Commercial Kitchen Equipment - The Ultimate Buyer's Guide

Whether you're running a commercial kitchen or a quick-service restaurant, you need the best equipment for your day-to-day operation. The number of kitchen tools and equipment you require depends on how big your goals are. Sometimes, you can get away from using multiple pieces of equipments by opting for multi-tasking kitchen tools. 

For example, in a restaurant kitchen, there’s the need for constant pureeing, shredding, chopping, grinding and blending. Instead of choosing individual equipment for each of these tasks, you can instead buy a food processor which does all of those.  

 

Your First Concern is Likely the Price.  

Restaurant kitchen equipment and high-end catering supplies can range from affordable to something that will break the bank before you even start your business. The most strategic option is to pick highly capable equipment that matches your budget range. You need equipment that you can afford without compromising functionality and performance.

The cost of equipping your business with kitchen tools and appliances can range from $40,000 up to $200,000 but it's not uncommon to see budgets go beyond these. Your restaurant type, the location where you're in, your available space and your menu affects the cost of your kitchen

Factors that affect your total costs:

• • Menus

• • Location

• • Equipment features

• • Space availability

• • Type of restaurant

Of course, there are other apparent expenses such as developing the space, filling permits, furniture and other tasks that require you to spend money.

 

Finding the Best Commercial Kitchen Equipment to Match Your Need.

There are a lot of catering supplies and restaurant kitchen equipment in the market. Most of them are built to accomplish tasks within their specification. The challenging part is finding one that actually matches your menus and future dishes.

Whether you are serving hundreds or thousands of meals in a day, you need high-quality kitchen equipment that is constructed to do the job. 

It should be a piece of kitchen equipment that can withstand heavy, repetitive use. Ideally, look for appliances that are easy to operate and maintain. Its parts should be readily available in case of emergency.

Beyond its performance, it would also be nice to have commercial kitchen equipment that can blend in with the aesthetics of your kitchen. By default, stainless steel appliances look pleasing to the eyes whether you have a rustic or contemporary kitchen design.  

Where to Find a Trustworthy Kitchen Equipment Supplier in Australia?

There are a handful of kitchen equipment suppliers in Australia. Which provider offers great pre and post-sales service? Which offers the best brands that have the best quality? Most of all, which among these suppliers offers pricing that is within your budget?

Since you are going to be dealing with that particular supplier in the long run, it is essential to choose a commercial kitchen supplier that you can trust. Remember that when it comes to warranties, repairs and parts, these are the people you go to.

 

Why Choose Commercial Kitchen Equipment and Not Just Conventional Kitchen Equipment? 

Your equipment will create an impact on your employee's workflow, energy consumption, labour cost and food quality. It is necessary that you only have the best commercial kitchen equipment for your business. 

Domestic equipment used in homes is often built for family use only. They are designed for such environments. Using them in commercial settings could lead to constant failure, earlier breakage and at times, major damage. Even worse, these types of equipment may not be able to handle the heavy demands and high traffic in a commercial restaurant. 

For a smooth operation, your kitchen should be well-equipped with trustworthy machinery that will be able to handle demands and make the job faster. 

 

How to Evaluate the Type of Equipment You Need

Every hospitality business has its own unique needs when it comes to commercial kitchen equipment.  The right commercial kitchen supply makes the process faster, and more efficient and allows your staff to do their job easier.  

• • Energy efficient
  

  The type of equipment itself plays the biggest role when it comes to energy consumption. Go for appliances that have good energy efficiency ratings.
  
  Employees should be trained to be mindful of their use of equipment. Put sticky reminders in the most visible areas next to the appliance. E.g You can put a “keep the doors closed” reminder on the fridge’s doors.
  
  The location of your appliances affect energy efficiency. For example, heat producing appliances should be placed next to a vent so they don't overheat which could potentially lead to bigger energy consumption and worse damage.
  
  Kitchen equipment must also be grouped in places. For instance, heat-producing equipment can be grouped in one area. The same goes for cooled-function equipment like refrigeration units, slushy dispensers and ice makers.
  
  

• • Quality
  

  
  If you want your business to take off, then you obviously need commercial kitchen equipment that is durable, functional and versatile.
  
  Stainless steel is often the first choice of business owners. This is because they’re durable and can practically withstand everyday wear and tear.  Your choice of equipment should also have features and functionalities that match your menu.
  
  Consider your future plans when deciding which equipment to pick. The type of appliance shouldn't hinder your future expansion. Ask your supplier if there is no new upcoming model of the unit. This way, you won't be required to upgrade and your current equipment won't be obsolete in a short time.
  
  

• • Ease of Use and Maintenance
  

  
  Go for equipment that can be used by most of your staff and requires less time frame to train the staff to use them. Ideally, for go appliances that are easy to maintain and upkeep.
  
  Make sure to create a regular and preventive maintenance as these are crucial to keeping your equipment in top shape.
  
  

• • Space Utilisation

  
  Where and how you will position a piece of commercial kitchen equipment is a factor to consider when purchasing one. Not only that it need to fit in your space but it also shouldn’t hinder the workflow in the kitchen.
  
  For example, when it comes to a commercial refrigeration unit, that space where you’ll put it should be easy to access from whichever point of the kitchen. This allows staff to move flawlessly as they do their tasks.
  
  

• • Safety

  
  This is often overlooked when choosing restaurant kitchen equipment yet, this should be taken with great consideration.
  
  Always consider the safety features of an equipment. What are the safety features of the appliances? Are those features easy to operate in case of emergency? Ask your supplier if you can purchase an add-on to create an extra layer of safety for that equipment.
  
  

• • Costs
  

  
  One piece of equipment may cost less from one seller compare to another but the lower costs may not be covered by a warranty. In this case, opt to invest on an equipment that is warranted regardless of the slight price difference.
  
  No matter how reliable the equipment might be, it is bound to break at a certain point which could be costly if you pay for repairs out of the pocket. With this, get quotes. A lot of quotes. And compare pricing. 

 

Choosing the Right Supplier

Outfitting your commercial kitchen requires time and consideration. It would be like putting together a big puzzle so you can anticipate that your choices are favourable to your business operation.

When it comes to picking the right kitchen equipment supplier in Australia, you need to do your due diligence to find the best option for you. 

• • They’re local.
  

  Go for a local commercial restaurant equipment supplier. This way, whenever there is a need for repair or maintenance, you don't have to ship the unit back and forth.
  
  

• • They make it easy.

  There will be bunches of commercial kitchen equipment in their showrooms. It might look overwhelming but a good supplier can narrow down the options for you based on your menus, specifications and budget.
  
  

• • They don’t force sales.

  You’ll feel it based on how the staff accommodates you. If they’re pushing to sell an item without going through your requirement, then they likely just want a quick buck. Since you will be dealing with the supply long term, choose a seller that gives solid advice and takes time to learn about your business requirement.
  
  

• • They carry trusted brands.
  

  Your ideal commercial equipment supplier should carry Australia’s most trusted brands. This way, you know that you get all the benefits of warranties, guarantees and if you're lucky freebies!
  
  

• • They offer warranties.

  Warranty is synonymous with a promise that equipment is free of defects and they are on their optimal performance. Usually, warranties also cover repairs. Good kitchen restaurant suppliers offer extended warranties.
  
  

• • They have good delivery speed.

  When visiting showrooms, ask for a delivery time frame. A good supplier should be able to provide you with a reasonable delivery time frame. 

Kitchen equipment list for restaurants and other hospitality business

As a recap, your kitchen space, equipment’s functionalities, your budget, menus and future plans should all come into balance. 

Restaurant kitchen equipment, catering business equipment and other food-service appliances can be overwhelming. 

A quick overview of the must-have equipment in commercial settings:

Refrigeration Units

No hospitality business can survive without proper refrigeration equipment. Whether it is a chest freezer or a standup fridge unit, having commercial refrigeration equipment ensures that foods, ingredients and other kitchen items are kept at the ideal temperature inside hygienic storage. This is an investment that you shouldn't cut corners on. Only go for the best brands. 

• • Choose the right compressor that meets your commercial refrigeration needs. 
• • Go for a unit that has the best energy conversation rating. 
• • You need equipment with space and cooling capacity that matches your day-to-day operation.
  

Cooking Restaurant Equipment 

Cooking equipment includes cooktops, grills, ovens, fryers, burners, kebab machines, and pans, among others. Equip your kitchen with appliances that match your menu.

Better yet, opt for equipment that you can use for multiple dishes. For example, a stainless steel frying pan can be used from the oven to the stovetop. It can also be used for curries and casseroles. 

• • The cooking equipment should be suitable for its purpose. 
• • It should be future-proof. This means, you know when the equipment will be outdated. And support may be unavailable if it is phased out. 
• • Essentially, a piece of equipment should be approved by your chefs and staff.
  
  

Ice Machines or Ice Makers

Patrons and customers always appreciate ice-cold beverages and drinks. So it always comes in handy to have a proper ice maker in the kitchen or in the service area. Ice makers automatically dispense ice - often in desirable shapes - so it's ready for your customers and staff to use. 

• • Know the amount of ice you need on a daily basis and find equipment that matches that demand.  Base your figure on the hottest days where you have the highest beverage demands. 
• • Make sure you have enough space for the machine. Ensure you have proper drainage for the equipment. There should be an air gap where water is prevented from running back to the machine. 
• • Find the right condenser. Bigger equipment will have a condensing unit installed outside.
  
  

Storage Racks and Shelving

Storage equipment is offered in different sizes, styles and capabilities. They are often sorted into two categories: refrigerated and non-refrigerated. Non-refrigerated equipment is used for keeping kitchen tools and tableware.

Refrigerated shelving equipment is often utilised for foods, condiments, spices and other items that need to be chilled. 

• • Choose the size and dimension that fits with the volume of items you need to store.
• • Go for units with wire shelving and wire decking mesh. These features allow optimal air circulation so goods do not accumulate moisture that leads to the growth of bacteria.
• • If you're moving stuff a lot,  go for mobile shelving. They have built-in casters and wheels that let you move them from one space to another.
  
  

Beverage and Drink Equipment

Your choice of equipment will depend on the beverages on your menu. For instance, if you're serving coffee, then coffee machines are definitely a must. For cold drinks, you may need granita and slushy machines

• • Before buying equipment, consider your business objective, i.e increasing drink profits within x months or expanding menus starting in a certain month. 
• • Think of the size and capacity of equipment based on the maximum number of customers that you intend to accommodate every day.
  
  

Hot Food Display

This equipment keeps food at the ideal serving temperature that customers love. If you're making hearty meals, this is equipment that you shouldn't miss in your kitchen.

These machines heat food fast and even. They usually feature an evaporation system to keep the food moist. They come with display cases for easy grabs and to showcase your foods.

• • Choose a design that compliments the space where you’ll put this equipment.
• • Consider the dishes you'll put in the equipment. Will they match the equipment's temperature capacity? 
  
  

Dishwashers

When you're running a commercial kitchen, a commercial dishwasher is a must. It lets you wash huge quantities of dishware in a record time. Investing in a commercial dishwasher can save time and labour simultaneously. 

Things to consider when choosing dishwashing equipment:

• • Will it have the capacity based on the number of dishes you serve?
• • Do its features satisfy your requirement?
• • Will the physical size fit in the space where you’ll stash it?
  
  

Prep Tables

Your staff are constantly working on dishes in the kitchen, so a reliable prep table is a necessity. From cutting to putting together the final garnish, a prep table makes work easier.

Go for stainless steel prep tables. They are durable, bacteria-resistant and withstand everyday challenges in a busy kitchen. Options for refrigerated prep tables are also available. 

• • Choose a size that fits the work area. 
• • Upgrade for a castor kit so you can move the table to another space in your kitchen whenever needed.
  
  

Sinks and Benches

These restaurant kitchen equipment are commonly used for three purposes: food preparation, dishwashing and general washing.

Go for commercial equipment that meets health and safety requirements. Ideally, stainless steel ones are built for commercial settings. 

• • If you want to utilise the cove area of your kitchen, choose an L-Shape bench.
• • You can also add benches next to your dishwasher to accelerate the tasks.
  
  

Gas or Electric Grills

Grills or griddles are essential for restaurants serving burgers and steaks. Go for equipment that fits your kitchen layout.

Consider your kitchen's ventilation system when choosing a gas or electric grill.

• • Know your ideal size, style, utility type and plate thickness before going to a showroom. 
• • Ask your chefs and staff if they have a specific unit in mind. 
• • Gas grills are best for outdoor settings while electric grills are perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.
  
  

Waste Management

Waste management in a commercial kitchen will be based on how big your business is. What matters the most is keeping sanitation aligned with rules and regulations.

Waste collection benches are essential to keep waste management easy and more convenient.

If you fancy, you can also opt for a refrigerated solid waste cooler which you can use to store organic waste generated by your kitchen. 

• • Understand the volume of trash you're generating on a daily bases and opt for a waste management system that can handle that quantity.
• • When buying waste collection benches, ensure that the accessories you have will fit the benches.
  
  

Point of Sales

Having a POS system makes it easy to accept payment, and track sales and financial activities in your restaurant. They work the same functionalities as a cash register but are a bit better.

They can provide reports on inventory management. With a POS, you can also do marketing, collect customer data, run programs and do promotions.

• • Choose a system that is compatible with your hardware
• • Your budget should include the set-up cost needed to run a POS
• • You need equipment that can be handled by staff with simple training procedures. Ideally, a POS can be operated by most of your staff just in case a situation calls for it.
  
  

Commercial Food Processors

Oh, these things do wonder. With a powerful commercial-grade food processor, you can grate, dice, slice, chop, blend and puree ingredients.

It practically decreases prep time plus they take up less space in the kitchen. Blend sauces, puree veggies and dice your veggies with ease. 

• • Go for equipment with higher horsepower. They can process more food and create thicker mixes. They can also work for long periods without overheating. 
• • Check for available accessories like continuous feed assemblies, batch bowls, pushers, etc.