Frequently Asked Questions and Responses
What are the hours of operation?
Answer: Our business hours for administrative purposes are from 8 AM to 5 PM. However, our kitchen facilities are available for use 24/7, giving you the flexibility to cook whenever you need
What types of kitchen equipment and facilities are available? Answer: We offer a wide range of kitchen equipment and facilities:
South Location:
Commercial range with ovens and griddles
Exhaust hoods and ventilation systems
Blast Freezer
North Location:
Induction Cooktops
Both Locations:
Mixers and blenders Speed racks [x 2]
Food processors and slicers Commercial-grade refrigerators and freezers
Walk-in coolers and freezers [x 2] Convection ovens
Commercial dishwashers warmers and holding cabinets
Stainless steel worktables and prep stations Commercial-grade sinks and dishwashing
Hand sinks and hand dryers Shelving and storage units
Fire suppression systems Grease traps
Forklift Kitchen utensils
Cleaning supplies Trash cans
Push carts Ice maker machine
Pallet jack
How do I book a time slot? Answer: We operate on a schedule. You can book a time slot by contacting us via phone or email. We recommend booking in advance to ensure availability.
What is the pricing structure? Are there any membership plans? Answer: We do not have a membership plan, but our current rate is as follows:
$25/hr for 5 hr/wk - 10 hr/wk
$23/hr for 10 hr/wk - 20hr/wk
$21/hr for 21hr/wk - 30 hr/wk
$19/hr for 30 hr/wk +
$18/hr for overnight hours (7 PM - 5 AM)
As needed option: $350 for 10 hours (one-time use) - $20/hr. for every hour above 10 hours
Add-Ons:
$35/month for dry storage per shelf
$40/month for cold storage per shelf
If you sign up with us on a 12-month agreement, we offer a CPF document (valued at $699 per year) necessary for certain permits in Austin, Hays, and Williamson counties (additional fees apply for more than one county). Early termination of the agreement will require you to pay the full value of the CPF.
What is included in the rental fee? Answer: The rental fee includes utilities and cleaning supplies but does not include storage.
Is the kitchen equipped with specialized appliances? Answer: Yes, we have specialized appliances such as ovens, 20-quart mixers, and refrigeration.
Is there adequate storage space for ingredients and finished products?Answer: Yes, there is adequate storage space. The North location has more storage space.
Are there separate areas for different types of food preparation (e.g., bakery, hot food, cold food)? Answer: No, but the North location has a cold room.
Do you provide any packaging and labeling equipment? Answer: No, we do not provide packaging and labeling equipment.
What are the hygiene and sanitation protocols? Answer: All dishes, utensils, pans, racks, etc., must be washed, air-dried, and put back in the appropriate storage space by the end of each tenant’s time slot. Workstations, sinks, counters, tabletops, equipment, etc., must be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized after use. Floor spills should be swept or mopped. Nothing should be left in/on the sinks, tables, floors, or counters. All rubber rugs must be taken outside and cleaned accordingly.
How often is the kitchen cleaned and sanitized?Answer: Everyone must clean the kitchen after use. However, we conduct a thorough kitchen cleaning three times a week.
Do I need to have any specific food safety certifications to use the kitchen? Answer: Yes, you need a Food Manager's Certificate, Food Handler's Certificate, and a Health Department Permit.
How do I reserve kitchen time, and how far in advance should I book? Answer: The kitchen has to be scheduled in advance. You can reserve kitchen time via phone call. We recommend booking as far in dvance as possible to ensure availability.
What is the cancellation policy? Answer: For those on a 12-month agreement, you must use the kitchen for at least 3 months and give 45 days' notice. The general cancellation policy requires 45 days' notice.
Is there a limit on the number of hours I can book per week or month? Answer: There is no limit, but the minimum amount per week is 5 hours.
Are there any peak hours or times when the kitchen is busiest? Answer: Kindly inform us of the time you need the kitchen, and we will advise on the availability.
Support and Community: Is there staff available to assist with equipment or any issues that arise? Answer: Yes, staff is available to assist with any equipment or issues.
Do you offer any training or orientation sessions for new users? Answer: Yes, we provide a video or document that details the necessary information.
Are there opportunities for collaboration with other kitchen users? Answer: Not at the moment.
Do you host any events, workshops, or networking opportunities for food entrepreneurs? Answer: No.
What licenses and permits do I need to operate from the shared kitchen? Answer: It depends on what you are preparing and how you plan to sell it. We can refer you to the Austin government website or ask you to contact the officials.
Do you provide support in obtaining these licenses and permits? Answer: Yes, we provide support by being available to answer any questions on specific dates.
What kind of insurance coverage is required, and do you offer any guidance on this? Answer: A Certificate of Insurance (COI) showing a minimum of $1,000,000 Commercial General Liability coverage with Commercial Kitchen Factories, LLC listed as an additional insurance is required.
Technology and Amenities:
Is there Wi-Fi available? Answer: Yes
Do you have any software or systems in place for inventory management and scheduling? Answer: No.
Are there office spaces or meeting rooms available for rent?Answer: There is a lobby area in the North facility and a lounge area in the South location. It’s first come, first serve, and no additional rent is required
Do you offer any marketing support or platforms to help promote my business? Answer: Not at the moment.
Payments and Contracts:
What are the payment terms and methods? Answer: Payments can be made via credit card and ACH, and must be done by the 1st of the month. If payment is late or delayed, it is $10 per day late and $50 for every time we have to rerun payment.
Is there a security deposit or initial setup fee. Answer: No.
What is the contract duration, and are there options for short-term or long-term rentals? Answer: There is the option of 6 months or 12 months contract duration. is one year. There is a catering option of $350 for 10 hours and it has to be used within 48 hours.
Are there any additional fees for utilities, cleaning, or maintenance? Answer: Not at the moment.
Feedback and Improvements:
How do you handle feedback or complaints from users? Answer: We are open to feedback and aim to continuously improve our services.
Are there regular updates or improvements made to the facilities and equipment? Answer: Yes, the facilities and equipment are regularly maintained.
Can I request specific equipment or resources that are not currently available? Answer: No, but you can bring your equipment. If you wish to keep it in the kitchen, we charge for storage.