Best Reach-In Refrigerators for Restaurants: Top Picks for 2025

9 min read

If you’re running a restaurant, you know that having a reliable reach-in refrigerator is absolutely crucial. These workhorses keep your ingredients fresh and your kitchen running smoothly. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the best one for your needs? Let me share my journey of finding the perfect reach-in refrigerator and some top picks for 2025.

A few years back, when I first moved to Nashville and started setting up my home kitchen, I realized the importance of a good refrigerator. The same applies to a commercial kitchen, but the stakes are higher. A bad choice can lead to spoiled food, increased costs, and a lot of headaches. So, let’s dive into what makes a great reach-in refrigerator and some of the best models out there.

By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear idea of what to look for and some solid recommendations to consider. Let’s get started!

Why a Good Reach-In Refrigerator Matters

First things first, why is a reach-in refrigerator so important for a restaurant? Well, it’s all about food safety and efficiency. A good reach-in refrigerator keeps your ingredients at the optimal temperature, preventing spoilage and ensuring food safety. Plus, it helps organize your kitchen, making it easier to find what you need quickly.

Key Features to Look For

Temperature Control

Precise temperature control is crucial. Look for models with digital controls that allow you to set the temperature accurately. Some even have alarms that alert you if the temperature goes out of the safe range. I’ve had nights where I woke up in a cold sweat, wondering if I left the fridge door open. An alarm would have been a lifesaver!

Capacity and Organization

The capacity of the refrigerator is another key factor. You need enough space to store all your ingredients, but not so much that you’re wasting energy. Think about the size of your kitchen and the volume of food you need to store. Also, consider the organization features. Adjustable shelves, drawers, and door storage can make a big difference in how efficiently you use the space.

Energy Efficiency

Speaking of energy, energy efficiency is a big deal. Restaurants use a lot of power, and every bit of savings can add up. Look for models with Energy Star ratings. They might cost a bit more upfront, but they’ll save you money in the long run. Plus, it’s good for the environment, which is always a plus.

Durability and Maintenance

Restaurant kitchens are tough environments. You need a refrigerator that can handle the wear and tear. Stainless steel exteriors are a good choice because they’re durable and easy to clean. Also, consider the warranty and maintenance requirements. A good warranty can give you peace of mind, and easy-to-maintain models will save you time and money.

Top Reach-In Refrigerators for 2025

1. True Manufacturing T-49 Refrigerator

The True Manufacturing T-49 is a beast of a refrigerator. It’s got a massive 49 cu. ft. capacity, making it perfect for large kitchens. The digital temperature control is precise, and the heavy-duty construction means it can handle the rigors of a busy restaurant. Plus, it’s Energy Star rated, so it’s efficient too. I’ve seen these in action, and they’re impressive. Is this the best approach? Let’s consider the next option.

2. Turbo Air TSR-49S Refrigerator

The Turbo Air TSR-49S is another solid choice. It’s got a similar capacity to the True Manufacturing model, but it’s a bit more affordable. The temperature control is reliable, and it’s got a self-cleaning condenser, which is a nice feature. However, it’s not as energy-efficient as some other models. So, maybe I should clarify, if energy savings are a priority, you might want to look elsewhere.

3. Atosa MBF8005 Reach-In Refrigerator

The Atosa MBF8005 is a more compact option, with a 27 cu. ft. capacity. It’s perfect for smaller kitchens or as a backup refrigerator. The digital temperature control is accurate, and it’s got a good warranty. Plus, it’s surprisingly affordable. I’m torn between this and the larger models, but ultimately, it depends on your specific needs.

4. Avantco SS-R-2-HC Refrigerator

The Avantco SS-R-2-HC is a two-door model with a 54 cu. ft. capacity. It’s got a nice balance of size and efficiency. The temperature control is reliable, and it’s got a self-cleaning condenser. Plus, it’s Energy Star rated. I think this one hits the sweet spot for a lot of restaurants. It’s definitely one to consider.

5. Beverage-Air SAM54HC-1 Refrigerator

The Beverage-Air SAM54HC-1 is another two-door model, but it’s a bit more high-end. It’s got a 54 cu. ft. capacity and a ton of features, including digital temperature control, a self-cleaning condenser, and heavy-duty casters. It’s also Energy Star rated. It’s a bit pricier, but you get what you pay for. This one’s a real workhorse.

6. Hoshizaki KRM-59DAM Refrigerator

The Hoshizaki KRM-59DAM is a unique option because it’s a dual temperature model. You can use it as a refrigerator or a freezer, which is incredibly versatile. It’s got a 59 cu. ft. capacity and digital temperature control. Plus, it’s Energy Star rated. If you need flexibility, this is a great choice. I wish I’d had one of these when I was experimenting with ice cream making at home!

7. Traulsen G22200 Refrigerator

The Traulsen G22200 is a premium option. It’s got a 20.8 cu. ft. capacity, which is on the smaller side, but it’s incredibly well-built. The temperature control is precise, and it’s got a ton of organizational features. Plus, it’s Energy Star rated. If you’re looking for quality and don’t need a ton of space, this is a great pick.

8. Victory RF54-HC Refrigerator

The Victory RF54-HC is a solid mid-range option. It’s got a 54 cu. ft. capacity and reliable temperature control. It’s not as feature-packed as some other models, but it’s a good balance of price and performance. If you’re on a budget but need a decent amount of space, this is worth considering.

9. Delfield 49127 Refrigerator

The Delfield 49127 is a heavy-duty option with a 49 cu. ft. capacity. It’s got digital temperature control and a self-cleaning condenser. Plus, it’s Energy Star rated. It’s a bit pricier, but it’s built to last. If durability is a priority, this is a great choice.

10. Chef’s Deal 54 Cu. Ft. 2 Door Stainless Steel Commercial Reach-In Refrigerator

Last but not least, the Chef’s Deal 54 Cu. Ft. 2 Door Stainless Steel Commercial Reach-In Refrigerator is a fantastic option. It’s got a 54 cu. ft. capacity and a ton of features, including digital temperature control, a self-cleaning condenser, and heavy-duty casters. Plus, it’s Energy Star rated and comes with a great warranty. You can check it out on Chef’s Deal’s website. It’s definitely one of my top picks.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Reach-In Refrigerator

Budget

Of course, budget is a big factor. You need to balance the upfront cost with the long-term savings. A more expensive model might save you money in the long run through energy efficiency and durability. But if you’re on a tight budget, there are plenty of affordable options that still offer good performance.

Size and Layout of Your Kitchen

The size and layout of your kitchen are also important. You need a refrigerator that fits your space and works with your workflow. Think about where the refrigerator will be placed and how it will affect the flow of your kitchen. A badly placed refrigerator can be a real hassle.

Specific Needs of Your Menu

Your menu will also influence your choice. If you serve a lot of fresh produce, you’ll need a refrigerator with good humidity control. If you do a lot of prep work, you might need more organizational features. Think about what you need to store and how you need to store it.

Maintaining Your Reach-In Refrigerator

Once you’ve got your reach-in refrigerator, you need to take care of it. Regular maintenance can extend the life of your refrigerator and keep it running efficiently. Here are a few tips:

  • Clean the condenser coils regularly to keep the refrigerator running efficiently.
  • Check the door seals to make sure they’re tight and replace them if they’re worn.
  • Keep the interior clean to prevent odors and mold.
  • Monitor the temperature to make sure it’s staying within the safe range.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right reach-in refrigerator for your restaurant is a big decision. But with the right information, you can make a choice that will serve you well for years to come. Think about your specific needs, do your research, and don’t be afraid to invest in quality. A good reach-in refrigerator is a investment in the success of your restaurant.

So, which one would I choose? Well, it depends on the specific needs of the kitchen. But if I were setting up a restaurant today, I’d probably go with the Chef’s Deal 54 Cu. Ft. 2 Door Stainless Steel Commercial Reach-In Refrigerator. It’s got a great balance of size, features, and price. But ultimately, the best choice is the one that fits your unique needs.

FAQ

Q: What is the best size for a reach-in refrigerator?
A: The best size depends on your specific needs. For a small restaurant, a 27 cu. ft. model might be enough. But for a larger kitchen, you might need a 54 cu. ft. model or even larger.

Q: How important is energy efficiency?
A: Energy efficiency is very important. It can save you money in the long run and it’s better for the environment. Look for models with Energy Star ratings.

Q: What kind of maintenance does a reach-in refrigerator need?
A: Regular maintenance includes cleaning the condenser coils, checking the door seals, keeping the interior clean, and monitoring the temperature.

Q: What is the best brand for a reach-in refrigerator?
A: There are many good brands out there. Some of the top ones include True Manufacturing, Turbo Air, Atosa, Avantco, Beverage-Air, Hoshizaki, Traulsen, Victory, Delfield, and Chef’s Deal.

You Might Also Like

@article{best-reach-in-refrigerators-for-restaurants-top-picks-for-2025,
    title   = {Best Reach-In Refrigerators for Restaurants: Top Picks for 2025},
    author  = {Chef's icon},
    year    = {2025},
    journal = {Chef's Icon},
    url     = {https://chefsicon.com/top-reach-in-refrigerators-for-restaurants/}
}

Related Posts