How to Choose the Best Commercial Outdoor Cooking Equipment?

Outdoor cooking is a great way to enable people to enjoy their meals amid lush greenery. Whether you are a professional caterer or run a restaurant with an outdoor kitchen, you need the right outdoor commercial kitchen equipment to quickly and easily cook barbecues, pizzas, and grilled food.

To be truly functional, an outdoor kitchen must contain all the necessary cooking tools and accessories to prepare meals for the patrons. In this guide, we’ll share all the details about the necessary outdoor commercial kitchen equipment and how to choose the best kitchen equipment.

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 –

This is the most essential piece of equipment for an outdoor kitchen. A gas or charcoal grill is ideal for cooking meat, fish, and vegetables.

• Smoker –

For added flavor, you can invest in a smoker for your outdoor kitchen. Smokers are ideal for slow-cooking meats and infusing them with smoky flavors.

• Outdoor Range –

An outdoor range can be used for boiling, frying, and sautéing. It’s essential for making soups, stews, and sauces.

• Oven –

An outdoor oven can be used to bake bread, pizzas, and other dishes. Brick ovens are a popular choice, as they can reach high temperatures and cook food quickly.

• Refrigeration –

You’ll need a refrigerator to store food and drinks in your outdoor kitchen. A commercial-grade refrigerator is ideal for keeping food at a safe temperature.

• Freezer –

A freezer is necessary for storing frozen food and ice. However, choose an outdoor-rated freezer.

• Sink –

A sink is essential for washing dishes and preparing food. Make sure you have a hot and cold water supply and consider installing a disposal for food waste.

• Prep Tables –

Stainless steel prep tables are essential for preparing food and organizing your kitchen. They should be durable, easy to clean, and have ample workspace.

• Storage –

You’ll need plenty of storage space for your cookware, utensils, and food supplies. Shelving units and cabinets are good options for outdoor kitchens.

• Outdoor Lighting –

Adequate lighting is essential for outdoor kitchens, especially if you plan on cooking at night. You can install task lighting for specific work areas and ambient lighting to create a warm and inviting 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:

1. Cooking Capacity:

One of the most important considerations when choosing outdoor cooking equipment is the size of the cooking area. Consider the amount of food you will be cooking, the number of customers you will be serving, and the frequency of use.

2. Evaluate the Space:

To select your appliances, it is important to assess the available space in your outdoor kitchen. Take into account the overall dimensions and ensure that there is enough countertop space for both cooking and food preparation. While it may be tempting to include all the latest outdoor kitchen appliances, it’s crucial not to overcrowd the area. Instead, focus on incorporating the appliances that you are most likely to use frequently.

3. Cooking Method:

There are several different methods of outdoor cooking, including grilling, smoking, roasting, and frying. So, before buying commercial outdoor kitchen equipment, consider which method will work best for your menu and your customers’ preferences.

4. 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.

5. Choose Outdoor-Rated Equipment

Outdoor environments can be harsh on appliances, and therefore, it is imperative to opt for high-quality outdoor appliances that are specifically engineered to withstand corrosion, oxidation, and scratches when designing an outdoor kitchen. It’s a mistake to use standard indoor appliances in your outdoor kitchen as they won’t deliver the required performance and will wear out quickly. The expense and inconvenience of replacing them are simply not worthwhile. So, only choose the kitchen equipment that’s outdoor rated when you want to use them out in open.

6. 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, Riddhi Display is one of the top cooking equipment manufacturers in India offering a wide range of equipment for the food industry. Check out their website for finding all the equipment they offer for commercial kitchens.

Conclusion

When selecting commercial outdoor cooking equipment, it’s crucial to consider a few important factors to ensure that you make the right choices for your needs and budget. Start by evaluating your space and determining which appliances are essential, then set a realistic budget and allocate funds accordingly. Make sure to select high-quality outdoor appliances that are specifically designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions and offer optimal performance, reliability, and durability. Finally, research different manufacturers and seek expert advice to make an informed decision.