Keeping your commercial kitchen running smoothly can help your business succeed. Establishing an organized and streamlined workflow, though, isn’t as simple as it sounds.
If you don’t know where to start, you might be hindering your progress. That can lead to wasted money, food, and time, or even employee dissatisfaction.
Luckily, you don’t have to stay uninformed. In this guide, we share advice on how to optimize your workflow to help you see your company’s progress in no time.
1. Choose the Right Layout
Choosing the right layout for a commercial kitchen workflow is essential for optimizing workflow and making the most efficient use of the space. When it comes to layout, it’s important to ensure that the stations are laid out in the order of their use. All the equipment within each station should be laid out in a way that promotes smooth workflow, with easy access to the right tools and ingredients.
Adequate lighting and open space should also be taken into account while designing the layout. Additionally, the layout should be designed in a way that is flexible enough to incorporate any changes that may be needed in the future.
2. Utilize Space Wisely
The kitchen should be arranged in a zoned pattern, with sections devoted to food prep, cooking, plating, and dishwashing. These zones should be organized in terms of station order and size, such as the largest or busiest area near the center of the kitchen.
Remember to also consider the size and number of utensils, equipment, and staff. Lastly, keep the walkways clear of equipment and clutter to allow for enough space for kitchen staff to move freely and efficiently.
3. Use the Right Kitchen Equipment
Use quality and reliable equipment such as coolers and other large equipment. There is a lot of walk in cooler manufacturer to choose from.
Taking the time to research and get the right pieces of equipment can greatly improve workflow in the kitchen. Additionally, selecting ergonomic cutlery, knives, and other utensils that help reduce fatigue and strain can help increase speed and accuracy.
4. Add Automation
Adding automation to optimize workflow in a commercial kitchen layout can result in many benefits. Automated ordering systems can reduce the time wasted manually transcribing orders or re-entering data. Inventory systems can track product usage quickly and accurately, preventing cooking delays due to a lack of resources.
Automated prep tasks such as pre-chopping and portioning can speed up fine-tuning processes, allowing employees to focus on creating a superior final product. Automated accounting and billing processes speed up financial transaction times, meaning customers spend less time waiting to pay their bills.
5. Implement Environmental Plan
Invest in energy-efficient equipment and appliances, such as energy-efficient refrigerators and freezers, as well as LED lighting. Develop a waste-reduction plan that encourages composting and recycling.
Use high-quality, eco-friendly countertops and equipment to reduce water and energy use. Incorporate environmentally friendly practices into daily operations such as using reusable containers and eco-friendly cleaning products.
Managing Commercial Kitchen
Optimizing your workflow in the commercial kitchen requires dedication, attention to detail, and lots of organization. Managing your menus, staff, inventory, and time wisely can save time and money while ensuring superior service. If you’re ready to optimize your kitchen’s workflow, begin by learning the basic principles of effective kitchen operations and implementing them today. Your staff and customers will thank you!
Found this interesting? Read the rest of our blog and learn more.
