Restaurant Equipment is the tools that allow restaurants to prep, cook and serve their dishes day in and day out. While the exact Restaurant Equipment needed will depend on the type of restaurant (a full-service restaurant won’t need the same things as a quick-service burger joint), there are certain basics that every kitchen needs.
Commercial Deep Fryers
The commercial deep fryers are a crucial piece of restaurant equipment for preparing fried foods like fries, chicken tenders and more. A restaurant will need several of these units to serve their customers efficiently and effectively.
Refrigeration Units
Restaurants need refrigeration units to keep their food cold and fresh throughout the day. The specific types of refrigerators and freezers a restaurant will need depends on the menu and food handling processes; for example, larger restaurants may require walk-in refrigeration units to accommodate large pots of sauce that need to be kept at a safe temperature.
Other refrigeration options include beverage refrigerators for storing bottled drinks, walk-in coolers and more. Storage racks and shelves are also available to add to any restaurant’s walk-in refrigerator or freezer to expand its storage capabilities and allow for more organization of different food items.
Ovens
Commercial ovens are used to cook many different items at a consistent and controlled heat, from toasted sandwiches to cheese breads to entrees like chicken or steak. Depending on the restaurant, a kitchen may need convection or steam ovens, both of which offer advantages and disadvantages.
Cutting Equipment
The amount of cutting that occurs in a restaurant can be significant, which is why it’s important to invest in good quality equipment like slicers and food processors. These machines help reduce the amount of labor that goes into cutting up ingredients and garnishes and make the job much more efficient.
Sinks
A restaurant will need sinks to wash dishes, clean produce and perform other tasks. In some cases, restaurants may need multiple sinks to meet health and safety regulations.
Safety Equipment
Restaurants need to ensure their customers’ safety, and some of the most essential pieces of equipment are fire detection systems, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and more. The specific equipment a restaurant will need depends on the location and the type of business; for example, a small outdoor food stall likely won’t need as many fire safety systems as a large, indoor dining space.
Buying Restaurant Equipment
Some restaurant owners choose to purchase their equipment outright, while others prefer to lease it instead. There are pros and cons to both options; purchasing restaurant equipment outright can be expensive, and leasing is more flexible with terms that can often be extended if necessary.
If you decide to buy or lease restaurant equipment, make sure you research the best suppliers and manufacturers before making a final decision. A great supplier will be able to walk you through equipment selection without pushing a hard sell, and they’ll offer support with installation and repairs when the time comes.