things you didn't know about restaurant equipment and machines

Restaurant equipment encompasses everything from commercial ovens to dining tables, dishes, and ice machines. For new restaurant owners, choosing the right equipment can feel overwhelming. Here are some tips to simplify the process.

1. Leasing Restaurant Equipment Can Be Cost-Effective

Leasing equipment is another way to save money when starting a restaurant. Certain items with shorter lifespans, such as ice machines, are ideal for leasing. This will save cashflow especially in the first year of operations.

2. Commercial Dishes Are Built to Last

Why restaurants plates are different from your home plates?

Restaurant dishes differ significantly from what you’d find at regular retail stores. Though they may cost more than dishes from stores, commercial dishes are designed to endure the wear and tear of a fast-paced restaurant environment, particularly dishwashing.

3. Tables and Chairs Influence the Dining Atmosphere

Are restaurant chairs better quality than a regular IKEA chair for example?

Investing in durable, high-quality tables and chairs is crucial. While they may seem like a hefty upfront expense, they are built to last. Additionally, the furniture you choose plays a key role in shaping the ambiance of your dining area.

4. A Well-planned Kitchen is Essential

Careful planning is crucial in a restaurant kitchen to ensure maximum space utilization and efficiency. Kitchens are typically divided into stations, each dedicated to a specific type of food preparation. This system helps maintain an organized and smooth-running kitchen, improves the production capacity and increases the staff efficiency.

5. Flexible Dining Room Design is Key

Designing a dining space that can be easily reconfigured is a smart choice. This flexibility allows you to adapt to larger parties or make adjustments to the layout if necessary, ensuring a better dining experience for your guests.

6. Refrigeration Comes in Many Forms

Refrigeration is a critical component of any restaurant’s operations. Options range from small coolers to large walk-in refrigerators and freezers, offering a wide range of storage solutions depending on your needs.

7. Tablecloths Add Style but Require Maintenance

Crisp tablecloths and linen napkins create an upscale dining experience, but they also come with significant upkeep costs. Maintaining these items, including cleaning, pressing, and replacing them, can be both time-consuming and expensive.

8. Catering Equipment Expands Business Opportunities

Offering off-site catering is a great way for restaurants to increase revenue. However, catering requires a lot of careful planning and additional commercial equipment to ensure food is served safely and efficiently outside the restaurant.