Starting a sandwich shop can be a fulfilling venture, and the right equipment is key to creating a streamlined operation that produces high-quality sandwiches. Here’s a guide to essential sandwich shop equipment. A panini press can instantly add variety to your menu, allowing you to offer warm, grilled sandwiches with perfect sear marks. Look for adjustable temperature controls and non-stick plates for easy cleaning.
- Heating type and efficiency
- Size and cooking surface area
- Adjustable temperature control
- Floating hinge design
- Non-stick vs. cast iron plates
- Ease of cleaning and maintenance
Prep tables are crucial for keeping ingredients fresh and organized. With designated sections for toppings, meats, and cheeses, a refrigerated prep table not only saves time but also ensures a safe food environment. Models with ample workspace allow for quick assembly, even during peak hours.
- Storage capacity and layout
- Does the unit come with doors, drawers, or both
- Cutting board surface size
- Pan capacity
- Energy efficiency and insulation
- Ease of cleaning and maintenance
If you’re offering grab-and-go sandwiches, display refrigeration is a must. This equipment showcases your offerings while keeping them at the perfect temperature. Look for models with adjustable shelving and LED lighting for better product visibility.
- Glass type and visibility
- Temperature range and consistency
- Countertop or floor model
- Shelving adjustability and load capacity
- Lighting quality and placement
- Ventilation and condensation control
For sandwich shops with high volume, a high-speed oven is essential. These ovens use advanced technology to cook food faster than conventional ovens, making them perfect for toasting sandwiches or heating frozen items far quicker than regular ovens.
- Cooking speed and efficiency
- Versatility in cooking functions
- Ease of programmable controls
- Ventilation requirements and heat output
- Wet dough baking capability
- Self-cleaning function
A dedicated toasting oven can keep things moving during rush periods. Designed to toast bread quickly without compromising texture, it’s ideal for adding that extra layer of crispness to each sandwich.
- Conveyor model or pop-up model
- Toasting speed and consistency
- Adjustable temperature and timer settings
- Capacity to handle peak demand
- Ease of cleaning and crumb management
- Durability of heating elements
Nothing beats a sandwich made with freshly baked bread. These ovens will allow you to bake perfect bread and buns catered to your sandwich menu. Depending on your space and menu needs, a countertop convection oven might be a perfect option, while you will most likely need a standard size convection oven if you are preparing a large batch of freshly baked bread in house.
- Purpose (baking bread vs toasting the sandwich)
- Type of oven (convection, conveyor, or deck)
- Counter-top or floor model
- Size and capacity for sandwich demand
- Heating speed and recovery time
- Temperature consistency and control
- Vent Requirement
Food processors are versatile tools for prepping toppings like sliced veggies, shredded cheese, and minced herbs. With various attachments, you can handle multiple tasks with a single piece of equipment.
- Power and motor durability
- Capacity and bowl size
- Blade options and versatility
- Safety features and ease of use
- Maintenance and cleaning requirements
- Speed settings and control precision
If your sandwiches feature fresh greens, a commercial-grade salad spinner helps keep them crisp. A good salad spinner ensures your greens are dry and ready to be piled high, without wilting or getting soggy.
- Capacity to match daily salad volume
- Ease of manual or electric operation
- Durability of basket and outer bowl
- Speed and effectiveness of water removal
- Ease of disassembly for cleaning
- Size and storage requirements
- Stability and non-slip features
Many sandwich shops offer soups as a side option, especially during colder months. A soup kettle is a practical addition, keeping soups at a consistent temperature and ready to serve alongside any sandwich order.
- Capacity and portion size
- Heat retention and efficiency
- Easy-to-clean design
- Durability and build quality
- Adjustable temperature controls
- Energy source compatibility
- Safety features and accessibility
These stations are ideal for organizing and keeping condiments cold and fresh. With easy access to items like sauces, pickles, and spreads, they add both convenience and speed to your sandwich assembly line.
- Pan capacity and pan size
- Temperature control and consistency
- Durability of construction materials
- Sneeze guard and/or lids
- Drainage and spill containment
- Energy efficiency
Slice quality ham, prosciutto, cheese and salami with commercial meat slicer. It ensures uniform slices, allowing you to maximize flavor and presentation. Look for models with safety features and adjustable thickness settings for versatility.
- Blade size and sharpness
- Motor power and efficiency
- Build quality and durability
- Adjustable thickness settings
- Ease of cleaning and maintenance
- Safety features and stability
With a steady flow of customers, a reliable commercial dishwasher is a must. A quality model handles the constant stream of dirty dishes, keeping your kitchen hygienic and efficient.
- Cleaning capacity and cycle time
- Energy efficiency and water usage
- Durability and construction material
- Ease of operation and user-friendliness
- Space and installation requirements
- Quiet operation and noise levels
- Maintenance and repair support
Choosing the right equipment can set your sandwich shop up for success by improving workflow and ensuring a consistently high-quality product. Investing in quality, durable equipment from the start will help you keep up with demand and delight customers with delicious, fresh sandwiches every time.