The heart of any restaurant is the kitchen, but for the heart to beat, it needs to have the right kitchen restaurant equipment. A commercial range is one of those vital cooking equipment components. The workhorse that will keep all those culinary delights coming to the front-of-house.

But how do you choose the best commercial range for your commercial restaurant? This comprehensive guide is a good place to start. Learn all there is to know about this cooking equipment and the different types and factors that may affect your purchasing decision. We share some tips to help you choose the most suitable range and a selection of the top commercial range models. 

Let’s start by exploring the different types of commercial ranges that may suit your restaurant.

What factors to consider when choosing the best commercial range for your business?

A commercial range is a significant investment to make, whatever the size of your business. An extremely versatile piece of restaurant kitchen equipment, it comes in different sizes and shapes with features depending on your needs. 

When shopping for a commercial range, there are several factors you must consider. 

Type

Commercial ranges come in different types and can be used for virtually any cooking task. They are suitable for various cooking methods such as boiling, braising, blanching, stewing, simmering, sauteing, steaming, and frying.

If the range includes a convection oven base, you can use it for roasting, baking, and broiling. However, these functions will depend on the type of oven the range incorporates.  

Gas Restaurant Commercial Ranges

A gas range connects to a propane or natural gas supply. Gas ranges are available with multiple burner configurations.

A gas range designed for high-volume kitchens ensures chefs can keep up with demand and deliver a range of dishes.

Features:

• Come with storage bases, convection ovens, and various other convenient options

• Ideal for cafeterias, restaurants, and diners

• Include many burners

• Cast iron grates

• Easy to adjust temperatures

• Raised cooking surface

• Configurations include burner or griddle only or burner and griddle combos

• High back burners available

Price range: $1,500 to $30,000   

Electric Restaurant Ranges

Electric commercial ranges offer the same cooking power as a gas range but require an electric hookup. Constructed from sturdy materials, they can easily handle the daily grind of high-demand food delivery. 

Features:

• Infinite heat control that delivers maximum flexibility

• Flat solid surface griddles for even and faster heating

• Adjustable feet

• Large griddle grease cans

• Heavy-duty thermostat

• Polished stainless steel front & surfaces

• Compact models available to suit kitchens with limited space

• Easy to relocate as there is no disconnecting and reconnecting of gas lines required

Price range: $4,500 to $31,000 

Pilotless Ignition Gas Ranges

With a pilotless gas range, you don’t need to stress about having a standing pilot. A gas range is an excellent option in kitchens that aren’t used daily, such as a function venue, lodge, or church hall.

The burners in these commercial ranges are converted to pilotless ignition in the manufacturing stage and can be turned on and off as required. 

Features:

• Pilotless burner ignition system

• Stainless steel front & other exterior surfaces

• Porcelain-enameled oven interior 

• Energy-efficient models available

• Smart ignition helps save up to 80% on fuel

Price range: $6,000 to $16,500

Commercial Hot Plates

Commercial hot plates are available in both natural gas and electric configurations. A gas hot plate tends to be cheaper to run, is more powerful, and produces concentrated heat.

On the other hand, an electric hot plate is more mobile, making it ideal for occasional use. Ideally, a hot plate should be placed on a sturdy stand. 

Features:

• Single and double burners available for smaller kitchens

• Up to 10 burner configurations for large commercial kitchens

• Electric and gas configurations 

• Cooking capability of a range top burner but without an oven

• More affordable prices

Price range: $350 to $36,300 

Induction Burners

Induction burners work differently from traditional cooking or heating elements and open flames. An electromagnetic current heats the pots/pans silently and effectively.

The advanced high-heat technology these burners use makes them a great alternative to hot plates or full-size electric/gas commercial ranges. Their size and efficiency make them ideal for catered events, buffets, and food trucks.

Features:

• Compact size and easy to move around

• Heats the bottom of the pan or pot directly, which helps to keep the ambient heat low

• Optimal energy usage

• More suitable for small establishments

• Digital temperature controls

• LED displays

• Automatic shut-off feature

• Advanced features such as electronic ignition make them very versatile 

Price range: $170 to $3,500+

Stock Pot Ranges & Burners

Stock pot burners and commercial ranges are ideal if you regularly cook sauces, and soups, boil pasta, or heat large amounts of liquids.

They are very similar in design to hot plates but have a much larger and heavier cooking capacity. In addition, the heating power is also much higher. 

Features:

• Designed for heavier cookware and large stock pots

• Have a much higher heating power

• Ideal for cooking stock quantities of sauces, soups, and other liquid foods

• Single and double burner options

• Heavy-duty cast-iron grates

• Fiberglass nylon knobs

• High-heat cooking burners

Price range: $450 to $6,300 

Wok Ranges

A wok commercial range burner can be custom-built for commercial kitchens that regularly create stir-fry dishes. A perfect cooking solution for Chinese, Asian, and Indian restaurant kitchens that need heavy-duty commercial equipment. 

Features:

• Burner-only configurations

• High BTU models available

• Come in a range of sizes

• Multiple chambers possible, from 1 to 10 ring setups

• Adjustable legs

• Removable drip trays

• Constructed using heavy-duty materials 

Price range: $600 to $43,000

Power Source

Typically, commercial ranges are powered by electricity or gas. However, induction cooktops are becoming increasingly popular because they are so efficient and effective. 

A gas commercial range will provide instant heat because of the open flame. The instant heat means shorter cooking times. You don’t have to wait for it to heat up, and there is instant and precise control over the heat intensity. Liquid propane and natural gas are generally more energy-efficient, and operational costs tend to be lower. However, gas ranges require equipment and pre-existing hookups. Both of these can make installing them expensive and arduous.  

An electric range is easier to install than a gas one, is more energy-efficient, and is easier to keep clean. There is also the option of having a convection oven as one of the features. However, precision cooking is more challenging on an electric range. Electric ranges also tend to be more expensive. 

Ignition

Commercial ranges use one of two types of ignition:

• Pilot ignition: This has a small pilot light that is always lit, which keeps the thermocouple hot. It’s not quite as energy-efficient as electronic ignition because it uses a tiny amount of gas to keep the pilot lit. There can be problems with the pilot light going out, especially if it goes out mid-operation. 

• Electronic ignition: This type is also known as spark ignition. An electric current creates a spark. When the spark comes into contact with the gas, it ignites and creates a flame. 

Size - Number of burners

There is a wide range of sizes to choose from, with 1 burner up to 12 or more. If trying to decide how many burners you need, think about the number of customers you serve every day and how busy your kitchen gets. If the volume of orders is high and you do various cooking styles, investing in a large range with multiple open or sealed burners would be a good option.

As well as the number of burners, you might also want to consider how powerful the burners are. Many operations and recipes require intense heat. High-volume food establishments would be better choosing a range with 32,000 BTU burners. However, a smaller establishment with less demanding requirements might only need a burner that emits 20,000 BTU.  

Safety

Ventilation systems are vital in commercial kitchens. You can contact the National Fire Protection Association, the International Mechanical Code, and check your local codes to find out about the regulations for vents and exhaust systems. 

In addition, many commercial ranges come with various safety features such as flame and ignition failure systems and cut-off valves and switches.  

Burner Output

The output of commercial gas ranges is measured in BTUs or British Thermal Units. A high BTU means the gas range will heat up quicker. It will also be able to provide power for longer which can be important if your kitchen is operational for long periods. 

Efficiency

In the US, there is an ENERGY-STAR program that is spearheaded by the EPA. However, commercial ranges are not currently classified under this system. 

However, there are some things you can take into consideration if you want your commercial kitchen to be as energy-efficient as possible:

Induction ranges are more accurate and, therefore, more energy-efficient.

• Natural gas is the next best option compared to an electric range. 

• Choose a gas range with electron ignition as this doesn’t waste as much gas as a range with a standing pilot light

Durability

You should look for a commercial range that offers the best value for money. When constructed using durable materials, it will stand up to the rigors of a busy kitchen for much longer. 

Is it easy to clean?

Keeping your range clean is vital in a commercial kitchen. Gas ranges are not as easy to keep clean. Other features that can make cleaning easy include splashbacks, crumb trays, and easy-to-clean porcelain surfaces.

When an establishment is running all day, maintenance is another consideration. If a range is poorly maintained, it will increase expenses, and impact the quality of the food, waste, and safety. It may also increase hazards such as burns, fumes, and even a fully-fledged fire. 

For your kitchen equipment to perform safely, it must be cleaned and maintained regularly. That would include a daily and monthly cleaning schedule. Obviously, the easier your range is to keep clean, the better it is for everyone.

Which are the best commercial ranges?

Now, let's explore the best commercial ranges of each type.

1. Best Gas Restaurant Ranges

Cookline CR24-4-LP 24" Liquid Propane 4 Burner Commercial Range with Oven - 151,000 BTU

If you're looking for impressive performance when you cook food, the Cookline CR24-4-LP 24" Liquid Propane 4 Burner Commercial Range with a space saver oven ticks the box. It’s perfect for any food business, including restaurants and cafeterias.

Its heavy-duty construction can handle the heaviest of cookware. And the double racks in the oven offer additional cooking space because they can be arranged in four configurations. 

• Material: Stainless steel with cast iron grate 

• Dimensions: 24” (L) x 32.6” (D) x 60” (H)

• Price: $1,395.00

Main features

• Lift off heads on burners

• Thermostatically controlled oven

• Welded frame

• Standby S/S pilot

• Leg/caster options

• Anti-clogging pilot cover under the grate

• Pull-out crumb tray

• U-shape oven burner

Standard Range SR-R24-NG 24" Natural Gas Commercial Range with 4 Burners, 1 Oven - 153,000 BTU

For streamlining cooking operations, the Standard Range SR-R24-NG 24" Natural Gas Commercial Range with 4 Burners and 1 oven offers independently operated 30,000 BTU/hr burners. Its sturdy grate supports a range of cookware very effectively.

• Material: Stainless steel with cast iron grate

• Dimensions: 24” (L) x 32” (D) x 59” (H)

• Price: $1,395.00

Main features

• Burners have their own standing pilot light

• Porcelain-coated oven interior

• Adjustable oven temperature: 200°F - 500°F

• Metal knobs for manually controlling gas

• Cool-to-touch front deck

• Effective ventilation (rear flue) to circulate hot air

• Full-width easy-to-remove crumb tray

• Fully serviceable from the front

Cookline CR36-6-NG 36" Natural Gas 6 Burner Commercial Range with Oven - 211,000 BTU

For larger establishments such as a cafeteria or restaurant, the Cookline CR36-6-NG 36" Natural Gas Burner comes with 12 grates and 2 chrome racks for the space saver oven. It’s very maintenance-friendly and is a high-performing oven, producing superior cooking results. 

• Material: Stainless steel with cast iron grate

• Dimensions: 36” (L) x 32.6” (D) x 60" (H)

• Price: $1,595.00

Main features

• 6 powerful 30,000 BTU top burners

• 6” adjustable legs or optional casters

• Thermal coupling safety valve

• Includes LP conversion kit 

• Anti-clogging pilot cover

• Deep crumb tray

• Removable grates for easy cleaning

• Kick plate t0 protect internal components

Cookline CR60-10-NG Natural Gas 60" Commercial Range, 10 Burner, 2 Oven - 362,000 BTU

The Cookline CR60-10-NG 10 burner, 2 oven gas commercial range can handle the pressure in the busiest kitchens. The oven can deliver temperatures up to 550°F, and the U-shape burner ensures the heat is delivered evenly. 

• Material: Stainless steel with cast iron grates/cooking surfaces

• Dimensions: 60” (L) x 32.6” (D) x 60” (H)

• Price: $2,595.00

Main features

• 10 x cast iron open lift-off burners, each delivering 30,000 BTU/hr

• Thermostatically controlled oven: 250°F- 550°F

• Stable welded frame structure

• Legs standard with heavy-duty casters optional

• Cast iron grate 12” x 12”

• Anti-clogging pilot cover

• Removable crumb tray

• U-shaped oven burner

• Thermal coupling safety valve

• Well insulated stainless steel oven doors

• LP conversion kit is available

2. Best Electric Restaurant Ranges

Imperial IR-6-E 36" 6 Round Element Electric Restaurant Range w/ Standard Oven - 240V

Imperial is a family-owned company that has been producing electric cooking restaurant equipment for more than 50 years. The Imperial IR-6-E 36" 6 electric range has 2KW round heating elements which deliver heat fast and evenly.

• Material: Stainless steel exterior and oven with porcelainized sides 

• Dimensions: 36” (L) x 31.25” (D) x 56.5” (H)

• Price: $4,518.00

Main features

• Easy-to-clean round plate flat heating elements

• Solid heating surface is much quicker

• Easy-clean cooking surfaces

• Maximum cooking flexibility thanks to infinite heat controls

• Even cooking temperature due to the unique baffle situated above the element

• Heavy-duty thermostat

• Oven temperature range from 150ºF to 500ºF

Imperial IR-8-E-XB Pro Series 48" Electric 8 Round Elements Restaurant Range with Standard Oven & Open Cabinet Base - 240V

This is another electric range from the family-owned Imperial company. The Imperial IR-8-E-XB Pro Series 48" has easy-to-clean surfaces and solid heating elements that heat evenly and quickly. The solid top also prevents spills from getting into the unit. 

• Material: Stainless steel exterior and oven with porcelainized sides 

• Dimensions: 48” (L) x 31.25” (D) x 56.5” (H) 

• Price: $10,394.00

Main features

• 5.3KW high-performance cooking

• Unique baffle distributes the heat flow evenly for superior cooking results

• Stamped inner door liner for extra strength and optimal heat retention

• Heavy-duty thermostat for controlling temperature: 150ºF to 500ºF

• 5” large landing ledge

• Cast aluminum control knobs with heat protection grip

3. Pilotless Ignition Gas Ranges

American Range ARGF-6-LP 36" Commercial Liquid Propane Gas Range with Green Flame Pilotless Ignition

The American Range ARGF-6-LP 36" 6 burner model features a porcelain enamel finish that can withstand high temperatures and makes cleaning it easy. On-demand sparks from the smart ignition system ignite selected burners and bring fuel savings of up to 80%. 

• Material: Stainless steel exterior finish with porcelain-enameled oven interior

• Dimensions: 36” (L) x 32.25” (D) x 56” (H)

• Price: $7,452.00

Main features

• 6 x 30,000 BTU open burners

• Pilotless burner ignition system

• 6” legs with chrome plate

• Cast-iron burner grates

4. Best Commercial Hot Plates

Cookline GS2 Countertop 2 Burner Electric Hot Plate - 5200W

The Cookline GS2 Countertop 2 burner electric hot plate is perfect for small establishments such as coffee shops, convenience stores, restaurants, or caterers. The solid burners make it easy to clean, and its stainless steel construction means it’ll last for many years. 

• Material: Stainless steel 

• Dimensions: 15.7” (L) x 25.6” (D) x 15.7” (H)

• Price: $593.00

Main features

• 5200W hot plate

• Heat release backsplash

• Solid burners ensure fast heating

• Built-in vents extract heat away from the unit and the person cooking

• Adjustable legs

• Compact and convenient footprint

Cookline CHP-36-6 36" Commercial Gas Hot Plate w. Six Burners - 150,000 BTU

The Cookline CHP-36-6 36" Commercial Gas Hot Plate comes with 6 x 25,000 BTU burners. Its construction makes it one of the most reliable and durable commercial ranges you can buy. 

• Material: Stainless steel with cast iron burners

• Dimensions: 35.4” (L) x 30” (D) x 13.4” (H)

• Price: $749.00

Main features

• 6 x octagon-shaped cast iron burners

• 12” x 12” cast iron grates

• Easy-start standby pilot light

• Heavy-duty, stainless steel adjustable legs

• Chrome-coated zinc alloy knobs

• 2, 4, and 6 burner options available 

5. Best Induction Hot Plate Burners

Cookline IC-3000 Countertop Induction Cooker 3000W 220V

Anytime you need an extra burner, the Cookline IC-3000 induction cooktop can come to the rescue. It heats rapidly and is much safer than other open burner ranges, especially in small spaces. 

• Material: Stainless steel 

• Dimensions: 12.6” (L) x 16.9” (D) x 4.7” (H)

• Price: $199.00

Main features

• No flammable fuel source or open flame makes it very safe to use

• Electronic parts are kept cool by double fans

• Digital display

• Digital controls

• Easy timer and temperature adjustments

Cookline IC-3600F Double Countertop Induction Range / Cooker - 208-240V, 3600W

The Cookline IC-3600F Double Countertop Induction Range features two burners you can control independently and cook different foods simultaneously. There’s also a built-in timer that means you can precisely set times for optimum cooking. 

• Material: Stainless steel 

• Dimensions: 29.52” (L) x 16.93” (D) x 5.71” (H)

• Price: $349.00

Main features

• Flameless heat and overheat protection

• Auto switch off safety feature

• Can fit pans up to a maximum diameter of 11”

• Temperature range of 140°F - 460°F

• Double induction burners with independent controls

• 120-minute timer function

6. Best Stock Pot Ranges & Burners

Cookline CSP1 Single 18" Burner Commercial Gas Stock Pot Range - 110,000 BTU

A stock pot range comes into its own for preparing large quantities of stock liquids. If your kitchen has high BTU needs, the Cookline CSPI single 18” stock pot burner fits the bill. 

• Material: Stainless steel  

• Dimensions: 18” (L) x 24.6” (D) x 23” (H) 

• Price: $595.00

Main features

• 110,000 BTU

• Cast iron 18” x 24.6” grate

• Polished stainless steel front

• Easily accessible pilot valve adjustment screws

• Fully adjustable heavy-duty legs

• Full-width crumb tray

• Fiberglass nylon control knobs that are cool to the touch

• Factory set for natural gas, but field-conversion is possible for liquid propane

• Comes with a gas pressure regulator

Cookline CSP2 Double 18" Burner Commercial Gas Stock Pot Range - 220,000 BTU

Many features make the Cookline CSP2 Double 18" Gas Stock Pot Range a perfect addition to any kitchen. It’s easy to clean, powerful, durable, user-friendly, and very well made. 

• Material: Stainless steel construction with cast iron gas burners

• Dimensions: 18” (L) x 49.3” (D) x 23” (H)

• Price: $919.00

Main features

• Includes an LP conversion kit

• 220,000 BTU

• 18” x 48.8” cast iron grate

• Flame and ignition failure system

• Self-powered pilot head

• Easily accessible pilot valve adjustment screws

• Full-width crumb tray

• Heavy-duty fully adjustable legs

7. Best Wok Ranges

WOK1-LP Commercial 1 Ring Chinese Wok Range - Liquid Propane Gas

The WOK1-LP Commercial 1 Ring Chinese Wok Range is very versatile open burner equipment because it is custom-made to suit your commercial kitchen. It has one open burner, but this can be of varying sizes. In addition, you can choose the burner type, either jet or ring.  

• Material: Stainless steel body with rolled steel chambers

• Dimensions: 24”to 48” (L) x 45” (D) x 33” (H)

• Price: $2,449.00

Main features

• Backsplash

• Galvanized drip tray

• Ga valve controls

• 4 x adjustable feet

• Drain connection

• Cast-iron burner cover optional

• Fully customizable

WOK3-NG Commercial 3 Ring Chinese Wok Range - Natural Gas

A defining feature of the WOK3-NG Commercial 3 Ring Chinese Wok Range is the water-cooled top that helps reduce the temperature of the stove top. In addition, it has a stainless steel front, splash guard, and pipe rack. 

• Material: Stainless steel body with rolled steel chambers

• Dimensions: 77” - 106” (L) x 45” (D) x 33” (H)

• Price: $4,995.00

Main features

• 3 sealed burners with a custom diameter of between 13” and 18

• A maximum of 3 jet or ring burners

• Drain basket

• 2 x drip tray

• 3 x gas control valves

• LP or natural gas

• 32 tip jet burners

• Custom built to your specifications

• Durable stainless steel construction

• Adjustable wok placement

Conclusion

Buying any heavy-duty appliances for a commercial kitchen is a significant investment but one worth making. There is a range of choices which means you should be able to find something that suits your needs and is within your budget.