{image1}Since Kernel Popcorn's Factory opened in spring 2003 in Wisconsin Dells, satisfied customers have been popping up all over. Now, Kernel Popcorn's Factory has made a new home at Mayfair Mall, and with 32 flavors to choose from, there's something for everyone.
Tom Hoch, owner of Kernel Popcorn's Factory at Mayfair Mall and Marquette graduate, was excited to be able to create a family business.
"I couldn't stand a cubicle anymore, so I called up my dad last November, and it took three minutes to convince him," Hoch says.
By February, Hoch had set up his Mayfair Mall kiosk, which, with a rainbow of colors, quickly grabs the attention of passers-by.
"It's eye-catching food," Hoch says.
With flavors ranging from barbecue cheese to strawberry and colors as wide-ranging, Hoch isn't kidding. It's a food that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the taste buds.
But there's one important thing Hoch wants to set straight about the popcorn.
"It's flavored popcorn; it's not food coloring."
Hybrid seeds are popped in coconut oil, and flavorings -- including butter, molasses, pure cane sugar, Wisconsin cheddar cheese and rich corn syrup -- are used.
{image2}For those craving a snack, large cups are available, as are bowls, which are perfect for sharing. Large families and party hosts likely will trade up to the big tins.
Hoch sees Kernel Popcorn's Factory as a long-term business investment.
"Hopefully, this is just the tip of the iceberg," he says, expressing a desire to expand further. "I'd love to get down in Chicago."
Kernel Popcorn's Factory hopes to join the ranks of Chicago's premier popcorn stop, Garrett Popcorn Shops, which has been around since 1949.
"We've received nice comparisons to Garrett's (the Michigan Avenue popcorn shop that has had a line out the door since 1949) in Chicago. Many even say they prefer ours," Hoch adds.
Kernel Popcorn's Factory kiosk is located in Mayfair Mall in the open atrium at center court. The Wisconsin Dells store is located at 460 Broadway in the Bavarian Village. The Web site is kernelpopcornsfactory.com, or call (877) 254-6888.
