A multi-cook oven is a niche item that offers multiple cooking options in one device with single or multiple chambers. 

While combi ovens are commonly used for batch-cooking capabilities, multi-cook ovens produce a variety of different food items at the same time, with no flavor transfer.

Multi-cook ovens are defined as cooking devices that offer multiple cooking options in different chambers using one device. Applications are baking, grilling, air-frying and steaming. Each chamber includes independent temperature, fan speed and cook time control.

Considered a unique piece of equipment that offers cooking versatility, multi-cook ovens are popular in smaller stand-alone operations that have simple menus. These units also are often used to enhance throughput and help supplement offerings in larger foodservice concepts. This is because multi-cook ovens can easily handle cooking large batches of items such as chicken wings during rush periods. They can also prepare burgers and cookies simultaneously with no flavor crossover.

Oven technology delivers high-velocity, vertical upward and downward airflow through the oven. Heating occurs as air travels through the shelves and is delivered vertically through holes from the top and bottom of each cook chamber. Each chamber is isolated from the others with its air path, catalyst and fan at the rear, giving operators the ability to control each chamber’s temperature and fan speed.

This optimized, focused heat delivers fast and consistent cooking. The vertical airflow curtains eliminate heat loss. This means operators can open the door as needed while cooking without waiting for a cook cycle to complete before starting another food item, which increases food production and menu flexibility.

Multi-cook ovens eliminate the need for multiple pieces of equipment, allowing expanded functionality in a smaller footprint. In addition, most models are stackable for space conservation.

These ovens can provide recipe programming to more easily reproduce menu items with specific ingredients. Labor is conserved because pans don’t need rotating and the oven doesn’t need constant monitoring.

Multi-cook ovens come in either floor models or countertop units. Smaller models have two or three chambers, while larger versions can have up to four chambers. Each chamber has the capability to bake, grill, air-fry or steam. Because these units don’t include water injectors like combi ovens, the units steam by using a pan with water and heat, which also adds moisture to products.

Pan size drives the oven dimensions. All ovens can accommodate half-sheet pans or single 12-inch-by-20-inch pans. Yet, these units have a small footprint, with countertop units taking up only 21 inches of space. The smallest of these models measures 383/8 inches high by 247/16 inches wide by 40¼ inches deep. There are two floor models measuring 32¼ to 39 3/8 inches high by 40¾ inches wide and 42½ inches deep. These types can accommodate six or eight full-size hotel pans or three to four full-sheet pans. 

Another type of multi-cook oven is offered in a three-chamber format for rapid cooking, impingement and convection cooking. These modular units do not offer steam cooking. This model can prepare chicken nuggets in one chamber, fries in another and pizza in the third chamber with no flavor transfer. It measures 61.11 inches high by 48.88 inches wide by 32.98 inches deep. It provides USB uploading for recipes as well as an auto load and unload feature.

Depending on the model, multi-cook ovens can be used on countertops or placed on a separate stand for added versatility. 

In terms of temperatures, convection heating ranges from 85 degrees F to 525 degrees F, while steam temperatures range between 85 degrees F and 250 degrees F, and a combination of the two ranges from 213 degrees F to 525 degrees F. Models include a probe to ensure proper meat temperatures.

Operation of these units is simple. Most units have touch-screen capabilities as well as the ability to preload menus with user instructions. This is beneficial with the challenging labor market, lower-skilled employees and high turnover.

Features depend on the model but may include fully automated cleaning cycles and an integrated catalytic converter washer that extends the unit’s service life. Some units include a front retractable and accessible rinse hose for easy cleaning. Illuminated door handles on some units provide visibility in dark spaces.