If you're operating from a small commercial kitchen, you'll know it can be challenging to create a space that's both functional and meets the needs of your customers. It can be time-consuming to move kitchen equipment in and out of storage space, and customers don't like to be kept waiting during peak food service hours, so how can you maximise the space you have and ensure you still have enough room to work and prepare food? Making smart choices when it comes to your kitchen equipment can allow you to do more with less. Here are three essential pieces of equipment for small commercial kitchens.

Countertop Griddle

A countertop griddle made of stainless steel is easy to clean. If you want to maximise the use of your stove, opt for this type of griddle over a stovetop model, as they tend to use at least half of your stovetop. Griddles are multifunctional and can be used to make a variety of foods, such as pancakes, toasted paninis, burgers, eggs and vegetable kebabs. This is a versatile piece of equipment and can be bought in a variety of sizes to suit your needs and available space.

Convection Oven With Grill

A convection oven uses fans to circulate air around the oven cavity, which speeds up cooking time. Commercial versions typically have four racks, which is double that of domestic ovens, so they are taller than domestic ovens but not any wider. This allows you to cook more food in a shorter space of time, and if you opt for a model with a top grill, it can also be used to brown and finish dishes before serving.

Induction Hob

If you don't need a standard four ring stove, a single or double induction hob will save you space and speed up cooking time. These tabletop hobs use electromagnetic energy to heat up faster than gas or standard electric hobs, and they allow for more precise control of temperature. The surrounding surface of the hob stays cool regardless of how long it's been in use, and this can be helpful in a small, busy kitchen environment where it's easy to brush past the stove and get a burn.

These are just a few examples of commercial kitchen equipment that benefit those who work in a small space. When planning your kitchen, discuss your needs and kitchen layout with your local commercial appliance supplier. They can provide advice on fitting out your kitchen to maximise the turnaround time of your orders without compromising on safety.

To learn more about commercial kitchen equipment, contact commercial equipment supply stores in your area.