Opening a coffee shop is an exciting venture, but it comes with a lot of decisions, especially when it comes to equipment. Some pieces of equipment might not seem glamorous, but skimping on them can lead to long-term regrets. In this post, we’ll break down the essentials that deserve a little extra from your budget.
1. Ice Machines
If there’s one piece of equipment you don’t want to cut corners on, it’s your ice machine. This might seem like an area where you can save, but trust us—it’s worth investing in a high-quality ice machine.
Why It Matters:
- Quality of Ice: Pebble ice might be popular for sodas, but it’s not ideal for coffee. It melts quickly, diluting the drink and compromising flavor. A machine that produces thicker cubes, like those from Hoshizaki, maintains the integrity of your beverages.
- Quantity: A machine that can’t keep up with demand will force you to make inconvenient ice runs, wasting time and money. We learned this the hard way when our initial machines couldn’t handle busy weekends.
Our Recommendation:
Opt for a large, reliable ice machine that can produce and store ample ice, even during peak hours. We’ve found Hoshizaki ice makers to be worth the investment, offering both quality and quantity that meet our cafe’s needs.
2. Refrigerators
Refrigerators are another critical component in your cafe, and not all are created equal. The ones that will be opened and closed constantly need to be particularly robust.
Why It Matters:
- Frequent Use: The more a fridge is opened, the harder it has to work to maintain a consistent temperature. This is crucial for milk storage, especially in busy cafes.
- Reliability: Cheap refrigerators often break down, leading to spoiled goods and emergency repairs that disrupt service.
Our Recommendation:
Invest in reputable brands like Beverage Air or True for your under-counter fridges and larger storage units. These brands have a track record of reliability, ensuring your perishables stay fresh.
3. Grinders
Especially batch grinders. We always recommend the EK-43 to our wholesale partners, as you will have excellent grind quality ranging from espresso to drip (and beyond). It makes a great all purpose grinder, especially when paired with an espresso grinder that holds your house blend, freeing the EK to be used for batch brew and
4. Faucets and Sinks:
You might not think much about your faucets, but cheap ones can be a constant source of frustration.
Why It Matters:
- Durability: Cheap faucets break easily, leading to leaks and water waste.
- Ease of Use: Reliable faucets ensure your baristas can work efficiently without dealing with dripping or malfunctioning fixtures.
Our Recommendation:
Invest in commercial-grade faucets and sinks. This might seem like a small detail, but it’s one that affects daily operations significantly.
5. Turbo Oven
Finally, if you’re considering offering food, a turbo oven like the TurboChef can be a game-changer.
Why It Matters:
- Efficiency: Turbo ovens cook food faster and more evenly than standard convection ovens, making them perfect for a busy cafe environment.
- Versatility: These ovens can handle a variety of foods, from pastries to sandwiches, expanding your menu options without needing a full kitchen setup.
Our Recommendation:
If you’re serious about a food program, a turbo oven is worth the splurge. It allows you to serve fresh, hot food quickly, enhancing the customer experience and boosting your cafe’s appeal.
Conclusion
Opening a cafe is full of tough decisions, but when it comes to equipment, spending a little more upfront can save you from costly repairs and replacements down the line. Whether it’s a robust ice machine, a reliable fridge, or a high-quality espresso grinder, these investments ensure smooth operations and high-quality offerings that keep customers coming back. Remember, it’s not just about buying the most expensive equipment—it’s about investing in the right tools that will serve your cafe well for years to come.
