The Origin

The Kramp Family and Chef Chris teamed up to create a place that can be focused on doing things the right way.

When we first took over the current Test Kitchen space, Mission #1 was Donuts. Kerry Sr. had spent a lifetime in the restaurant industry but he credits most of his work ethic and love for hospitality from working in his Grand Fathers Spudnut Shop in Ohio. We joke that he purchased donuts equipment the same day he signed the lease, his passion for finding the perfect donut bite took months of testing, but our signature potato donut is raved about in reviews and conversations with our customers.

Chef Chris has worked around the world, pulling together a wealth of culinary knowledge! His food speaks for itself, wutg each bite full of flavor! Chris has a passion for bringing people together with food, he loves to eat and try new restaurants. In the early days we spoke about building a focused concept in the Test Kitchen space… After a few short planning sessions we all agreed a Test Kitchen would allow Chris creative freedom to experiment and play each day!

The Test Kitchen has tested many items since opening in 2021, Tacos… Burgers… Tri Tip Steak Sandwiches…. Nashiville Chicken… Philly Cheese-steak…. we are focused on testing new items regularly.

In early 2023 Chef Chris and his wife Maiss moved back to Southern California to begin the next test of The Test Kitchen. Can we take a product from our menu and turn it into its own focused concept. With a ton of hard work and belief in the Crunch Burger that is a staple on our Menu, Chris and Maiss opened The Krunch Burger in La Mirada CA. The Krunch Burger is hit, and everyone that tries the Cheese Skirt Burger loves it!

When Chris moved away to focus on The Krunch Burger, Kerry and Chris asked Kerry’s sons Kent and Kerry Jr. to take on a bigger role with The Test Kitchen.

With a history of operating two Raising Cane’s Franchise locations close by The Test Kitchen, Kent has a large wealth of knowledge about campus and the surrounding neighborhoods. Kent has been tasked with running day to day operation and building a team that will be ready to grow future brands from The Test Kitchen. Kent works directly with Chef Chris to find the next items we will test!

Kerry’s oldest Son Kerry Jr. is a trusted advisor providing insight into employment strategy and Vision and Mission Implementation. With 20+ years in the industry, Kerry Jr. plays a crucial role in ensuring we build a brand with integrity and constant customer focus! As we grow and develop The Test Kitchen space in Minneapolis, we have high hopes that we can develop cutting edge staffing, service and restaurant system using the brilliant student body from the U of MN. More to come on this in the future!

We are excited about what we are building and cannot wait for you to come visit us at The Test Kitchen!