Best Commercial Waffle Maker 2023: Buyer's Guide

Inside this buyer’s guide:

Introduction
Types of waffles
Types of waffle makers
Main things to consider before ordering a waffle maker
Best commercial waffle makers in New Zealand
Used waffle makers — worth considering? 
Warranty and insurance
Top questions to ask before ordering a waffle maker
Commercial waffle maker FAQs
Waffle maker terminology
Tips for cleaning and maintaining a waffle maker
Keep your cash, use ours!

 

Introduction

They say good waffles are like cricket teams — you need a good batter. But, for great waffles, you need a great waffle maker!

Waffles that are irresistibly crisp outside and soft inside, with dense pockets to hold all the delicious toppings.

Waffles are universally loved and are perfect for brekkie, brunch or as a tasty snack.

And with many restaurants now offering healthier wholewheat flour or buckwheat flour waffles, their popularity is on the rise.

Moreover, waffles are relatively inexpensive to prepare and are highly profitable too.

Our buying guide is designed to assist you in selecting the ideal commercial-grade waffle maker for your business.

 

Types of waffles

Waffles come in a wide range of styles and flavours — from sweet to savoury and traditional to contemporary.

 

Brussels waffle

Brussels waffles are a beloved delicacy hailing from the capital city of Belgium.

These large, rectangular waffles are known for their deep pockets, crispy exterior and fluffy interior.

The dough is leavened with beaten egg whites or yeast, resulting in a fluffy texture.

These waffles are often served as a dessert, topped with icing sugar, fruit, whipped cream, syrup, or ice cream.

 

Belgian waffles

Belgian waffles, characterised by deep pockets and a fluffy texture, are a favourite in New Zealand.

Perfect for filling with butter, jam or maple syrup, they are typically round and made with dough leavened with yeast.

Available in different shapes, they are a visual and gustatory delight.  

 

American waffles

Inspired by their Belgian counterparts, American waffles come in a range of shapes and sizes.

They are often enjoyed doused in maple syrup or as a side to fried chicken.

The batter is leavened with baking powder, resulting in a thin and dense texture.

The honeycomb squares or pockets on American waffles are usually smaller and more numerous compared to other types, making them perfect for holding syrup or gravy.

 

Liege waffles

Liege waffles are relatively small and have a thicker texture with a caramelised sugar coating.

This coating helps them maintain their crispness when topped with fruits or cream.

Made with a yeast dough similar to brioche bread, and with the addition of pearl sugar, they have a distinctly sweet flavour.

They are also characterised by their uneven and unfinished edges.

 

Types of waffle makers

Designed for use in restaurants and coffee shops, a commercial-grade waffle maker can cook more waffles at once, thanks to its larger size and power.

It also includes features such as removable grids and dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleaning.

There are several types of commercial waffle makers; the double electric waffle maker is one of the most popular in commercial kitchens.

This machine is capable of cooking two waffles at once, is easy to use, and has embedded heating elements for consistent cooking.

There are two main types of commercial waffle makers: electric and stovetop.

 

Electric waffle makers

Versatile and efficient, electric waffle makers are widely used in commercial settings.

Available in a range of shapes and sizes, they can accommodate the needs of any food establishment.

Below is a breakdown of the different types of electric waffle makers:

 

Belgian waffle maker

The versatility of Belgian waffle makers makes them a popular choice in New Zealand commercial kitchens.

They produce square waffles that are larger and thicker than regular waffles, with deeper pockets for more batter and a slightly crispier texture.

Available in electric and stovetop models and various sizes, these machines allow chefs to choose the best fit for their needs.

 

Lollipop waffle maker

If you’re looking to add some interest to your menu, another type to consider is the lollipop waffle maker.

With this appliance you can make up to four waffles on sticks at the same time.

Its cast-iron mould with four cylindrical imprints allows you to make authentic Belgian waffles on a stick.

The machine’s cast-aluminium plates and non-stick coating make finished waffles easier to remove.

 

Flip waffle maker

A flip waffle maker cooks the batter on both sides simultaneously, resulting in a crispy exterior and fluffy interior.

It's known for its hinged mechanism that ensures even cooking, resulting in perfect waffles every time.

A popular choice among restaurants, it can quickly and efficiently cook large batches of waffles, allowing you to keep up with high demand during breakfast and brunch hours.

 

Stovetop waffle irons

As its name suggests, a stovetop waffle iron is designed to be placed directly on your stovetop.

It can be used on gas and electric cooktops (as well as camping stoves or open fires).

The most utilised materials for stovetop waffle irons are cast iron and cast aluminium, as they effectively conduct heat and produce evenly cooked waffles.

This appliance is best suited to smaller kitchens or catering operations that require a portable waffle maker that doesn’t need electricity.

 

Electric waffle maker vs stovetop waffle iron

When deciding between an electric waffle maker and a stovetop waffle iron, it’s important to consider their distinguishing characteristics before making a choice.

Electric waffle makers are more convenient and easier to use, but a stovetop cast-iron waffle maker has a longer lifespan.

Think of it like choosing between a cast-iron pan and an electric skillet.

The cast-iron skillet may offer more accurate heating and control, but it is high-maintenance.

On the other hand, an electric skillet offers a greater range of settings and features but needs an electrical outlet, which can be a limiting factor in outdoor cooking.

 

Main things to consider before ordering a commercial waffle maker

Type of waffle maker

When selecting a commercial waffle maker for your venue, it's crucial to consider the type of waffles you'll be serving and the quantity you'll need to produce.

For instance, if you plan to serve large, rectangular waffles to a high volume of customers, a double-electric Belgian waffle maker would be a suitable option.

For more information on Belgian and other types of waffle makers, please see the section above.

Waffle-maker grids come in a variety of shapes, sizes and depths to suit the type of waffle being served up.

Size, shape and batter considerations

Before choosing a waffle maker, you need to determine how many waffles per hour you want to produce and how large they need to be.

Waffle-maker grids come in a variety of shapes, sizes and depths to suit the type of waffle being served up.

For example, rectangular grids are ideal for Brussels waffles, irregular ones are suitable for Liege waffles, and round grids are used for Belgian and American waffles (the latter can also be made on square grids).

The depth of the grids varies from ½” to 1 ½”, depending on the type of waffle being made.

Heart-shaped grids can add interest to your breakfast menu.

When choosing a waffle maker, it's also important to consider the type of batter you'll be using.

Different waffle recipes have different consistencies and may require adjustable temperature control, non-stick surfaces, or deeper wells.

 

Budget

When ordering a commercial waffle maker in New Zealand, it's crucial to consider not only the cost of the equipment but also any additional expenses that may arise.

The price of a commercial waffle maker in New Zealand ranges from $600 to $3,000.

However, it's important to remember that there may be additional costs, such as delivery and installation fees.

In addition, the costs of preventative maintenance should be taken into account.

Accessories like spatulas, batter dispensers, and cutters, which can range from NZD $15 to $50 each, should also be budgeted for.

By factoring in all potential costs, you can make an informed decision and stay within your budget.

 

Material

When selecting a waffle maker for your commercial kitchen, it’s important to consider what it’s made of.

Cast steel, non-stick cast aluminium, and cast iron are all popular options, though each has advantages and disadvantages (see table below).

 

Material	Advantages	Disadvantages
Cast steel	Longer lifespan Scratch-resistant Uniform heating Dishwasher-safe	Baking time is longer Pre-heating time is longer
Non-stick cast aluminium	Energy efficient Faster pre-heat time Faster baking time	Susceptible to scratches and dents Not dishwasher-friendly and should be washed by hand, which can be counter-productive for large establishments
Cast iron	Very durable Non-stick surface (after seasoning with oil or butter) Retains heat effectively	Preheat time is long Have to season regularly (with oil or butter)

 

Adjustable browning control helps you ensure the waffles are cooked to the desired level of doneness. 

Settings, features and functionality

Some of the settings, features and functionality to consider include:

 

Adjustable browning control

Helps you easily adjust the level of browning, to ensure the waffles are cooked to the desired level of doneness.

 

Indicator lights 

Indicator lights eliminate guesswork, lighting up when the waffle maker is preheated, and when the waffles are ready to be removed.

 

Removable drip tray

This tray catches all the spilt batter from getting onto your workspace. They’re also removable and mostly dishwasher-safe, making cleaning a breeze.

 

Temperature control

Precise control over cooking temperature ensures perfect waffles every time, especially in commercial settings where you need consistency.

 

Timer

Precise control over cooking time ensures the waffles are cooked to the desired crispness.

 

Accessories

There are several useful accessories you can order to make the most of your waffle maker. Here are a few to consider:

 

Spatula

Helps you transfer the cooked waffles from the machine to the plate.

 

Waffle maker grids

These grids are replaceable, so you can order new grids when the original ones wear out or get damaged.

 

Waffle maker cleaning solutions

These solutions are specifically formulated to clean the grids and other parts of your waffle maker, ensuring longevity.

 

Waffle batter dispensers

These dispensers help you pour precise amounts of batter onto the grids with ease.

 

Waffle maker covers

These covers protect your waffle maker from dust and other debris when not in use, keeping it in good working condition.

 

Waffle cone makers

This accessory helps you make waffle cones that can be filled with ice cream or savoury fillings.

 

Waffle cutters

This tool cuts your waffles evenly and accurately, ensuring consistency in size and shape.

Waffle makers with good insulation minimise heat loss and keep the appliance at the desired temperature, reducing energy consumption.

Energy efficiency

Energy-efficient waffle makers use less power to heat up and maintain the desired temperature, reducing your energy bills and carbon footprint.

When purchasing an energy-efficient commercial waffle maker, there are a few things to consider:

 

Brand reputation

Consider purchasing only from reputable brands that have a history of producing energy-efficient equipment.

 

Energy-star rating

Look for waffle makers that have a higher energy-star rating with lower annual energy consumption.

 

Insulation

Waffle makers with good insulation minimise heat loss and keep the appliance at the desired temperature, reducing energy consumption.

 

Power consumption

A waffle maker with lower wattage will consume less energy.

 

Temperature control

Precise temperature control in a waffle maker lets you fine-tune the temperature settings, ensuring the appliance is not using more energy than necessary.

 

Timer or shut-off feature

A useful feature for reducing energy consumption when not in use.

 

Safety features

Safety should be a top priority when ordering any commercial kitchen equipment.

Here are some safety features to look for when purchasing commercial waffle makers:

 

Automatic shut-off

If the equipment is accidentally left on for an extended period, it automatically shuts off, helping prevent fires and other accidents.

 

Cool-touch handles

Waffle makers with cool-touch handles reduce the risk of burns.

 

Non-slip feet

These feet keep the equipment in place and prevent it from sliding around on the counter, reducing the risk of spills and accidents.

 

Overheating protection

This feature prevents the equipment from getting too hot, reducing the risk of fires.

 

Splash guard

This feature prevents hot batter from splattering out of the waffle maker, reducing the risk of burns.

Non-stick plates and removable drip trays are easy to clean and help minimise batter build-up, making cleaning more efficient.

Ease of use and cleaning

The temperature control of the waffle maker should be easy to adjust, ensuring the waffles are cooked consistently every time.

Choosing a waffle maker that comes with clear instructions for proper use and cleaning will help your staff operate the equipment safely and efficiently.

Look for equipment that has removable parts that can be easily cleaned in a dishwasher.

Non-stick plates and removable drip trays are easy to clean and help minimise batter build-up, making cleaning even more efficient.

 

Maintenance and repairs

Maintenance is crucial to extending your commercial waffle maker’s lifespan.

Regular cleaning and sanitisation will prevent the build-up of food particles, bacteria, and corrosion.

Keep an eye on wear-and-tear parts such as heating plates, thermostats, timers, temperature sensors, power cords, and drip trays.

Look for a waffle maker that has easily accessible parts for quick and efficient repairs.

Before ordering your machine, research the availability and experience of service technicians in your area.

 

Best commercial waffle makers in New Zealand

Waring Commercial 

Waring Commercial, established in 1937 by Fred Waring, specialises in producing commercial-grade kitchen equipment.

Today, the company is owned by the Dynamics Corporation of America (DCA), which is based in New Hartford, New York.

 

Waring WW180X single waffle maker

The Waring WW180 is a high-performance appliance that is perfect for making delicious and fluffy Belgian waffles.

This waffle maker can produce up to 25 waffles per hour, making it ideal for a cafe.

It features a heavy-duty die-cast housing that is built to last.

The rotary feature ensures your waffles are baked evenly on both sides, while the triple-coated, non-stick plates make it easy to remove the waffles and clean the machine.

The embedded heating elements provide precise temperature control so your waffles are cooked to perfection every time.

It beeps when it’s pre-heated and also when the waffles are cooked, leaving you time to multitask.

 

Waring WW200K double waffle maker

The Waring WW200K has a compact vertical design, accurate temperature control, and a rotating feature for perfectly baking two waffles at once.

It can produce up to 50 x 1¼-inch-thick Belgian waffles per hour; it lights up and beeps when the waffles are ready to be served.

 

Apuro

Apuro was founded in 2000 by David Lai. It is widely regarded as an industry leader in durable gas and electric professional catering appliances.

With over 22 years of expertise, Apuro is continually investing in new technologies and improvements to make its machines more user-friendly, efficient, and cost-effective.  

 

Apuro bubble waffle maker

The Apuro bubble waffle maker is specially designed for making Hong Kong-style bubble waffles, which are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

Featuring a dial thermostat and timer for consistent cooking results, it can produce 30 waffles per hour, making it perfect for busy environments.

Its rotating design ensures even cooking and its non-stick plates make it easy to clean.

 

Apuro waffle maker DB170-A

The Apuro professional waffle maker is a worthwhile addition to any commercial kitchen.

It boasts precision and performance, with the ability to make up to 60 Brussels-style waffles per hour, all cooked to the same standard with the built-in timer function.

The easy-to-use controls and digital display make it simple to program the machine for your specific needs.

Its removable drip tray, stainless steel construction, and cast-iron plates make cleaning a cinch.

 

Benchstar

F.E.D. (Federal Hospitality Equipment) is a commercial equipment brand that offers a range of products for the foodservice industry; Benchstar is one of their most popular product lines.

The Benchstar range of equipment is wide and includes waffle makers.

 

Benchstar electric waffle maker UWB-H

The UWB-H features a cast-iron plate with a ceramic coating that allows for even heating and easy cleaning. The machine can produce five heart-shaped waffles at a time and has an output of up to 30 waffles per hour.

It has a stainless-steel structure and a temperature range of 50–320 ℃, making it a durable and versatile option for any kitchen.

 

Benchstar electric waffle maker WB-03D

The WB-03D is specially designed for making Belgian waffles.

It features a cast-iron plate with a ceramic coating that ensures even heating and easy cleaning.

It has a one-inch thickness setting and an output of up to 30 waffles per hour.

Its stainless-steel structure and temperature range of 50–320 ℃ make it a durable and versatile option for any commercial kitchen.

 

Delta

Delta is a commercial equipment brand that specialises in manufacturing high-quality and reliable products for the foodservice industry.

They offer a wide range of products, which have a reputation for  durability and longevity.

The company makes energy-efficient equipment that is easy to maintain, making it a popular choice among chefs and other kitchen staff.

 

Delta waffle maker ESM2

The ESM2 is the perfect addition to any commercial kitchen.

With its insulated, stainless-steel body, high production output and temperature control, it's ideal for making large batches of delicious Belgian waffles quickly and efficiently.

The machine’s non-stick surface makes cleaning easy and a quick preheat time of just 2–3 minutes allows you to start making waffles in next to no time.

 

Mayfair

Mayfair is a well-known kitchen equipment brand that was established by John Smith in 2000.

The company manufactures a wide range of commercial kitchen equipment, including waffle makers, ovens, fryers, and grills.

 

Mayfair waffle maker — 2 section singles

This high-performance model is perfect for commercial kitchens and cafes.

Its sleek and durable stainless-steel housing gives it a professional look, while the cast-iron cooking plates ensure even heat distribution, resulting in perfectly cooked waffles.

The double-sides heating supply enables fast cooking and efficient use of energy.

The temperature control ranges from 60–300℃, giving you lots of flexibility.

The removable tray holders make it easy to clean and prevent cross-contamination.

 

Used waffle makers — worth considering?

Spending thousands of dollars on new commercial kitchen equipment can put a strain your budget and cash flow.

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

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

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

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

SilverChef offers a three-month parts-and-labour warranty on all our 'Certified Used' equipment.

Warranty and insurance

Most equipment manufacturers provide warranties ranging from one to five years, depending on the type of equipment.

If the equipment develops a covered fault within that time, the manufacturer is obliged to repair or replace the equipment or give you a full refund.

Carefully study the warranty to understand exactly what is and isn't covered.

SilverChef offers a three-month parts-and-labour warranty on all our ‘Certified Used’ equipment.

Business insurance covers loss or damage to your commercial kitchen equipment and other property.

This cover typically includes fire, accident, and theft. Some insurers also offer equipment-breakdown cover.

Contact your insurer to confirm whether the equipment you’re getting is automatically covered by your policy or will need to be added to it.

If your insurer doesn’t provide flood cover as standard, you may wish to consider requesting it. 

 

Top questions to ask before ordering a waffle maker

Questions to ask your equipment dealer

• What is the warranty on the waffle maker and what does it cover?
• What is the lead time for delivery and installation?
• How does the waffle maker handle different batter types?
• Can you provide any references or customer testimonials for the waffle maker?
• What is the cost of any additional accessories or attachments that may be needed?
• What are the ongoing maintenance or service requirements for the waffle maker?
• Are there any financing options available for the waffle maker?
• What is the energy rating of the waffle maker?
• Can you provide a demonstration of the waffle maker in action?

 

Questions to ask your industry peers

• What is your experience of the waffle maker you are using?
• How well has the waffle maker performed in your business?
• How easy is it to clean and maintain the waffle maker?
• Have you had any issues with the waffle maker, such as breakdowns or repairs?
• How does the waffle maker compare in terms of speed and efficiency to other models you have used?
• How have your customers responded to the waffles made by this waffle maker?
• What are the power requirements and how much energy does it consume?
• How does the waffle maker handle different batter types and thicknesses?
• What accessories or attachments have you found to be useful for the waffle maker?
• Are there any safety concerns you have with the waffle maker?

 

Commercial waffle maker FAQs

Can I use different types of batter in a commercial waffle maker?

Most commercial waffle makers are designed to work with a specific type of batter, typically a traditional Belgian waffle batter made with flour, sugar, eggs, milk, and baking powder.

However, some waffle makers are versatile enough to work with other types of batter, such as gluten-free, vegan, or savoury batter.

It’s important to consult the manufacturer's instructions for your specific waffle maker to determine what types of batter it can handle.

Using an incorrect type of batter or not following the manufacturer's instructions can damage the waffle maker or produce sub-par waffles.

 

What is the life expectancy of a commercial waffle maker?

With regular use and proper care, a commercial waffle maker can last 5-10 years.

Regularly inspect for wear and tear to prevent bigger issues.

For best results, follow the manufacturer's maintenance instructions.

 

How do I clean a commercial waffle maker?

Cool the machine before cleaning with a soft cloth or non-abrasive sponge and avoid harsh chemicals.

For stubborn residue, use a mixture of water and baking soda.

To maintain non-stick grids, oil them periodically. For more tips, see the section below on cleaning and maintaining a waffle maker.

 

What are the most important features to look for in a commercial waffle maker?

When choosing a commercial waffle maker, consider the following features:

• Budget: Consider all the costs and choose a waffle maker that fits your budget while still offering the features you need.
• Ease of cleaning: Look for a waffle maker with removable, non-stick plates for easy cleaning and maintenance.
• Ease of use: A simple operation and clear instructions make it easier to use the waffle maker efficiently.
• Energy efficiency: Choose a waffle maker with a high energy efficiency rating to minimize costs and reduce environmental impact.
• Material: Opt for a durable, high-quality material for long-lasting use.
• Settings and functionality: Look for a waffle maker with adjustable temperature control, non-stick plates, and a variety of settings for different types of waffles.

 

How much does a commercial waffle maker cost?

The cost of a commercial waffle maker in New Zealand varies according to the make and model; it typically ranges from $600 to over $3,000.

Other costs to consider include shipping, taxes, accessories, maintenance, and repairs.

 

Are commercial waffle makers energy efficient?

The energy efficiency of commercial waffle makers varies between brands and models.

Some commercial waffle makers are designed with energy-saving features, such as adjustable temperature controls and automatic shut-off timers, to help reduce energy consumption and lower operating costs.

Others may have more basic features that result in higher energy usage.

 

Can commercial waffle makers be used for making other foods besides waffles?

Yes — some commercial waffle makers have interchangeable grids or plates for making other foods, such as pancakes, crepes, eggs, and grilled sandwiches.

Ensure the appliance you choose is capable of making the foods you need by considering its design and attachments.

 

Waffle maker terminology

Batter cups

Measuring cups that pour the right amount of batter onto the waffle maker to prevent waste.

 

Browning control

A feature that lets you change the brownness of your waffles by adjusting the heat and moisture in the waffle maker.

 

Drip tray

A tray designed to catch any excess batter or drips to keep the equipment clean and maintain a hygienic work environment.

 

Double-grid waffle maker

Has two grids that allow you to cook the batter in two layers and make deeper pockets for fillings or toppings.

 

Hinge

A joint that holds the two hot plates of a waffle maker together and lets them open and close.

 

Handle

Heat-resistant handles let you open and close the plates of the waffle maker without getting burnt.

 

Hot plate

The place you pour the batter on when using a waffle maker. Also known as a waffle-iron grid.

 

Single-grid waffle maker

A commercial-grade waffle maker that cooks batter in a single layer.

 

Stacked double waffle maker

This waffle maker has two waffle irons stacked on top of each other and which can be flipped, giving you access to one waffle at a time. 

 

Tips for cleaning and maintaining a waffle maker

Unplug the waffle maker before cleaning

Always make sure the waffle maker is unplugged and completely cool before cleaning it.

 

Clean the plates

Clean the plates with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the non-stick coating. Rinse the plates thoroughly and dry them with a clean cloth.

 

Clean the exterior

Wipe down the exterior of the waffle maker with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Dry it with a clean cloth.

 

Check for damage

Inspect the waffle maker for any damage or wear and tear, and repair or replace any parts as needed.

 

Store properly

Store the waffle maker in a dry, cool place, and cover it with a clean cloth when not in use.

 

Follow the manufacturer's instructions

Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific cleaning and maintenance guidelines for your specific waffle maker.

 

Keep your cash, use ours!

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