Whether you are contemplating opening a restaurant or small grocery/convenience store, refrigerated units are an essential to obtain. There are many types of commercial refrigeration, some of which are multi-functional. For instance, a refrigerated unit for commercial use may also serve as a food preparation station. Others are made for serving refrigerated buffet style foods. Here's a closer look at three of the more popular designs and the purpose each one serves:

1. Refrigerated Buffet Table

Have you ever purchased buffet-style fresh salad and cold entrees (often sold by weight) from your local supermarket? This selection is sometimes referred to as a cold salad bar. If you have, you've probably seen the refrigerated buffet table where all the offerings are kept.

Refrigerated buffet tables are made to keep cold foods fresh for the customers. They will have small containers for holding side dishes and condiments. You can place lettuce, spinach, olives, hard boiled eggs and a variety of veggies in this unit. The refrigerated buffet table often features caster wheels for mobility. They are made of durable stainless steel construction.

2. Refrigerated Food Prep Table

Most any restaurant or diner will have food prep tables in their kitchen and food preparation area. This unit acts as a refrigerator, and much more. Because on top of the unit there will be a table top area for preparing fresh foods. Underneath will be the compartment for storing food and ingredients that need to be kept cold

You will find pizza prep tables and sandwich prep tables. Sub shops and pizza shops use these to prepare their offerings. The top prep area will feature ample work space for productivity and efficiency. It will also feature small containers that hold the cold ingredients for making sandwiches and pizza, such as tomatoes, lettuce and fresh vegetables. Underneath, you will find swing-out doors for access to adjustable shelves that will hold refrigerated foods. Interior lighting will help you see inside the unit.

3. Refrigerated Merchandiser

All convenience and grocery stores (as well as most diners) will utilize refrigerated merchandisers. This is a unit that will hold cold foods and beverages for purchase. You will find the compact countertop refrigerated merchandiser, as well as the free-standing floor models. Glass door reach-in refrigerators are perfect for holding cold bottled beverages. The see-through, anti-fog glass door showcases your selection easily. Most feature a temperature control switch as well as interior LED lighting.  

For more information, contact companies like Hooten Equipment Company LLC​.