Best Cooking Equipment for Commercial Kitchens: Top Picks for 2025

Welcome to my comprehensive guide on the best cooking equipment for commercial kitchens! If you’re a chef, restaurant owner, or kitchen manager, you know that having the right tools can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll dive into the essential cooking equipment that every commercial kitchen needs, from heavy-duty ranges to specialized gadgets. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of what to invest in to make your kitchen run smoothly and efficiently.

As a commercial kitchen guy, myself, I have seen a lot, and I mean a lot of kitchens. Big ones, small ones. Kitchens that are spotless, and kitchens that… well, let’s just say they could use a good scrub. But regardless of the size or cleanliness, there’s one thing that every successful commercial kitchen has in common: top-notch cooking equipment. So, let’s get started!

1. Commercial Ranges: The Heart of Your Kitchen

Let’s start with the heart of any commercial kitchen: the range. This is where the magic happens, and it’s crucial to invest in a range that can handle the heat—literally.

Gas vs. Electric Ranges

First things first, you need to decide between gas and electric ranges. Gas ranges are popular for their quick heat-up times and precise temperature control. They’re great for high-volume cooking and can handle multiple pots and pans at once. On the other hand, electric ranges are easier to clean and maintain, but they might not offer the same level of control as gas.

If you ask me I’d go with gas, but hey, it’s your kitchen, your rules.

Top Picks for Commercial Ranges

Here are a few top-notch commercial ranges that you might want to consider:

• Vulcan VRS60HD: This heavy-duty gas range is a workhorse with six open burners and a large oven capacity. It’s built to last and can handle even the busiest kitchens. Well, it’s a personal favorite I must say.
• Southbend S-Series: If you’re looking for an electric option, the Southbend S-Series is a solid choice. It offers even heat distribution and is easy to clean.
• Imperial IR-6: Another great gas range, the Imperial IR-6 is known for its durability and reliability. It’s a bit more budget-friendly but still packs a punch.

2. Commercial Ovens: Bake, Roast, and More

Next up, we have commercial ovens. These are essential for baking, roasting, and even broiling. Depending on your menu, you might need a convection oven, a combi oven, or even a specialized pizza oven.

Convection Ovens

Convection ovens use fans to circulate hot air, ensuring even cooking. They’re great for baking pastries, roasting meats, and even cooking vegetables. Plus, they can handle multiple trays at once, making them ideal for high-volume kitchens.

I remember the first time I used a convection oven—it was a game-changer. Everything cooked so evenly, and I could finally say goodbye to those pesky hot spots.

Top Picks for Convection Ovens

• Bakers Pride Y-601: This convection oven is a favorite among bakers for its even heat distribution and large capacity. It’s a bit pricey, but worth every penny.
• Blodgett XB-60-G: Another excellent choice, the Blodgett XB-60-G is known for its durability and reliability. It’s a great all-around oven for any commercial kitchen.

Combi Ovens

Combi ovens combine the functions of a convection oven and a steamer, making them incredibly versatile. They’re perfect for kitchens that need to handle a wide variety of dishes, from roasted meats to steamed vegetables.

Top Picks for Combi Ovens

• Rational SelfCookingCenter: This combi oven is a powerhouse with advanced features like automatic cooking programs and energy-efficient operation. It’s a bit of an investment, but it’s worth it if you need a do-it-all oven.
• Convotherm 4: The Convotherm 4 is another fantastic combi oven with a user-friendly interface and excellent cooking results. It’s a bit more affordable than the Rational but still offers great performance.

3. Griddles and Charbroilers: Sear and Sizzle

If you’re serving up burgers, steaks, or breakfast items, a griddle or charbroiler is a must-have. These pieces of equipment are designed to give your food that perfect sear and sizzle.

Griddles

Griddles are flat cooking surfaces that are great for cooking pancakes, eggs, burgers, and more. They offer even heat distribution and are easy to clean.

Top Picks for Griddles

• Vulcan VCG36HD: This heavy-duty griddle is built to last with a thick steel plate and precise temperature control. It’s a bit of an investment, but it’s worth it for the quality.
• Star Maxim Line: The Star Maxim Line griddles are known for their durability and even heat distribution. They’re a great choice for any commercial kitchen.

Charbroilers

Charbroilers are perfect for giving your food that classic grilled flavor. They’re great for cooking steaks, burgers, and even vegetables.

Top Picks for Charbroilers

• MagiKitch’n MK36C: This charbroiler is a favorite among chefs for its even heat distribution and durable construction. It’s a bit pricey, but it’s worth the investment.
• Garland Xpress: The Garland Xpress charbroiler is a more budget-friendly option that still offers great performance. It’s a solid choice for smaller kitchens or those on a tighter budget.

4. Deep Fryers: Crispy Perfection

Who doesn’t love a good deep-fried treat? Whether you’re serving up french fries, chicken wings, or donuts, a deep fryer is a must-have for any commercial kitchen.Okay, okay, I know deep-fried foods aren’t the healthiest, but let’s be honest—they’re delicious.

Top Picks for Deep Fryers

• Frymaster MJ44-G: This deep fryer is a favorite among chefs for its even heat distribution and quick recovery times. It’s a bit of an investment, but it’s worth it for the quality.
• Pitco Frialator: The Pitco Frialator is another excellent choice with a large capacity and efficient operation. It’s a great all-around deep fryer for any commercial kitchen.

5. Slicers and Food Processors: Prep Like a Pro

When it comes to food prep, having the right tools can save you a ton of time and effort. Slicers and food processors are essential for any commercial kitchen, helping you slice, dice, and chop with ease.

Slicers

Slicers are perfect for cutting meats, cheeses, and even vegetables. They offer precise slicing and are easy to use.

Top Picks for Slicers

• Hobart HS7-1: This slicer is a favorite among chefs for its precision and durability. It’s a bit pricey, but it’s worth the investment for the quality.
• Berkel 829E-PLUS: The Berkel 829E-PLUS is another excellent choice with a user-friendly design and reliable performance. It’s a great all-around slicer for any commercial kitchen.

Food Processors

Food processors are incredibly versatile, helping you chop, slice, shred, and puree with ease. They’re a must-have for any kitchen that needs to handle a lot of prep work.

Top Picks for Food Processors

• Robot Coupe R2N: This food processor is a favorite among chefs for its power and versatility. It’s a bit of an investment, but it’s worth it for the quality.
• Waring WFP16S: The Waring WFP16S is another excellent choice with a large capacity and efficient operation. It’s a great all-around food processor for any commercial kitchen.

6. Mixers: Knead, Whip, and Blend

If you’re baking or making dough, a commercial mixer is a must-have. These powerful machines can knead, whip, and blend with ease, saving you time and effort.

Top Picks for Mixers

• Hobart Legacy HL662: This mixer is a favorite among bakers for its power and durability. It’s a bit pricey, but it’s worth the investment for the quality.
• KitchenAid KSMC895: The KitchenAid KSMC895 is another excellent choice with a large capacity and versatile attachments. It’s a great all-around mixer for any commercial kitchen.

7. Refrigeration: Keep It Cool

Proper refrigeration is crucial for keeping your ingredients fresh and your kitchen running smoothly. Whether you need a reach-in refrigerator, a walk-in cooler, or a specialized freezer, investing in quality refrigeration equipment is a must.

Reach-In Refrigerators

Reach-in refrigerators are perfect for storing ingredients and prepped items. They offer easy access and are great for smaller kitchens.

Top Picks for Reach-In Refrigerators

• True T-49: This reach-in refrigerator is a favorite among chefs for its durability and reliable performance. It’s a bit of an investment, but it’s worth it for the quality.
• Turbo Air TSD-60R: The Turbo Air TSD-60R is another excellent choice with a large capacity and efficient operation. It’s a great all-around reach-in refrigerator for any commercial kitchen.

Walk-In Coolers

Walk-in coolers are essential for larger kitchens that need to store a lot of ingredients. They offer plenty of space and are great for keeping everything organized.

Top Picks for Walk-In Coolers

• Kolpak R2962-E: This walk-in cooler is a favorite among chefs for its durability and reliable performance. It’s a bit pricey, but it’s worth the investment for the quality.
• Nor-Lake Kold Locker: The Nor-Lake Kold Locker is another excellent choice with a large capacity and efficient operation. It’s a great all-around walk-in cooler for any commercial kitchen.

8. Dishwashing Equipment: Clean Up Time

Let’s face it: nobody likes doing the dishes. But with the right dishwashing equipment, you can make the cleanup process a lot easier and more efficient.

Commercial Dishwashers

Commercial dishwashers are designed to handle high volumes of dishes, making them essential for any busy kitchen. They offer quick wash cycles and efficient operation.

Top Picks for Commercial Dishwashers

• Hobart AM15: This dishwasher is a favorite among chefs for its power and durability. It’s a bit of an investment, but it’s worth it for the quality.
• Jackson WD-44: The Jackson WD-44 is another excellent choice with a large capacity and efficient operation. It’s a great all-around dishwasher for any commercial kitchen.

9. Safety and Sanitation Equipment: Stay Safe and Clean

Safety and sanitation are top priorities in any commercial kitchen. Having the right equipment can help you maintain a clean and safe environment, ensuring that your kitchen runs smoothly and efficiently.

Hand Washing Stations

Hand washing stations are essential for maintaining good hygiene in the kitchen. They should be easily accessible and equipped with soap and paper towels.

Top Picks for Hand Washing Stations

• Advance Tabco HW-2436: This hand washing station is a favorite among chefs for its durability and reliable performance. It’s a bit pricey, but it’s worth the investment for the quality.
• MetroMax Qwik Clean: The MetroMax Qwik Clean is another excellent choice with a user-friendly design and efficient operation. It’s a great all-around hand washing station for any commercial kitchen.

Floor Mats

Floor mats are crucial for preventing slips and falls in the kitchen. They should be durable, easy to clean, and provide good traction.

Top Picks for Floor Mats

• Rubber-Cal Diamond Plate: This floor mat is a favorite among chefs for its durability and reliable performance. It’s a bit pricey, but it’s worth the investment for the quality.
• Crown Mats Anti-Fatigue: The Crown Mats Anti-Fatigue is another excellent choice with a comfortable design and efficient operation. It’s a great all-around floor mat for any commercial kitchen.

10. Where to Buy Commercial Kitchen Equipment

Now that you know what equipment you need, the next question is: where to buy it? There are plenty of options out there, but not all of them are created equal. Here are a few tips for finding the best deals on commercial kitchen equipment:

• Shop around: Don’t just go with the first dealer you find. Take the time to shop around and compare prices from different suppliers.
• Check reviews: Before you make a purchase, be sure to check reviews from other customers. This can give you a good idea of the quality and reliability of the equipment.
• Consider used equipment: If you’re on a tight budget, consider buying used equipment. Just be sure to inspect it thoroughly before making a purchase.

One place you can check out is Chef’s Deal. They have a wide range of commercial kitchen equipment at competitive prices. Plus, they offer great customer service and fast shipping.

Conclusion

And there you have it: my comprehensive guide to the best cooking equipment for commercial kitchens. I hope this article has given you a good idea of what equipment you need to invest in to make your kitchen run smoothly and efficiently. Remember, the right tools can make all the difference, so don’t be afraid to invest in quality equipment. Your kitchen (and your customers) will thank you!

If you have any questions or need more advice, feel free to reach out. I’m always here to help!

FAQ

What is the most important piece of equipment for a commercial kitchen?

The most important piece of equipment for a commercial kitchen is the range. This is where the majority of your cooking will take place, so it’s crucial to invest in a high-quality range that can handle the heat.

Should I buy new or used commercial kitchen equipment?

It depends on your budget and preferences. New equipment is more expensive but offers the latest features and warranties. Used equipment can be a more budget-friendly option, but it’s important to inspect it thoroughly before making a purchase.

How often should I clean my commercial kitchen equipment?

You should clean your commercial kitchen equipment regularly to maintain good hygiene and ensure proper functioning. Daily cleaning is essential for most equipment, while deep cleaning should be done on a weekly or monthly basis, depending on the equipment.

What should I look for when buying commercial kitchen equipment?

When buying commercial kitchen equipment, look for durability, reliability, and efficiency. Check reviews from other customers and compare prices from different suppliers to find the best deals.

You Might Also Like:

• Best Commercial Ovens for Your Kitchen
• Top Commercial Refrigerators for Your Kitchen
• Essential Safety Equipment for Commercial Kitchens

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