Pizza & Sandwich Shop Tips

From practical to purposeful, disposable cups come in many styles, sizes, and colors. Whether you're looking for ways for your restaurant to go green or just trying to find the cup that fits your needs, the wide variety of options available can make it difficult to choose. In this guide, we'll inves

As one of the most beloved foods across the country, pizza remains a staple in both our diets and conversations. There's a pizzeria for nearly every palate, stimulating the timeless debates of thin-crust versus thick-crust and whether pineapple is an acceptable topping. If you're ready to open a piz

A delicious salad starts with a quality salad spinner. Salad spinners gently spin lettuce and leafy greens to remove excess water after washing, keeping your salad crisp and fresh. They feature a drainage insert so water can quickly and easily drain to the bottom of the spinner and remain separate f

Check out our charbroiler reviews to compare equivalent models and to see the similarities and differences of each unit! These charbroilers are gas powered, but some are also compatible with lava rocks, which add a distinctive flavor. Since they're all countertop models, you'll save floor space in y

Food pans are used in every stage of the food preparation and presentation process. But from assembly to display, the types of food pans that restaurateurs and caterers use are not all created equal. That's why understanding the differences between these pans, and therefore determining which pan is

Commercial griddles are perfect for cooking foods at your diner, restaurant, or buffet. We offer countertop and drop-in griddles, both of which operate via thermostatic controls or manual temperature settings. You can also choose between gas, induction, and electric models, all of which heat up quic

Fresh cut fries are a big moneymaker for anyone in the foodservice industry. From concessions, to bars, to casual restaurants, customers are always looking for good fries to complement their meals or munch on as a midnight snack. A french fry cutter is the perfect way to reduce prep time, ensure uni

Soup kettles are essential in catering businesses, buffets, and cafeterias because they keep food warm throughout service. Learn the difference between each soup warmer, so you can find one with the capacity and heat settings you require. You can read these soup kettle reviews to find equivalent mod

Food processors are multi-functional units that allow you to perform a variety of different food prep tasks all with the same equipment. Whether you’re chopping or slicing, grinding or pureeing, our food processor comparison will help you find the model you need. Batch bowl processors collect food a

Pizza is beloved all over the country and served at many cafes, pizzerias, food trucks, restaurants, and bars. A key aspect of a pizzeria's success is using the right equipment and tools to make a good pizza that customers will love. One factor that impacts your pizza is the pizza pan you use, so it

Flour is the fundamental ingredient of many baked goods - including bread, pastries, pies, and cakes - as well as pasta and pizza dough. However, not all flour is alike. Various factors, such as protein content, how the flour is processed, and the grain, affect how you use it while baking. Whether y

A refrigerated bakery case or deli case can be a great way to increase sales in just about any food service operation, including coffee shops, convenience stores, grocery stores, and restaurants. Deli cases and bakery cases often look very similar from the outside, so how do you know which one is ri

Whether you're pumping out flame-kissed burgers, juicy steaks, or mouthwatering chicken breasts with tantalizing grill marks, chances are you're using a charbroiler of some sort. If your current one is on its last leg, or if you're looking to purchase one to add to your existing menu, you've probabl

Since its humble beginnings in Italy, pizza has gone through numerous transformations to become the dish that so many people know and love today. But if you’re just opening your first pizza place or want to add a pizza oven to your restaurant's patio, it can be difficult to decide what style of pizza your restaurant will make. We discuss the different types of pizza, their history, and what you’ll need to make them so you can start serving up delicious slices to your guests. Shop All Pizza Supplies and Equipment Use these links to learn more about the different types of pizza: Neapolitan Pizza Chicago Pizza New York Pizza Sicilian Pizza Greek Pizza California Pizza Detroit Pizza St. Louis Pizza Types of Pizza Crust Pizza Styles Check out our video showcasing the most popular pizza styles. For a skimmable guide to pizza styles, skip to our helpful infographic. 1. Neapolitan Style Pizza Neapolitan is the original pizza. This delicious pie dates all the way back to the 18th century in Naples, Italy. During this time, the poorer citizens of this seaside city frequently purchased food that was cheap and could be eaten quickly. Luckily for them, Neapolitan pizza was affordable and readily available through numerous street vendors. Types of Neapolitan Pizza Today there are three official variants of Neapolitan pizza: Pizza Marinara: Features tomatoes, garlic, oregano, and extra virgin olive oil. Pizza Margherita: Features tomatoes, sliced mozzarella, basil, and extra virgin olive oil. Pizza Margherita Extra: Features tomatoes, mozzarella from Campania, basil, and extra virgin olive oil. Traditional Neapolitan Pizza Toppings: The typical Neapolitan pizza toppings are fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil leaves, oregano, and olive oil. Since Neapolitan pizza is thin, it isn't designed to handle the weight of too many toppings. In fact, Neapolitan pizza is so thin that it's typically eaten with a fork and knife. Neapolitan Pizza Baking Suggestions: Many people will tell you that in order to make "real" Neapolitan pizza, it must be baked in a wood-burning oven that's heated anywhere from 800 - 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit, similar to how it was made many years ago. Baking the pie at this high of a temperature only takes around 70-90 seconds to fully cook. 2. Chicago Style Pizza Chicago pizza, also called deep-dish pizza, gets its name from the city it was invented in. During the early 1900s, Italian immigrants in the windy city were searching for something similar to the Neapolitan pizza that they knew and loved. Instead of imitating the notoriously thin pie, Ike Sewell had something else in mind. He created a pizza with a thick crust that had raised edges, similar to a pie, and ingredients in reverse, with slices of mozzarella lining the dough followed by meat and vegetables, and then topped with a can of crushed tomatoes. This original creation led Sewell to create the now-famous chain restaurant, Pizzeria Uno. Traditional Chicago Pizza Toppings: Generally, the toppings for Chicago pizza are mozzarella, ground beef, sausage, pepperoni, onion, mushrooms, and green peppers, placed underneath the tomato sauce. Some locations will finish off their pizzas with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese across the tomato sauce. Chicago Pizza Baking Suggestions: To easily get a Chicago pizza out of the pan, it's important to wipe the pan down with oil. Adding oil to the pan also helps to make the base of the dough a bit crispier. Since there are more toppings and dough, baking a deep dish pizza can be a lengthier process, with a baking time of 30 - 35 minutes. 3. New York Style Pizza With its characteristic large, foldable slices and crispy outer crust, New York pizza is one of America’s most famous regional pizza types. Originally a variation of Neapolitan pizza, the New York slice has taken on fame all its own, with some saying its unique flavor has to do with the minerals present in New York’s tap water supply. Traditional New York Pizza Toppings: New York pizza usually features tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. Unlike its thin crust counterpart, the Neapolitan, New York pizzas can handle a wide range of additional toppings, from pepperoni and sausage to mushrooms and anchovies. While this type of pizza can have virtually anything added to it, it's common to find pizza lovers topping New York pizza with condiments like oregano, red pepper flakes, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. New York Pizza Baking Suggestions: Just like the Neapolitan pizza, many will tell you that for a New York pizza to be authentic, it has to be cooked in a wood or coal-burning oven. Today, many people use gas deck ovens to bake them, which creates the same delicious and crispy result in 12-15 minutes. 4. Sicilian Style Pizza Sicilian pizza, also known as "sfincione," provides a thick cut of pizza with pillowy dough, a crunchy crust, and robust tomato sauce. This square-cut pizza is served with or without cheese, and often with the cheese underneath the sauce to prevent the pie from becoming soggy. Sicilian pizza was brought to America in the 19th century by Sicilian immigrants and became popular in the United States after the Second World War. Traditional Sicilian Pizza Toppings: Sicilian pizzas are often topped with bits of tomato, onion, anchovies, and herbs. Sicilian Pizza Baking Suggestions: To bake Sicilian pizza, line your pan with an olive oil blend and press the crust in. The oven's temperature is usually set to 450 degrees Fahrenheit with the crust getting a head start on baking, usually for 15-20 minutes. The toppings are then added with an additional bake time of 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Back to Top 5. Greek Style Pizza Greek pizza was created by Greek immigrants who came to America and were introduced to Italian pizza. Greek pizza, trendy in the New England states, features a thick and chewy crust cooked in shallow, oiled pans, resulting in a nearly deep-fried bottom. While this style has a crust that is puffier and chewier than thin crust pizzas, it’s not quite as thick as a deep-dish or Sicilian crust. Traditional Greek Pizza Toppings: Greek pizza is usually heavier on the sauce than the cheese. The sauce typically has a tangy tomato paste with a strong oregano flavor. It is often only topped with cheese, which is usually a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone. It may feature a variety of non-Greek or Greek toppings, such as feta cheese, black olives, and red onion. Greek Pizza Baking Suggestions: To get a puffy, chewy crust, Greek pizza is typically baked in a shallow, round pan that has been heavily coated in olive oil. Lining the pan with oil also allows the bottom of the dough to fry while it bakes. Greek pizza usually bakes in a 450-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 12-15 minutes. 6. California Style Pizza California pizza, or gourmet pizza, is known for its unusual ingredients. This pizza got its start back in the late 1970s when Chef Ed LaDou began experimenting with pizza recipes in the classic Italian restaurant, Prego. He created a pizza with mustard, ricotta, pate, and red pepper, and by chance, served it to Wolfgang Puck. Impressed with LaDou’s innovative pie, Puck invited him to be the head pizza chef at his restaurant. It was here that LaDou came up with over 250 unique pizza recipes that eventually formed the menu of the chain restaurant California Pizza Kitchen. Traditional California Pizza Toppings: When it comes to California pizza, there's no such thing as traditional toppings. This lack of specificity allows you to get inventive. You can include anything from chicken and artichokes to goat cheese and egg. California Pizza Baking Suggestions: California pizza typically follows the same baking style as New York pizza, where it can be baked in a wood or charcoal oven for a minute or so, or in a deck oven for 12-15 minutes. 7. Detroit Style Pizza Reflecting the city’s deep ties to the auto industry, Detroit pizza was originally baked in a square automotive parts pan in the 1940s. Detroit pizza is first topped with pepperoni, followed by brick cheese (a semi-hard cheese named after the bricks used to press the curds) which is spread to the very edges of the pan, yielding a caramelized cheese perimeter. The sauce is then spooned over the pizza, an order similar to Chicago pizza. This pizza features a thick, extra-crispy crust that is tender and airy on the inside. Traditional Detroit Pizza Toppings: Detroit pizza traditionally features pepperoni, brick cheese (usually Wisconsin brick cheese), and tomato sauce. Other typical toppings include mushrooms and olives. Detroit Pizza Baking Suggestions: Detroit pizza traditionally uses a jelly roll baking pan to get its deep, rectangular shape. There is a specific way to shape the dough into this pan, which requires pressing the air out from the dough while pushing the dough to the edges of the pan. When adding the cheese, make sure to spread it generously across the dough and to the edges for a caramelized perimeter. Cook at the highest temperature setting (500 to 550 degrees Fahrenheit) for 10-15 minutes. Cut your slices in squares for authenticity! 8. St. Louis Style Pizza Looking for a light slice? St. Louis pizza features a thin crust with a cracker-like consistency that is made without yeast. Due to the crispy crust, St. Louis pizza is usually cut into 3- or 4-inch rectangles, known as "party" or "tavern" cut. This pizza features Provel processed cheese, which is a gooey combination of cheddar, Swiss, and provolone cheeses. St. Louis received an influx of Italian immigrants in the 19th century who were looking for employment opportunities. The Italian community, largely from Milan and Sicily, created the St. Louis pizza. Its sweet sauce is reminiscent of the Sicilian influence. Traditional St. Louis Pizza Toppings: St. Louis pizza features Provel cheese and a sweeter tomato sauce with a hefty dosage of oregano. Because of its firm crust, St. Louis pizza can support several toppings of your choice. St. Louis Pizza Baking Suggestions: St. Louis pizza requires a pizza stone or a thin baking sheet to achieve its famously crackly crust. Place on the lowest rack position in a 425-degree Fahrenheit oven for 8-12 minutes. Back to Top Types of Pizza Crust While the dough and crust of a pizza can fly under people’s radar, they are the foundation of creating a delicious pizza. There are several ways to mold and shape your pizza dough and crust, but the two most popular styles are thin and thick crusts. Thin Crust Pizza Thin crust pizzas are slimmer in the center where the sauce, cheese, and ingredients are placed, but lead up to a crunchier edge. To get thinner dough, the key is to gently stretch out the dough to form the edges. Pizzas with thin crusts, like Neapolitan and New York, often don't have many toppings because they can’t handle the weight. If you want to add more toppings to your pie, you can still utilize a thin crust. To do so, simply make the center of the pie a bit thicker. Thick Crust Pizza Thick crust is thick throughout to handle the weight of the sauce and toppings. Typically, the crust can range in thickness anywhere from 1/8 to 1/4 inch. Since thick crust pizzas, like Chicago and Sicilian, have edges to contain all the sauce, cheese, and toppings, the crust is generally rolled out on a cutting board and molded into the shape of the pan that is used to bake it. Supplies and Equipment for Different Styles of Pizza Just like each pizza is different, so are the supplies and equipment you'll need to make them. Each pizza requires different equipment and ingredients depending on the style of pizza you will make. General pizza supplies consist of convection ovens, pizza cutters, pizza peels, and bulk spices. Certain specialty pizzas require specific types of pizza pans or screens to bake with. For example, New York and California pizzas are traditionally made on a pizza screen and served on a coupe pizza pan, and Chicago pizzas are baked in a deep dish or cast iron pan. If you are looking to bake the perfect specialty pizza, make sure you have the right supplies to create your desired type of pizza. Back to Top Our list of different types of pizza will help you narrow down what styles you want to add to your menu. From a simple cheese pizza to your own custom pie, pizza provides you with a great way to show off your culinary skills.

If you need to dice and slice large quantities of onions, potatoes, tomatoes, or peppers, check out our vegetable slicer comparison to find the product to meet your needs. All these slicers have cutting blades that slice evenly and consistently with every use, saving you valuable preparation time an

A staple piece of equipment for your outdoor kitchen setup is the addition of an outdoor pizza oven. In addition to baking delicious pizza, these versatile ovens can bake bread, desserts, meats, and vegetables. Given the popularity of pizza, an outdoor pizza oven is a perfect item to add to your equ

Providing freshly-cut French fries straight from your kitchen is a great way to increase profits, and we can help you find the perfect equipment to start with our fry cutter comparison! Fries can be dipped in ketchup, soaked in vinegar, or piled high with cheese and bacon, making them an all-time fa

Found in nearly every commercial kitchen, aluminum foil serves a multitude of functions. Our food service foil rolls come in convenient cutter boxes, and we offer four different widths. For on-the-go operations, we offer foil wrap sheets in three pre-cut sizes!

Refrigerated prep tables are essential pieces of restaurant equipment for any foodservice business. They combine the necessity of a refrigerator with a convenient cutting board so you can quickly and easily assemble your ingredients to create signature dishes. They come in a variety of sizes and sty

Your perfect pizza isn’t far away! Find the right fit for your kitchen by comparing our commercial pizza oven reviews. Our pizza ovens can suit and need, whether you’re upgrading to keep up with sales or just starting up. All our models provide even heating to ensure consistent results and come in a

There's nothing quite like freshly made pizza. However, whether you manage a restaurant or pizza shop, it can be hard to get the crust to crisp up just right without a pizza oven. One effective pizza tool you can use to achieve that satisfying, crispy crust is a pizza stone, which is a flat, hard disc that’s usually made of ceramic or stone. The surface is very porous, so it absorbs the excess moisture from the dough baking on top of it, leaving it crispy. In addition to pizza, these stones can be used to make cookies, biscuits, and bread. All you need is your stone and this guide, and you can start making foods with a lighter, crispier texture that are sure to be a hit. Shop All Pizza Stones For a visual representation of how to use a pizza stone, check out the video below. Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Use a Pizza Stone 1.Put your pizza stone in the oven when both are at room temperature. 2.Preheat oven to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Pizza stones should always be warmed up and cooled down gradually. Otherwise, they may crack due to thermal shock. 3.Prepare the pizza while you're waiting for the oven to heat up. 4.When the oven is ready, use a cornmeal-dusted pizza peel to slide the pizza on the hot stone in the oven. If you have trouble with your pizzas sticking to the stone, dust the pizza stone with cornmeal before putting the pizza on it, or use a pizza screen for the first half of the cooking process. 5.Bake the pizza for 10-15 minutes. 6.Remove your pizza using the pizza peel. Leave the pizza stone in the oven. 7.Turn your oven off and let the pizza stone cool down inside. 8.When you're done, brush the pizza stone off with a wire bristle brush to clean it. Because the stone is extremely porous, it should never get wet or be cleaned with chemicals, unless specifically stated by the manufacturer's instructions. If cheese or other foods get stuck on, leave the oven on high until the unwanted food burns and can be brushed off. It's normal for the stone to have stains or marks that don't come off.

What is a dough box? Essential for your Italian pizzeria or busy commercial bakery, dough boxes are useful and effective for keeping fresh dough at its finest. These multi-purpose boxes perform numerous functions for your business, including proofing dough so that your most popular breads and pizza

With 93% of Americans consuming pizza at least once a month, it’s no surprise that pizza shops are one of the most popular types of restaurants. Opening a pizzeria can be a great investment, especially when you’ve prepared correctly. If you’re wondering how to open a pizza shop, your first priority should be coming up with delectable recipes and deciding what types of pizza you want to feature on your menu. See below for a complete guide to starting your pizza business. Shop All Pizzeria Supplies & Equipment Opening a Pizza Shop Whether you are ready to open your pizza shop or are deciding if you want to open one, it's important to understand what is necessary to start a successful pizza-serving business. 1. Create Your Pizza Recipes and Form Your Menu With pizza places on nearly every street corner, you can set your pizzeria apart by honing your craft to make sure your pizza is unique and tastes great. High-quality, fresh ingredients are important for flavor, and you can also experiment with various toppings to design innovative pizzas. Make sure to write down each step when trying out different recipes, so you can recreate your pizza inventions. Deciding what will be on your menu can set the stage for fleshing out your service style and brand. It will also determine what type of equipment you need, the crowd you hope to attract, the staff you hire, and the funding you might need. These are all important when forming your idea and writing a business plan. 2. Choose Your Pizza Shop Service Style and Brand Coming up with a promising concept and brand is important for envisioning your restaurant, writing your business plan, and securing funding. Choosing a Pizza Shop Service Style The most common pizza place service styles are below. You can also choose a combination of these service styles. This decision may ultimately depend on how much startup funding you have, the location you choose, and your unique vision. Sit-down. A sit-down pizzeria allows for a wider range of customers than other service styles. In addition, it allows you to communicate your brand, ambiance, and to provide hospitality. This option, however, has an increased investment. Delivery. A delivery pizza shop is a convenient option for many customers. However, there is an increased risk related to the safety of your delivery drivers along with an increased price for customers because of the delivery labor cost. Take-Out. A take-out pizza place is likely the least expensive option, as it requires less equipment, space, tableware, and more. One downside is that the price and food are your only main selling points as opposed to your pizzeria’s unique feel and welcoming wait staff. Choosing a Pizza Shop Brand Choosing a brand for your pizza place may depend on your service style. But you can (and should) still create your own memorable brand. Are you a fast casual spot that’s geared towards millennials, or are you a sit-down, upscale spot with Italian dishes? Are you an old-fashioned pizza hub with Coca-Cola bottles and retro signs? Next to the food you offer, your restaurant's brand and feel are the next factors to win over customers, so be sure to put careful thought into your concept. 3. Write a Business Plan for Your Pizza Place Here is a basic overview of what should be included in your pizza shop business plan. A business plan is essential for structuring your business, staying organized, and obtaining funding. Executive Summary Company Overview and Description Market Analysis Business Offerings Management Marketing and Public Relations Strategies Financial Projection 4. Find a Great Location for Your Pizzeria When choosing a location to open your pizza place, we recommend the following techniques: Try to find an area where similar restaurants are scarce. Some healthy competition can be a good thing in the restaurant world, but you don't want to be overshadowed by the most popular pizza place nearby. Find a spot that is easily visible. If possible, choose a location that faces a busy street, gets heavy foot traffic, or features parking spaces. If your pizza shop is open and inviting to passersby, you'll be more likely to bring in new customers. Explore the demographics and eating patterns of people in the area. Make sure there is a customer base that will be attracted to your restaurant service style and brand in the location you choose. 5. Secure Loans and Funding for Your Pizza Place When seeking funding for your restaurant, you will first want to figure out what amount of total startup funding you need for your pizza shop. You should first assess how much money you already have available to use as startup funding and how much more you will need to get your pizza shop started. To do this, consider all the costs of opening your pizza shop and the costs necessary to keep it running on a daily basis. You should then budget, predict, and plan the next year in advance to know how much you will need to stay in business. Consider applying for restaurant startup loans if you need funding to carry out your business plan. 6. Stock Up on Pizza Business Equipment The pizza business equipment necessary for your pizza shop will depend on your restaurant concept, but there are some essentials that every pizzeria will need: Refrigeration equipment Dough preparation equipment, such as dough sheeters, dough presses, and proofing cabinets Pizza ovens – you can choose from conveyor ovens, impinger ovens, pizza deck ovens, convection ovens, or a brick pizza oven Basic preparation supplies, including pizza cutters, cutting boards, serving utensils, and plates Serving supplies, like pizza stands and pizza delivery bags You may be able to find deals on used or outlet cooking equipment for your pizza shop. Pizza ovens are a big expense, so look for discounts wherever you can find them. For a complete list of equipment, check out our pizza shop equipment list. 7. Hire Qualified Employees Your employees will be the face of your pizzeria, so you want to make sure they'll represent you in the best way possible. When interviewing candidates, look for positive, warm personalities. It's important that customers feel comfortable interacting with your staff. Also look for potential employees who are genuinely interested in becoming a part of your restaurant. If they care about the success of your pizzeria, they are more likely to put forth hard work and good effort. 8. Advertise Your New Pizza Shop It's important that locals and out-of-towners both know about your pizza place and can find helpful information about it. Create excitement around your new pizzeria to entice customers to want to try it. Utilize social media. Create a Facebook and Instagram account that entices potential patrons with photos of your food, behind-the-scenes pictures of employees, and information about your pizzeria. Make sure to use high-quality photos. Create an appealing website. Your website should be easy to navigate and should represent your brand. Include all the necessary information about your pizza place, such as your address, phone number, hours, and menu. Join Yelp. This is another easy way for patrons to easily learn about your pizzeria but to also leave feedback. Since it is a well-known website, joining Yelp will also increase your credibility. Create an ad for the local paper. Getting the word out before you open your pizza shop could give you an advantage, especially if pizza businesses are already popular in the area. Create a digital check-in. Create a digital rewards program through an app that will appeal to the growing number of consumers who use smartphones. Create an email list. The trick to engage customers with emails is to use relevant content to each group of customers. For example, sending dine-in specials to reservation customers or sending delivery coupons to online ordering customers are both great ideas. Your email should communicate your brand and forge a relationship with guests who will look forward to choosing your pizza place. Offer promotions to new customers. Give guests a free soft drink or an extra side dish with a pizza slice. This will give customers the impression that they are treated well at your establishment, and they will be more likely to recommend your pizza shop and to return themselves. Consider hosting a grand opening. This can take place after your soft opening or in place of it. You can also host other events, such as late-night promos, how-to-make-your-own pizza nights, music events, or themed dinners. 9. Host a Soft Opening We recommend hosting a soft opening before your full-fledged starting date. This allows you to test run your service strategies and fix any issues that may come up. Consider offering a smaller menu or just serving for part of the day. You can also host friends and family event withs complementary dishes or invite local businesses. These approaches also help you to gain local patrons who may spread the word of your new pizza place before its official opening date. With such a high demand for pizza, opening a pizza shop has the potential to yield great returns. But this profitable bottom line is more likely with impeccable logistical planning, delicious recipes, and a distinctive brand and concept. If you're looking for more specific ways to captivate your pizzeria customers, be sure to incorporate new foodservice trends into your pizzeria.

Whether you’re frying up side orders and appetizers or preparing an entree, our commercial fryer reviews will help you find the perfect unit for your kitchen’s needs! These fryers create crunchy, yet flavorful fries, chicken, funnel cakes, and more. From compact countertop models for light-duty appl

From sandwich shops to catered events, there’s an insulated food delivery bag that’s suitable for nearly every food transportation application. Whether you’re looking for leakproof options for packing up cold beverages with ice or a style of bag that folds flat to save on storage space while not in

Outfit your deli, cafe, concession stand, or sandwich shop with a panini grill, so you can expand your menu by offering grilled sandwiches, wraps, quesadillas, and other breakfast, lunch, or dinner options. We’ve provided commercial panini grill reviews that compare and contrast each style’s design,

Our toaster oven reviews help you compare the pros and cons of each commercial toaster oven as well as their price quotes side-by-side. You can use commercial toaster ovens to warm bread, melt cheese, or even bake goods in faster amounts of time. Thanks to their convection-style technology, these ov

Perfect for hotels, cafeterias, restaurants, bars, and more, these commercial ice maker reviews clearly outline the information you need to make the decision that’s right for you. Our selection of the best ice makers has some unique features to fit your specific needs such as LED lighting, front-bre

If you're starting a pizzeria, the most important investment you'll make is your pizza oven. While individual models vary, there are five types of commercial pizza ovens: brick, conveyor, deck, convention, and countertop. These five types categorize models of varying sizes and capabilities. Understanding how the different types of pizza ovens operate, their heating method, as well as their average cost, production volume, and dimensions helps you narrow your search. Shop All Commercial Pizza Ovens Click any of the sections below to learn about the different pizza oven types: Brick Pizza Oven Conveyor Pizza Oven Pizza Deck Oven Convection Pizza Oven Countertop Pizza Oven Pizza Oven Comparison Charts What Is the Best Commercial Pizza Oven? Foodservice professionals agree brick ovens are the best commercial pizza oven model. While it’s natural to want the best commercial pizza oven, you also need to consider your pizza order volume, budget, kitchen size, and the types of pizza you want to make. Use our guide to discover the best commercial pizza oven for your business. Be sure to check out our commercial pizza oven reviews as well! Different Types of Pizza Ovens The different types of pizza ovens are distinguished by three main factors: how they operate, how much space they require, and how much they cost. We break down everything you need to know about each of the five pizza oven types so you can make an informed decision about the benefits and challenges of investing in each. 1. Brick Pizza Oven Designed to cook pizzas slowly and evenly, brick pizza ovens are heated by burning wood and imbue pizzas with smoky flavors. The bricks take a long time to heat, but once they’re hot, brick pizza ovens maintain high temperatures. You can design your brick pizza oven as an outdoor pizza oven. Outdoor pizza ovens offer the same wood-burning, artisan flavors as indoor models but usually take up less space. They’re perfect for pizzerias with attractive patio spaces and they elevate the menu of any wine garden. Brick Pizza Oven Fast Facts Brick Pizza Oven Pizzas Per Hour – Approximately 80 Brick Pizza Oven Cook Time – 2-5 Minutes Brick Pizza Oven Heating Method – Convection, Reflection, and Conduction Heat Brick Pizza Oven Preheat Time – 45-60 Minutes Brick Pizza Oven Cost – Custom made, so cost varies by contractor, size, and materials. The Best Types of Pizza to Cook in a Brick Pizza Oven – California-Style, New York, Neapolitan, Chicago, and Sicilian Brick Pizza Oven Production Volume Most brick pizza ovens can hold 10-12 pizzas at a time and can fully cook a pizza in less than five minutes. You can avoid heat recovery time by maintaining your brick oven’s fire. Most brick pizza ovens only have one cooking platform which limits their cooking space. They’re a reliable pizza oven for medium-sized operations, but high-volume pizzerias would do well to choose a conveyor oven. Brick Pizza Oven Dimensions Most brick pizza oven dimensions range from 150 cubic ft to 400 cubic ft., but they’re custom-designed to fit each location. Brick pizza ovens often reach from floor to ceiling and sit atop bases as large as 30 square feet. Restaurants use brick ovens for both function and presentation. A brick pizza oven serves as a centerpiece attraction and is usually built where customers can watch and appreciate it in action. Back to Top 2. Conveyor Pizza Oven A conveyor oven churns out pizzas as fast as you can make them on a continuous cooking platform. Place the pizza on the conveyor belt, and the oven does the rest of the work by pulling it through at a set speed. Some models increase production capacity by stacking up to four conveyor ovens on top of each other. Conveyor ovens are the best option in settings where efficiency is the biggest priority, and you can purchase the gas or electric hookup style your business requires. Conveyor Deck Pizza Oven Fast Facts Conveyor Deck Pizza Oven Pizza Per Hour – 75-100 per deck Conveyor Deck Pizza Oven Cook Time – 4-5 Minutes Conveyor Deck Pizza Oven Heating Method – Convection or Radiant Heat Conveyor Deck Pizza Oven Preheat Time – 10-15 Minutes Conveyor Deck Pizza Oven Cost – $5,000-$30,000 The Best Types of Pizza to Cook in a Conveyor Deck Pizza Oven – New York and Neapolitan Conveyor Deck Pizza Oven Production Volume Each deck on a large conveyor oven produces approximately 100 pizzas an hour. Medium-sized conveyor deck ovens typically produce 75 pizzas per deck each hour. It takes conveyor deck ovens four to five minutes to cook a pizza. Because the pizzas are passing under or through the constant heating elements, there is no time lost for heat recovery. Conveyor Deck Pizza Oven Dimensions Conveyor deck pizza oven dimensions range from 100 cubic ft. to 180 cubic ft., and most are wide enough to fit two large pizzas side by side. Restaurants need a lot of floor space to house a conveyor oven and accommodate the extended conveyor belts at their entrance and exit. A single-stack conveyor oven requires up to 150 cubic feet (about half the volume of a storage unit), while triple-stack ovens often take over 330 cubic feet (about the volume of a storage unit) of floor space. Back to Top 3. Pizza Deck Oven Because their hot stone decks directly heat the pizza crust, cooking the dough completely without charring the toppings, pizza deck ovens are ideal for cooking pizza pies. Deck ovens also employ radiant heat, which sends infrared heat waves to warm the pizza throughout, preventing burned crusts and unmelted cheese. Deck ovens are a great long-term investment because they last many years, even decades, and hold their resale value. Maintaining a pizza deck oven is easy, just scrub burn marks on the decks and wipe down the outside. Since they have no moving parts, pizza deck ovens rarely require professional repairs. Pizza Deck Oven Fast Facts Pizza Deck Oven Pizza Per Hour – Approximately 50 pizzas per deck Pizza Deck Oven Cook Time – 6-8 Minutes Pizza Deck Oven Heating Method – Conduction and Radiant Heat Pizza Deck Oven Preheat Time – Approximately 60 Minutes Pizza Deck Oven Cost – $5,000-$30,000 The Best Types of Pizza to Cook in a Pizza Deck Oven – New York, Chicago, Sicilian, and Neapolitan Pizza Deck Oven Production Volume On average, each pizza deck holds four to six pizzas and produces 50 pies an hour. Baking times range between six and eight minutes. Pizza deck ovens are not a hands-off cooking method. Your staff will need to monitor the pizzas while they cook and move them around, so you may lose time to heat recovery and run out of space. Some models overcome the inherent lack of cooking space by offering multiple stacked decks. Pizza deck ovens can have anywhere from one to six decks. Pizza Deck Oven Dimensions Pizza deck oven dimensions range from 100 to 180 cubic feet. They’re ideal for medium-sized pizzerias, since a high-capacity, four-deck oven requires approximately 160 cubic feet of space. While their overall size rivals conveyor ovens, pizza deck ovens have stacked designs that require more vertical space than horizontal. Back to Top 4. Convection Pizza Oven Commercial pizza convection ovens circulate hot air, cooking every side of the pizza at once. Since the heat is coming from the circulating air, convection pizza ovens typically brown cheese toppings before they finish cooking the pizza dough. Since they are the least expensive to purchase and maintain, non-pizzerias do well to save money with commercial pizza ovens. By using a pizza stone in a conviction oven, one can even simulate the results of a brick pizza oven. By cleaning the inside daily and the intake fan weekly, you can cut down on replacement or repair costs. Convection Pizza Oven Fast Facts Convection Pizza Oven Pizza Per Hour – Approximately 40 pizzas per chamber Convection Pizza Oven Cook Time – 5-6 Minutes Convection Pizza Oven Heating Method – Convection Heat Convection Pizza Oven Preheat Time – 15-20 Minutes Convection Pizza Oven Cost – $1,000-$10,000 The Best Types of Pizza to Cook in a Convection Pizza Oven – New York and Neapolitan Convection Pizza Oven Production Volume On average, convection pizza ovens produce 40 pizzas per chamber each hour. Most models have two to five racks per chamber and can fit one or two 16" pizzas on each rack. It usually takes a convection oven five to six minutes to cook one pizza. Cook times vary depending on the temperature and the number of pizzas in the oven. You will lose some heat when you open the door to remove your pizzas, but most convection ovens counter this effect and minimize heat recovery time. Commercial convection ovens are best suited to restaurants that want pizza as a menu option but aren’t pizza-focused. Convection Pizza Oven Dimensions Most convection pizza ovens require 15 to 60 cubic feet, making them the ideal choice for restaurants with limited space. Some convection pizza ovens have a narrow width and an elevated height to reserve precious floor space for other pizza shop equipment and storage. Back to Top 5. Countertop Pizza Oven You can save money and space by purchasing a countertop version of convection, conveyor, and deck ovens. While the number of pizzas a countertop pizza oven makes per hour varies widely by oven type, they all produce fewer pizzas than their full-sized counterparts. Most countertop pizza ovens are electric, so you can install them anywhere there is an electrical hookup or outlet. Not only do countertop pizza ovens save floor space, but you can also stack them on top of each other or other pieces of equipment to save valuable countertop space as well. They are the ideal choice of equipment for food trucks and concession stands. Types of Countertop Pizza Ovens – Convection, Conveyor, and Deck Countertop Pizza Oven Cook Times – Countertop pizza ovens yield compatible cook times to their full-sized versions. Countertop Pizza Oven Preheat Time – Approximately 12 minutes but varies by oven style. Countertop Pizza Oven Cost – $100-$11,000 The Best Types of Pizza to Cook in a Countertop Pizza Oven – New York, Neapolitan, Heating Frozen Pizza Back to Top Comparison Chart of Pizza Oven Efficiencies Oven TypePizzas Produced/ HourSizeCostHeating MethodPreheat TimeCooking TimeOperator Skill Level Convection40 / chamber15 ft³-60 ft³$1,000-$10,000Convection heat15-20 minutes5-6 minutesLow Conveyor80 / belt150 ft³-300 ft³$5,000-$30,000Convection or radiant heat10-15 minutes4-5 minutesLow-Medium Deck50 / deck100 ft³-180 ft³$5,000-$30,000Conduction and radiant heat60 minutes6-8 minutesMedium-High Brick80 / deck150 ft³-400 ft³ or moreLargely varies by contractor, size, materials, and aesthetic designConvection, reflection, and conduction heat45-60 minutes2-5 minutesHigh How to Make Different Types of Pizza: The Best Oven for Each Oven TypePizza StyleTopping LevelCrust Thickness ConvectionNew York and NeapolitanLight and Medium ToppingsThin and Medium Crusts ConveyorNew York and NeapolitanLight and Medium ToppingsThin and Medium Crusts DeckNew York, Neapolitan, Chicago, and SicilianLight and Heavy ToppingsAll Crusts BrickCalifornia-Style, New York, Neapolitan, Chicago, and SicilianLight and Heavy ToppingsAll Crusts Back to Top By taking your operational needs and financial requirements into consideration, you can find the best commercial pizza oven for your business. Whether you need a steady stream of pizzas or want to diversify your menu with a couple of pies, there is an ideal pizza maker for your needs.

Compare our countertop induction range reviews to find the perfect model for your unique kitchen! This type of cooking uses magnetic induction to heat the pan directly, rather than the surface underneath of it, meaning that only induction-ready, magnetic cookware, such as stainless steel or cast iro