Refrigeration

Reach-in Refrigerators

Pizza operations utilize reach-in refrigerators or uprights to keep perishable foods at temperatures between 36 degrees F and 38 degrees F. Operators most often use these units for long-term storage of pizza ingredients in the back of the house. Glass door models can merchandise a variety of menu items, including beverages, salads and other complementary items by the point of purchase.

A walk-in cooler and/or freezer plays a critical role in any kitchen as it serves as the bank for food storage. With operators using more locally sourced and seasonally fresh product, the space they need to hold food at safe temperatures continues to increase.

When a bar needs quick and easy access to beverages, bottle coolers become part of the equipment package to help ensure efficient service. These deep well coolers that come in horizontal and box models chill and store bottled and canned beverages.

Backbar units tend to be tall and have interior lighting for displaying beverages at the bar. In the case of a bar serving alcohol, operators often incorporate these units with beer-dispensing systems. In addition, operators often use reach-in style backbar coolers in the underbar part of the bar. The approximate height of the cabinet is 36 inches if set on the floor or 42 inches if on 6-inch legs.

A roll-in refrigerator, part of the reach-in category, allows operators to wheel in racks that contain pans of food. Roll-in refrigerators and freezers can store a variety of perishable food, including meat, produce, eggs, dairy products and condiments. These units are typically utilized for prep-line storage.