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Drawing on the underpinnings of organisational learning theory, this study delves into the experiences of dark kitchen leaders to examine the relevance of learning, how learning is demonstrated, and what future learning directions are relevant within their environment. To achieve these objectives, semi-structured face-to-face and online interviews were conducted with owners and managers of dark kitchens. Various critical conceptual dimensions resulted from the qualitative content and data structure analysis undertaken. First, applied, methodical, nurturing and bonding learning are exemplars of its relevance for the dark business's strategy. Second, learning is illustrated through bottom-line, personal, and professional growth, together with taking in new knowledge. Third, crucial forms of future learning are associated with the illuminating, inspired, and contemporary learning dimensions. Further reflection upon these dimensions led to the 'learning-to-thrive' framework, which extends and deepens the understanding of the study's analysis and underscores several practical and theoretical implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the key providers of eating-out experiences, food service establishments need to revisit their skill repertoire to continue achieving patronage and competitiveness. In this context, the role of chefs also becomes instrumental. Thus, examining chefs' innovative practices, such as the uptake of technology or even the extent to which they consider traditional recipes as a source of innovation, could illuminate new innovative gastronomic pathways with positive implications for the food and beverage industry. Embracing the creative self-efficacy and open innovation literature, this study makes empirical and conceptual contributions in this area. In-depth interviews with 69 executive chefs in Australia and Vietnam revealed 11 aggregate dimensions, including chefs' innovative sensibility, technology competency, and traditional recipe know-how. Building on the data analysis, a developed 'innovative cooktop' framework illustrates, for instance, that chefs 'resynchronise' or extend traditional recipes through innovative practices and processes. Key practical and conceptual implications will be discussed. • Examines innovative practices and uptake of technology and tradition. • Takes a comparative approach, studying chefs operating in two nations. • Develops a chefs' innovative cooktop framework. • Discusses practical and theoretical implications from the analysis/framework. • Considers the insights of open innovation and creative self-efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]