Maximizing Small Spaces for Your Dream Café or Bakery

Operating a successful coffee shop, bubble tea kiosk, or bakery in a small space can be challenging, but it’s entirely achievable with the right equipment. By choosing compact, efficient foodservice tools, even a small café or kiosk can deliver top-notch products that keep customers satisfied and returning for more. We’ve compiled a list of recommended equipment for startups with a floor space of 20sqm or less, ideal for business owners concerned with optimizing limited space.

Selecting the Right Equipment

Opening a coffee shop or bakery is exciting, but selecting the right equipment is crucial, especially when dealing with limited space. Beyond basic items like plates and cutlery, your largest investments will be in the equipment. It’s essential to choose equipment that meets your needs efficiently without overspending, while still ensuring high-quality output.

Ice Machine

An ice machine offers numerous benefits, from ensuring hygiene to enhancing economic efficiency. The type of ice machine you choose can impact the quality and consistency of your beverages and selecting the right type of ice allows you to precisely control the type, quantity, and quality of drinks you serve to your customers. Here are two great options:

• Choice Modular Ice Machine by Manitowoc
  • Model: HDT0420A
  • Dimensions: W 55.90cm x D 86.56cm x H 181.61cm
  • Description: Affordable yet high-quality, this machine offers both dice and half-dice ice, providing cost savings and efficiency.
• Manitowoc NEO Undercounter Ice Machine
  • Model: NEO 140/190 Undercounter
  • Dimensions: W 66.04cm x D 72.40cm x H 82.55cm (Legs: H 11.43cm)
  • Description: Compact and efficient, the NEO produces more ice using less water and energy, featuring built-in indicators for easy monitoring.

Speed Oven

Speed ovens are designed to streamline kitchen operations and can replace some traditional cooking tasks. They are versatile and ideal for preparing items like pizza, pastries, pre-fried products, and more.

• Kolb Atollspeed Easy Speed Oven
  • Dimensions: W 445mm x D 687mm x H 570mm
  • Description: This compact oven efficiently bakes a 12” pizza and handles various foods using impingement and microwave technology, saving both space and time.

Storage and Refrigeration

A reliable chiller is essential for storing perishables efficiently. Consider a model that maximizes space and minimizes handling.

• Panasonic 2-Door Undercounter Chiller/Freezer
  • Dimensions: W 1500mm x D 600mm x H 800mm
  • Description: This undercounter chiller features a compact compressor and pillarless interior, allowing for optimal storage without frequent repacking.

Display Showcase

A display showcase keeps food fresh and visually appealing, with options for hot, cold, ambient, or multi-temperature use.

• SunTrump Display Showcase
  • Dimensions: W 1200mm x D 700mm x H 700mm (Other sizes and tiers available)
  • Description: Offers precise temperature control and enhances the presentation of cakes and other products, reducing waste and maintaining quality.

Coffee Machine

An espresso machine is essential for any coffee menu, and it can also brew tea with the right settings.

• Astoria Tanya R 2-Group Espresso Machine
  • Dimensions: W 715mm x D 535mm x H 515mm
  • Description: Suitable for various needs, from basic to advanced, this machine ensures reliable coffee brewing. Pair it with a Mini Jolly Ele grinder for optimal performance.

Conclusion

Running a café, bakery, or any foodservice facility involves more than just purchasing equipment. Like vehicles, these machines require proper care, training, and maintenance. Partnering with a dependable distributor who offers consultation, maintenance, and spare parts is crucial, especially when starting a new business.