If you own a restaurant, keeping up with the latest industry trends can be challenging. Having the appropriate restaurant equipment can help you stay on top of your game. To assist you, we have gathered a list of must-have restaurant equipment that you can use for your business.
Whether you want to refresh your existing restaurant or are just opening one, this list can help you get started. The right restaurant equipment can help you run and grow your business effectively.
1. Coffee Maker

Before buying an expensive espresso machine, consider a few factors first. Decide the type of coffee maker that meets your needs—espresso machines, automatic drip coffee makers, French press coffee makers, etc. Next, consider the size.
A compact model would be more appropriate for a small restaurant as it does not take up too much space. Determine the features you require from a coffee maker, such as the ability to produce multiple cups at once. Considering these factors will help you select the ideal coffee maker for your restaurant.
2. Microwave

A microwave is essential for a ghost kitchen or a quick-service restaurant. It can be used for defrosting, reheating pre-cooked items, steam cooking, and more. Investing in a high-quality microwave can save time, making it a worthwhile investment. Look for microwaves with high wattage for faster cooking times and those with programmable settings to make your kitchen operations more efficient.
3. Food Processors

There are four major types of food processors: continuous feed, batch bowl, vertical cutter mixers, and combination.
- Continuous feed food processors are ideal for larger batches of food. They come with various attachments for shredding, slicing, and chopping. The hopper can hold up to 19 liters or 20 quarts of food. You can add more ingredients through the chute even while the machine is running.
- Batch bowl food processors are designed for small to medium-sized batches of food with capacities ranging from 1.9 to 9.5 liters or 2 to 10 quarts. They also come with attachments for kneading dough, shredding, slicing, and chopping.
- Vertical cutter mixers are intended for large batches of dry or wet ingredients. The cylindrical container has a capacity of 95 liters or 100 quarts. It includes a vertical mixer blade that spins fast to puree, blend, or chop ingredients.
- Combination food processors combine continuous feed and batch bowl processors. They have a continuous feed chute and a small capacity of 1.9 to 3.8 liters or 2 to 4 quarts.
Food processors can significantly reduce prep time and ensure consistency in your food preparation, making them an indispensable tool in any commercial kitchen.
4. Griddle

A griddle is a flat cooking surface operated through a gas burner, electric heating element, or open flame. Restaurant griddles, typically made from steel or cast iron, come in different sizes to meet specific needs.
When selecting a griddle, determine the kind of food you will be cooking on it and the required capacity and size. Griddles are perfect for cooking a variety of foods, including pancakes, burgers, eggs, and more, providing versatility to your kitchen operations.
5. Deep Fryer

Deep fryers are a vital component of restaurants, especially fast food chains. Various models and types of deep fryers are available on the market. When buying a deep fryer, consider the size, as commercial deep fryers come in different sizes.
It is crucial to choose a fryer with sufficient capacity for your restaurant. Additionally, know the type of fuel it uses—natural gas, propane, or electric. Each fuel type has its own pros and cons, so choose a fryer that fits your needs. High-quality deep fryers can ensure even frying, reduce cooking time, and maintain oil temperature, which is essential for producing consistently delicious fried foods.
6. Kitchen Supplies and Serving Ware

Your restaurant will require various kitchen supplies and serving ware, including:
- Pans and Pots: High-quality pans and pots in various shapes and sizes.
- Spatulas, Tongs, and Serving Spoons: Essential for cooking and serving food.
- Glassware: Necessary if your restaurant serves drinks.
- Dinnerware Accessories: Includes ramekins, charger plates, sauce cups, plate covers, dessert dishes, bread and butter plates, teacups, saucers, and coffee mugs.
- Dishware and Flatware: Includes bowls, serving plates, platters, plates, and utensils.
- Linens: Tablecloths and cloth napkins.
- Display Serving: Tasting dishes, appetizers, and baskets.
The amount of serving ware you need will depend on the size of your restaurant and the type of food and drink you serve. High-quality kitchen supplies and serving ware can enhance the dining experience for your customers, making your restaurant stand out.
7. Ovens

There are various types of restaurant ovens, each with its particular advantages:
- Commercial Ovens: Used by institutions like hospitals and schools for large-scale cooking.
- Convection Ovens: Use circulating fans for even heat distribution, perfect for baking.
- Combination Ovens: Combine traditional and convection ovens, offering flexibility for cooking and baking.
- Pizza Ovens: Designed specifically for cooking pizzas with a stone surface and high heat settings.
- Conveyor Ovens: Intended for large-scale cooking, these ovens cook large volumes of food evenly and quickly.
Choosing the right oven can enhance your kitchen’s efficiency and ensure that your dishes are cooked to perfection.
8. Storage Containers

Storage containers help keep ingredients fresh and organized. Some essential storage containers include:
- Large bins for bulk items like sugar or flour.
- Vegetable crispers for storing vegetables.
- Dough boxes for storing dough and baking supplies.
- Kitchen canisters for storing spices and small items.
- Food storage containers for storing prepackaged meals and leftovers.
Proper storage solutions can reduce food waste and ensure that your kitchen runs smoothly.
9. Refrigerators and Freezers

Every restaurant should have commercial refrigerators and freezers for storing items that need to be kept cold, such as dairy products, fish, meat, and wholesale produce. Proper maintenance ensures that food is stored at safe temperatures. Investing in high-quality refrigeration units can prevent spoilage and ensure food safety.
Conclusion
Have you decided what type of equipment you need for your restaurant? Opening a restaurant requires a lot of work, but acquiring your restaurant equipment should not be a hassle.
Mountain Sales and Service is a wholesale distributor of food service equipment. We offer sales and services of commercial equipment in Denver. Just get in touch with us at 303-289-5558 or 800-847-2557 or send us an email at sales@mtnsales.com.

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