Introduction
Restaurant kitchen planning in a small city venue is a real challenge for many chefs and restaurateurs.
Restaurant kitchens can often be cramped, haphazardly designed and badly thought out with poor workflow and general inefficiencies.
For small urban restaurants, space can be at a premium and choosing the right space saving catering equipment is crucial in order to provide a space that is both functional and profitable.
Caterzone has seen many a restaurant kitchen that is very much in need of an overhaul. That is why we do everything we can to create space saving, innovative catering equipment that helps chefs and restaurant staff to work effectively and efficiently in the smallest of kitchens.
Planning an Efficient Commercial Kitchen Layout for Small Spaces
The main issue with small city centre restaurants is that space is a rare commodity and with the cramped conditions of urban areas, making the most of a small area for peak efficiency and productivity can be difficult.
When it comes to kitchen design in a small area, maximising every available square inch of space is vital.
Planning an Efficient Restaurant Kitchen Layout
Planning an efficient restaurant kitchen layout can take a bit of work and there are several things that need to be considered and planned. When small venue operators come to setting up a kitchen, they need to be aware of a few key principles.
Key Kitchen Layout Considerations
- Minimise walking between different work zones and areas
- Streamline kitchen traffic and keep pathways clear
- Choose compact and multi-purpose equipment where possible
- Don’t be afraid to use vertical storage space
Maximising Workflow Efficiency in a Small Restaurant Kitchen
Space is the most sought-after commodity in a small restaurant kitchen and it is essential to optimise your workflow.
- Map out kitchen zones and work areas
- Group similar pieces of equipment together
- Create a dedicated food preparation zone
- Invest in compact and multi-functional cooking appliances
Measuring and Planning Your Kitchen Space
Accurate measuring is also very important in small restaurant kitchens. Detailed space planning is required, which needs to take not only the size of cooking equipment into account, but also the movement of staff and future potential.
Restaurant Kitchen Equipment for Small Spaces
Designing a kitchen for a small urban restaurant requires a specialist approach and different equipment to what you might find in a larger commercial venue.
Choosing the Right Kitchen Equipment
- Multi-functional cooking appliances that can do more than one thing
- Stackable and modular cooking equipment
- Slimline and compact energy-efficient cooking stations
- Slim profile refrigeration and storage units
Mini Equipment Setup Ideas
Examples from restaurants in London, Manchester and Edinburgh show how vertical storage towers, compact cooking stations with built-in storage, and modular setups maximise efficiency.
Caterzone Equipment Offerings
- Stackable cooking stations
- Slimline refrigeration units
- Modular kitchen equipment
- Energy efficient cooking appliances
Finance Options for Small Kitchen Equipment
Evaluating Kitchen Investment Financials
- Initial purchase price
- Energy efficiency savings
- Maintenance and operational running costs
- Future scalability and adaptability
Caterzone Kitchen Equipment Finance Options
- Lease to own programmes
- Flexible monthly payment options
- Tailor-made finance packages
Conclusion
Restaurant owners can turn a small space into a perfectly optimised and efficient cooking environment, by making the right choices and buying the correct compact equipment. Smart investment in compact catering equipment helps reduce costs, improve workflow, and plan for the restaurant’s long-term success.
FAQ
What are the main issues when it comes to a small restaurant kitchen layout?
Lack of space, complicated workflow, and equipment placement. The key is to optimise every square inch and design for efficiency.
How can I measure my kitchen space accurately when buying equipment?
Create a detailed floor plan, take accurate measurements, use laser meters, and include vertical storage in your plan.
What compact equipment works well for a small restaurant kitchen?
Multi-functional appliances, combination ovens, under-counter fridges, stackable cooking equipment, and modular prep stations.
How do I improve workflow in a small kitchen?
Plan equipment placement, group zones, create ergonomic workstations, and minimise staff cross-traffic.
What financial factors should I consider when investing in space-saving kitchen equipment?
Initial cost, energy efficiency, maintenance, scalability, and long-term adaptability.
Can multifunctional appliances really help to save space in a small kitchen?
Yes, combination steamers and modular cooking stations save space and increase flexibility.
What energy efficiency factors are important for compact kitchen equipment?
High energy ratings, efficient heating/cooling, precise temperature control, and low standby consumption.
How often should I maintain compact kitchen equipment?
Follow manufacturer’s guidelines: monthly cleaning, quarterly inspections, and annual servicing.
What should I consider when choosing refrigeration for a small restaurant kitchen?
Look for under-counter fridges, vertical storage, modular design, adjustable shelving, and precise temperature control.
How do I future-proof my compact kitchen equipment investments?
Choose modular and scalable equipment, reputable brands with good warranties, and options with software upgrades.
