Twisted Kitchen Brings Personalization to Pasta and Salads

In an age of build-your-own bowls and infinite customization, Twisted Kitchen is an emerging chain ready to dominate the fast casual space by bringing a customizable experience to the pasta and salad crowd. A recent study showed that 53% of Millennial diners considered “a new experience” to be a crucial element in choosing somewhere to eat, primarily citing “unique food options” as a key factor. With an innovative menu and an engaging customer experience, Twisted Kitchen has garnered a dedicated customer base by offering just that — a fun “twist” on diners’ usual options.

"After trying the dishes myself, it was clear why people were raving about Twisted Kitchen,” said Shane Cawthon, an investor who recently acquired the company and took over as President of Twisted Kitchen. “The ability for customers to create their perfect dish and watch it prepared fresh in front of them resonates well, especially in a time where personalization and experience are key.”

The Twisted Kitchen Experience

Originating in 2009 in Marietta, Georgia, Twisted Kitchen was created to provide a space where diners could immerse themselves in the culinary process. From pasta bowls to salads and wraps, every dish was infused with a "twist." Its quick rise in popularity, especially among Kennesaw State University students and locals, was a testament to its consumer-centric approach.

A 2022 study from McKinsey & Company found that 71% of consumers expected companies to deliver personalized interactions. Diners are tired of the monotonous meal options — they want novel experiences that cannot be easily replicated at home. Catering to the customization preferences of Millennials and Gen Z, the Twisted Kitchen brand wants to ensure options are limitless. 

“You can experiment — guests love that they can come in and add a twist to their usual order,” Cawthon said. “Witnessing their meal sautéed and adjusted in real-time, especially in an era dominated by food influencers and culinary shows, offers an unparalleled experience.”

Contrary to many eateries that rely heavily on frozen ingredients, Twisted Kitchen prioritizes fresh, healthy alternatives, with fryers nowhere to be found. Customers can choose a pasta, wrap or salad and create their own dish from a kitchen full of fresh meats, cheeses, vegetables and sauces. Proteins, for example, range from grilled chicken to gulf shrimp to meatballs; pasta options range from tri-colored rotini to rice noodles; while sauces range from marinara all the way to oriental sesame and mandarin orange ginger. 

In addition to build-your-own options, the Twisted Kitchen menu is also full of fan-favorite combinations that guests can order, including Buffalo Chicken Alfredo, Lotta Cheez Ziti, Bacon Cheeseburger Pasta and more. The menu also features pre-built salads and wraps, as well. 

Furthermore, Twisted Kitchen constantly innovates its menu to keep up with changing consumer preferences, whether that be introducing plant-based options, gluten-free pastas or vegetarian meals. The brand also collaborates with other local restaurants to diversify offerings at each location.

While the experiential factor is key, Twisted Kitchen also boasts a robust off-premise offering, including integration with a host of third-party delivery platforms and even a catering program in the Atlanta area. 

Coming to a Pasta Bar Near You

Since day one, ensuring a consistent, high-quality experience for consumers has always been paramount to the Twisted Kitchen brand. Now, with big plans for the future, the Twisted Kitchen team has no plans to compromise its core values. 

“The essence of Twisted Kitchen goes beyond just the food. It's about cultivating an atmosphere where customers feel seen, valued and involved,” said Cawthon. “This, coupled with a competitive pricing model and a seasoned leadership team, paints a picture of a brand dedicated to offering a top-tier consumer experience.”

As the brand grows, with plans to focus on regions like Georgia, the Carolinas and Southeast U.S., more and more consumers across the country can look forward to the opportunity to savor the unique offerings of Twisted Kitchen.

“Having witnessed some of the largest restaurant franchises globally, Twisted Kitchen stands out in its consumer appeal,” said Cawthon. “It's evident that this brand holds a special place in many hearts, and we're excited to bring this experience to more communities. Dive in and get 'Twisted' with us.”

The total investment necessary to begin operation of a Twisted Kitchen franchise is $341,000 to $632,200. This includes $35,000 that must be paid to the franchisor or affiliate. The total investment necessary to begin operation under a three- to five-unit Multi-Unit Development Agreement (including the first unit) is $377,000 to $695,000. This includes $70,000 to $105,000 that must be paid to the franchisor. For more information, visit: https://tkfranchising.com/