Popcorn originated from an international government rivalry aimed at making corn cuter—which only resulted in researchers eating the test subjects. Join the Maize Race with today's Groupon: for $15, you get $30 worth of gourmet popcorn at Kernel Encore, featured as Rachael Ray's Snack of the Day.

Kernel Encore features more than 200 flavors of gourmet popcorn, grouped into seven flavor categories: basic, kettle, savory, sweet, specialty, drizzle, and deluxe. Forty to fifty of these flavors are available in-store each day. For the boldest of crunchers, by-the-bag popcorn sizes range from two-cup small bags ($1–$3.45) all the way to 15-gallon party boxes ($24–$92). Pushing past kettle corn and caramel, taste-bud adventurers encounter exotic flavors such as bananas foster, champagne & strawberries, beer, and even taco. Combinations mix favorites, creating special flavors such as A Day at the Beach (Amaretto, coconut, and orange) and the Elvis. Indecisive eaters are encouraged to bring a director's chair, side-by-side comparison charts, and a laser pointer to aid in their decision making.

Faced with such delectable decisions, buy an extra Groupon or two as gifts and take some friends down to the Kernel Encore headquarters for a day at the flavor races. After the visit, you are guaranteed to be able to impress popcornommeliers with a blindfolded-tasting party.

This Groupon is good for an in-store visit only. In-store pricing is not reflected on the website. Orders for party boxes must be placed at least 24 hours in advance. Visit the store to place your order.

Reviews

Kernel Encore was a Rachael Ray Snack of the Day in January. Five out of five Urbanspooners like it.