If you've decided to open a restaurant or upgrade an existing one, you may not even know where to begin when it comes to picking out restaurant equipment. Luckily, good restaurant suppliers can guide you to what you need. Here are a few things to consider before you begin buying equipment.

Confirm Your Concept

For new restaurants, the most important step is to figure out exactly what you're going to serve. Are you a fast-paced burger joint with a chaotic assembly line, or an intimate fine dining establishment that offers a limited menu? Every concept requires a different set of tools, so confirm your plan before you start buying. This will help narrow down what equipment you will need for your restaurant.

Plan Your Kitchen Layout

Restaurant design is an important step in keeping your kitchen organized and efficient. You may find the best stove in the world, but if it's in your food preparation area, you're going get in everyone's way. If you're upgrading an existing kitchen, this may be a good time to look at restaurant designs and change the layout.

Prioritize Safety

Always account for local health and building codes when buying new equipment. You need to make sure that there is still enough space for your staff to safely move around the kitchen and avoid blocking emergency exits. Additionally, it's essential to always use the proper range hood to avoid setting off the fire alarm.

Consider Your Team's Needs

According to the National Restaurant Association, 90% of restaurants have fewer than 50 employees. Be sure to sit down with your staff and discuss their needs. Unless you're making enough soup to feed an army, you probably only need a certain number of pots in your kitchen. On the other hand, a restaurant that makes a lot of baked goods should have enough mixers to keep up with customer demand. Consult with your team to figure out what equipment may be missing from your setup.

Don't Forget the Little Things

Not all equipment consists of huge appliances or bulky machinery. From immersion blenders to cleaning supplies, seemingly insignificant kitchen supplies can make a big difference. Once you have a list of essentials, you should also make sure there is enough storage for your kitchen tools.

With the right equipment from a qualified restaurant supplier, you can keep your customers and team happy. If you have more questions about restaurant supplies, don't hesitate to reach out to D M Jeffers Company Inc for more information.