When opening a new restaurant or refurbishing an existing business, choosing the right restaurant kitchen equipment is essential for success. Our team of experts created a list of essential restaurant equipment, so you can be sure that all of your bases are covered when outfitting your kitchen. It's important to note that different types of restaurants may require additional pieces of equipment or various styles that may not be on this list. Instead, this list is meant to include items that every restaurant will need, providing a foundation that you can build off of to meet your specific needs.
Even if you don’t have any experience in the food industry, that doesn’t mean you can’t start your restaurant. One of the best ways to learn about running a business is by building a prototype first. This will help you understand what works and what doesn’t before investing time and money into making your restaurant real.
Whether you’re a first-timer or you’re already in the process of opening your doors, these six tips will help you get started from the ground up.
Keeping up with restaurant industry trends can be a challenge. Staying on top of your game means having the right restaurant equipment for the job.
To help you out, we’ve put together this comprehensive checklist of must-have restaurant equipment for 2023. Whether you’re opening a restaurant or refreshing your existing one, this list has everything you need to get started. Read on.
How to Start a Restaurant?
- Research
Before anything else, it’s important to do your research. Make sure you have a good idea of what you’re getting yourself into before you start. This includes understanding the costs and regulations involved with starting a restaurant.
- Choose The Right Location & People
There are many ways to open up a restaurant. You could start by looking for a space in your neighborhood, or by looking for a business that you can purchase. Once you have found a space or a purchased business, you must decide what type of restaurant you want to open. There are many different types of restaurants, so it is important to choose the type that is right for your skills and interests.
- Understand Your Restaurant Location
Research the area you think is the best place for the restaurant. Once you understand your location well, it’s time to start looking for properties. Make sure the location is right for your business and that you can afford the costs associated with opening a restaurant.
- Choose The Right People
Once you have decided on the type of restaurant, you will need to find the right people to help you open it up. You will need a chef, a manager, and other employees who are qualified to run the restaurant.
No matter how talented you are, your restaurant won’t be successful without the right team working behind the scenes. Make sure you find qualified employees who share your vision for the restaurant and who are willing to put in hard work.
- Get Licensed and Registered
Before you open your doors, it’s important to get licensed and registered with the government. This will allow you to operate legally and protect your business from any legal issues that may come up.
- Get Your Financing In Place
Financing your restaurant isn’t easy, but getting started as soon as possible is important. There are a lot of options available to you, so make sure you choose the right one for your business.
- Get Your Restaurant Supplies
When it comes to supplies, you’ll want to make sure you have everything you need on hand. This includes things like dishes, glasses, and napkin dispensers.
If you are starting a coffee shop, here is what you will need:
Starting a coffee shop can be a fun and profitable venture. To open a successful coffee shop, you'll need to have an understanding of the industry, good business sense, and the ability to create a unique atmosphere. Here are some tips for starting a coffee shop:
- Choose the right location. A good location for a coffee shop has plenty of foot traffic and is near other businesses that may be complementary to your cafe.
- Plan your budget carefully. Coffee shops can be expensive to set up and maintain, so it's important to make sure you have enough money saved up before starting your business.
- Research the competition. Becoming familiar with your competition will help you understand what makes their cafes successful and how you can improve upon those elements in your cafe:
- Coffee Shop Essential Items
- Coffee Decanter
- Commercial Coffee Brewer
- Commercial Espresso Coffee Machine
- Coffee Station
- Open Sign
If you are starting a Mexican Restaurant, here is what you will need:
When it comes to opening a Mexican restaurant, there are a few things that you will need to take into account.
- The first thing is deciding what type of Mexican restaurant you would like to open. Are you looking to open a standard taqueria-style restaurant? A cantina-style restaurant? An all-encompassing Mexican Grill?
- The second thing that you will need to consider is the location. You'll want to make sure that the area has a large Hispanic population and that there is enough foot traffic for your business. Once you've decided on the location and type of restaurant, the next step is to come up with a concept. Do you want to focus on American-style cuisine, or do you want an authentic Mexican experience? Once you have your concept, it's time to start researching recipes. There are many great Mexican dishes out there, so your menu must reflect this.
- Lastly, make sure that your staff is well-trained and up for the challenge of running a Mexican restaurant!
- Mexican Restaurant Essential Items
- Tortilla Press
- 3 Way Salsa Bowls
- Tortilla Warmer
- Freezer for Meat Storage
- Taco Fry Basket
Get Started With The Planning
Of course, the planning stage is essential if you want your restaurant to be a success. Make sure you have everything planned out and that you have an accurate idea of what you need to do.
Keep Things Clean & Organized
The last thing you want is for your restaurant to become messy and chaotic. Keep everything clean and organized so that customers can easily find what they are looking for. Keep a neat kitchen so that food doesn't go bad or get wasted. Finally, keep an eye on the clock so that customers don’t have too long wait times for their meals.
Stay The Course
No matter how hard it might be, don’t give up on your restaurant. Remember, it takes time and a lot of hard work to open a successful restaurant. Stick with it and you’ll be on your way to success.
Stay Updated With Changes In The Restaurant Industry
Keeping up with the latest changes in the restaurant industry is essential if you want to succeed. This includes things like new menu items and technology trends.
What Equipment Do You Need In a Restaurant
Opening a new restaurant? There are a million things to think about, and no two restaurants will operate the same way. One crucial part involves making a restaurant kitchen equipment list that reflects your business’s needs. A restaurant’s equipment helps ensure that your team can prep, cook, bake, wash, and generally execute the culinary aspects of the restaurant, day in and day out.
This restaurant kitchen equipment list contains the primary types of restaurant equipment you’ll need to run a commercial kitchen. This list includes details on all the following essential restaurant kitchen items:
Keep track of progress
Whether you’re opening a small or large restaurant, it’s important to keep track of progress from day one onwards. This will help ensure that everything is going as planned and that everyone is working together towards common goals
What Main Equipment is in a Restaurant?
With your essential restaurant kitchen equipment checklist, you should cover each area of business service. Here are the 25 items for your restaurant equipment list You can use this important restaurant equipment for both quick-service and full-service restaurants:
- Microwave
Without a doubt, a microwave is an essential part of a quick-service restaurant, a ghost kitchen, and even a Michelin-star restaurant. This versatile equipment can steam cook, reheat pre-cooked items, or defrost. A good microwave will save you time and hassle in the kitchen, so it’s worth investing in a quality model.
- Restaurant Coffee Maker
There are a few things you need to consider when it comes to coffee makers. First, you’ll want to decide what type of coffee maker best suits your needs. There are automatic drip coffee makers, espresso machines, French press coffee makers, and more.
Once you’ve decided on the type of coffee maker you need, you’ll need to consider the size. If you have a small restaurant, you’ll want to ensure you get a compact model that doesn’t take up too much counter space.
You’ll also want to consider the features you need in a coffee maker. Do you need a built-in grinder? Do you want a machine that can make multiple cups at once?
Once you’ve considered all of these factors, you’ll be able to narrow down your choices and find the perfect coffee maker for your restaurant.
- Food Processors
There are four main types of food processors: batch bowl, continuous feed, combination, and vertical cutter mixers.
- Batch bowl food processors are ideal for small to medium-sized batches of food. They have a capacity of 2-10 quarts (1.9-9.5 liters) and come with various attachments for tasks such as chopping, slicing, shredding, and kneading dough.
- Continuous feed food processors are designed for larger batches of food. These machines come with attachment options for chopping, slicing, and shredding. They have a hopper that can hold up to 20 quarts (19 liters) of food and a chute that allows you to add more ingredients while the machine runs.
- Combination food processors are a combination of batch bowls and continuous feed processors. They have a small batch bowl capacity (2-4 quarts or 1.9-3.8 liters) with a continuous feed chute.
- Vertical cutter mixers are designed for large batches of wet or dry ingredients. They have a cylindrical container that holds up to 100 quarts (95 liters) of ingredients and a vertical mixer blade that spins at high speeds to chop, blend, or puree the ingredients. These machines contain attachments for chopping, blending, pureeing, and kneading dough.
- Griddle
A griddle is a flat cooking surface that is heated by either an open flame, electric heating element, or gas burner. Griddles are used in various settings, from commercial kitchens to backyard cookouts.
Restaurant griddles are made from cast iron or steel and come in multiple sizes to accommodate different needs. When choosing a restaurant griddle, it is important to consider the type of food you will be cooking on it, and the size and capacity you need.
- Deep Fryer
Deep fryers are an essential piece of equipment for any restaurant that serves fried foods. While there are many different types and models of deep fryers on the market, they all share some common features.
The most important thing to consider when purchasing a deep fryer is the size of the unit. Commercial deep fryers come in various sizes, from small countertop units to large floor-model fryers. Choosing a fryer that can accommodate the volume of food your restaurant serves is essential.
Another important consideration when choosing a commercial deep fryer is the type of fuel it uses. Most deep fryers use either natural gas or propane, but electric models are also available. Each fuel type has its benefits and drawbacks, so choosing the one that best suits your needs is important.
Revolution Ordering is an essential piece of restaurant equipment for new and enterprise restaurants.
- Kitchen Supplies and Serving ware
There are a lot of different kitchen supplies and serving ware that you might need for your restaurant. Some of the things that you might need include:
- Pots and Pans: A good set of pots and pans is a must for chefs such as the executive chef and Michelin star chefs. You’ll need a variety of sizes and shapes to accommodate all the dishes you’ll be preparing.
- Tongs, Spatulas, and Serving Spoons: These are essential for cooking and serving food. Tongs are great for flipping burgers or chicken, while spatulas are perfect for eggs and pancakes. Serving spoons come in handy when dishing out food onto plates.
- Glassware: If you’re going to be serving drinks such as wine, cocktail drinks, or great rum drinks in Friday drink specials, you’ll need glassware. Choose glasses that are the appropriate size and shape for the type of drink you’ll be serving.
- Dishware: plates, platters, bowls, serving plates, and bowls.
- Flatware: knives, spoons, forks, serving utensils
- Dinnerware accessories: charger plates, ramekins, sauce cups, dessert dishes, plate covers, bread and butter plates, coffee mugs, teacups, and saucers.
- Display serving: baskets, appetizers, and tasting dishes.
- Linens: cloth napkins and tablecloths.
- The amount of serving ware you should buy depends entirely on your restaurant size and the types of menu you’re planning on serving.
- Restaurant Oven
Restaurants use many different types of ovens, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Here is a quick overview of some of the most common types of ovens you’ll find in restaurants:
- Commercial ovens: These are designed for large-scale cooking and are often used in institutional settings like schools and hospitals. They’re usually very durable and can handle high volumes of food, but they’re also expensive and may require special installation.
- Convection ovens: Convection ovens use circulating fans to distribute heat, which makes them ideal for baking evenly. They’re also more energy-efficient than traditional ovens, making them a popular restaurant choice.
- Combination ovens: Combination ovens are a combination of a convection oven and a traditional oven, and can be used for both baking and cooking. They’re perfect for restaurants that want the flexibility to do both, but they’re more expensive than either type of oven on its own.
- Pizza ovens: As you might expect, pizza ovens are specifically designed for cooking pizzas. They usually have high heat settings and a stone surface that helps create a crispy crust.
- Conveyor ovens: Conveyor ovens are another type specifically designed for large-scale cooking. They have a conveyor belt that moves food through the cooking chamber, which means they can cook large volumes of food quickly and evenly.
- Storage Containers
Restaurants need a variety of storage containers to keep their ingredients fresh and organized. Here are some of them:
- Vegetable crispers are great for storing leafy greens and other vegetables.
- Large ingredient bins can hold bulk items like flour or sugar.
- Kitchen canisters are perfect for storing spices and other small items.
- Dough boxes are ideal for storing dough or other baking supplies.
- Food storage containers can be used to store leftovers or prepackaged meals.
- Restaurant Sink
Several types of sinks are commonly used in restaurants. Each type of sink has its specific purpose and is designed to meet the needs of different businesses. Let’s take a look:
- Compartment sinks are the most common type of sink used in restaurants. They typically have three or four compartments, which can be used for washing dishes, rinsing fresh produce, or prepping food.
- Bar sinks are smaller than compartment sinks and are typically used for washing glasses and preparing a mixed drink.
- Disposal sinks are designed to be used with a garbage disposal unit and are typically used for cleaning up after meals.
- Drop-in units are sinks that can be dropped onto a countertop or other surface. They are typically used in smaller restaurants where space is limited.
- Handwashing sinks are designed for washing hands and are usually located in the restroom area of the restaurant.
- Mop sinks are designed for cleaning floors and are typically located in the back of the restaurant.
- Portable sinks are self-contained units that can be moved around as needed. They are often used in catering businesses or for special events.
- Ice Makers
Ice makers will help any restaurant or food service business. They offer ice for drinks and keep food chilled. There are a few different types of ice makers:
- Freestanding units are typically small and compact, making them easy to fit in any kitchen or storage space. They also tend to be very affordable, which makes them a good option for businesses on a budget. However, freestanding units can be less reliable than other types of ice makers and may require more maintenance over time.
- Built-in ice makers are another option for restaurants and food service businesses. These units are installed into the counter or storage space, making them more permanent than freestanding. Built-in ice makers are typically more expensive than freestanding, but they are also more reliable and require less maintenance.
- Portable ice makers are a good option for businesses that need to be able to move their ice makers around. These units are small and compact, like freestanding units, but they have wheels that make them easy to transport. Portable ice makers can be less reliable than other types of ice makers and may require more maintenance over time.
- Ice machines are the most expensive type of ice maker but are also the most reliable and require minor maintenance. Ice machines are typically large and bulky, making them difficult to move around. They also need to be plumbed into a water line, which can be challenging for some businesses.
- No matter what type of ice maker you choose, it is important to ensure that it is properly maintained. Regular cleaning and descaling will help to keep your ice maker running smoothly and prevent problems down the road.
- Hand Mixers
Three main types of mixers are used in restaurants: hand mixers, countertop mixers, and floor mixers.
- Hand mixers are the most common type of mixer used in restaurants. They are small and portable, making them great for mixing ingredients or whipping cream.
- Countertop mixers are larger than hand mixers and are usually bolted to the countertop. They are often used for heavy-duty tasks, such as kneading dough or mixing large batches of ingredients.
- Floor mixers are the largest type of mixer, and they are used for commercial applications, such as baking or catering.
- Sharpening Stone
The sharpening stone is an essential tool in any restaurant kitchen. It is used to keep knives sharp and in good condition. The stone can be used on any type of knife, including serrated blades.
- Point-of-Sale Technology
One of the essential pieces of restaurant equipment is the point of sale (POS) system. A POS system helps streamline operations and keep track of sales, customers, and inventory.
There are many different types of POS systems on the market, and choosing the right one for your restaurant can be daunting. But with some research, you can find a POS system that fits your needs and budget.
The first step is determining what features you need in a POS system. Do you need something such as restaurant POS integration? Are you looking for payment processing software that offers and integrates with contactless payments? Do you need a system with inventory tracking features?
Once you know what features you need, you can start narrowing down your options. There are POS systems designed specifically for restaurants, so if you’re looking for restaurant-specific features, that’s an excellent place to start.
- Restaurant Steam Table
A steam table is a large, flat-topped piece of equipment that is used to keep food warm. It is typically powered by electricity or gas, and it uses steam to maintain a consistent temperature.
Steam tables are an essential piece of equipment for buffet-style restaurants, as they allow customers to serve themselves without having to wait for food to be cooked fresh. They are also commonly used in catering operations, as they can keep food warm for long periods.
- Safety Equipment---Restaurant Fire extinguishers
There are a few pieces of equipment that are essential for any restaurant to have to ensure the safety of both employees and customers. Fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and rubber floor mats are all important for preventing accidents and injuries. Wet floor signs and aprons can help protect against slips or falls, while oven mitts and goggles can stop burns. Hairnets and security cameras can help keep food safe from contamination.
Having the proper safety equipment in your restaurant is important for compliance with health and safety regulations, but it can also help save lives in the event of an emergency. Make sure your restaurant is properly equipped with all the essential safety gear.
- Slicers
There are a few things to consider when choosing a slicer for a restaurant.
- First, you’ll need to decide if you want an automatic or manual slicer. Automatic slicers are more expensive, but they’re also faster and easier to use. If speed is important, then an automatic slicer is the way to go.
- Next, you’ll need to choose the right blade size. If you’re slicing meat or cheese, you’ll need a larger blade. For smaller items like vegetables, a smaller blade will do the trick.
- Finally, you’ll need to decide if you want a light, medium, or heavy-duty slicer. Heavy-duty slicers can handle tougher jobs, but they’re also more expensive. If you only need to slice occasionally, a light-duty slicer will suffice.
- Cooking Equipment
Any restaurant worth its salt is going to have a well-equipped kitchen, and that means having the right pots and pans (of all sizes) with lids, spoons for mixing and tasting, chef’s knives, mixing bowls, whisks, spatulas, ladles, tongs, baking pans, sheets, or roasting pans, as well as towels and rags.
These are just the basics. Every chef will have a specific list of must-have items. With these in place, you’ll be able to handle just about anything that comes your way.
- Commercial Toaster
Commercial toasters are designed for high-volume toast production and usually have wide slots to accommodate multiple pieces of bread at once. Restaurant kitchens typically use conveyor toasters, which can toast up to 800 slices of bread per hour. But other types of commercial toasters are available as well, such as pop-up and drawer toasters.
- Freezers and Refrigerators
Commercial refrigeration and freezers in restaurants are typically used to store food that needs to be kept cold. This might include items like meat and fish, dairy products, and wholesale produce. To keep the food at a safe temperature, the appliances need to be kept in good condition and properly maintained.
- Kitchen Display System (KDS)
A Kitchen Display System (KDS) is a restaurant technology that helps streamline front-of-house and back-of-house operations. It typically consists of a display screen that shows real-time information about orders, kitchen staff performance, and other restaurant data. Many restaurant owners find that a KDS improves efficiency and communication in the kitchen, ultimately leading to better customer service. In addition, a KDS can help reduce costs and manage restaurant food waste associated with inaccurate orders.
- Storage Racks and Shelves
Storage racks and shelves provide a place to store all of your restaurant’s supplies, including food, utensils, and other necessary items. Without proper storage, your restaurant could quickly become cluttered and disorganized, making it difficult to find what you need when you need it.
- Food Prep Counters and Cutting Boards
When it comes to food prep, having the right counters and cutting boards is essential. In a restaurant setting, you want to make sure that you have surfaces that are easy to clean and sanitize. That’s why many restaurants choose to use stainless steel countertops. Stainless steel is durable and resistant to bacteria, making it a perfect material for food prep areas. If you’re looking for something a little more budget-friendly, laminate countertops are also a good option.
When it comes to cutting boards, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you’ll want to choose a material that is easy to clean and won’t absorb bacteria. Wood cutting boards are a popular choice, but they need to be properly cared for to prevent bacterial growth. Bamboo cutting boards are also a good option because they’re naturally antibacterial. Plastic cutting boards are another option, but they can be difficult to clean and may harbor bacteria.
No matter what material you choose for your food prep tables and cutting boards, keep them clean and sanitized. Regular cleaning with hot water and soap will help prevent bacteria growth. If you’re using wooden cutting boards, it’s also important to oil them regularly to prevent them from drying out and cracking.
- Ranges and Ventilation
There are two types of ranges commonly used in restaurants: gas ranges and electric ranges.
Gas ranges are typically more expensive than electric ranges, but they offer some advantages in speed and control. Electric ranges are less costly and easier to maintain, but they can be slower to heat up and may not offer as much control over the cooking process.
Ventilation is also an important consideration when it comes to restaurant kitchens. Proper ventilation helps to remove smoke and fumes from the kitchen, making it a safer and more comfortable work environment. Poor ventilation can lead to problems with indoor air quality and can be a fire hazard.
- Gas or Electric Grill
Which is better to use in a restaurant: a gas or electric grill?
Some factors you may want to consider include:
- How much space do you have?
- How often do you need to use the grill?
- What kind of foods will you be cooking on the grill?
- Do you have access to natural gas or propane?
- Here are some pros and cons of each type of grill:
Gas grills:
- Heats up quickly
- Allows for more precise temperature control
- It can be used indoors or outdoors
- Easy to clean
Electric grills:
- Heats up slowly
- Temperature can be difficult to control
- You can only use it outdoors
- It’s more difficult to clean
- Washing Equipment
There are a few different types of washing equipment that you will need to keep your establishment clean. This includes brushes for your griddles, mops, sponges, rags, and commercial-grade cleaning products. Each of these items has its specific purpose and should be used accordingly.
How to Source Your Restaurant Equipment
Here are a few tips on how to source your restaurant equipment:
- Decide what type of equipment you need.
- Research online and offline retailers.
- Compare prices and features.
- Place your order.
- Set up your equipment.
Opening a restaurant can be a lot of work, but sourcing your restaurant equipment doesn’t have to be a hassle. Following these tips, you can find the right retailers and get the best deal on your needed equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Restaurant Equipment
What Are the 4 Basic Types of Restaurants?
If you’re thinking about opening a restaurant, it’s important to first understand the different types of restaurants that exist. There are four basic types of restaurants:
- Fast food
- Casual Dining
- Fine dining
- Specialty
What Are the Four Categories of Kitchen Equipment?
These are the four basic categories of kitchen equipment:
- Food Storage
- Food production
- Maintenance
- Special Equipment
Each category has its own unique set of items that are essential for a well-functioning kitchen.
What Do Restaurants Need the Most?
There’s no doubt that restaurants are businesses that need to make a profit to survive. But what do they need the most to be successful?
- Customers: A restaurant cannot survive without customers coming in and buying food or drinks.
- Good employees: Employees who are passionate about their work and who provide great customer service. They also need quality ingredients and suppliers who can provide them with fresh, delicious food.
- Effective marketing: They need to let potential customers know about their business and why they should choose them over other options.
If a restaurant can focus on these things, then they will be well on their way to success.
What are the Inventory Items of a Restaurant?
In the food service and hospitality industry, inventory is almost everything needed to give great customer satisfaction like food ingredients, restaurant equipment, and even uniforms.
Some inventory items you’ll find common to the full-service and fast-food industry include:
- Raw foods
- Dry goods
- Spice storage
- Liquor and wine
- Beverages and tea
- Linens and uniforms
With so much to manage, restaurant inventory costing methods and inventory management systems may speed and streamline your re-ordering and stocking processes.
Explore Revolution Ordering for Business Growth
When choosing the equipment for your restaurant, it is important to consider what will best meet your needs.
The right equipment and restaurant technology can help you run your business and become a successful restaurant owner. The wrong equipment can cause frustration and waste time and money. Take the time to research your options and choose wisely so that you can focus on what you do best: serving delicious food!
When you’re ready to enable off-premise business through online ordering software, demo Revolution Ordering with one of our specialists.
Things to Consider Before Purchasing Restaurant Kitchen Equipment
Restaurants need a lot of equipment to operate. When furnishing your restaurant’s kitchen, you’re going to be dealing with an extensive restaurant kitchen equipment list. There’s much to be done, but don’t rush into buying restaurant equipment too quickly. Take some time to consider what you need for your space and your restaurant type, what you can afford, and who you want to buy it from.
When buying restaurant kitchen equipment, look for high-quality items that will stand up to constant use over the years. Consider using restaurant financing to make the purchase more manageable. Make sure the restaurant kitchen equipment items you choose make sense for your kitchen layout and the flow you envision for the actual cooking.
Before tackling your restaurant kitchen equipment list, consider the following:
- Quality
When buying restaurant kitchen equipment, start by looking at the quality. Consider whether the equipment is brand new or used. If it’s new, is it from a reputable manufacturer? Where is it made? What is it made from? If you’re looking at buying the equipment used, consider how old the equipment is, where it’s coming from, and what kind of shape it’s in. Be sure to take a look at the equipment in person before makinpurchasinghat you can inspect the appearance and function for any flaws. Consider which types of restaurant equipment you’ll be using most often. For those items, buy the highest quality you can afford.
- Space Consideration
Before you buy restaurant equipment, spend some time looking at your restaurant kitchen’s blueprints. Think about how your team will move around in the space and consider how your restaurant kitchen should be laid out. Figure out how much space you’ll have for everything you need. The goal is to have an efficient layout that flows well without being overly crowded. Don’t forget to check the dimensions of every piece of equipment to ensure you can fit it all through the doors and into the kitchen.
- Pricing
Pricing is an essential consideration when buying restaurant equipment. First, think about which pieces of equipment are most important to you. The restaurant kitchen equipment that you know you’ll use every day warrants a higher price tag since you’ll want to go for better quality. For the others, think about ways you might save some cash, such as by looking for multipurpose equipment that can do multiple jobs in one. An example is a combination oven, which can cook by convection, steam, or a combination of both. Another way to get a good price is to buy used — just be sure you thoroughly inspect the equipment before buying.
- Ease in Using and Cleaning
Whatever restaurant kitchen equipment you buy, it needs to make sense for cooks to use day in and day out. Watch videos, talk to the sales reps, and try to see the equipment in action to determine if it will be easy to use every day. Consider ergonomics, ease of opening and closing doors, storage options, and any technological features, which could be either helpful or difficult to operate. When it comes to cleaning, take some time to review how to clean the equipment daily, weekly, and monthly so that you can effectively plan side work for staff. Equipment made from stainless steel is especially easy to maintain and reduces the chance of harboring dangerous bacteria. Look for the NSF symbol to ensure equipment meets safety certifications.
- Choosing the Right Supplier
Choosing the right restaurant kitchen equipment supplier goes a long way in ensuring that you receive high-quality equipment you can count on. The best suppliers will help walk you through equipment selection with plenty of resources and without giving you a hard sell. Additionally, be sure to ask about help with installation as well as policies on maintenance and repair services for the inevitable day when your equipment needs service.
- Hiring a Restaurant Kitchen Planner
Especially if you’re building a new restaurant or completely renovating the kitchen, hiring a professional restaurant kitchen planner can be a great help in figuring out the type of restaurant kitchen equipment you need. A restaurant kitchen planner will talk to you about your concept and menu, and then help design a kitchen that makes sense for your space and the food you’ll be cooking. They can also help steer you away from kitchen equipment that you don’t need, saving you precious space and money.
- Checking for Leasing Option
Opening a restaurant is expensive, and buying restaurant kitchen equipment is no exception. Leasing restaurant equipment can be a good alternative as part of your restaurant business plan. Leasing allows you to pay monthly for your restaurant equipment rather than all at once, saving you some capital for other expenses. Lease payments may even be tax-deductible as a business operating expense.
