For new business owners, specifically restaurant owners, purchasing the right equipment can be pretty overwhelming. Even those with excessive funds seem to have a hard time knowing where to begin if they don’t consult with a professional first. The common misconception is that all restaurants have the same equipment, but prepare different foods. This couldn’t be more wrong. Here’s a simple guide to purchasing commercial restaurant equipment and supplies for your new business.
Figure Out Your Budget
There’s no point in coming up with a list of supplies before knowing what your budget for supplies is. New business owners often look at their total budget and don’t break it up for different purposes: land/property, licenses, equipment, smallwares, décor, contractors, employees, furniture, landscaping, taxes, utilities, and the list goes on. Make very specific budgets and figure out where you can spend your money. This way you know whether you should buy a $4,000 commercial range or a $1,300 range.
Figure Out Your Menu
Venues that prepare fried foods and those that prepare sushi are going to have completely different equipment. The venue that serves fried foods will need multiple freezers and fryers, but the sushi restaurant will needs refrigerated sushi display cases and undercounter fridges. The first business will need to purchase food baskets and ramekins, and the latter will need chopsticks, soy sauce bottles, and very specific dinnerware.
Ask Your Chef
The most knowledgeable people in the foodservice industry are chefs. They know everything about food, equipment, brands, staffing, schedules, and the like. Your best bet would be to consult with your executive chef before making any big purchases for your business. They can help you decide the layout of your kitchen based on efficiency, outlet localities, and sanitary purposes. If your restaurant or your supplies don’t meet local standards, they will let you know.
Must-Have Kitchen Equipment
Refrigeration/Freezers
Ice Makers
Dishwashers
Fryers
Microwaves
Food Mixers
Ovens
Ranges
Electric Food Prep
Food Warmers
For more information on necessary kitchen equipment, quotes, consultation, or design ideas, please don’t be afraid to contact us! Toll free at – 1(800)960.4300 info@supequ.com