Resources
How To Size Restaurant Grease Traps
Fats, oils, and greases have no place in drains. A commercial grease trap is the ideal solution to keep them out. Grease traps slow the flow of water allowing the oils and grease to cool and then collect them to be cleaned out. Burkett Restaurant Equipment offers a variety of grease traps. To properly size one you need to use the following formula: Commercial grease traps are sized according to the rate of incoming flow, in gallons per minute (GPM). Associated with this incoming flow rate is the trap's capacity. This rated capacity, in pounds, is listed at twice the flow rate. For example, a 10 GPM trap has a rated capacity of 20 pounds. Keep in mind to consider not only how much grease you may generate, but also the size of the bowl on your sink. Similarly to overflowing a funnel, if your grease trap is too small it won’t be able to keep up with the rate of water flow. It is important to size a grease trap larger than calculated (round up to next available size only). A grease interceptor that is extremely oversized will have longer periods between pump-outs. The rotting grease will adversely affect the structure of the grease interceptor.
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Rice Cooker Benefits for Your Restaurant
A restaurant-grade rice cooker isn’t just a convenience; it’s an essential tool for maintaining consistency, reducing labor, and maximizing efficiency in high-capacity kitchens. Among the many rice cooker benefits, reliability and ease of use stand out. Here’s why every restaurant should invest in a commercial rice cooker for their operations. 3 Reasons Restaurants Need a Commercial Rice Cooker In the fast-paced world of foodservice, every second counts. Whether you’re running a busy restaurant, catering service, or hotel kitchen, efficiency is key. Enter the commercial rice cooker—a kitchen workhorse that streamlines rice preparation and enhances the quality of your dishes. 1. Consistency in Every Batch One of the key benefits of rice cookers is their ability to produce consistent results. In a restaurant setting, quality consistency is critical. Whether you’re cooking sushi-grade short-grain rice, fragrant jasmine rice, or hearty brown rice, a rice cooker will uniformly cook each batch. This kind of reliability helps maintain the quality of your dishes and keeps customers returning. 2. High-Capacity Cooking for High Demand Unlike home models, industrial rice cookers are designed to handle large quantities. They can cook up to 110 cups of rice at once, making them ideal for high-traffic restaurants, buffets, or catering operations. A high-volume capacity allows for cooking large batches of rice without sacrificing quality. This can give more time and stove space to other menu items. 3. Set It and Forget It Convenience Commercial kitchens are hectic environments where multitasking is a necessity. With a restaurant-grade rice cooker, you simply load the rice and water, press a button, and let the machine do the work. The automatic “keep warm” function holds rice at ready-to-serve temperatures without drying out or overcooking. Beyond Rice: Unlock the Potential The advantages extend beyond just perfectly cooked rice. This multi-use capability can help streamline your restaurant’s workflow and expand menu offerings. Steaming Capabilities Many industrial cookers come with steam trays, allowing you to steam vegetables, dumplings, or proteins like chicken or fish. You can craft healthy side dishes or handle a variety of culinary tasks with just one appliance. Cooking Grains for Diverse Menus Easily handle a variety of grains, such as quinoa, farro, and bulgur to provide flexibility in your menu. This is particularly beneficial for establishments that serve diverse dietary preferences, such as grain bowls or vegetarian dishes. Improved Efficiency, Reduced Labor For restaurants, efficiency is key. A commercial rice cooker can significantly reduce the labor involved in manually monitoring rice or other grains during cooking. By automating the process, it frees up kitchen staff to focus on other essential tasks, enhancing overall kitchen productivity. Durability Designed for Commercial Use Professional kitchens are busy environments and need equipment that can withstand daily use. Constructed from durable, high-quality materials, industrial rice cookers can endure the wear and tear of high-volume environments. Investing in a durable unit for your restaurant can remove the need for frequent equipment replacements. The Right Rice Cooker for Your Restaurant In the competitive world of foodservice, even small improvements in your kitchen setup can lead to positive results. Rice cookers are low-maintenance, high-impact additions that consistently produce perfect rice, improve overall kitchen efficiency, and reduce labor costs. Ready to elevate your kitchen’s performance? Explore the range of commercial rice cookers and find the perfect model for your restaurant today!
Restaurant Education: Preparing Your Restaurant for High Voltage Appliances
With the exception of a clothes dryer or oven, most household appliances only require 120 electrical volts, whereas commercial restaurant equipment and appliances run at higher voltages (208 volts to 240 volts). If you’re opening a new foodservice establishment, or remodeling your existing restaurant, coffee shop, or bar, you will be buying equipment and acting as a middle man between your electrician and your equipment dealer. Read on to understand the basics you’ll need to understand to be comfortable talking directly to your electrician and ensuring your establishment is properly wired. Standard 120 Volt household appliances generally have the same standard plugs on the ends of their power cords, and those plugs can be plugged into any standard household outlet. This is not true of high voltage commercial appliances. There are different kinds of plugs and different kinds of outlets for high voltage appliances. Most people realize the plug on the end of your appliance’s power cord needs to fit the outlet. For this reason, many commercial appliances are shipped without a plug at the end of the power cord. The person doing the installation first looks at the outlet, and then provides a compatible plug which they put on the end of the power cord as part of the installation procedure. The main reason for having different plugs is to ensure that the appliance does not exceed the current limit of the wiring in the wall. For high voltage outlets, you will typically see 20 Ampere sockets, 30 Ampere sockets. Make sure that the circuit that your electrician installs will comfortably handle the current that your appliance will pull. Consider putting in a 30 Ampere circuit for a 20 Ampere appliance to ensure you’re not regularly tripping the circuit breaker. If you intend to plug more than one appliance into the same circuit, make sure you add up the currents from all of the appliances (this should be available on the equipment’s spec sheet). Ask your electrician to install a circuit that can handle the total current. Finally, look for plugs that lock into the socket. This will prevent the plug from being dislodged accidentally. Some zoning boards will require this as a "safety feature." They are concerned that if someone trips over the cord, the plug will get pulled out, and there could be a small spark that would cause any nearby volatile gasses to explode.
Restaurant Resource: How to Test for Gas Leaks in Your Kitchen
Gas leaks are serious—even small ones can endanger staff, customers, and equipment. Because some leaks are too subtle to smell, it’s essential to routinely test any restaurant equipment powered by natural gas. This guide covers two reliable testing methods, where to check, and what to do if you find a leak. Why Regular Gas Leak Testing Matters A few months ago, I found a natural gas leak in my basement. Watching the gas company test my appliances and lines made me realize how easily I could have prevented it. The same applies to restaurant kitchens: preventive testing can save time, money, and potential hazards—especially with ranges, ovens, and fryers that run on natural gas. Two Ways to Test for a Gas Leak 1) Bubble Test The bubble test is a classic, affordable method. Mix soap and water or use a commercial test solution (video demo) that clings to metal for easier detection. Place the solution in a spray bottle or bowl. Brush or spray it on pipes, fittings, and valves. Watch closely—if bubbles form, you’ve found a leak. 2) Electronic Leak Detector An electronic gas leak detector can identify even tiny leaks and is simple to use (many just require batteries). When gas is detected, an audio alarm will sound. Safety Tip: Always test in a well-ventilated area. If you suspect a large leak, do not attempt testing—evacuate immediately and call your gas provider or a qualified professional. Where to Check for Leaks Before you begin: Turn off the gas at the shut-off valve, then burn off any remaining gas from the stove. Flex Pipe: The line connecting your range to the shut-off valve. Older ranges are especially prone to leaks here. Cut-Off Valve: Inspect carefully around the valve’s shaft and joints. Control Valves: Check the valves for each top burner, oven, and broiler. Thermostatic Valve: Inspect the oven/broiler’s thermostatically controlled valve and all internal pipe connections. Pilot Light Connections: For older ranges with pilot lights, examine all connection points thoroughly. What to Do if You Find a Leak Leaking cut-off valve: Call a professional to replace the valve. Leaking flex pipe or burner/oven control valves: These components can typically be replaced using manufacturer-approved parts. Internal piping issues: Contact your range manufacturer for the correct parts and instructions. Key Takeaways Not all gas leaks are detectable by smell—test routinely. Use a bubble test or an electronic detector for quick results. Start with the flex pipe and shut-off valve; inspect all control and thermostatic valves. Call a pro for valve replacements or suspected major leaks. Keep manuals and approved replacement parts on hand. Recommended Next Steps Schedule regular kitchen safety inspections. Train staff on recognizing leaks and emergency procedures. Keep make/model information accessible for swift parts sourcing. Bookmark Burkett resources for manuals, parts, and expert support.
How to Pour a Perfect Draft Beer
Unlike men, not all beer is created equal. There are hundreds of different kinds of draft beers that you can serve at your bar or restaurant. With this in mind, it is important to know how to properly pour a draft of beer. Courtesy of the American Bartenders School, here are a few tips for how to pour the perfect draft: Use a Clean Beer Glass... Leftover residue will distort the taste of the beer and affect carbonation. 45 Degree Angle... Hold the Beer Glass at a 45 degree angle so the beer will hit the middle of the glass, allowing the beer to flow down to the bottom of the glass. This will guarantee the proper head. When the glass is 2/3 full of beer, straighten the glass out and hold it upright. Foam... Target for 1/2 inch of foam, by increasing the distance between the beer spout and the glass. Also, make sure to keep the faucet opened completely to avoid too much foam. Temperature...Never serve beer in a warm glass. There are a variety of Glass Chillers that will keep your mugs at the perfect chilled temperature. Then There was Guinness... Guinness experts suggest using a two-part pour method for its notorious thick and nitrogenous stout. To do this, pour the beer about 2/3 of the way up the glass and wait 30 seconds to help the nitrogen bubbles in the beer settle.
10 Drinks You Can Make with an Immersion Blender (includes recipe link)
After yesterday's post, it's pretty clear that an Immersion Blender is amazing when creating delicious dishes, but it's just as awesome when used to make drinks. Here is a list of 10 drinks that you can make with an Immersion Blender: Frozen Cherry Mojitos - My Baking Addiction Berry Smoothie- The Spruce Eats Frozen Coffee Frappuccino- Burkett Restaurant Equipment D.I.Y Orange Smoothie- The Kitchn Raspberry Cafe Mocha Latte- Kylee Cooks Dark Varietal Chocolate Drink- The Daily Meal Pineapple Mint Daiquiri- Epicurious Isle of Manhattan Fizz- TF Recipes Strawberry Kiwi Daiquiri- Tasty Kitchen The Perfect Peach Daiquiri- The Modern Cookery
Benefits of a Quick Disconnect Gas Connector
Have you heard the saying, "Small Investment Big Pay-Off!"? Well, a Quick Disconnect Gas Connector is one of those small investments with a big pay-off. There are several reason why we advise that businesses pay a little extra for this product as opposed to a Stationary Gas Connector Hose. 1. Health Departments Prefer Them Over Standard Gas Connectors.... Quick Disconnect Gas Connectors have a “thermal shut-off” safety feature which automatically shuts off the gas flow when internal temperatures exceed 350ºF. The "Safety Quick" feature also prevents users from accidentally turning on the gas while the appliance is not connected to the gas line and also prevents the hose from being disconnected when gas is flowing. These two features will keep you, your customers and employees, as well as your business safe and minimize fire hazards. 2. They take less time and are easier to install than Standard Gas Connectors.... The Quick Disconnect Gas Connector has a "push-to-connect" quick disconnect that allows convenient one-handed operation to safely and quickly disconnect the gas line when needed. Installing and disconnecting is made simple with the Dormont SnapFast Quick Disconnect Technology. To Connect: Push coupling components together until they snap into place. To Disconnect: Push or pull the operating ring and the coupling will immediately separate and gas flow will shut off. 3. They Allow Equipment to Be Easily Disconnected and Moved for Cleaning or Servicing.... Disconnecting a Quick Disconnect Gas Connector is easy and quick which will decrease service technician's labor costs. Another factor to consider is your employees handling of gas equipment. According to Sales Consultant Andrew Martinez, restaurateurs must remember,"When your employees move a unit to clean around it, or pick something up, they may not understand how far they can move the unit and cause a Standard Gas Connector to release from the gas supply. This will allow gas to flow, be exposed to flames, and create a very dangerous situation." So the next time you are purchasing an equipment that requires a gas connection, we strongly recommend that you purchase a Quick Disconnect Gas Connector. If you already have a Standard Gas Connector you can still replace it with a Quick Disconnect Gas Connector. If you have any questions about this product, the Burkett Sales Consultants can assist you. Contact the Sales Consultants for more information.
How to Keep Your Hot Food Hot
Whether you're serving your food buffet style at your restaurant or you're inviting all your friends and family over for all day affair like a football game, you must keep in mind that hot food needs to stay hot and cold food needs to stay cold! For just a small investment in the right equipment you can accomplish this with ease. For soups, meatballs or stews, you can used a 7 or 11 quart soup warmer to keep product hot such as Nemco's 6101a or 6100a. If you need to get the product hot once it is thawed use the Nemco model 6103A or 6102A. These items will be able to take a frozen soup product that has been thawed and get it through the 41 to 135 degree temperature range quick enough to accommodate board of health regulations. For larger quantities use the Nemco 6055a to hold product or the 6055A-CW to heat and hold just like the 7 and 11 quart units. If you need to have products like chicken wings that are fried and you need to hold them hot take a look at variety of food holding and warming equipment. They come in a variety of colors and sizes to fit your everyday needs. For additional information please check out burkett.com or reach out to one of our trusted sales reps.
A Meat Slicer Is A Meat Slicer...Right?
Talking to a customer the other day that needed a slicer and asked what he was going to slice he thought that was a odd question. He said "A slicer is a slicer! Right?". There are many questions that need answers to properly size a slicer. The two items in any kitchen you do not want to under size is an ice machine and a slicer. If you are going to slice lunch meat, onions, tomatoes etc.. you can get by with a belt driven unit. Slicers are rated for how many total hours per day they will be used. It goes from one hour such as the globe model C9 which is for light duty, use up to two hours per day such as the globe model G12 ,G12A.You also should look at the horsepower of the motor and the diameter of the blade. If you want to be safe and not worry about what you will be slicing then consider the model S13, SG13-05 or SG13 which are all heavy duty rated slicers. These units are suitable for deli operation since they are rated for all day slicing of both meats and cheeses. Of course once you are done slicing you need to make sure you weigh the product out correctly. If you are selling to the public by the ounce or by the pound you have to use a scale that is legal for trade, such as the Globe model GSP30B which is a label printing scale. This scale will have to be certified by the state weights and measure board. You can not use a regular scale if you are selling to the public by the measured amount. If you just need to weigh 4 ounces of meat or three ounces of cheese, then you can use a basic portion scale. So remember, keep in mind how much and how often you are slicing! For more information on all your slicing needs visit us at burkett.com or reach out to one of our trusted sales reps.
Concession Merchandising the Right Way
Concession merchandising is an essential part of stadiums, sporting events, and more. Without a concession stand, fans wouldn't have the same experience. The smell of freshly popped popcorn, hot pretzels steaming behind the merchandiser glass, crunchy cheesy nachos, what more could you want? Concessions serve as the primary source of food and drinks for spectators at an event. Concession equipment and supplies allow concessions stands to do what they're meant to do - serve food to hungry fans. Whether you own a stand, cart, or trailer, this blog will help you find the right equipment to make your business a success. The success of a concession stand largely depends on its ability to effectively display and sell its products. This is where merchandisers and display cases come into play. Properly displaying your concessions can help increase visual appeal which can lead to increased revenue. Concession stalls frequently sell a variety of high-profit food items, such as popcorn, nachos, hot dogs, and cotton candy. So, wouldn’t you want to know what types of merchandisers can help your profits skyrocket? Below, we’ve laid out the most popular concession merchandisers and how they can make your operation stand out. The Secrets of Effective Concession Merchandising Before we talk about what merchandiser you need, let's look at why you need it! Effective concession merchandising is a blend of art and science, where every element plays a crucial role in attracting customers and boosting sales. Here we discuss the elements of concession merchandising that boost sales and make your products irresistible to customers. 1. The Power of Lighting: Strategic lighting is the bread and butter of concession merchandising. Bright, inviting lights not only highlight the products but also create an atmosphere of warmth and welcome. Proper lighting makes sure products are seen and showcased in a way that's visually appealing. 2. Product-Specific Merchandising: Each type of concession snack needs a unique approach to merchandising. For instance, the way you display popcorn – with its enticing aroma and visual appeal – differs from what matters when displaying packaged snacks or bottled drinks. Customize your concessions merchandising approach to each product type to maximize quality and appeal. 3. Quality Preservation: Effective merchandising isn't just about display; it's also about maintaining product quality. The right equipment makes sure foods like hot dogs and nachos remain at safe serving temperatures, preserving taste and texture, which is essential for customer satisfaction. 4. Engaging Display Designs: The design of display units can have a significant impact. Vibrant colors, clear signage, and thematic decorations aligned with the event or venue can create a more engaging and memorable customer experience. 5. Sensory Engagement: Successful concession merchandising taps into multiple senses. The smell of freshly popped popcorn, the sound of sizzling hot dogs, and the visual appeal of a brightly lit cotton candy machine all work together to draw customers in. 6. Accessibility and Convenience: Placement of merchandising units is critical. They should always be positioned to maximize visibility and ease of access. This ensures that customers can effortlessly locate and reach for their favorite snacks. By understanding and implementing these key elements, you can use concession merchandisers to create a dynamic and effective sales environment that not only delights customers but also significantly boosts revenue. Concession Merchandising Access Types: Now that we've explained the key principles that make concession merchandising a success, let's look at the broad categories of equipment that will make these ideas a reality. Each type of merchandiser brings a unique benefit to enhance product visibility and customer appeal. Countertop Merchandisers – Countertop display cases are compact, easy to use, and ideal for small spaces. Ideal for showcasing snacks, drinks, and deserts, they are available in refrigerated, dry, or dual temperature zone models. Full-Service Merchandisers - For larger concession stands, full-service display cases are essential. These high-capacity models, including multideck options, offer ample space and are perfect for a diverse product range. They are available in heated or dry merchandisers, as well as refrigerated, freezer, or dual zone models. Beverage Merchandisers - Beverage displays are designed to keep drinks cold and refreshing while they are being displayed. They come in a variety of sizes and styles. Most models feature adjustable temperature controls and lighting to showcase drinks and add appeal. Drink merchandisers are available in glass door and open-air designs. Display Shelves - Drop-in heated shelves and countertop warming shelves are a great way to keep foods hot on non-heated buffets. These electrical shelving units can be placed nearly anywhere with the proper connection, making them quite versatile. Different access types are suitable for different applications. Some concessions snacks are self-service, allowing staff to focus on other tasks. Others require staff to serve food to customers. Keep in mind the space and staff you have available when choosing your concession merchandising equipment. Equipment Spotlight: Popular Concession Merchandisers Strategic use of the right concession merchandising equipment will enhance customer experience and drive sales. These merchandisers not only visually appeal to customers but also engage their senses, particularly through sight and smell, ultimately leading to increased foot traffic and sales. Quick Navigation Pizza Merchandisers Pretzel Merchandisers Nachos Merchandisers Cotton CandyMerchandisers Hot DogMerchandisers PopcornMerchandisers Pizza Merchandisers Designed to hold multiple whole pizzas at a single time, these units will keep your slices hot, fresh, and ready to eat. Pizza merchandisers come in a range of shapes and sizes. These display cases have temperature controls and adjustable lighting to better display and present pizzas. Pizza warmers come in either 3 shelf or 4 shelf designs, with rotating or non-rotating configurations. Mouthwatering masterpieces are highlighted by interior lighting, capturing the attention of visitors. Modern signage provides your concession stand with an improved appearance and increased visibility. Tip: If you need some serious pizza holding space, the Nemco 6452 4 Shelf Rotating Heated 22" Heated Pizza Merchandiser has 4 rotating shelfs! You can show off up to 4 whole pizzas at any time. The rotation will keep slices warm and fresh, while the lighting, signage, and aromas will capture customers attention. Pretzel Merchandisers Available at nearly any concession stand, soft pretzels are an easy profit-maker. Pretzel merchandisers and display cases are necessary for keeping soft pretzels warm and ready-to-serve. These displays provide lighting, heat, and easy access for customers. After cooking pretzels using a countertop deck oven, place the finished products in a display case and watch them sell themselves. The correct placement of one of these units can give passer-byers a sense of nostalgia and tantalize them with sweet aromas. This can lead to an otherwise unwanted purchase. Our assortment of pretzel merchandisers will keep your big soft pretzels hot, moist, and ready to find a new home! Tip: The Nemco 6403 15" Pretzel Merchandiser provides multiple racks while taking up little counter space. It's a favorite for small to medium sized concessions stand thanks to its small footprint. Nachos Merchandisers If your concession stand has heavy traffic, then it would be best to invest in a nacho chip merchandiser. Buy your chips in bulk and keep them warm and fresh in one of these secure heated chip cabinets. Just use a scoop to fill up nacho trays and garnish with cheese and peppers. An appealing nacho chip display case can also draw the attention of a crowd and lead to sales. With interior lighting and exterior promotion, your nachos will sell themselves. Tip: This Gold Medal 2189 Nacho Chip Warmer is an excellent choice for any nacho dealer. Also, check out nacho cheese dispensers and chip warmers to complete your nachos serving display. Cotton Candy Merchandisers Commercial cotton candy makers are simple to operate and spin swiftly to minimize consumer wait times. When serving this sugary snack, the machine itself is enough to gain customer interest. However, there are even better ways to show off and drive sales using cotton candy displays. Cotton candy merchandisers make candy preparation and display more efficient and appealing. They come in a variety of sizes and styles, with some models featuring a built-in cotton candy machine for convenient and efficient snack preparation. Tip: The Gold Medal 3149 Pinkie Floss Cart is a great choice for displaying cotton candy creations. This unit provides a sturdy surface and exciting appearance. Hot Dog Merchandisers Hot dogs are a staple in concessions all over the country. You can easily turn a profit with the appropriate commercial hot dog equipment. Hot dog broilers, roller grills, and steamers are excellent cooking devices that can double as merchandisers. That makes them perfect for facilities with a limited amount of space. If you’re looking to add some eye candy to your concession stand or booth, a merchandiser cart will be sure to attract a crowd. To keep your products fresh and free from any germs, add a hot dog grill sneeze guard for more safety. Check out the Nemco 6550-DW Countertop Mini Hot Dog Steamer Cart here! Tip: A countertop merchandiser cart is a fun way to cook and show off your products. Not only will these hot dog carts hold hot products to proper serving temperatures, but they also come configured to hold buns and toppings. Keeping all of your supplies in one location means less movement for operators and customers. Popcorn Equipment Popcorn Poppers: Countertop popcorn poppers not only produce and display fresh popcorn, they also feature vibrant decorations and signage that enhance promotional efforts. Choose between high volume popcorn makers or low volume popcorn makers. These units are an all-in-one popcorn making and selling machine. Popcorn Warmers: Commercial popcorn warmers keep packed or loose popcorn at the perfect temperature until sale. A built-in warming deck is in each popcorn display cabinet to help maintain warmth for extended periods of time. By pre-popping before you open and keeping fresh popcorn in one of these containers, you can satisfy long lines more quickly. Popcorn Carts & Popcorn Wagons: Popcorn carts and wagons are a fun visual and practical piece of equipment that can help your business stand out. These carts and wagons will securely hold either your popcorn machine or popcorn warmer. Popcorn wagons give customers a sense of nostalgia thanks to their old school look and feel. Popcorn merchandisers effectively display your fresh popcorn and release enticing aromas, boosting foot traffic and potential sales. A great choice when looking for popcorn merchandising is the Gold Medal 2015 Red Popcorn Wagon Stand which perfectly fits the Gold Medal Whiz Bang 2014 Popcorn Machine. Conclusion Whether you're looking for a compact countertop display, a heated or refrigerated case, or a multideck merchandiser, at Burkett we offer a wide variety of concession display equipment to meet your needs. The right food display can make your concession stand more efficient and profitable. Sometimes just the sight of a warm pretzel or fresh muffin can trigger customers into making an immediate purchase. Then again, sometimes all it takes is the overwhelming smell of some delicious popcorn or fresh pizza to attract some sales. Concession merchandisers are sure to improve your establishments atmosphere and success! Need some help starting your food truck or concession stand? Check out “How to Build a Concession Trailer”.
