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Small restaurant kitchen

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Are you looking for a small restaurant kitchen interior designer in Nairobi? You are in the right place.

Small restaurant kitchen utilizing wall space for shelves and racks

 

When someone thinks of ‘commercial kitchens’ there’s a good chance they imagine a huge place filled with stainless steel, stoves, tables, ovens, and many other pieces of equipment.

And in some cases, it is exactly that. But in other cases, it is somewhat smaller in size and number of equipment, but with high efficiency and production capacity.

Big projects in small kitchen spaces

Restaurant kitchen space-saving: Compact equipment (ovens, grills, refrigerators)

 

Today we will focus on this type of kitchen, the smallest ones. If you are interested in a project of this size, then keep reading.

As with any project, the dimensions of a kitchen are the starting point for creating the design and then bringing it to life. In this sense, we must be realistic: a space that is too small can be unfunctional if we do not know how to design and use it properly.

The distribution of kitchen zones

Restaurant distinct areas for food prep, cooking, and cleaning

 

Considering that by default you will need preparation, cooking, washing, and storage areas, there will be some of these that need to be unified to become common areas.

The same will happen with the circulation areas, entrances, and exits, but don’t worry, production doesn’t have to be affected. Although by common sense and as much as we want, a small kitchen cannot serve as many diners as an average-sized one.

Another important point is to determine the location of each of the areas we already mentioned. Because, for example, the chiller and freezer area must be sufficiently separated from the stove and oven area to maintain the efficiency of the equipment and not compromise the condition of the ingredients. Remember that there are foods that can spoil faster at room or slightly warm temperatures.

The same is true for refrigeration equipment, which if not kept in a cool area, will work harder, increasing energy consumption and shortening its useful life. This ends up having a considerable impact on the business’s finances.

On the other hand, the food preparation area has to be close to the cooking area and the storage or cabinets for some ingredients and utensils can be either on the lower part or built into the wall. Thus optimizing the space to the maximum. As for the washing area, it should be located near the entrance.

Small restaurant kitchen interior design

Compact restaurant kitchen layout

 

A proper small restaurant kitchen layout can make the difference between success and failure. You might be running an intimate, cozy restaurant where every dish is delicious. Behind the scenes, however, the kitchen is chaotic. Small spaces and a lack of organization make it difficult to work. This hinders the preparation of dishes and affects their quality and consistency. What is the solution? A kitchen layout designed specifically for a small restaurant like yours.

This is where our experience and commitment to offering you the best solutions to take advantage of your space and improve company efficiency come into play.

Small restaurant kitchens demand efficient design to maximize space and functionality. A well-planned layout is crucial, often incorporating a U-shape or L-shape to optimize workflow. Durable, easy-to-clean materials like stainless steel are essential for countertops and backsplashes.

Adequate lighting is vital, with both overhead and task lighting to ensure proper visibility.  Ventilation is paramount to remove smoke, fumes, and odors, often achieved through powerful exhaust hoods. Storage solutions are key. Utilize wall-mounted shelving, under-counter drawers, and vertical space to maximize storage capacity.

Finally, ergonomic considerations are important, ensuring comfortable workstations for the culinary team to enhance efficiency and reduce fatigue.

Maximizing every space of a small restaurant kitchen

restaurant stainless steel pantry

 

In a small restaurant kitchen, from the preparation area to the cooking stations, your focus should be on making the most of the available space. But you should always try not to compromise on functionality or staff comfort. With careful planning and the use of equipment and furniture, you can transform even the smallest space into an efficient and well-organized kitchen.

Small restaurant kitchens face the unique challenge of maximizing functionality within limited square footage. To achieve this, careful planning and design are paramount. Every inch of wall space should be utilized for storage, incorporating shelves, hooks, and hanging racks to keep frequently used items within easy reach.

Multi-functional equipment is a must. For example, combination ovens that bake, roast, and steam thereby reducing the need for multiple appliances. Under-counter refrigeration and freezer units should be selected carefully to maximize storage capacity while minimizing floor space. Vertical space should be utilized effectively, with tall shelving units reaching the ceiling to store less frequently used items.

Compact equipment, such as under-counter dishwashers and compact food processors, can significantly save space without compromising functionality. Finally, a regular decluttering schedule is crucial to maintain a clean, organized, and efficient workspace.

L-shape small restaurant kitchen interior

Optimizing workflow in a small restaurant interior

The purpose of effective organization in your kitchen is that from the arrival of the ingredients to the final presentation on the plate, each step must be meticulously coordinated. In particular, the goal is to reduce downtime and increase efficiency. With our expertise in small commercial kitchen design, we will help you map out an efficient workflow that optimizes your team’s productivity. We ensure a good experience for your customers.

Optimizing workflow in a small restaurant kitchen is crucial for efficiency and productivity. A well-designed layout is the foundation. This often utilizes a U-shape or L-shape configuration to minimize movement between stations. And also ensures a smooth flow of food preparation, from receiving and storing ingredients to cooking and plating.

Clear zones should be designated for each stage of the cooking process, such as receiving, prepping, cooking, and plating. Adequate aisle space is essential for staff to move freely and efficiently, preventing bottlenecks and collisions. Cross-traffic should be minimized by strategically placing equipment and workstations. Communication is key, with clear lines of sight. And designated areas for staff to communicate orders and updates. Finally, a regular review of the workflow is essential to identify areas for improvement. And make adjustments as needed to maximize efficiency.

Quality equipment for small restaurant kitchens

At the heart of every successful kitchen is the right equipment. In particular, from ovens and fryers to work tables and storage systems, each piece plays a crucial role in the operation of your restaurant. We work with leading manufacturers of catering equipment to offer you a selection of quality equipment. What’s more, we aim to tailor it to the specific needs of your kitchen, ensuring optimal performance and exceptional durability.

Small restaurant kitchens require quality equipment that is both efficient and durable. Commercial-grade refrigeration and freezer units are essential for preserving food quality and maintaining proper storage temperatures. A high-performance range or stovetop is crucial for consistent cooking, while a versatile oven, such as a convection oven or combination oven, can handle a variety of cooking tasks.

A commercial dishwasher is a must for efficient and hygienic cleaning, and a food processor can significantly speed up food preparation tasks. Other important pieces of equipment include a microwave for quick heating, a blender for smoothies and sauces, and a coffee maker for beverage service. When selecting equipment, consider factors such as energy efficiency, ease of cleaning, and overall durability to ensure a long-lasting and reliable investment.

The secret is in the details

In the quest to have a reputable brand, no detail is overlooked. From the layout of electrical outlets to proper lighting, every aspect of your kitchen is carefully considered to create a safe, comfortable, and productive work environment. Our goal is to provide you with a solution at hand that allows you to focus on serving your customers in the best way possible.

Ultimately, a well-designed kitchen layout is the best way to achieve a successful restaurant, especially for those with small premises. With our experience and commitment to providing good service, we want your kitchen to be more than just a place to prepare food. Consequently, we aim to turn it into a welcoming space where your customers can enjoy special moments with their loved ones.

At Wallpaper Kenya, our team of design experts will be happy to collaborate with you to offer you quality kitchen interior design to create a unique and personalized environment that reflects your personality and tastes. Get in touch with our kitchen designers today to take the first step towards a more efficient, productive, and profitable kitchen for your restaurant!

Advantages of cold tables in your small  restaurant kitchen

commercial food prep table refrigerator

 

Have you ever thought about what it would be like to have an oasis of freshness in the middle of the chaos of your kitchen? Just imagine! A companion that keeps your ingredients fresh while you and your staff create delicious dishes. Allow me to introduce you to your new best friends in the kitchen: cold or refrigerated tables! If you are a fan of cooking and are looking to take your restaurant to the next level of hospitality equipment, let me take you by the hand through the wonders that this type of technological table has to offer. It’s time to take your kitchen to the next level! Discover the advantages that cold tables bring to your restaurant.

Freshness that lasts

What’s a good dish without fresh, quality ingredients? Cold tables act as guardians of food, keeping your products at the perfect temperature to preserve their flavor, texture, and nutritional value. From fish and seafood to dairy and vegetables, each ingredient retains its integrity, ensuring your dishes turn out phenomenally.

Small restaurant kitchen space optimization and organization

In a commercial kitchen, where every square inch is valuable, cold tables are key. Not only do they keep ingredients fresh, but they also optimize space by offering a refrigerated surface for preparing dishes. With everything at your fingertips, efficiency becomes your ally, allowing you to serve your customers quickly and accurately. Discover how a cold table for hospitality can transform your restaurant!

Food Safety and Regulatory Compliance

In a catering establishment, food safety is paramount. Cold tables not only help keep your food fresh but also ensure compliance with strict health regulations. With precise temperature controls and state-of-the-art refrigeration systems, these tables ensure safety and excellence in your kitchen!

Waste reduction and economic savings

Food waste not only affects your business, but also the environment. Cold tables help you extend the shelf life of your ingredients, reducing waste and saving money. By managing your resources efficiently, you can increase your profits and decrease your environmental impact.

Customization of small restaurant kitchen interior design

Let’s say you decide to open a catering business and you know that your kitchen space will be limited. This raises the following points:

    1. Number of diners you want to serve.
    2. The menu (number of dishes to be included and type of cuisine).

The kitchen will be designed based on these parameters. Because it will define the machinery that you need. There will be a big difference between a kitchen designed to serve, for example, African food for 10 people, and one designed to provide Italian food for 20 diners. Both the layout and the necessary appliances will be different.

  1. Other points to consider when designing a small kitchen include its shape. To begin with, you must know that a kitchen that is between 6 and 10 m2 is considered small. But having a square area (for example 3×3  m2) is not the same as having an elongated area (5×2 m2), which is more difficult to distribute.
  2. You also have to take into account all the areas and their distribution. When designing, you have to think about the efficiency and logic with which the kitchen will function later. For example, something fundamental to consider is to avoid intersections, such as between clean and dirty areas.
  3. Finally, you must be aware of the limitations that you may encounter when having a small kitchen. This factor may force us and restrict us to certain brands and appliances, which offer specific dimensions or power. Therefore, before starting to invest in a project of this type, you must bear in mind that more expensive appliances may be needed to achieve the same efficiency.

In these cases, it is advisable to turn to specialists in small restaurant kitchen design. We can help you choose those specific elements that fulfill all the functions.

Innovations in industrial washing technology

Welcome to the world of innovations in industrial dishwashing technology, where efficiency and quality come together to revolutionize cleaning in the hospitality industry. In this article, we will explore the latest trends and advancements in industrial dishwashing equipment, built to meet the demands of different restaurants. From state-of-the-art dishwashers to automated cleaning systems, discover how these innovations can improve operational efficiency and hygiene in your business.

Latest Generation Dishwasher

Small restaurant kitchen dishwasher machine fit out.

 

Commercial dishwashers have evolved significantly in recent years, offering advanced features and technologies to ensure impeccable cleanliness. From high-pressure washing systems to custom wash cycles, these appliances are designed to handle large volumes of dishes, glasses, and utensils efficiently and quickly. Additionally, innovations in drying technology ensure that dishes come out clean and dry, ready for immediate use, thus improving the efficiency of your facility.

Automated washing systems

Automation is transforming the way cleaning is done in the hospitality industry. Automated washing systems use advanced technology, such as sensors and smart algorithms, to detect and remove dirt and germs quickly and easily. These systems can be programmed to operate on pre-set schedules, allowing for continuous cleaning without human intervention. Plus, their compact design and ability to adapt to different spaces make them ideal for a variety of hospitality establishments.

Eco-friendly small restaurant kitchen interiors

Small restaurant kitchen smart lighting system ensuring that lights are only used when needed.

 

Sustainability is a growing concern throughout society and the hospitality industry is no exception. And industrial washing technology is no exception either. The latest equipment is designed with eco-friendly labels, such as low-energy washing cycles and water recycling systems. These help reduce the consumption of natural resources and minimize the impact on the environment. By investing in eco-friendly technology, business owners can not only save money on operating costs but also contribute positively to the environment. And thus create a good brand image.

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