What’s inside this buyer’s guide

 

1. Introduction
2. Types of commercial toasters
3. Heat/Power sources for commercial toasters
4. Things to consider before purchase
5. Best makes of commercial toasters
6. Used commercial toasters — worth considering?
7. Frequently asked questions
8. Commercial toaster glossary
9. Keep your cash, Use ours!

 

 

In New Zealand's busy kitchens, the commercial toaster is the breakfast staff's BFF, turning ordinary bread into edible dreams.

Beyond toasting bread to golden perfection, it warms bagels, crisps artisan loaves, and even rejuvenates yesterday's croissants!

But, just like picking a head chef, choosing the right commercial toaster can be daunting.

Factors like available space and specific food business requirements can stir up confusion in your toasty endeavour.

This buyer's guide is here to butter your way to success.

We'll slice through the options, elaborating on types, features, and the best makes and models, ensuring the perfect match for your needs.

So, let's get started on this crisp journey!

 

 

Types of commercial toasters

Different types of industrial toasters are available to suit various food business requirements.

Learn more about these options below.

 

Pop-up toasters

 

Pop-up toasters, often referred to as automatic or spring-loaded toasters, belong to a type of toaster that functions using a combination of a timer and a spring mechanism.

This type of toaster is commonly used for toasting items like bread slices.

To use, the item to be toasted is placed into the top slot.

After that, the timer is set either manually or automatically for a specific duration.

When the timer completes, the spring mechanism is triggered, causing the toasted item to "pop" up and out of the slot, ready for easy retrieval.

For commercial kitchens or buffet services, especially those requiring high capacity, commercial pop-up toasters with six or eight slots are designed to be resilient, efficient, and dependable, efficiently managing the demands of busy environments.

The table below outlines some typical features of commercial pop-up toasters:

Feature	Description
Toasting options	Commercial pop-up toasters are adaptable and capable of toasting a variety of bread products including regular slices, English muffins, artisan breads, and halved bagels.
Toasting capacity	The toasting capacity can vary between 60 and 380 slices per hour, depending on the particular model and setup. This plays a crucial role in supporting smooth service flow, especially in busy, high-volume operations.
Slot size	The size of the slots affects the thickness of bread that the toaster can handle. Typically, regular toasters are suitable for bread slices around 1 to 1.5 inches thick. Yet, certain models come with broader or adaptable slots, allowing for thicker bread or bagels to be toasted.
Counter space requirements	Crafted with a focus on space efficiency, commercial pop-up toasters are intentionally compact, usually measuring under 13 inches in width and 14 inches in depth. This design choice ensures that they don't dominate precious counter space. However, it's important to note that their overall size can differ based on their capacity and specific design features.
Adjustable browning control	This attribute provides users with meticulous control over the toasting procedure, empowering them to attain their preferred level of browning on the toast.
Material and construction	Heavy-duty toasters are commonly crafted from robust materials such as stainless steel, ensuring their ability to endure the rigours of frequent use within commercial environments.
Safety features	Prioritise safety features such as cool-touch exteriors, automatic shutoff mechanisms, and slide-out crumb trays. These attributes facilitate easy cleaning, minimise fire risk, and enhance overall safety.

 

**It's important to note that while the specifications mentioned above are common, actual specifications can vary depending on the model and manufacturer.

Therefore, it's recommended to review product specifications thoroughly before purchasing a commercial pop-up toaster.

 

 

Conveyor toasters

 

 

Commercial conveyor toasters, as the name implies, employ a conveyor belt system to toast bread products continuously.

Due to their capability to toast larger quantities of bread in a shorter duration compared to pop-up toasters, they play a pivotal role in numerous high-capacity food service operations.

In the case of a commercial conveyor toaster, bread items are positioned on the front-end moving conveyor belt.

This conveyor carries the bread through a heated chamber, ensuring even and consistent toasting.

As the bread exits the heating chamber, it gracefully drops into a collection tray at the conveyor's end, ready for immediate use.

These toasters are designed to offer a consistent stream of toasted items, making them especially valuable in scenarios requiring a substantial volume of toasted bread, bagels, or English muffins within a limited timeframe.

The table below outlines some typical specifications of commercial conveyor toasters:

 

Feature	Description
Toasting options	Commercial conveyor toasters offer remarkable versatility, accommodating a wide range of bread products including standard slices, bagels, English muffins, and larger items like sub rolls or sandwich bread.
Toasting capacity	They typically outperform pop-up models in capacity, delivering between 300 to 1500+ pieces per hour. The actual throughput will depend on the model and selected settings.
Speed control	Most conveyor toasters feature speed control settings, enabling users to adjust the conveyor speed and thus manage the toasting time for the desired browning levels.
Counter space requirements	Given their substantial capacity, conveyor toasters generally require more counter space, typically around 15 inches in width and up to 24 inches deep or even more, contingent upon the specific model.
Temperature control	The majority of models offer adjustable top and bottom temperature controls for precise toasting, allowing for tailoring according to the type of bread used.
Material and construction	They are usually constructed using durable materials like stainless steel, thoughtfully designed for high-volume, uninterrupted operation in a commercial environment.

 

Commercial conveyor toasters are an excellent choice for any food service operation where speed, volume, and consistency are key. They are particularly suitable for establishments such as cafeterias, hotels, and high-volume restaurants.

 

 

Vertical contact toasters

 

 

Vertical contact toasters provide an efficient toasting solution, especially suited for busy New Zealand eateries such as fast-food outlets and places serving a high number of sandwiches or burgers.

With these toasters, bread is placed into a slot at the top. It then moves between two heating plates, receiving direct heat on both sides concurrently.

This process allows for rapid toasting, usually in a matter of seconds, which is significantly faster than traditional pop-up or conveyor toasters.

Despite their height, their vertical design ensures they occupy minimal counter space.

Additionally, some models are equipped with an automated "bun feeder", enhancing the toasting process and efficiency.

Here are some typical characteristics of vertical contact toasters:

 

Feature	Description
Toasting abilities	Vertical contact toasters are tailored to toast both sides of the bread at the same time, making them perfect for sandwich bread, burger buns, bagels, and more.
Dual-side toasting	Due to their design, these toasters can simultaneously toast both sides of the bread, resulting in a uniform and even browning.
Toasting capacity	With their rapid operation, vertical contact toasters have an exceptionally high toasting capacity. Many models can toast hundreds, if not thousands, of slices per hour.
Counter space usage	Vertical contact toasters make the most of vertical space to minimise their counter space footprint, even though they tend to be taller compared to other types of toasters.
Electrical needs	Because of their high-speed, high-capacity performance, most vertical contact toasters run on a 208/240V power supply. However, requirements might differ among various models and manufacturers.
Material and build	Frequently crafted from robust materials like stainless steel, these toasters are engineered for resilient commercial use.

 

 

Commercial Toaster Ovens

 

Toaster ovens are adaptable appliances known for their versatility in toasting, baking, broiling, and reheating a variety of food items.

Commonly found in establishments such as cafes, bistros, and breakfast spots, they offer culinary flexibility without taking up excessive space.

It's essential to ensure at least 10cm of clearance on all sides for proper ventilation.

For venues with limited counter space, a toaster oven with a roll-top door can be a practical choice.

This design optimises available space while maintaining functionality.

Whether you're aiming to achieve perfectly toasted bread or quickly warm leftovers, commercial toaster ovens remain a popular and versatile tool in various food service environments.

The table below summarises the common specifications of commercial toaster ovens:

 

Feature	Description
Cooking options	Commercial toaster ovens are adaptable appliances that provide a variety of cooking methods. They can toast, bake, broil, reheat, and in certain models, even roast and air fry an array of foods.
Cooking capacity	The capacity varies depending on the oven size. Smaller units might fit a few pieces of toast or small pizzas, while larger units can manage multiple racks of food or larger items like whole chicken.
Temperature management	Most models come with adjustable temperature settings for precise cooking. Some advanced models may also include pre-set cooking functions for different food types.
Counter space needs	Due to requiring proper ventilation on all sides, toaster ovens occupy more counter space than regular toasters. The exact dimensions depend on the particular model.
Timer function	Numerous commercial toaster ovens include a built-in timer for accurate cooking durations and to prevent overcooking.
Material and build	Commercial toaster ovens are typically constructed from sturdy materials like stainless steel, designed to endure high temperatures and frequent usage.
Cleaning convenience	Features such as removable crumb trays and non-stick interiors can simplify cleaning. Some models even incorporate self-cleaning functionalities.

 

 

Griddle Toasters

 

 

Griddle toasters, also referred to as flat plate toasters or griddle plate toasters, present a flexible approach to toasting bread, grilling sandwiches, and preparing an array of food items on a spacious, level cooking surface.

They prove particularly valuable in commercial settings such as diners, cafes, and restaurants that offer a diverse selection of grilled and toasted fare.

Distinct from vertical toasters or conveyor toasters that utilise slots or moving belts for toasting, a flat plate toaster features a heated level surface.

The bread or other culinary item is directly positioned on the griddle, where it cooks via direct interaction with the heated surface.

A hinged lid or a spatula is employed to press sandwiches or flip bread, ensuring even toasting.

Flat plate toasters are applauded for their adaptability and the unique flavour they can infuse into dishes.

They're an excellent choice for crafting grilled sandwiches, Panini, quesadillas, and beyond.

Below are some key specifications of griddle toasters:

 

Feature	Description
Cooking options	Griddle toasters showcase remarkable versatility, they’re perfect for not just toasting, but also grilling sandwiches, frying eggs, cooking pancakes, and searing meats. Their flat surface ensures even heat distribution, resulting in consistent cooking outcomes.
Cooking capacity	The capacity is determined by the griddle size. Commercial models often provide spacious cooking surfaces, allowing for the simultaneous preparation of multiple items, thereby enhancing kitchen efficiency.
Temperature management	Most griddle toasters offer adjustable heat settings for precise control, catering to a variety of cooking requirements. Certain models might also include distinct zones with separate temperature controls.
Counter space needs	Due to their larger cooking surface, griddle toasters generally demand more counter space compared to vertical or pop-up toasters. The exact dimensions will differ based on the specific model.
Material and build	Griddle toasters are typically built using robust materials like stainless steel, engineered to endure high temperatures and demanding usage. The griddle surface could be composed of cast iron, steel, or non-stick material, each offering distinct cooking and cleaning attributes.
Cleaning convenience	Many models incorporate features like a grease trap or removable crumb trays, simplifying the cleaning and maintenance process. Cast iron griddles may necessitate seasoning to uphold their non-stick qualities.

 

Please note: While griddle toasters offer considerable versatility and capacity, they might necessitate more cleaning and upkeep compared to alternative toaster types due to the direct interaction of food with the cooking surface.

However, their capability to manage a range of cooking functions positions them as a valuable inclusion in numerous commercial kitchens.

 

 

Panini Press

 

A panini press, commonly referred to as a sandwich press, stands out as a griddle variation specifically crafted to heat up sandwiches, quesadillas, and similar food items.

This appliance forms an essential part of cafes, sandwich shops, and various food service establishments that present toasted sandwiches or Paninis.

When considering the suitability of a Panini press for toasting and grilling bread, the plate style – be it flat, grill, or combination – holds the potential to significantly influence the texture and visual appeal of the final outcome.

 

Flat plates

These surfaces ensure a consistent and uniform browning on the bread, making them an excellent choice for classic toasting minus grill marks.

 

Grill plates

They leave distinct searing imprints on the bread, for the classic grilled appearance, while adding a delicate crunch to the surface.

 

Combination plates

Featuring a combination of one flat and one grill plate, these surfaces provide adaptability when toasting bread slices.

This enables the option for either a smooth or grilled finish, aligning with the desired outcome.

This variation can prove particularly beneficial for establishments serving an assortment of toasted sandwiches or specialities that favour diverse textures and appearances.

 

 

Most Panini presses also incorporate adjustable temperature settings to ensure precise cooking.

Many also include floating hinges, capable of accommodating sandwiches of varying thicknesses.

In many high-end models, timers and digital displays are sometimes included to enhance usability.

Here are a few typical characteristics synonymous with a panini press:

 

Feature	Description
Dual-sided cooking	Panini presses cook both sides of a sandwich simultaneously, reducing cooking times and ensuring a uniformly heated sandwich.
Adjustable heat settings	Most models offer adjustable heat settings for precise cooking control, ensuring consistently grilled sandwiches every time.
Versatility	While their primary use is for sandwiches, Panini presses can also accommodate other food items like quesadillas, burgers, and even certain types of pastries.
Floating hinge design	This feature enables the Panini press to adapt to foods of varying thicknesses, from thin flatbreads to thick, stuffed sandwiches.
Grill marks	Heated ridges on a Panini press not only help drain excess fat but also create attractive grill marks on the sandwich.
Counter space needs	Although larger than many standard toasters, most Panini presses are still compact enough to fit conveniently on a counter in a commercial kitchen.

 

 

Salamander broilers

 

Salamander broilers, often called "salamanders" or "salamander ovens," are special kitchen devices used in commercial kitchens for tasks like broiling, browning, grilling, and toasting food.

They are super versatile and can do many things a regular oven can do, but faster.

Unlike normal ovens, salamander broilers have really hot elements on top.

This makes them great for tasks that need strong direct heat from above, like melting cheese or giving a dish a nice grilled look.

The height of the cooking rack can be changed, which lets the cook control how hot the food gets.

Here are some important things to know about salamander broilers:

 

Feature	Description
High-temperature cooking	Salamanders are capable of rapidly achieving high temperatures, making them exceptional for tasks demanding intense heat, like broiling or browning.
Adjustable heat control	Most salamander broilers offer adjustable heat controls, providing precise temperature settings for various food types.
Versatility	They can accomplish a range of tasks, from toasting bread to grilling steaks and even caramelising the top of desserts. This renders them an incredibly versatile tool in a commercial kitchen.
Space-efficient design	Salamanders can often be wall-mounted or placed above a range, conserving valuable counter space in a commercial kitchen.
Adjustable rack height	The adaptable cooking rack empowers chefs to manage the gap between the food and the heating element, hence controlling the intensity of the heat.

 

 

Heat/power sources

Your commercial toaster's energy source matters, just like the right fuel for a fire. There are four options: electric, gas, infrared, and combo.

Each brings its own strengths to the table.

Check out our table below for a quick guide to each power source – electric, gas, infrared, and combo.

We've got you covered with what's good and what to watch out for.

 

Power Source	Description	Advantages	Disadvantages
Electric	Utilises electric heating elements to generate heat.	Easily accessible and generally more energy-efficient. Simple installation and no need for a gas connection.	May not achieve as high temperatures as gas models. Electric units can increase electricity bills.
Gas	Utilises natural gas or propane as a fuel source.	Typically heats up faster and can achieve higher temperatures. Gas can often be a cheaper fuel source compared to electricity.	Requires a gas line connection, which can limit where the toaster can be placed. It may not be suitable for establishments without proper ventilation.
Infrared	Uses infrared radiation to heat the food.	Heats up very quickly and provides even toasting. Energy-efficient as it directly heats the food, not the air.	Infrared models are often more expensive. They may not provide the same depth of toasting compared to traditional models.
Combination	Utilises more than one power source, such as a combination of gas and infrared.	Provides the benefits of multiple power sources, such as the quick heating of gas and the even toasting of infrared.	May be more complex to install and operate. Combination units can be more expensive than single power source models.

 

 

Things to consider when buying a commercial toaster

 

Toasting capacity

Toasting capacity refers to how many slices of bread a toaster can handle at once or produce within an hour.

This number directly impacts how efficient your kitchen is, especially during busy times.

Here's the scoop on sizing up:

For cosy corners like boutique cafes or cute breakfast spots, a toaster that does four to six slices or a mini oven might be your match.

Stepping up to mid-sized gigs, like restaurants or catering setups?

Get your hands on a conveyor toaster or a pop-up with six to eight slots – they've got the stamina.

Now, for the heavyweight champs – big restaurants, buzzing hotels, or busy cafeterias – you're looking at the big guns.

High-capacity conveyor toasters and big toaster ovens are your ticket to cranking out hundreds to over a thousand slices an hour.

 

Toasting speed

Toasting speed plays a key role when picking a commercial toaster.

It measures how fast a toaster can turn a bread slice into the perfect toast, usually counted in slices per hour.

The quicker the speed, the more you can produce – a game-changer for your kitchen's efficiency.

Different toasters offer different speeds:

 

Pop-up toasters

These handle two to eight slices at once, taking two to three minutes per round, depending on the toast's shade. Great for smaller spots or lighter demand.

 

Conveyor toasters

They're the speed demons, churning out 300 to over 1500 slices per hour. Perfect for medium to large setups needing non-stop toasting.

 

Vertical contact toasters

These are the sprinters, toasting a bun in just 15-30 seconds. Perfect for quick spots like fast-food joints.

 

Toaster ovens and salamander broilers

While versatile, they're slower than dedicated toasters – around 3-5 minutes for a slice.

 

Griddle toasters & panini presses

With a range of 1-5 minutes, these are go-to for cafes and restaurants whipping up toasted sandwiches and paninis.

 

Finding your ideal toaster is about balancing speed, capacity, flexibility, and energy efficiency to match your kitchen's unique groove.

 

Versatility

Versatility refers to a commercial toaster’s capacity to toast various food items. While they're primarily built for toasting, different toasters can handle a range of bread types and sizes.

This flexibility allows you to cater to different preferences, ensuring everyone gets the perfect slice.

Here's a closer look at how different toasters measure up in the versatility department:

 

Type of Toaster	Versatility Description
Pop-up toasters	Mainly used for standard bread slices, but many models can also accommodate bagels, English muffins, and similar items due to adjustable slot widths.
Conveyor toasters	Ideal for high-volume toasting of various items, from bread slices to bagels and buns. Some models allow adjustable top and bottom heat controls for varied toasting levels.
Vertical contact toasters	Specialised for quick and uniform toasting of buns, but less versatile in handling a wide range of other items.
Toaster ovens & salamander broilers	Highly versatile, capable of toasting, baking, broiling, and even roasting a wide range of food items, from bread and pastries to meat and vegetables.
Griddle toasters & Panini presses	In addition to toasting, these appliances can also grill various sandwiches, making them a versatile choice for establishments serving a range of grilled items.

 

 

 

Ease of cleaning

Commercial toasters come with various parts that can either help or hinder the cleaning journey, depending on their design and materials.

Knowing these components is a golden ticket when picking a toaster:

 

Crumb tray

This tray catches stray crumbs and debris during toasting. It’s usually very easy to remove, for quick and hassle-free cleaning.

Toasting racks/conveyor belt

Pop-up toasters have racks for bread; conveyor toasters have belts moving the bread. Both can gather crumbs. Look for removable racks or belts for simpler cleaning.

Toasting chambers/slots

Where the magic happens. Some, like toaster ovens, can be tricky to clean. Go for non-stick or easy-to-clean insides.

Exterior housing

Wipe-clean goodness. Stainless steel is a cleaning champ and is common in commercial toasters.

Grill plates

In griddle toasters and panini presses, the plates get cosy with your food. Grooves can be pesky to clean, but removable and non-stick plates are your pals.

 

To give your toaster a spa day, grab a soft cloth, mild soap, and warm water for the outside.

For those nooks and crannies, a little brush helps nudge crumbs out.

Make sure the toaster is unplugged before cleaning, and you don’t accidently get water or soap in the internal parts.

 

When it's time for a deep clean, certain bits might need a heavy-duty touch with a commercial-grade degreaser.

But remember, safety first!

Stick to the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning, so you don't accidentally give your appliance a tough time.

 

Material, durability and construction 

Picking a commercial toaster isn't just about looks – it's about understanding what's under the hood.

Knowing the build and materials can make all the difference, boosting how long it lasts, how well it works, and how easy it is to take care of.

Here are some pointers to keep in mind:

 

Material matters

The stuff it's made of matters big time. Stainless steel is the star here. It's tough, fights off rust, and is a breeze to clean. Plus, it holds onto heat like a champ, saving energy. Aluminium, cast iron and non-stick are the most preferred for the grill plates.

Smart design

A sleek design isn't just about style – it's about keeping things clean. Fewer nooks and crannies mean less gunk buildup. A solid base is a safety must, stopping any accidental tumbles.

Inside job

What's inside counts too. Top-notch heating elements, dials, belts, and controls make a difference. Quality materials like quartz for heating elements mean better efficiency and longer life.

Built to last

Think about the battlefield – a busy kitchen. Your toaster has got to be up for the challenge. Go for one built with rugged materials and solid construction. It's like a warrior against wear and tear.

 

As you're sizing up toasters, remember, stainless steel with sturdy insides is usually a safe bet.

But always do your homework – check out the brand's rep and what kind of warranty they offer.

That's how you make a savvy investment.

 

Safety features

In the hustle and bustle of a busy commercial kitchen in New Zealand, safety is the star of the show.

So, when you're picking out a commercial toaster for your operation, here's what you need to keep your eye on:

 

Exterior coolness

Look for a toaster that stays cool on the outside, no matter how hot things get on the inside. It's your shield against accidental burns.

Automatic timeout

Get a toaster with an automatic shutoff feature. It knows when to call it a day, preventing any overheating surprises or fire risks.

Easy-does-it lift

In pop-up toasters, a bread lift mechanism is a must. It lets you grab your toast without any hot surprises.

Steady feet

Non-skid feet are like anchors for your toaster. No sliding, no tipping – just steady toasting action.

Power guardian

A built-in circuit breaker is your toaster's protector. It steps in and cuts the power if anything goes haywire, keeping your toaster and other gear safe.

Crumb watcher

A removable crumb tray isn't just a clean-up hero. It stops crumbs from turning into a fiery mess.

Regulatory compliance

Ensure that the chosen toaster complies with New Zealand safety standards. The presence of the Electrical Regulatory Compliance Mark (ERAC) signifies conformity to the country's electrical safety regulations.

 

Installation

Getting your commercial toaster ready for action isn't just about plugging it in – it's about getting it right from the start.

This means it should work efficiently, be safe, and last a long time.

Following a smart plan for installation can make your toaster fit into your kitchen routine smoothly, and it also makes sure you're playing by the rules in New Zealand.

Here's what you need to know:

 

1. Finding the right space: Before you jump in, take a good look at your kitchen counter. You want to give your toaster enough room to work without crowding your cooking area. And don't forget to give it some space around it so it doesn't get too hot.

 

2. Electrical compatibility: Your toaster has a power preference. Most of them work well with New Zealand's regular 230V power. But if you've got a big conveyor toaster or toaster oven, it might need more power. Make sure your kitchen's power supply matches your toaster's needs to avoid any problems.

 

3. Picking a good spot: Choose a spot for your toaster that's easy to reach but doesn't get in the way of your kitchen moves. Keep it away from water sources to avoid any splashes.

 

4. Let it breathe: Toasters like some fresh air. Don't stick them in tight corners or near things that don't like heat. Overhead shelves or cabinets? Nope, they don't help the airflow.

 

5. Follow regulatory guidelines: Last but not least, follow the rules. Make sure your toaster setup follows New Zealand's AS/NZS 3000 standard (or the "Wiring Rules"). This way, you're ticking all the safety boxes.

 

 

 

Best makes of commercial toasters

Cobra

Founded with a legacy of culinary excellence, Moffat has been a prominent name since its inception.

Cobra, a remarkable addition to the Moffat portfolio, takes centre stage in the commercial kitchen arena.

Founded on Moffat's commitment to quality and innovation, Cobra's commercial toasters exemplify precision and performance.

Among the recommended models, the Cobra CT6 - Griddle Toaster and Cobra CT9 - Griddle Toaster, stand out.

These versatile units seamlessly combine griddling and toasting functionalities, a testament to Cobra's dedication to streamlining kitchen operations.

Shop for Cobra by Moffat commercial toasters now.

 

 

Roband

Established six decades ago by Sidney Landuyt, Roband® emerged as a result of merging the names of his sons, ROBert and ANDrew.

The brand's inception took place in a family garage, marked by the creation of a milkshake mixer.

Roband has solidified its reputation through a genuine dedication to quality, innovation, and comprehensive post-sales support.

It has become a respected figure in the realm of commercial kitchen appliances, including the realm of commercial toasters.

Roband's range of toasters, marked by models such as the TCR10 and TCR15, showcase unparalleled performance, energy efficiency, and user-centric features.

These attributes render them a preferred selection among diverse food service providers across New Zealand.

From bustling cafes to prestigious 5-star hotels and even aviation settings, Roband's offerings stand out.

Despite its modest beginnings, Roband's influence has grown extensively, delivering dependable solutions tailored to the diverse needs of contemporary commercial kitchens.

Shop Roband commercial toasters now.

 

Fimar

 

The Fimar brand, owned by Fimar SpA, an Italian company established in 1970 by the visionary Ferrari brothers, Ezio and Mario, stands as a testament to innovation and craftsmanship.

Headquartered in Correggio, Italy, Fimar SpA has emerged as a powerhouse in the European commercial kitchen equipment landscape.

From ovens to fryers, grills to slicers, and notably, commercial toasters, Fimar's product range resonates with quality.

Two standout models from Fimar's offerings are the Fimar TOP3D - Toaster and CONTINUOUS TOASTER TOC.

Each model is a testament to Fimar's commitment to precision engineering and functional design.

By opting for Fimar, you're embracing a legacy of craftsmanship, engineering prowess, and culinary excellence that spans decades.

Shop FIMAR commercial toasters now.

 

Hatco

 

Globally acclaimed, Hatco is renowned for its premium and enduring commercial kitchen equipment, a category that includes toasters.

For the dynamic commercial kitchens of New Zealand, Hatco stands out as an exceptional choice.

Its unwavering commitment to crafting robust equipment, tailored to withstand the rigours of heavy-duty usage, perfectly aligns with the demanding nature of New Zealand's hospitality industry.

The brand's distinctive toasters, notably the TQ3-10 Toast-Qwik® Conveyor Toaster and the TOAST KING® Conveyor Toaster, embody efficiency, consistency, and adaptability to diverse bread varieties.

Notably, Hatco's exceptional post-purchase service, underscored by dependable support and maintenance, adds a layer of reliability for businesses in New Zealand.

Shop Hatco commercial toasters now.

 

Birko

An enduring presence in the New Zealand market for over five decades, Birko embarked on its journey with soldering irons and evolved to offer a diverse spectrum of domestic and commercial appliances, including toasters.

Renowned for its emphasis on quality and effectiveness, Birko has continually evolved its product offerings.

The transition from copper to robust stainless steel constructions, tailored for commercial applications, is a testament to its commitment.

Prominent models like the Birko Conveyor Toaster 1003202, with a capacity of delivering 600 slices per hour, and the versatile 6 Slice Vertical Slot Toaster 1003203, epitomise Birko's dedication to quality and efficiency.

 

Shop Birko commercial toasters now.

 

 

Used commercial toasters — worth considering?

Spending thousands of dollars on an industrial toaster can put a strain on your budget and cash flow.

If you’d prefer not to invest a lot of money in a toaster, a cheaper, pre-owned appliance might be the solution you’re looking for.

SilverChef’s range of ‘Certified Used’ commercial equipment is mostly ex-rental equipment sourced from businesses we know and trust.

The equipment is typically less than two-and-a-half years old, has been fully refurbished by us, and is backed by a three-month parts-and-labour warranty.

Considering the effective, or useful, life of a toaster is much longer, you can be sure our Certified Used commercial toasters have plenty of life left in it.

You can either buy or finance the ‘Certified Used’ (and clearance) equipment on our website. (We’re one of the few financiers, if not the only one, in New Zealand that funds second-hand commercial kitchen equipment).

Read more about ‘Certified Used’ equipment

 

 

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a commercial toaster press for foods other than sandwiches?

Certainly, commercial toaster presses are not just for sandwiches.

You can also grill a mix of vegetables and meats, giving them a nice grilled taste and markings.

For fruit, firmer types like sliced apples, pears, peaches, and pineapples are best.

Grilled fruits can add a special sweet and smoky taste to your menu, which is great for desserts or unique main dishes.

But it's important to clean the grill plates well between uses, so the flavours don't mix.

 

What differentiates a commercial toaster grill from a household toaster grill?

Commercial toaster grills in professional kitchens stand apart from household versions in durability, capacity, and control.

Designed for the rigours of continuous, high-volume use, they are often made of tough materials like stainless steel.

Their larger size and enhanced power enable them to handle more food and provide consistent heat for even cooking.

Control is another area where commercial toaster grills shine.

They offer precise adjustments for cooking times and temperatures, essential for catering to a diverse commercial menu. In contrast, household toaster grills are generally smaller, made for less frequent home use, and may lack the same level of control or capacity.

 

Do commercial toaster grills require special maintenance?

Absolutely. Regular and meticulous cleaning is essential for commercial toaster grills in busy kitchens, ensuring efficient operation and extending their life.

Daily tasks should include the removal of crumbs and food bits, while regular deep-cleaning of grill plates is vital to prevent the accumulation of food residue and potential fire risks.

Some sophisticated models, especially those with digital controls or intricate mechanisms, might occasionally call for professional maintenance to inspect electrical parts and overall performance.

It's also wise to pay attention to the type of grill plate used (such as cast iron or non-stick), as there may be specific cleaning procedures to adhere to.

Always refer to your toaster's user manual for precise maintenance instructions.

 

Commercial toasters glossary

Broiling

A technique often utilised in commercial kitchens, broiling is the direct application of radiant heat from above.

Appliances like salamander broilers or toaster ovens are known for their broiling abilities.

 

Quartz heating elements

These elements are found in industrial toasters, prized for their swift heat-up and cool-down times, giving exact control over temperature.

 

Duty cycle

This term refers to the continuous period a toaster can function without risk of overheating, a crucial consideration in busy establishments with high toasting demands.

 

Radiant heat

In the toasting process, radiant heat refers to the direct transfer of heat from a hot surface (such as a heating element) to the food item without warming the air in between.

 

Conduction heat

A method of heat transfer used in appliances like griddle toasters and panini presses, where the heat passes directly from the hot grill surface to the food.

 

Convection heat

This heat transfer method, found in toaster ovens, involves a fan that circulates hot air around the food, providing even and rapid toasting or cooking.

 

Bun feeder

A convenient feature in specific commercial toasters, particularly vertical contact toasters, which systematically feeds buns into the toaster, boosting efficiency.

 

Bagel setting

A specialised function in some commercial toasters that heats only one side of the slot, enabling the cut side of a bagel to be toasted while the other side is warmed.

 

Browning control

This adjustable feature helps achieve the preferred level of browning on toast by allowing the user to set the toasting time.

 

Pull-out tray

Also called the crumb tray, this removable tray at the bottom of the toaster, collects crumbs that fall off during the toasting operation.

It’s designed for hassle-free cleaning.

 

Adjustable slot width

This innovative attribute in certain pop-up toasters permits modification of the slot width to suit various types of bread or other items to be toasted.

 

 

Keep your cash, use ours!

We hope this guide has helped you better understand what you need to look for in a commercial grill and how to choose the right model for your needs.

If you want to know more, you can always reach out to the SilverChef team.

Hospitality equipment can be expensive, and paying for it outright can put pressure on your business’s cash flow.

Our finance solutions allow you to get the equipment you want now and to pay for it in small, regular amounts out of the revenue it generates for you.

Rent–Try–Buy® not only helps you maintain your cash flow, it gives you unrivalled flexibility to adapt your equipment to the changing needs of your business.

You can upgrade or buy the equipment at any time or, after 12 months, return or continue renting it.

If you decide to buy the equipment, we’ll give you back 50% of the rent you paid in the first year and 25% of any rental payments thereafter — to put toward the purchase price.

Read more about Rent–Try–Buy.