The Most Essential Restaurant Equipment

If you are looking to open a new restaurant, congratulations on your exciting business venture. One of the most important steps you will need to take is buying the necessary equipment. Some equipment will be essential to every restaurant. Other items may be specialized based on your restaurant size, location and menu. 

You can buy your restaurant equipment brand new, or you can save money on certain items by buying used restaurant equipment from a reputable supplier like Kohn-Megibow (KMC). We offer high-quality used restaurant equipment that can be purchased directly from our warehouse or at even deeper discounts through our auction services. 

Let’s take a look at some of the most essential restaurant equipment you will need, most of which are available in used or refurbished condition for additional cost savings.

Large Appliances

Naturally, your restaurant’s size and menu will help determine which appliances you need. You’ll want to purchase commercial-grade appliances to meet health code and safety standards, as well as stand up to the quantities of meals you are serving day in and day out. Examples here include ovens, ranges, griddles, grills, deep fryers, floor mixers, refrigerators, freezers, coolers, ice machines, meat grinders and dishwashers. Again, you may not need all of these items and there may be additional specialty appliances required for your particular restaurant (such as a pizza oven).

Small Appliances

Your restaurant may also need some smaller appliances like blenders, coffee machines, cash registers, tabletop mixers, food processors, etc. Make a checklist of all items you need. Some you will prefer to purchase new. Others you may be able to find at a discount by buying used restaurant equipment.

Cookware & Utensils

You’ve covered the big stuff. Now comes the little things for your restaurant’s kitchen and staff. You’ll need pots, pans, cast-iron cookware, baking dishes, mixing bowls, knives, spoons and a wide variety of other utensils. Always remember your menu when choosing the necessary cookware. Also consider your foodservice quantities to make sure you have enough to use in rotation with cooking and dishwashing. 

Food Prep Equipment

You’ll generally need stainless steel work tables, countertops, sinks and cutting boards for proper food preparation and to help maintain sanitary operating conditions. Make sure you cover all your bases for safe and efficient food prep.

Food Storage Equipment

You will require cold storage space for raw ingredients, beverages and pre-made desserts. This may include a walk-in refrigerator/freezer or a stand-alone unit for your cold storage. There may be an in-store display for pies, ice cream or self-service beverages. On the other side of the coin, you’ll have dry storage areas for ingredients and supplies. This may include shelves, cabinets and drawers integrated into your kitchen design. 

Serving Equipment

Outside of your kitchen, your restaurant will need service equipment. Some examples include serving trays, glassware, dishes, silverware, salt and pepper shakers, napkin holders, pitchers and more. Your servers should be properly equipped to take care of your customers. Also don’t forget about takeout containers and delivery supplies if you are offering those services.

Furniture

Of course, your dine-in customers will likely need a place to sit. Used restaurant equipment is often a great solution for restaurant furniture like tables, bars, chairs and stools. You may be able to find a matching set that fits your décor, or start with some used items and refurbish them with new paint/stain and upholstery to reflect your desired style. Buying used can save you a lot of money compared to brand new restaurant furniture.

Safety Equipment

Last but not least, you will require specific safety and cleaning equipment for your restaurant. Hoods, vents, fire-suppression systems, fire extinguishers, sinks, non-slip floor mats, first-aid kits, gloves, eye protection, hair nets and more should be on your new restaurant equipment checklist.

These are some of the most essential pieces of restaurant equipment you will require as you look to open your new restaurant. For all your used restaurant equipment needs, count on KMC. We have everything under one roof. You can get much—if not all of the equipment and supplies you need—at a fraction of the price. Contact us today and let us know how we can help, or feel free to check out what you can find in our upcoming auctions.