A Beginner’s Guide to Outfitting Your Restaurant Kitchen: Insights from a Restaurant Kitchen Equipment Supplier in Northbrook, Illinois

July 24th, 2024

Opening your first restaurant can be very exciting, but planning your kitchen layout and finding the right equipment can also feel overwhelming. Fortunately, we are here to help guide you through the process. Below, this kitchen equipment supplier in Northbrook, Illinois is going to discuss some of the key things restauranteurs should know when outfitting their kitchen.

Figure out your needs

One of the first things you should consider when planning your restaurant kitchen is what equipment you will need to match your restaurant menu and how much space you have. Your kitchen equipment supplier in Northbrook, Illinois can help you with this decision to make sure you get the right equipment for your kitchen.

Should you buy new or used?

One question new restaurant owners often have on their minds is whether they should buy new or used equipment. New equipment is shiny, comes with warranties, and has all the latest features- but it can be too expensive, especially for new restaurant owners. Buying used equipment is an affordable option. And if you buy from a reputable kitchen equipment supplier in Northbrook, Illinois, your used equipment could work just as well as new equipment.

Refrigeration is very important

Refrigeration is a very important aspect of your restaurant kitchen as it is what keeps your ingredients fresh and helps your kitchen run smoothly. Depending on your menu, you could need different types of refrigerators — like worktop refrigerators or walk-in coolers. Consulting with a kitchen equipment supplier in Northbrook, Illinois can help you choose the best refrigeration for your needs, budget, and available space in your kitchen.

Set up your kitchen station

When setting up your restaurant kitchen, you should really think about the flow of your kitchen and what each station will need. Your prep station might need plenty of cutting boards, while your cooking line might need a few sauté pans. Proper hot and cold storage at each station will also keep your kitchen running efficiently.

Buy the basics first

When you are outfitting your restaurant, you should buy the basic items first- like ovens, stoves, prep tables, storage units, etc. Ask your chef and kitchen staff to create a list of must-have items in the kitchen. 

Don’t forget cleaning and safety supplies

A clean kitchen is a smooth kitchen, so make sure you have all the cleaning supplies you could need- mops, buckets, hand soap, and other cleaning essentials. You should also train your kitchen staff how to keep the kitchen spotless and follow health codes.

Safety equipment is just as important. Outfit your kitchen with rubber floor mats, fire extinguishers, and first aid kits, and make sure your kitchen staff knows how to use all of this properly.

Buy good quality tableware

When buying tableware, keep durability in mind. You need dishes, glasses, and flatware that can handle the hustle and bustle of a busy restaurant, and you want everything to last through countless washes and heavy use.

Outfitting a restaurant kitchen is not an easy job, but with the right guidance, it becomes one. By working with a professional kitchen equipment supplier in Northbrook, Illinois, you will have everything you need to keep your restaurant working like a well-oiled machine.

Looking for a Kitchen Equipment Supplier in Northbrook, Illinois?

Are you ready to invest in high-quality kitchen equipment for your restaurant? If so, and you’re looking for the premier kitchen equipment supplier in Northbrook, Illinois, March Quality New and Pre-Owned Foodservice Equipment is the place to visit. Contact us today at (630) 627-3031 to learn about the restaurant equipment we currently have in stock.

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