Top 10 Essential Supplies for New Tulsa Restaurants

Opening a new restaurant in Tulsa can be an exciting yet daunting task. Beyond crafting your menu and developing your concept, you need to equip your restaurant's kitchen and dining areas with all the right supplies. Having the proper tools and equipment on hand will ensure your restaurant supply store tulsa operates efficiently while delivering high-quality food and service.

As you prepare to open your doors, be sure you don't overlook these ten essential supplies for new Tulsa restaurants:

Quality Cookware and Bakeware

Investing in commercial-grade pots, pans, and baking sheets built to withstand high heat and heavy use is a must for any restaurant kitchen. Look for pieces made from stainless steel, aluminum, or non-stick materials that will allow you to sauté, simmer, bake, broil, and more. Stock up on frying pans, saucepots, sheet pans, baking dishes, mixing bowls, and any other cookware your culinary creations call for.

Top brands to consider include Vollrath, Update International, Carlisle, Franklin Machine Products, and Browne Foodservice. For optimal versatility, choose cookware in a range of sizes.

Reliable Kitchen Appliances

From powerful ovens and range tops to refrigerators and freezers, your back-of-house needs dependable appliances to function efficiently. Look for energy-efficient commercial models sized appropriately for your menu and kitchen space. Convection ovens, gas ranges, countertop griddles, commercial mixers, and more should be equipped to handle the demands of a restaurant setting.

Be sure to account for any specialty cooking equipment called for by your cuisine as well, such as pasta cookers, steamers, or tortilla presses. Brands like Vulcan, Garland, and True are known for their durable restaurant appliances. Consider extended warranty options for extra peace of mind.

High-Quality Knives

A set of sharp, sturdy knives is imperative for any restaurant prep work. Invest in knives designed for commercial use, like forged or stamped stainless steel blades that will retain their edge. A good knife set will include options like chef's knives, paring knives, boning knives, slicers, and cleavers.

Hand each of your cooks their own knife kit so blades stay sharp. Provide knife strips or magnetic blocks to keep blades organized and safely stored. Top knife brands for restaurants include Dexter Russell, Victorinox, and Mercer.

Reliable Food Storage Solutions

From keeping produce crisp to preventing cross-contamination, proper food storage is a must in a commercial kitchen. Be sure to stock up on commercial-grade food storage containers in a variety of sizes, designed to be durable, food-safe, and stackable space savers.

Invest in a high-quality refrigerator thermometer to ensure proper temp control. Stay organized with clearly labeled containers, storage bins, and shelves. Color coded cutting boards will also help avoid cross-contamination during prep.

Hand Sinks and Hand Soap

Maintaining strict hand hygiene procedures is non-negotiable for restaurant staff. Install hand sinks equipped with foot pedals, knee levers, or electronic sensors for hands-free operation. Stock dispensers with commercial hand soaps and sanitizers, plus disposable towels or air dryers.

Post signage reminding employees to wash their hands frequently and correctly. Hand hygiene helps minimize the spread of germs and foodborne illness.

Food Prep and Service Utensils

From tongs and ladles to spatulas and whisks, a supply of kitchen utensils will equip your cooks and chefs during all stages of prep and service. Choose utensils made from long-lasting materials like stainless steel, silicone, or heat-resistant nylon.

Don't forget serving utensils for dishes like salad tongs, pasta forks, and slotted spoons. Maintain plenty of backups so you always have clean utensils ready to go.

Plates, Glasses, and Silverware

The dining experience relies heavily on quality drinkware, dishware, and cutlery. Select plates, cups, mugs, and bowls that suit your restaurant's style and cuisine. Durable materials like stoneware, melamine, and tempered glass tend to withstand heavy restaurant use.

Invest in heavyweight stainless steel flatware that feels solid in diners' hands. Provide wrapped rolled silverware and extras for busy services. Include dishes and serving pieces for both back and front-of-house.

Menus and Display Signs

Well-designed menus, chalkboards, and printed signage help showcase your offerings and pricing. Spend time perfecting your menu layout and descriptions. Invest in menu covers and holders made to last. Chalkboard paint or mini chalkboards let you highlight specials.

Post signs advertising daily specials, happy hour deals, or new menu items. Custom-printed table tents are handy for highlighting promotional offers. Keep extra menus on hand so you can conveniently replace any that become grimy, worn, or damaged.

Janitorial Supplies and Equipment

The right commercial cleaning tools and solutions will keep your restaurant looking its best. Maintain a stocked janitorial closet with trusty equipment like mops, brooms, vacuum cleaners, and carpet extractors. Use commercial-grade cleaners and degreasers suitable for the kitchen and dining areas.

Microfiber cloths, disposable wipes, and sanitizing products simplify surface cleaning and disinfecting tasks. A janitor cart or caddie lets staff transport supplies efficiently. Develop daily and weekly cleaning checklists for the staff to follow.

Restaurant Furniture and Decor

The furniture and decor establish your restaurant's atmosphere and guest experience. Select durable tables, chairs, booths, and bar stools suited for high traffic and continuous use. Waterproof, tear-resistant upholstery materials hold up best.

Invest in attractive front-of-house fixtures like registers, counters, lighting, and displays. Use accent pieces like artwork, decorative tiles, faux greenery, and soft lighting to enhance your ambiance. Provide convenient customer conveniences like coat hooks, self-serve water stations, and napkin holders at tables.

Conclusion

Stocking your restaurant with the right gear, appliances, servingware, furnishings, and more ultimately helps set your business up for success. Seek out durable commercial-grade supplies built to handle the demands of restaurant operations. With quality cookware, prep tools, janitorial solutions, and dining room decor in place, you can focus on providing excellent food, drinks, and hospitality. Partnering with restaurant supply retailers, like Main Auction Services, Inc., can help simplify the process of securing the essentials you need.