Top Cooking Equipment for Commercial Kitchens in Nashville

Welcome to another in-depth exploration on Chefsicon.com! Today, we’re diving into the world of commercial kitchen equipment in Nashville. As someone who’s relocated from the Bay Area to this vibrant city, I’ve seen firsthand how the right equipment can make or break a kitchen. Whether you’re opening a new restaurant or upgrading your existing setup, this guide will walk you through the essentials. Let’s get started!

When I first moved to Nashville, I was blown away by the food scene. From hot chicken to BBQ, this city knows its flavors. But behind every great dish is a well-equipped kitchen. As a seasoned marketing expert with a deep passion for food, I’ve spent countless hours researching and experiencing the best equipment out there. So, let’s dive in and see what makes a commercial kitchen tick.

In this article, we’ll cover the top cooking equipment you need for a commercial kitchen in Nashville. We’ll look at everything from ranges and ovens to griddles and fryers. By the end, you’ll have a solid understanding of what it takes to equip a professional kitchen. So, grab a cup of coffee (or a glass of sweet tea), and let’s get cooking!

The Heart of the Kitchen: Ranges and Ovens

Gas vs. Electric Ranges

First things first, you need a reliable range. But should you go for gas or electric? Gas ranges are popular for their precise heat control and instant response. They’re great for sautéing, simmering, and quick heat adjustments. On the other hand, electric ranges offer even heat distribution and are easier to clean. However, they can be slower to respond to temperature changes.

In Nashville, I’ve seen many commercial kitchens opt for gas ranges. Maybe it’s the traditionalist in me, but I’m inclined to agree. There’s something about the immediacy of gas that appeals to the fast-paced nature of a commercial kitchen. But ultimately, it depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Convection Ovens

Next up, we have convection ovens. These workhorses use a fan to circulate hot air, ensuring even cooking. They’re perfect for baking, roasting, and even cooking multiple dishes at once. In a busy kitchen, the consistency and efficiency of a convection oven can be a lifesaver.

When choosing a convection oven, consider factors like size, capacity, and features. Some models come with programmable settings, automatic shut-offs, and even self-cleaning modes. Is this the best approach? Let’s consider the specific needs of your kitchen. If you’re churning out large batches of baked goods, a high-capacity model might be worth the investment. But if you’re focusing on smaller, specialized dishes, a compact unit could be more suitable.

Combo Ovens

For ultimate versatility, consider a combo oven. These units combine the functions of a convection oven, steamer, and even a smoker in some cases. They’re perfect for kitchens with diverse menus or limited space.

I’m torn between the specialization of individual units and the versatility of a combo oven. But ultimately, it comes down to your menu and workflow. If you find yourself needing to steam, bake, and smoke regularly, a combo oven could be a game-changer.

Cooking Surfaces: Griddles and Charbroilers

Griddles

Griddles are essential for cooking foods like pancakes, burgers, and eggs. They provide a large, flat cooking surface that’s perfect for high-volume cooking. Look for a griddle with even heat distribution and easy-to-use controls.

Maybe I should clarify, griddles come in various sizes and materials. Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean, while chrome griddles offer excellent heat retention. Consider your kitchen’s needs and the types of foods you’ll be cooking when choosing a griddle.

Charbroilers

For that classic grilled flavor, a charbroiler is a must. These units use radiant heat to cook food, giving it those signature grill marks. Charbroilers are great for cooking meats, vegetables, and even fish.

When selecting a charbroiler, think about the size and type of food you’ll be cooking. Some models come with adjustable grates or dual-sided cooking surfaces for added versatility. It’s a bit of an investment, but the flavor payoff is worth it.

Deep Frying: Fryers

Gas vs. Electric Fryers

Fryers are crucial for cooking crispy, delicious fried foods. Like ranges, fryers come in gas and electric varieties. Gas fryers heat up quickly and offer precise temperature control. Electric fryers, on the other hand, are easier to install and maintain but can be slower to heat up.

In Nashville’s fast-paced food scene, gas fryers seem to be the go-to. Their quick heat-up times and responsive temperature control are ideal for busy kitchens. But electric fryers have their place, especially in kitchens where ease of installation and maintenance are priorities.

Ventless Fryers

If you’re working with limited ventilation, consider a ventless fryer. These units use built-in filtration systems to eliminate the need for a hood. They’re perfect for smaller kitchens or those looking to reduce equipment costs.

I’ve seen ventless fryers in action, and they’re impressive. The trade-off is capacity—ventless fryers typically have smaller tanks than traditional models. But for kitchens prioritizing space and cost efficiency, they’re a solid choice.

Cooking Technology: Induction Cooktops

Induction cooktops are gaining popularity in commercial kitchens for their precision and efficiency. These cooktops use electromagnetic fields to heat cookware directly, offering unparalleled temperature control and energy savings.

Induction cooktops are a bit of an investment, but they’re worth considering if precision and efficiency are top priorities. They’re also safer than traditional cooktops, as they only heat the cookware, not the surface itself.

Pizza Perfection: Pizza Ovens

Deck Ovens

For classic pizza cooking, a deck oven is a reliable choice. These ovens use heated decks (or shelves) to cook pizza evenly from the bottom up. They’re perfect for traditional pizza styles and can handle high-volume cooking.

Deck ovens are a staple in many Nashville pizzerias. Their consistent heat and large capacity make them ideal for busy kitchens. But keep in mind, they require regular maintenance to keep those decks in top shape.

Conveyor Ovens

For quick and consistent pizza cooking, consider a conveyor oven. These ovens use a moving belt to cook pizza evenly as it passes through the heating elements. They’re perfect for high-volume kitchens or those looking for consistent results with minimal effort.

Conveyor ovens are a bit of a trade-off. They offer speed and consistency but lack the traditional charm of a deck oven. If you’re prioritizing efficiency and ease of use, a conveyor oven could be the way to go.

High-Volume Cooking: Tilt Skillets and Braising Pans

Tilt Skillets

Tilt skillets are versatile pieces of equipment perfect for high-volume cooking. They can be used for sautéing, braising, frying, and even steaming. The tilting function makes them easy to use and clean.

Tilt skillets are a smart choice for kitchens that need to handle large batches of food. Their versatility means they can take on multiple roles, saving space and equipment costs. Just make sure you have the floor space to accommodate their size.

Braising Pans

Braising pans are similar to tilt skillets but offer more precise temperature control. They’re perfect for slow-cooking meats, reducing sauces, and even baking. Some models come with programmable settings for added convenience.

Braising pans are a solid investment for kitchens focusing on quality and precision. They offer the versatility of a tilt skillet with added control, making them a valuable addition to any commercial kitchen.

Specialty Equipment: Woks and Pastas Cookers

Woks

For stir-frying and other high-heat cooking methods, a commercial wok is essential. These units offer intense heat and quick cooking times, perfect for Asian cuisines and other fast-paced cooking styles.

Woks are a specialized piece of equipment, so consider your menu before investing. If stir-fries and high-heat cooking are a staple, a commercial wok is a must-have. But for more general kitchens, a versatile range or griddle might be a better fit.

Pasta Cookers

For kitchens focusing on pasta dishes, a dedicated pasta cooker can be a lifesaver. These units cook pasta quickly and evenly, with some models offering automatic portion control.

Pasta cookers are a niche investment, but for Italian kitchens or those with pasta-heavy menus, they’re invaluable. The time and consistency they offer can make a significant difference in a busy kitchen.

Essential Accessories: Salamanders and Cheesemelters

Salamanders

Salamanders are compact broilers perfect for finishing dishes, browning tops, or melting cheese. They’re a versatile addition to any commercial kitchen, offering quick and efficient heat.

Salamanders are a small but mighty tool in the commercial kitchen. Their compact size and versatility make them a valuable addition, no matter your menu. From melting cheese to browning au gratin, they’re a handy piece of equipment to have around.

Cheesemelters

Similar to salamanders, cheesemelters are designed specifically for melting cheese. They offer consistent heat and easy-to-use controls, perfect for sandwiches, burgers, and more.

Cheesemelters are a specialized tool, ideal for kitchens with cheese-heavy menus. While not as versatile as a salamander, their precision and consistency make them a valuable addition for the right kitchen.

Wrapping Up: Your Commercial Kitchen Checklist

So there you have it, folks—a comprehensive guide to the top cooking equipment for commercial kitchens in Nashville. From ranges and ovens to griddles and fryers, we’ve covered it all. But remember, the right equipment is just one piece of the puzzle. It’s all about finding what works best for your kitchen, your menu, and your workflow.

As you equip your commercial kitchen, consider the unique needs and challenges of your space. Think about your menu, your volume, and your goals. And don’t be afraid to mix and match, finding the perfect blend of versatility and specialization.

So, are you ready to take your commercial kitchen to the next level? Let’s get cooking, Nashville!

FAQ

Q: What’s the most important factor to consider when choosing commercial kitchen equipment?
A: The most important factor is your specific needs—your menu, volume, and workflow. Consider the types of dishes you’ll be cooking, the volume you need to handle, and your kitchen’s layout.

Q: Is gas or electric equipment better for a commercial kitchen?
A: It depends on your priorities. Gas equipment offers quick heat-up times and precise control, while electric equipment is easier to install and maintain. Consider your kitchen’s needs and your personal preferences when choosing.

Q: How can I maximize space in a small commercial kitchen?
A: Look for versatile equipment that can handle multiple tasks. Consider compact or ventless models to save space. And don’t forget about efficient storage solutions to make the most of your kitchen’s footprint.

Q: What’s the best way to maintain commercial kitchen equipment?
A: Regular cleaning and maintenance are key. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for each piece of equipment. And don’t forget about professional servicing to keep everything in top shape.

@article{top-cooking-equipment-for-commercial-kitchens-in-nashville,
    title   = {Top Cooking Equipment for Commercial Kitchens in Nashville},
    author  = {Chef's icon},
    year    = {2025},
    journal = {Chef's Icon},
    url     = {https://chefsicon.com/top-cooking-equipment-for-commercial-kitchens-in-nashville/}
}