Restaurant Equipment You Need To Have When Starting a Food Business

For many individuals who want to open their own food business, it’s not just about money nor a “great idea.” It’s also about having a passion for food, delight in preparing it, and the yearning to share it with the world. Much like any business venture, though, success depends on several factors aside from passion. One of the most important ones for any food business is equipment.

Your restaurant equipment pumps the flow of blood to your business. Without the proper tools and equipment, your staff won’t be able to work their best, and you won’t be able to deliver the results you want. It’s also a substantial investment; that’s why it’s essential to have a clear idea of what you need before heading out to buy your stuff. Here, we have a little guide to help you figure out what restaurant you need to have when starting a food business.

What Equipment is Needed for a Restaurant Kitchen?

The kitchen is where the magic happens. And the equipment you’ll need here is very different from what you’d need in your regular home kitchen. Depending on what type of food business you’re putting up, you’ll need more heavy-duty equipment that can keep up with your everyday operations. 

1. Refrigerators and Freezers

The largest and most expensive piece of equipment any food business will need are refrigerators or freezers. Before buying one, do proper research about the various kinds available in the market. Generally, you can choose between walk-in or reach-in units. And consider the size of your restaurant and your needs.

2. Ovens and Ranges

Good ovens and ranges aren’t necessarily the secret to great food, but they help a lot. And if you want a smooth operating kitchen, you’ll need to invest in quality cooking equipment. Fortunately, there are plenty of designs and models in the market that can fit any space and serve any needs of your food business. 

3. Prep Surfaces and Equipment

Your cooks would need a designated space to prepare the food properly. For these spaces, it’s best to go with stainless steel. Not only is it easy to clean, but it’s also strong enough to handle cuts, food juices, and cleaning chemicals. Make sure you also make a checklist of all items you’d specifically need in your food preps, like mixers or blenders.

4. Shelves

Aside from your fridge, you’d need a place to properly store your goods and make sure they’re kept safe from mold, dirt, and bacteria. For this, you can install shelving units on your walls or a cart. 

5. Sinks or Dishwashers

Cleaning your tools and utensils is as essential as the preparation of the food itself. And without a proper sink or dishwasher, your kitchen would hardly be able to operate well.

6. Cookware, bakeware, and smallware

These include all the pans, pots, spatulas, baking sheets, and whatnot that your food business would need. Take careful note of them so that when you’d need to take inventory, you’d know what you’ll need to buy more or replace in the future. 

7. Cleaning, sanitation, and safety equipment

In operating a food business, these are some of the most important items you’d need to have. Check all safety and sanitation guidelines in your area and always keep your kitchen up to date to fire code standards. Some of the things you might need are nonskid floor mats, fire extinguishers, dispensers for cleaning chemicals, and the like.

What Equipment Is Needed for the Front-of-House?

While the kitchen is where the important bits happen, it’s your front-of-house that makes the first impression on your guests. So it’s just as important to give careful consideration to your restaurant equipment here just as you did with your kitchen equipment.

1. Table Settings

This includes everything your guests will use in their meal, including silverware, cups, salt and pepper shakers, and napkins. In case of accidents and such, it’s wise to keep a few extras of these items in the back. 

2. Communication Aids

Aside from your usual menu, you’d need some visual aids to tell your guests about special menus or special dishes. This can be as simple as a chalkboard outside or a laminated card on every table.

3. Special Equipment

Each restaurant is different. Some might be serving buffets, and some might have bars. Depending on what you’re offering, make sure you have the equipment necessary to accommodate your customers, such as self-service food equipment, beverage dispensers, or a refrigerator for cold beverages. 

Those are the main things you’ll need, but don’t forget about your operational and management restaurant equipment. This can include your cash registers, computer system, and credit card processing machines. These are all necessities to help you run your food business a lot smoother.