Catering Equipment - Not Just For The Kitchen

By Author: rossmccullum
Total Articles: 13
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Caterers and restaurateurs are only too aware of the competitive nature of their business. Even relatively small towns tend to have a range of eateries for the public to choose from, and although these may represent different kinds of cuisine and dining, they are still competing for custom. Often the choices made by diners reflect the circumstances of the meal; they may be out for a birthday or anniversary celebration, entertaining business partners or just need a quick meal for convenience's sake. Whether you run a take away business, a cafe or an haute cuisine restaurant, you need to provide the very best service and food to customers to ensure repeat business.

Although the kinds of food you prepare will have an impact on the catering equipment you use, quality kitchen tools are a must for professional chefs and keen amateurs alike. Items such as chef's knives, pans and scissors are a must in any kitchen environment, but those who own restaurants and hotels tend to take the view that catering equipment goes way beyond the basic food preparation tools. Quality needs to extend to other aspects of a business, so that ...
... bar areas, table ware and condiments are presented properly. It is best never to forget that the majority of diners do not get to see the kitchen in which their food is prepared. They trust that quality and hygiene standards will be high, so whilst chefs and waiting staff appreciate good equipment in the kitchen, customers are more likely to judge the standard of an eatery on items and objects they can see, on cleanliness and quality of food produced, not to mention front of house staff performance.

When determining which items of catering equipment you need, it can sometimes be easy to overlook certain items, especially if you are new to the industry. Don't forget proper clothing including shoes and headwear for those in the kitchen, and items such as ice makers and wine coolers for bars. Kitchen utensils come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and initially purchasing all the items necessary can be very costly. There are numerous places to buy bargain priced catering equipment, but be sure to choose good quality, as this is by far the best long term investment.

Everyone in the business of food should be aware of the legalities and moral obligations involved, to protect both customers and staff. Catering equipment should be replaced when worn or damaged, and upgraded when necessary. Damaged kitchen implements, white goods and related items can endanger both patrons and staff. Poor service can cause customers to feel alienated and they may not return to a restaurant, they can also recommend that others do not visit. Issues surrounding hygiene, health and safety can ultimately ruin a food business, so it is imperative that every effort is made to ensure that all staff are properly trained and equipped to do their jobs. Eating out is supposed to be an enjoyable and relaxing activity, designed to allow diners to enjoy food, friends and family without the stress of cooking and cleaning, treating customers well can mean the difference between success and failure for the catering industry.

Welcome to Nisbets - the UK's largest supplier of catering equipment with 25 years experience in the industry.For further information, please visit http://www.nisbets.co.uk.