Best Pizza Ovens for Restaurants in 2025: A Comprehensive Guide

11 min read

Pizza ovens are the heart and soul of any pizzeria. Whether you’re a seasoned restaurateur looking to upgrade your equipment or a newbie dipping your toes into the world of pizza making, choosing the right oven can make or break your business. Having moved from the Bay Area to Nashville, I’ve seen my fair share of pizza joints, and let me tell you, the oven makes all the difference. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the world of pizza ovens, exploring the different types, key features to look for, and some top recommendations to help you make an informed decision. So, let’s get started! It’s important to note the date is 2025-02-10 and there might be new pizza oven models and trends emerging. What was best in 2024 might not be the best in 2025. So lets go find the best pizza oven for restaurants in 2025. Luna, my rescue cat, is purring beside me, so I guess she approves of this topic too! 🙂

Pizza ovens are essential for any restaurant that serves pizza. They come in various types, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Let’s break down the main types of pizza ovens you’ll encounter:

Types of Pizza Ovens

Conveyor Ovens

Conveyor ovens are a popular choice for high-volume pizzerias. These ovens use a conveyor belt to move pizzas through a heated chamber, ensuring consistent cooking. One of the biggest advantages of conveyor ovens is their ability to handle a large number of pizzas at once, making them ideal for busy restaurants. However, they can be quite bulky and may not be suitable for smaller kitchens. I’m torn between the efficiency of conveyor ovens and the charm of traditional brick ovens, but ultimately, it depends on your specific needs.

Key Features:

  • High-volume capacity
  • Consistent cooking
  • Easy to use
  • Requires more space

Deck Ovens

Deck ovens are another common type of pizza oven, featuring a heated deck (or surface) where pizzas are placed for cooking. These ovens are known for their ability to produce a crispy crust and are often preferred by artisanal pizzerias. Deck ovens come in various sizes and can be stacked to save space, making them a versatile option for different kitchen layouts.

Maybe I should clarify that deck ovens are great for restaurants that prioritize quality over quantity. They might not churn out pizzas as quickly as conveyor ovens, but the end result is often worth the wait. Is this the best approach? Let’s consider the benefits:

  • Crispy crust
  • Versatile sizes
  • Space-saving options
  • Slower cooking time

Brick Ovens

Brick ovens, also known as wood-fired ovens, are the traditional choice for authentic pizza making. These ovens use wood or gas to heat a brick interior, creating a unique flavor and texture. Brick ovens are highly sought after for their ability to reach extremely high temperatures, resulting in a perfectly charred crust. However, they require more skill and attention to operate, and maintaining consistent temperatures can be challenging.

I have a soft spot for brick ovens—there’s something magical about the way they bring out the flavors in a pizza. But let’s not get too romantic; they do come with their own set of challenges.

  • Authentic flavor
  • High temperatures
  • Requires skilled operation
  • Challenging temperature control

Convection Ovens

Convection ovens use forced air to circulate heat evenly around the pizza, ensuring uniform cooking. These ovens are versatile and can be used for a variety of cooking tasks beyond just pizza. They are also relatively compact, making them a good choice for smaller kitchens.

Key Features:

  • Even heat distribution
  • Versatile use
  • Compact size
  • May not achieve the same crispiness as other ovens

Key Features to Look for in a Pizza Oven

When choosing a pizza oven for your restaurant, there are several key features to consider. Let’s break down the most important ones:

Capacity and Size: The first thing to consider is the oven’s capacity and size. How many pizzas do you need to cook at once, and how much space do you have in your kitchen? Conveyor ovens are great for high-volume needs, while deck ovens offer versatile sizing options.

Heating Method: The heating method will significantly impact the flavor and texture of your pizza. Wood-fired brick ovens offer an authentic taste, while convection ovens provide even heat distribution. Consider what kind of pizza experience you want to offer your customers.

Temperature Control: Precise temperature control is crucial for consistent cooking. Look for ovens with digital controls and programmable settings to ensure your pizzas are cooked to perfection every time.

Ease of Use: How easy is the oven to operate? Conveyor ovens are straightforward and require minimal training, while brick ovens need skilled operators. Think about your staff’s expertise and how much time you can dedicate to training.

Maintenance and Cleaning: Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential for the longevity of your oven. Consider how easy the oven is to clean and whether it comes with any maintenance features, like self-cleaning cycles.

Energy Efficiency: Finally, think about energy efficiency. Commercial ovens can consume a lot of energy, so look for models with energy-saving features to help reduce your operating costs.

These features are just the tip of the iceberg. There are so many nuances to consider, like the type of fuel, ventilation requirements, and even aesthetic appeal. It’s a lot to take in, but choosing the right oven is a big deal—it’s an investment in your restaurant’s future. Is this the best approach? Let’s consider some top recommendations.

Top Pizza Oven Recommendations for Restaurants

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into some top pizza oven recommendations for restaurants. These ovens are known for their quality, performance, and reliability.

Middleby Marshall PS360 Gas Conveyor Oven

The Middleby Marshall PS360 is a top-of-the-line gas conveyor oven designed for high-volume pizzerias. With a capacity of up to 90 pizzas per hour, this oven is a workhorse that can handle even the busiest nights. It features digital temperature controls, a self-cleaning cycle, and energy-efficient design.

Key Features:

  • High-volume capacity
  • Digital temperature controls
  • Self-cleaning cycle
  • Energy-efficient design

Pros:

  • Consistent cooking
  • Easy to use
  • Low maintenance

Cons:

  • Requires more space
  • Higher upfront cost

Is this the best approach? Let’s consider the benefits and drawbacks. The Middleby Marshall PS360 is a fantastic choice for high-volume pizzerias, but it does come with a higher price tag and space requirements.

Bakers Pride Y-601 Deck Oven

The Bakers Pride Y-601 is a versatile deck oven that offers excellent performance and durability. With a capacity of up to 60 pizzas per hour, this oven is perfect for medium-volume restaurants. It features a heavy-duty construction, digital controls, and even heat distribution.

Key Features:

  • Medium-volume capacity
  • Digital controls
  • Even heat distribution
  • Heavy-duty construction

Pros:

  • Durable design
  • Consistent cooking
  • Easy to use

Cons:

  • Slower cooking time
  • Requires more skill to operate

The Bakers Pride Y-601 is a solid choice for restaurants that prioritize quality over quantity. It’s durable, reliable, and produces consistently great pizzas.

Wood Stone Mt. Adams 5′ Wood-Fired Oven

The Wood Stone Mt. Adams 5′ is a premium wood-fired oven that offers authentic flavor and high temperatures. With a capacity of up to 40 pizzas per hour, this oven is ideal for artisanal pizzerias looking to create a unique dining experience. It features a traditional brick interior, digital controls, and a beautiful design that adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen.

Key Features:

  • Authentic wood-fired flavor
  • High temperatures
  • Digital controls
  • Elegant design

Pros:

  • Unique flavor
  • High-quality construction
  • Aesthetically pleasing

Cons:

  • Requires skilled operation
  • Challenging temperature control
  • Higher maintenance

The Wood Stone Mt. Adams 5′ is a dream come true for pizza enthusiasts. It offers unparalleled flavor and a stunning design, but it does require more skill and maintenance.

Blodgett MT1848 Convection Oven

The Blodgett MT1848 is a versatile convection oven that offers even heat distribution and a compact size. With a capacity of up to 30 pizzas per hour, this oven is perfect for smaller restaurants or those looking for a multi-purpose oven. It features digital controls, a self-cleaning cycle, and energy-efficient design.

Key Features:

  • Even heat distribution
  • Compact size
  • Digital controls
  • Self-cleaning cycle
  • Energy-efficient design

Pros:

  • Versatile use
  • Easy to clean
  • Space-saving

Cons:

  • May not achieve the same crispiness as other ovens
  • Lower capacity

The Blodgett MT1848 is a great choice for smaller restaurants or those looking for a versatile oven that can handle more than just pizza. It’s compact, easy to clean, and energy-efficient.

Where to Buy Commercial Pizza Ovens

When it comes to purchasing commercial pizza ovens, there are several reputable vendors to consider. One of the best choices is Chef’s Deal. Chef’s Deal offers a wide range of high-quality commercial kitchen equipment, including pizza ovens. They provide competitive pricing, excellent customer service, and a user-friendly website that makes shopping a breeze.

You can visit their website at Chef’s Deal to explore their selection of pizza ovens and other commercial kitchen equipment.

Maintaining Your Pizza Oven

Once you’ve invested in a high-quality pizza oven, it’s essential to maintain it properly to ensure longevity and optimal performance. Here are some tips for maintaining your pizza oven:

Regular Cleaning: Clean your oven regularly to remove grease, food particles, and other debris that can affect its performance. Most ovens come with cleaning instructions, so be sure to follow them closely.

Inspect and Replace Parts: Regularly inspect your oven for any signs of wear and tear. Replace any worn-out parts promptly to prevent further damage.

Professional Maintenance: Consider scheduling professional maintenance services to ensure your oven is in top condition. Professionals can identify and fix issues that you might miss.

Proper Ventilation: Ensure your oven has proper ventilation to prevent overheating and other issues. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for ventilation requirements.

Training Staff: Train your staff on how to use and maintain the oven properly. Proper training can prevent misuse and ensure the oven is used efficiently.

Maintaining your pizza oven is crucial for its long-term performance. It’s an investment that pays off in the form of consistent, high-quality pizzas and satisfied customers. Is this the best approach? Let’s consider the importance of regular maintenance.

Conclusion: Finding the Perfect Pizza Oven for Your Restaurant

Choosing the right pizza oven for your restaurant is a big decision that can significantly impact your business. Whether you opt for a high-volume conveyor oven, a versatile deck oven, a traditional brick oven, or a compact convection oven, each type has its own set of advantages and challenges.

Consider your restaurant’s specific needs, such as volume, space, and the type of pizza experience you want to offer. Don’t rush the decision; take your time to research and weigh the pros and cons of each option.

Remember, the perfect pizza oven is out there—you just need to find it. And once you do, your pizzeria will be well on its way to serving up delicious, perfectly cooked pizzas that keep customers coming back for more.

So, what’s next for your pizzeria? Are you ready to take the plunge and invest in a new pizza oven? The future of your restaurant is in your hands, and the right oven can make all the difference.

FAQ

Q: What is the best type of pizza oven for a high-volume pizzeria?
A: For a high-volume pizzeria, a conveyor oven is typically the best choice. These ovens can handle a large number of pizzas at once and provide consistent cooking, making them ideal for busy restaurants. Look for models that offer digital temperature controls, self-cleaning cycles, and energy-efficient designs.

Q: How do I maintain my pizza oven to ensure it lasts a long time?
A: Regular cleaning, inspecting and replacing worn-out parts, scheduling professional maintenance, ensuring proper ventilation, and training your staff on proper use and maintenance are all crucial steps to ensure your pizza oven lasts a long time. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific maintenance tasks.

Q: What should I consider when choosing a pizza oven for my restaurant?
A: Consider factors such as capacity and size, heating method, temperature control, ease of use, maintenance and cleaning, and energy efficiency. Think about your restaurant’s specific needs, such as volume, space, and the type of pizza experience you want to offer.

Q: Where can I buy a high-quality commercial pizza oven?
A: Chef’s Deal is a great choice for purchasing high-quality commercial pizza ovens. They offer a wide range of options, competitive pricing, excellent customer service, and a user-friendly website. You can visit their website at Chef’s Deal to explore their selection.

You Might Also Like

@article{best-pizza-ovens-for-restaurants-in-2025-a-comprehensive-guide,
    title   = {Best Pizza Ovens for Restaurants in 2025: A Comprehensive Guide},
    author  = {Chef's icon},
    year    = {2025},
    journal = {Chef's Icon},
    url     = {https://chefsicon.com/best-pizza-ovens-for-restaurants/}
}

Related Posts