Many people dream of owning a restaurant for years before it finally becomes a reality. Living out your dream is so exhilarating that even the most mundane aspects of setting up a new restaurant can be enjoyable. Purchasing supplies for your first commercial kitchen can be a lot of fun. Unfortunately, it's easy to waste money if you don't know what you're looking for. Create a plan before you visit the restaurant supply store. Here are four key pieces of equipment that every restaurateur must have in their kitchen:
1. Commercial Refrigeration
Many of the most common ingredients required in a kitchen are extremely perishable. Dairy, meat, and even produce will quickly spoil if not kept at the right temperature. Commercial refrigeration will allow you to store raw ingredients and prepared food at a safe temperature. Unlike refrigerators designed for home use, commercial refrigerators are designed with a larger capacity. Walk-in refrigerators are available for restaurants that expect to serve high volumes of customers. You can even take advantage of refrigerated prep tables that will keep items cold while your cooks work on the line.
2. Range and Hood
Every kitchen needs a proper range. A gas range will give your cooks fine control over the amount of heat used for cooking. Six burner ranges are common in commercial kitchens. Larger kitchens may want to take advantage of 12 burner ranges instead. Whenever you use open flames in the kitchen, you will need to have a hood equipped. A restaurant-style hood will improve ventilation in your restaurant by filtering out smoke and grease particles.
3. Oven
Commercial ovens are indispensable for bakers, but even restaurants that specialize in savory foods can take advantage of them. Ovens can be used to create roasts and to braise meats and vegetables. It's best to buy a new oven for your restaurant so you can be assured that it's properly calibrated. Commercial ovens are large enough to accommodate the full sheet pans that are common in kitchens. Consider purchasing a convection oven which circulates hot air during the cooking process. Convection ovens lead to faster cooking times and more even results.
4. Deep Fryer
Deep fryers can open up a new world of possibilities. With a deep fryer, you can make American favorites like french fries and onion rings. Deep fried food is savory and addictive. Your customers will love the things you can cook up with a deep fryer at your disposal.
If you are looking to get started in the restaurant business, you will first want to invest in some restaurant equipment.
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