One of the most time-consuming aspects of starting a restaurant is learning how to operate the many pieces of kitchen equipment. Starting a restaurant from scratch, you’ll need to pay attention to what you acquire. High-quality and efficient restaurant equipment improves performance and boosts productivity. It would be best to be careful while purchasing because it is an expensive one-time expenditure. You may use this article as a checklist when purchasing equipment from a restaurant supplier.
Checklist for Purchasing Restaurant Equipment
Buying restaurant equipment from a restaurant supplier comes with several considerations, which we’ve outlined in depth below.
The Restaurant’s Needs
Your restaurant’s idea, theme, and cuisine will significantly impact the restaurant equipment you need. As part of the process of acquiring restaurant equipment, determining what you need is the most critical step. To begin, you need to figure out what you want to eat and what kitchen tools you’ll need to make it.
The equipment needs for various restaurant styles vary widely. In contrast to fine dining establishments, quick service restaurants (QSRs) that provide self-service must include a serving counter. Make a list of the characteristics you’ll need in each piece of equipment you buy.
Here is a list of the most frequently used restaurant equipment.
Cost versus return on investment
When purchasing new restaurant equipment, getting carried away and buying everything that appears to be essential is tempting. However, you must be careful here! If you’re on a limited budget, sit down and figure out what you need. As a rule of thumb, you should obtain your money back. You may also want to check into used equipment if you’re on a tight budget.
Space use is the third consideration
Restaurant equipment purchases must always be made with space considerations in mind. It is crucial to determine the amount of space needed for each piece of equipment before purchasing it. Without such an effort, you may find yourself dealing with a crowded kitchen and work area that will impede productivity.
At the time of purchase, measure the equipment’s dimensions carefully to maximise space use. When it comes to saving space, consider purchasing multi-purpose equipment. Instead of buying each component individually, consider an all-in-one blender, mixer, and chopper.
User-friendliness is the fourth factor
An essential consideration when choosing restaurant equipment is its easy use. To make things easier, buy simple equipment for your personnel to operate.
You don’t need restaurant equipment if it’s too difficult for your employees to use; otherwise, you’re wasting your time and money on it. Ensure the equipment supplier provides sufficient training before utilising heavy machinery, such as an electric tandoor.
Speed is the fifth factor
Before you buy a piece of equipment, make sure to examine its speed. Check to see if the work can be completed faster than it would be if it were done by hand. Operations on kitchen equipment should not take too long if you work in a fast-paced, high-volume kitchen.
Reliability Checks
Equipment that is properly preserved will last longer and run more efficiently. Ask about the maintenance requirements for the restaurant equipment before you buy it. To find out how often servicing is required for the equipment, speak with your dealer. After you get the equipment, set up a timetable. Besides that, make a cleaning routine for yourself. Some equipment, like kitchen countertops and tables, need daily cleaning, while others may be cleaned weekly.
