"Kernel is the newest restaurant from Steve Ells, founder of Chipotle. But this one is vegan; has a nifty robot arm that makes up to 1000 meals a day; and pays workers fairly, with time off and benefits. With a menu made from Andrew Black, a former chef from Eleven Madison Park, Kernel offers items such as the burger made with legumes, grains, and veggies and a bun that’s like brioche. There’s also a wheat-and-soy “chicken” sandwich that speaks to the zeitgeist. A zesty salad features chicories and lentils, while a romaine and kale Caesar tastes savory thanks to sunflower seeds instead of anchovies. Don’t skip the (dark) chocolate chunk or oatmeal raisin walnut cookies: Made with olive oil instead of butter and textured with milled wheatberries, they’re finished with a hint of salt." - Eater Staff
