Outdoor cooking is an ideal way to allow diners to relish their meals amidst the natural beauty of green landscapes. Whether you're a seasoned caterer or managing a restaurant with an open-air kitchen, it's crucial to possess the appropriate outdoor commercial kitchen equipment, enabling you to effortlessly and swiftly prepare barbecues, pizzas, and grilled dishes.
For an outdoor kitchen to be truly practical, it should be equipped with all the essential cooking tools and accessories required for catering to patrons' culinary needs. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the specifics of the essential outdoor commercial restaurant equipment and offer insights on selecting the best kitchen gear.
Necessary Outdoor Commercial Kitchen Equipment
An outdoor commercial kitchen requires specialized equipment to operate effectively. Here are some examples of necessary outdoor commercial kitchen equipment:
Grill –
The paramount item of equipment for an outdoor kitchen is the grill, be it gas or charcoal. It is perfect for preparing meat, fish, and vegetables.
Smoker –
A smoker is a valuable addition to your outdoor kitchen, offering enhanced flavor by slow-cooking meats and imparting them with a smoky taste.
Outdoor Range –
An outdoor range is indispensable for boiling, frying, and sautéing, which is crucial for creating dishes like soups, stews, and sauces.
Oven –
An outdoor oven, particularly a brick oven, is preferred for baking bread, pizzas, and other dishes. They can achieve high temperatures, enabling swift cooking.
Refrigeration –
A refrigerator is essential for storing perishable food and beverages in your outdoor kitchen. Opt for a commercial-grade refrigerator to ensure that food remains at a safe temperature.
Freezer –
A freezer is crucial for storing frozen food and ice. Be sure to choose an outdoor-rated freezer to withstand outdoor conditions.
Sink –
A sink is indispensable for washing dishes and preparing food in your outdoor kitchen. Ensure that you have access to both hot and cold water, and consider installing a disposal for food waste.
Prep Tables –
Stainless steel prep tables are vital for food preparation and kitchen organization. They should be sturdy, easy to clean, and provide ample workspace.
Storage –
Ample storage space is necessary for cookware, utensils, and food supplies in your outdoor kitchen. Consider shelving units and cabinets as good storage options.
Outdoor Lighting –
Proper lighting is crucial for outdoor kitchens, especially for night-time cooking. Consider installing task lighting for focused work areas and ambient lighting to create a welcoming atmosphere.
How to Select the Best Commercial Outdoor Cooking Equipment
Selecting the best commercial outdoor cooking equipment can be a daunting task, as there's a wide variety of options available on the market. However, here are some key factors to consider when making your selection:
Cooking Capacity:
When choosing outdoor cooking equipment, consider the cooking area's size, the food quantity you'll prepare, the number of customers you'll serve, and how often you'll use it.
Evaluate the Space:
When selecting your appliances, it's vital to evaluate the available space in your outdoor kitchen. Consider the overall dimensions, ensuring adequate countertop space for cooking and food preparation. While the temptation may arise to include all the latest outdoor kitchen appliances, it's essential to avoid overcrowding the area. Prioritize incorporating appliances that you anticipate using frequently.
Cooking Methods:
Outdoor cooking involves various methods like grilling, smoking, roasting, and frying. Before purchasing commercial outdoor kitchen equipment, assess which method best suits your menu and customer preferences.
Consider the Budget:
When embarking on a significant undertaking such as constructing an outdoor kitchen, it is crucial to establish a budget and adhere to it. In doing so, identify the essential items that you require and allot a portion of your budget toward them. Additionally, it's prudent to determine the cost of the appliances you desire and ensure that you invest in premium-quality products that are durable and long-lasting.
Select Outdoor-Rated Equipment:
Outdoor settings can be tough on appliances, so it's crucial to choose durable, high-quality, outdoor-rated appliances designed to resist corrosion, oxidation, and scratches. Using standard indoor appliances for an outdoor kitchen can lead to subpar performance and rapid wear and tear, making replacement costly and inconvenient. Therefore, opt for kitchen equipment specifically rated for outdoor use when setting up an outdoor kitchen.
Choose Reputed Manufacturer
Choosing the best manufacturer for commercial outdoor kitchen equipment depends on several factors, including the quality of their products, their reputation in the industry, their customer service, and their pricing. For instance, Texas Restaurant Supply is a trusted buyer and seller of restaurant supply dallas, TX. We offer a wide selection of high-quality new and used restaurant equipment, kitchen supplies, furniture, and decor. With locations in Grand Prairie and Irving, Texas, we are proud to serve the needs of restaurants across the state and nationwide. Whether you're looking to buy or sell individual items or the contents of an entire restaurant, we are here to help.