When starting a restaurant business, it’s essential that you have the right equipment and accessories to make sure everything runs smoothly. Before investing in any kitchenware, it’s important to create an equipment list – a comprehensive inventory of all of the items that you’ll need for your commercial kitchen.
Some of the most common pieces of equipment include large-scale appliances such as ovens and freezers, as well as smaller kitchen tools like cutting boards and mixing bowls. Don’t forget about serving ware too – plates, bowls, utensils and glassware will be necessary for presentation purposes.
When creating a restaurant kitchen equipment list, it’s important to consider both the practical needs of your business as well as any safety regulations that may apply in your location. You should also research customer ratings and personal reviews before committing to any major purchases.
Here are some key items to make sure you put on your list.
Types Of Ovens
The first thing on your restaurant equipment list should be an oven. Here’s a quick overview of some of the most common types of ovens used in restaurant kitchens:
- Convection Ovens: These ovens use fans to circulate hot air throughout the chamber, ensuring even heat distribution and faster cooking times. They are great for baking items like pastries and pizzas, as well as roasting or grilling meats.
- Combination Ovens: Combination ovens allow you to choose from several modes – convection, steam and microwave – so that you can cook food in different ways without needing extra equipment.
- Rotisserie Ovens: Rotisserie ovens can be used for slow-roasting meats or veggies at low temperatures. The rotating spit ensures that food cooks evenly and retains its moisture.
- Pizza Ovens: If your menu features pizza, then investing in a separate pizza oven is essential – they cook pizzas quickly at high temperatures while giving you full control over the process.
Ranges And Ventilation
Having the right range and ventilation system is essential for any successful commercial kitchen. Ranges come in a variety of sizes and styles, so it’s important to consider the specific needs of your restaurant before making any major purchases. Ventilation systems are also crucial – proper ventilation prevents smoke and odors from lingering in your restaurant, and can even help to improve indoor air quality.
When choosing a range, look for one with multiple burners or an oven that will accommodate all of your menu items. You’ll also need to make sure that the size matches up with available space – oversized ranges may not fit properly in small kitchens.
The ventilation system is just as important as the range itself. Most restaurants require some type of hood-and-ventilator setup, which removes smoke and odors from the kitchen area while keeping debris out of the food preparation area. Look for a reliable brand when selecting components for this type of system – you don’t want it to fail during peak times!
Food Processors
Restaurants require specialized cooking equipment to meet the demands of their menu items. One such piece of restaurant kitchen equipment is a food processor, which can help simplify and speed up the meal-prep process in any commercial kitchen.
Here are some key aspects to consider when choosing a food processor for restaurant use:
- Size: Food processors come in various sizes, from small, 3-cup models to large, 16-cup models. Consider how much volume you’ll need to process at one time before selecting a model – too small and you may end up having to run multiple batches, whereas too big could mean wasted storage space.
- Features: Look for features such as variable speeds, pulse control and dishwasher safe parts. Some models also have attachments available for specific tasks like dough kneading or shredding cheese.
- Power: The power of your food processor will affect its performance – look for models with wattages over 500W for more efficient results. This is especially important in busy kitchens where multiple batches of ingredients may need to be processed quickly and efficiently.
- Durability and Warranty: Make sure that the product you choose is designed to handle heavy duty use in a professional environment – many commercial grade units come with warranties that cover parts and labor for up to two years, so keep an eye out for those when shopping around.
Meat Slicers
A meat slicer is a handy tool for any kitchen – it can help shave off minutes of prep time and provide uniform slices for all your food needs. Choosing the right one, however, can be tricky.
Here are some key aspects to consider when searching for the best meat slicer:
- Size: Meat slicers come in various sizes from small home-use units to large commercial grade units.
- Blade Type: The most common types of blades include straight edge, serrated edge and scalloped-edge blades, each suited for different kinds of foods like cheese, fish or vegetables. Consider which type will be best for your needs before purchasing a model with a pre-set blade.
- Power: If you plan to use your slicer frequently, look for a model with higher wattage – this will help ensure that it can handle tough ingredients without overheating or slowing down.
- Durability: Make sure that the model you choose is designed to handle heavy duty use in your kitchen – many high-quality units come with warranties that cover parts and labor for up to two years so keep an eye out for those when shopping around.
A good meat slicer can make meal preparation easier than ever – by considering size, blade type, power and durability when selecting a model, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect unit fit for your needs.
Kitchen Supplies and Servingware
Here are some key aspects to keep in mind when stocking your restaurant with the necessary items:
Durability: Look for products that are designed to handle heavy-duty use in a professional environment. Consider materials such as stainless steel, cast iron or plastics that are BPA-free and safe for contact with food.
Functionality: Make sure that you have all the necessary items needed to carry out your menu items effectively – this may include oven mitts, spatulas, whisks, baking dishes, etc.
Price: Balance quality with cost efficiency when selecting supplies – look for products that provide value without compromising on quality.
Design: Consider the aesthetic of the supplies – many restaurants opt for a unified style throughout their kitchen and dining areas, which can help create a more cohesive atmosphere for diners.
By taking into consideration durability, functionality, price and design when stocking up on kitchen supplies and servingware, you’ll be able to ensure your restaurant is set up for success.
Freezers And Refrigerators
Refrigerators and freezers are essential components of any restaurant kitchen. When making a purchase, it’s important to consider size, type and cost. Refrigerators come in both top-mounted and bottom-mounted designs, which can have different power consumption levels, so determine which will be most efficient for your needs.
Freezers also vary in size, usually coming in upright or chest models – when selecting a model, factor in the storage space you need as well as the temperature range it provides.
Lastly, consider a budget – balance quality with cost efficiency when selecting supplies to make sure you get the most value out of every purchase. With careful consideration of these factors, restaurants can ensure they have an efficient and reliable refrigerator/freezer setup that meets their needs.
Storage Equipment
Consider items such as racks, shelves, bins and containers to ensure ingredients and supplies are stored away in an orderly fashion. Look for storage solutions that are durable and able to last through high-traffic conditions. Additionally, take into consideration the size of each item – there should be enough space to store all your essential ingredients without cluttering up the kitchen area.
When looking for storage equipment, look for products that provide value without compromising on quality to make sure you get the most out of every purchase.
Safety Equipment
Safety is an essential factor for any restaurant kitchen. Choose items that are flame-resistant and heat-proof, as these will provide the best protection against fires and burns. Ensure the equipment is up to code with health regulations in your area, as well as being sturdy enough for daily use without compromising safety.
Additionally, look for protective gear such as face masks and gloves to protect users from allergens and other contaminants. With careful consideration of these factors and keen attention to detail, restaurants can ensure their safety protocols are enforced properly and compliant with local regulations.
Gas Or Electric Grill
Selecting the right type of grill for a restaurant is an important decision, as it will have a direct impact on the quality of food served.
Gas grills are faster and more efficient than their electric counterparts, but can be more expensive to operate in the long run.
On the other hand, electric grills require less fuel, but can take longer to heat up. Additionally, look for features such as adjustable temperature controls and automated shut-off functions to maximize safety while operating the grill.
With careful consideration of these factors, restaurants can provide their customers with delicious meals that are cooked to perfection every time.
Kitchen Display System
A Kitchen Display System (KDS) can help restaurants streamline their kitchen operations for more efficient and accurate service. When purchasing a KDS, consider factors such as the total number of orders, menu complexity and order volume.
Additionally, look for features such as automation capabilities to reduce human errors while preparing food. A quality KDS should also come with features like reporting functions to measure order performance over time and monitor trends in customer tastes.
With careful consideration of these factors and attention to detail, restaurants can optimize their workflow while satisfying customers with delicious meals made quickly and accurately.
Disposal Sinks
There are many types of washing equipment you will need, and at the top of that list should be a disposal sink. Disposal sinks are an essential kitchen tool for any restaurant. They provide a convenient way to dispose of food waste quickly and efficiently, allowing restaurants to focus on preparing delicious meals for their customers.
When considering the installation of disposal sinks, it’s important to take into account factors such as energy efficiency, cost and installation requirements. High-efficiency models can help cut back on energy costs over time, while high-capacity units are ideal for restaurants with high-volume customer demand.
Additionally, models that require minimal plumbing work can be quickly set up in existing kitchens without needing extra wiring or pipes. With careful consideration of these factors, restaurants can find the right disposal sink to make food preparation and cleanup easier than ever before.
The Pros Of Buying Used Commercial Kitchen Equipment
For restaurateurs looking to expand their kitchen operations without breaking the bank, buying used commercial kitchen equipment can be a great option. Used equipment is often much cheaper than buying new, and it enables businesses to get the tools they need without needing to invest in expensive upfront costs.
Additionally, used commercial kitchen equipment typically has plenty of life left in it, so businesses can operate more efficiently at a fraction of the price. Furthermore, most reputable suppliers offer detailed information on the condition of their products and will even include warranties on items bought from them. This provides extra security for those making purchases and helps ensure they are getting high-quality items that will remain reliable over time.
For restaurants looking to save money while still obtaining quality commercial kitchen equipment, investing in used items is an excellent choice.
The Best Way To Source Restaurant Equipment
Finding the right restaurant kitchen equipment is a crucial part of successful kitchen operations. To get the best value for money, it’s important to source from reliable suppliers and manufacturers. When researching potential options, look for suppliers who have been in business for some time, can provide detailed information about their products and have a good reputation within the industry.
Additionally, inquire about warranties and fulfillment services that may be offered with certain items. This will ensure that any purchased restaurant kitchen equipment will be covered in case of any issues.
It’s also important to shop around so you can compare prices and determine which of the suppliers offer the best deal on your desired product.
Finally, check online reviews to see how customers rate each supplier’s products and services as this can give an indication of quality. By taking all these steps into consideration, restaurant owners can save time and money while sourcing the best quality equipment for their business.
Using A Restaurant Equipment Loan
Securing the funds to purchase restaurant kitchen equipment for their business can be a challenge. This type of financing allows businesses to access the necessary capital upfront without needing large amounts of money in the bank.
With competitive interest rates, facilities such as this provide a great opportunity to acquire quality commercial restaurant kitchen equipment that would otherwise be too costly.
Additionally, most restaurant equipment loans are structured in such a way that they can be repaid over time, making them an economical solution for those looking to save on upfront costs.
For those who need help purchasing furniture and appliances for their businesses, taking out a loan should definitely be considered as it can provide excellent benefits and make it much easier to access the resources needed to run a successful operation.
We hope this essential restaurant equipment list was helpful!
Photo by Francisco Suarez on Unsplash