Commercial Kitchen Equipment Checklist for New Restaurants

Opening a new restaurant is an exciting journey, but it can also be overwhelming, especially when it comes to outfitting your kitchen. Having the right equipment not only ensures smooth operations but also helps meet health code requirements and deliver consistent, high-quality food to your customers.

As Bentonville's premier restaurant supply company, we've helped countless local NW Arkansas restaurateurs set up their kitchens for success. We've compiled this comprehensive commercial kitchen equipment checklist to help you ensure nothing falls through the cracks as you prepare to open your doors.

Why Having the Right Equipment Matters

Before diving into the checklist, let's understand why investing in proper commercial kitchen equipment is critical:

• Operational Efficiency: The right tools in the right places create workflow efficiency, reducing preparation time and allowing your staff to serve more customers.
• Food Safety Compliance: Health inspectors look for specific equipment that maintains proper food temperatures and sanitation standards.
• Cost-Effective Operations: While quality equipment requires upfront investment, it lasts longer, operates more efficiently, and reduces maintenance costs over time.
• Staff Satisfaction: Well-equipped kitchens make your team's jobs easier, contributing to better morale and lower turnover.

Commercial Kitchen Equipment Checklist

1. Cooking Equipment

The heart of any restaurant kitchen, your cooking equipment directly impacts your menu offerings and production capacity:

• Commercial ranges and ovens (gas or electric, depending on your preference and utility access)
• Commercial fryers with filtration systems
• Griddles and charbroilers for flat-top cooking
• Salamanders and cheese melters
• Steam equipment (steamers, combi-ovens)
• Microwaves and rapid-cook ovens
• Specialized equipment based on cuisine (woks, tandoor ovens, pizza ovens)

2. Refrigeration & Storage

Proper storage ensures food safety and inventory management:

• Reach-in refrigerators and freezers
• Undercounter refrigeration units for line cooking stations
• Walk-in coolers and freezers (if space and budget allow)
• Prep table refrigerators
• Blast chillers for rapid cooling
• Dry storage shelving (NSF-approved)
• Ingredient bins for bulk items
• Food storage containers with clear labeling systems (BPA-free)

3. Prep Equipment

Efficient prep stations save time and ensure consistency:

• Stainless steel work tables in various sizes
• Food processors, vegetable cutters, and slicers
• Commercial mixers (countertop or floor models)
• Cutting boards (color-coded for different food types)
• Chef knives and specialized cutting tools
• Digital scales and measuring devices
• Meat grinders and sausage stuffers (if applicable)
• Vacuum sealers for sous vide and food preservation

4. Sinks & Dishwashing

Sanitation is non-negotiable in a commercial kitchen:

• Three-compartment sink (wash, rinse, sanitize)
• Dedicated handwashing sinks with proper signage
• Pre-rinse units for dishwashing
• Commercial dishwashers (high-temp or chemical sanitizing)
• Glass washers (for bars)
• Drying racks and shelving
• Grease traps that meet local code requirements
• Floor drains strategically placed

5. Serving & Holding Equipment

Keep food at safe temperatures until it reaches your customers:

• Heat lamps and warming stations
• Hot food holding cabinets
• Food pans in various sizes and depths
• Chafing dishes and buffet equipment
• Cold food display cases
• Plate warmers
• To-go packaging and containers
• Serving utensils and tools

6. Safety & Sanitation

Protect your investment, staff, and customers:

• Fire suppression systems over cooking equipment
• Fire extinguishers (K-class for kitchen fires)
• First aid kits and eye washing stations
• Non-slip floor mats
• Proper ventilation hoods with grease filters
• Digital thermometers for food and equipment temperature monitoring
• Chemical storage areas
• Safety signage and posters

Bonus: What Most New Restaurants Forget

Even experienced restaurateurs sometimes overlook these essential items:

• Comprehensive Labeling System: Date labels, food rotation tags, and allergen identification labels
• Janitorial Equipment: Mop sinks, cleaning tools, waste management systems
• Backup Equipment: Extra smallwares and critical parts for emergency replacements
• Office Equipment: POS systems, inventory management tools, and administrative supplies
• Specialty Smallwares: Can openers, zesters, whisks, tongs, spatulas, ladles, portion scoops
• Food Transport Equipment: Sheet pan racks, utility carts, and dolly trucks
• Pest Control Systems: Preventative measures that meet health department requirements

Why Buy From Bentonville Restaurant Supply?

When outfitting your Northwest Arkansas restaurant, choosing the right supplier makes all the difference:

• Local Expertise: We understand the specific needs and regulations of restaurants in Bentonville, Rogers, Fayetteville, and surrounding areas.
• One-Stop Shopping: From major equipment to small utensils, we provide everything under one roof.
• Competitive Pricing: Our relationships with manufacturers allow us to offer quality equipment at accessible price points.
• Quick Availability: Local inventory means faster delivery and setup for your business.

Ready to Stock Your Commercial Kitchen?

Opening a restaurant requires careful planning, and having the right equipment is a crucial step toward success. This commercial kitchen equipment checklist provides a starting point, but each restaurant has unique needs based on menu, space, and budget.

At Bentonville Restaurant Supply, we specialize in helping new restaurant owners navigate the equipment selection process. Whether you're opening a quick-service eatery, fine dining establishment, or anything in between, our experts can help customize this checklist to your specific requirements.

Ready to bring your culinary vision to life? Browse our commercial kitchen equipment catalog or visit our showroom to see the equipment in person. Contact us today for a personalized consultation!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most essential commercial kitchen equipment? The absolute essentials include commercial-grade cooking equipment (range, oven), refrigeration, prep tables, sinks that meet health code requirements, and a dishwashing system. Everything else depends on your specific menu and service style.

How much does it cost to equip a commercial kitchen? Costs vary widely, from $30,000 for a small operation to $150,000+ for larger establishments. 

How long does it take to outfit a commercial kitchen? Plan for 2-3 months from ordering to installation. Custom equipment may take longer. Starting this process early in your restaurant development timeline is essential to avoid delays in opening.

What kitchen equipment requires professional installation? Gas equipment, ventilation hoods, walk-in refrigeration, fire suppression systems, and hardwired electrical equipment typically require professional installation to meet code requirements and manufacturer warranties.