency but also enriches Salt Lake County’s diverse culinary landscape, offering an extraordinary meeting point for friends and food lovers alike.
Here's what people think of Spice Kitchen Incubator
As of recent, Spice Kitchen Incubator holds a 4.8-star rating based on 42 reviews.
Users consistently praise Spice Kitchen Incubator for its empowering and supportive environment, reflected in its outstanding 4.8-star rating from 42 reviews. Positive feedback often highlights the program’s comprehensive training and affordable kitchen access, which enable entrepreneurs to gain essential skills and launch successful food businesses. Many reviewers appreciate how the incubator values cultural heritage and culinary traditions, fostering a supportive community that celebrates diversity. The welcoming atmosphere of the "Spice on 9th" market and café is frequently mentioned as a special highlight, providing not only a marketplace but also an interactive hub for networking and cross-cultural exchange. On the other hand, some critiques focus on the limited physical space and scheduling constraints, which occasionally challenge participants’ access to kitchen facilities during peak times. A few users desire expanded resources or longer program duration to better support business growth and marketing opportunities. Overall, however, the positive experiences far outweigh the negatives. The reviews conclude that Spice Kitchen Incubator is a compassionate and effective platform that empowers marginalized food entrepreneurs, making it an invaluable asset to Salt Lake City’s community and culinary scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Arwen Wyatt
I have used their catering services for conferences on multiple occasions (Sudanese - Mother of All, Venezuelan, Nepalese), and it has been OUTSTANDING each time. I'm always complimented on the food. Spice Kitchen has my highest recommendation!
Dean Gamble
Different atmosphere played corn hole while waiting for food
noor adden
The finest people from Spice and the worst place and the worst management of the square kitchen do not know dealing with people and there is a large article that will be published soon about this bad square kitchen and I will publish it with all social media👎 I was given a 5 star spice for the square kitchen I gave zero👎
Stacy Sansone
I like trying new dishes from around the world. I only wish they were closer to where I live.
Austin A
I've been going almost every Thursday evening because I love the variety of food from different cultures. And it's for a good cause! There's sometimes a bit of a wait, but everyone is friendly. I'm hoping to try out their catering sometime soon!
How to reach Spice Kitchen Incubator
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Website: None
Why Spice Kitchen Incubator may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Spice Kitchen Incubator with your friends?
If you're looking for a unique place to gather with your friends that offers more than just a typical hangout, Spice Kitchen Incubator provides an exceptional setting where you can share delicious food, support a meaningful mission, and experience diverse cultures through cuisine all under one roof. This vibrant culinary incubator thrives on community spirit — it helps immigrant and refugee entrepreneurs launch their food businesses, so every meal you enjoy here tells a story of perseverance, creativity, and cultural heritage. Rallying here means embracing an atmosphere filled with passion and entrepreneurial drive, where every bite supports transformative opportunities for New Americans. The environment is warm and inviting, perfect for socializing while discovering mouth-watering dishes from around the globe. Beyond just a meal spot, Spice Kitchen Incubator fosters connection, knowledge-sharing, and a sense of belonging, making it an ideal place to strengthen friendships and family bonds over fantastic food and inspiring stories. Whether you’re seeking new taste experiences, meaningful conversation, or a way to contribute to the local community, this space is the perfect venue to do all three together with your favorite people.
What activities can you enjoy at Spice Kitchen Incubator?
Spice Kitchen Incubator features a range of activities that make it not only a food destination but also a lively community hub. At its core, the Incubator provides a commercial kitchen space where immigrant chefs learn business and culinary skills, which is crucial in their journey to becoming successful food entrepreneurs. Visitors can engage with these chefs by tasting an array of authentic dishes such as Middle Eastern kebabs, vegan mole verde, Venezuelan arepas, and much more. The market café called "Spice on 9th" highlights grab-and-go options and packaged goods, giving groups a casual yet delicious dining experience. Additionally, the space acts as a small business center hosting workshops, one-on-one mentoring sessions, and networking events aimed at supporting food startups. These events are ideal for groups interested in food entrepreneurship or simply for those who want to learn more about cooking, nutrition, or business development. Also, the Incubator organizes food tastings, cultural gatherings, and seasonal markets that bring together entrepreneurs and patrons, enriching your meetup with entertainment and educational opportunities.
Why is Spice Kitchen Incubator perfect for a group meetup?
Spice Kitchen Incubator is the ideal venue for group meetups because it offers an immersive, multifaceted experience beyond traditional cafés or restaurants. The atmosphere is uniquely vibrant and community-centered, making it easy for groups to engage in meaningful conversations inspired by the stories of entrepreneurs behind the dishes. The diverse menu selection allows everyone in your group to find something they enjoy, from savory vegan options to exotic meat dishes and delectable desserts. The space is designed to be welcoming and inclusive, promoting cultural exchange and fostering friendships between guests and chefs alike. For groups that enjoy interactive experiences, the small business workshops and events provide hands-on activities that spark creativity and learning. Additionally, catering services from some of the Entrepreneurs like Delicius offer tailored options for larger groups, allowing you to bring the flavors of Spice Kitchen Incubator directly to your private meetups or celebrations. This makes it not only an excellent spot for casual gatherings but also for special occasions or team-building outings where food and culture become the foundation for connection.
What kind of food can you expect at Spice Kitchen Incubator?
At Spice Kitchen Incubator, the culinary offerings are as diverse as the community it supports. You can expect to find authentic dishes crafted by immigrant and refugee chefs who bring the tastes of their homelands to Salt Lake City. These include specialties like Venezuelan arepas filled with sausage and grilled eggplant or vegetarian black bean varieties, Iraqi beef kebabs, Middle Eastern falafel, and exotic vegan moles. The recipes are often hard to find in typical restaurants, giving your group a unique opportunity to sample flavors and cooking traditions you might never otherwise experience. For dessert, choices range from traditional Venezuelan sweets like tres leches cakes and passion fruit mousse to nutella-filled treats and other rich, artisanal desserts. The food is made fresh with passionate attention to detail and authenticity, ensuring that every bite is not just a meal but a cultural experience. Since many entrepreneurs also sell packaged goods and grab-and-go items at the café, you have the flexibility to enjoy a quick bite or a more elaborate tasting session.
How does Spice Kitchen Incubator support immigrant and refugee entrepreneurs?
The heart of Spice Kitchen Incubator lies in its mission to uplift immigrant and refugee food entrepreneurs. Participants receive thorough training not only in cooking but also in business skills such as licensing, marketing, and product development. This comprehensive approach equips them to launch and sustain viable food businesses successfully. Moreover, the Incubator provides affordable access to licensed commercial kitchen space—an essential resource for these entrepreneurs who often lack licensed facilities in their own homes. This infrastructure support is critical to their ability to legally prepare and sell food products locally. Beyond the material and technical assistance, the Incubator fosters social connections by creating a community environment where participants support each other, forming friendships and mentorships that are especially valuable during challenging times such as social isolation or adjustment periods in a new country. When visitors patronize the businesses of Spice Kitchen graduates, they contribute directly to economic self-sufficiency and cultural preservation, making each visit a socially impactful experience.
What makes Spice Kitchen Incubator a unique venue compared to other eateries?
Unlike conventional restaurants that focus solely on dining, Spice Kitchen Incubator blends food with entrepreneurship, culture, and community development. It is a dynamic space where you don’t just eat but also engage with a broader social mission. The presence of a market café housing multiple entrepreneurs’ products allows for a variety of tastes and culinary styles under one roof, giving group members the chance to explore different cuisines simultaneously. The educational component—offering workshops and business support—adds a distinctive layer of value for visitors who want to connect with culinary traditions as living, evolving businesses. Furthermore, the variety of business phases represented—from startup chefs still learning the ropes to graduates with their own food trucks and catering services—means you encounter a vibrant snapshot of emerging food culture. This incubator model transforms dining into an experience rich with stories of resilience, hope, and innovation, setting it apart as a community hub where food is both nourishment and a vehicle for cultural exchange.
Can you host events or private gatherings at Spice Kitchen Incubator?
Yes, Spice Kitchen Incubator is well-suited for hosting private events, from intimate friend gatherings to larger family meetups or community celebrations. With its connection to a diverse group of skilled immigrant chefs and caterers like Delicius, which specializes in Venezuelan cuisine, you can arrange customized catering options that accommodate varying group sizes and dietary preferences. Their catering service offers pickup and delivery with a minimum order, making it flexible for both on-site and off-site events. The space itself is supportive of events that combine dining with interaction, such as cooking demonstrations, cultural celebrations, or food entrepreneur networking. Hosting your group meetup here provides a meaningful backdrop where occasion and cause come together, allowing your group to enjoy memorable food experiences while supporting local business development. The collaborative spirit of the incubator ensures that your event will feel personal, inclusive, and deeply connected to the wider Salt Lake City community.
What should visitors know before coming to Spice Kitchen Incubator?
Visitors planning a meetup at Spice Kitchen Incubator should be aware that it is not just a typical restaurant but also a learning and business hub, so the environment encourages interaction and support for entrepreneurial efforts. The menu and food offerings may vary depending on the current cohort of chefs and their specialties, which means every visit can introduce new tastes and stories. Hours of operation reflect this dynamic setup, including both the storefront café "Spice on 9th" and various satellite locations such as Delicius at Jade Market, so it’s a good idea to check current times before you go. Catering arrangements typically require advance notice and minimum order sizes, so planning ahead ensures you get the best service for group events. Whether dropping by for a quick bite or arranging a full group event, guests should come prepared to engage with a vibrant community of food artisans and entrepreneurs who are passionate about sharing their culinary heritage.
How can supporting Spice Kitchen Incubator benefit the local community?
Supporting Spice Kitchen Incubator directly benefits the local economy and community by empowering refugee and immigrant entrepreneurs to achieve economic independence. These food entrepreneurs add tremendous cultural richness and diversity to the Salt Lake County food scene, introducing unique culinary traditions that expand the local palate and foster cross-cultural understanding. By choosing to dine here, purchase products, or cater from these businesses, customers provide vital revenues and market access to entrepreneurs who might otherwise struggle to enter the food industry. In addition, the incubator’s educational programs promote workforce development and small business sustainability, creating ripple effects of growth and community development. Spice Kitchen also helps build social networks that combat isolation and encourage friendships among diverse ethnic groups, enhancing social cohesion. Ultimately, your support is an investment in a thriving, inclusive community that values cultural heritage, economic opportunity, and innovative entrepreneurship.
This detailed exploration of Spice Kitchen Incubator reveals why it is an outstanding place to host your next meetup. From its mission-driven support of new Americans to the delicious, globally inspired food and interactive business activities, this unique venue offers a rich, fulfilling experience that brings friends and family closer together through culture, food, and community.