Rating of the best thermal salad bars for 2022

Proper storage of food requires certain conditions. Not all ingredients need extreme cold, and for a large number of pre-prepared dishes, it is better to use special equipment, such as a heated salad bar. These units are often found in cafes, they are indispensable for organizing mobile kitchens, allowing you to keep dishes fresh. We will tell you more about these settings, and what to look for in order to avoid mistakes when choosing them, in this rating of the best thermal salad bars.

What is this device, its description and characteristics

Such a kind of showcase for ready meals with the function of heating or cooling has long been a part of our daily life. Externally, the design is similar to traditional food warmers. However, such devices differ from standard distribution lines in that they allow you to put ready-made dishes on the showcase and provide for self-service. Such devices are more often purchased for catering establishments:

• restaurants;
• eateries;
• Cafe.

While traditional budget distribution lines are found in canteens or grocery stores, where they are served by specially trained staff. They also do not have rich decor, but salad bars, on the contrary, differ in them (with the exception of embedded systems). About what models there are, we will consider in the given comparative table.

Construction type	Special Features
Refrigerated	They provide a possible demonstration and short-term storage of ready meals. Intensive mode -2 + 10C
Neutral	They combine refrigeration and heating options, helping to maintain one specific temperature. Thus, without creating the need to heat up or cool cooked food.
Thermal designs	Guarantee long-term storage of hot dishes or pastries.

Such devices placed next to each other make it possible to simultaneously lay out completely different dishes on the table.And the reliable static protective glass separating the chambers with opposite temperatures prevents the products from spoiling. However, it is precisely the options that maintain heat that can most often be found in the organization:

• banquet;
• buffet.
• or at any outdoor event where a thermal buffet is provided.

Materials used and technical equipment of the structure

Outwardly, such mechanisms resemble a square or rectangle. Models are made in the form of a showcase completely covered with glass or without it, but with a cap that prevents dust from entering the food. And also with a special backlight that allows you to view and select a dish. These state-of-the-art equipments are made from safe, corrosion-resistant compounds:

• alloy steel;
• durable food grade plastic;
• glass;
• there are even options with porcelain inserts.

On the case of the device itself, on the back side, there is a screen where the set temperature is displayed. Shelves - guides - are attached to the edge facing the visitors. This gives the participants the opportunity to choose food by placing it on a tray for convenience. By its design, the salad bar resembles a table with a built-in thermal bath, where there are special small containers for warm or hot dishes of a certain size. The operation of thermal bars is carried out by water, which is regularly heated by heating elements, which guarantees the desired temperature throughout the day. There are also options with the possibility of heating the used containers themselves with the help of alcohol burners.

All such structures are equipped with small wheels, which makes them easy to move if necessary.

A few words about the design of the device

Thermal devices are built-in or floor-standing, they can be installed separately or lined up. At the same time, the design of the structure is of great importance, since the buffet acts as one large showcase, all used devices must be made in the same style. Otherwise, the model will stand out and create a feeling of discomfort in people. That can become a significant drawback and scare away customers.

1. To create a classic style, the presence of streamlined shapes is desirable. According to buyers, it is easier to pick up accessories for devices made in a traditional style and having standard colors. It will also be easier to order spare parts, since they are unlikely to be discontinued.
2. To create a feeling of comfort and show the appetite of buyers, the use of wood trim will help. Also, its advantages include the fact that it can be presented in any color.
3. Devices intended for a restaurant of national cuisine are best designed in a rich original style, using wooden or porcelain elements.
4. No less popular decoration in the spirit of the country. This is caused rather by an attempt to save, in particular, the time and effort of the service personnel.
5. Models located in the guest area are usually with wood trim, or with artificial or natural stone decoration.
6. Rectangular modular structures placed along the walls are almost always an element of the distribution line. Such devices have a plastic coating, and the part that faces the guests is covered with glass. This option is considered the most suitable for field service or for creating summer areas.

Selection Criteria and Tips and Tricks for Use

1. Thermal salad bar capacity.When buying an installation, it is important to calculate how many people you plan to serve per day. The number of visitors affects the size of the device and the containers used, which determines the average price of the device itself.
2. Build quality. Before choosing a design, try to determine its reliability, the system must withstand the loads imposed on it.
3. The design, as well as the height of the thermal salad bar, should not stand out too much. Since, along with the need to store products and display them, the model will also be part of the overall interior. Therefore, it is preferable to choose those analogues that will be in harmony with the main design elements, attracting attention and causing appetite among visitors.
4. Storage conditions. According to accepted sanitary standards, hot ready-made dishes should not spoil at 75 degrees, and second and side dishes at a temperature of at least 65 degrees, therefore, for thermal salad bars, indicators from +30 to 80 degrees will be optimal.
5. Which one is better and cheaper to buy. In this case, the way the model is installed plays an important role. For example; built-in options will cost much less than outdoor devices, as they allow you to create different interiors on an individual order. The original rack from the best Russian manufacturers of thermal salad bars, combined with built-in modules, is cheaper than ready-made floor options from the same company.

Rating of high-quality and inexpensive devices

RADA

The MEP-11/7N model can also often be found:

• in a catering establishment;
• In a hotel;
• or hotel.

This device has a classic streamlined shape and is equipped with small, durable wheels that easily turn in the right direction, which allows you to quickly move the structure from one place to another. The installation itself is very voluminous, it is actively used when organizing a "buffet" or a banquet.

• Wheels are equipped with brakes;
• there is a backlight;
• can be folded if necessary;
• there are additional shelves;
• gastronorm containers are supplemented with lids;
• special utensils and accessories included;
• model is affordable.

• None.

What does it consist of	Laminated MDF/stainless steel
Power	3 kW
General dimensions	1100x700x1460 mm
The weight	88 kg
Country of Origin	RF
What is the price	79935 rub.

Eqta SB 4H

The best creators of equipment for trade and public catering from European countries united under this brand. Their Eqta SB series features low power consumption, along with ease of use and maintenance. In addition, the model has a fairly low price.

This design successfully combines modern technology with a comfortable and beautiful design. This makes it ideal for a cafe or restaurant smorgasbord, and the ability to display dishes will help attract even more visitors.

• There are reliable wheels that can turn in the right direction;
• it can be easily moved;
• the design has an attractive design;
• can hold up to 4 food trays at the same time;
• soft backlight.

• Special containers are not included.

What does it consist of	Steel/wood with granite finish
Power	3.026 kW
General dimensions	1505x900x1320 mm
The weight	149 kg
Country of Origin	Turkey
What is the price	85303 rub.

OZTI OSBEH 01

The thermal salad bar is equipped with a fairly large bowl that can accommodate 4 gastronorm containers at once. The capabilities of this machine allow you to maintain and maintain a constant temperature of cooked food. Such designs can often be found as part of distribution lines at catering establishments.

• The power of the thermal salad bar allows it to operate from a conventional outlet;
• there is a convenient and clear digital thermostat for
• heating temperature adjustment;
• there are wheels for easy transportation;
• nice design;
• good depth of thermal salad bar;
• backlight is present.

• Special containers for products are purchased separately.

What does it consist of	Stainless metal/wood panels.
Power	2 kW.
General dimensions	1490x780x1510 mm
The weight	150 kg
Country of Origin	Turkey
What is the price	97400 rub.

Popular mid-priced models in 2022

Antares-Premium VVMT

A novelty from a Russian company can often be seen on the distribution lines of various enterprises specializing in public catering. The device is also used in retail establishments, since it allows you to demonstrate and even store ready-made first or second courses for a short time. The design is equipped with a fixed open superstructure and has a lightweight, shockproof Italian-made hull.

• The functionality of this device allows it to turn itself off if necessary;
• the degree of heating can be adjusted independently;
• there is a thermal halogen lighting;
• there is a temperature control system that will not allow overheating;
• circuit breaker;
• there is a dark and light version;
• the device is closed with durable tempered glass;
• a fairly large bowl for dishes can accommodate 4 gastronorm containers at once;
• the design is equipped with small articulated wheels.

• Not found.

What does it consist of	Plastic/MDF/ Acrylic stone/Tempered glass
Power	3.1 kW
General dimensions	1500x750x1270 mm
The weight	Up to 100 kg.
Country of Origin	Russia
What is the price	158963 rub.

Roller Grill SB 40 C

This version of the food installation is actively used for short-term storage and demonstration of ready meals:

• in the cafe;
• eateries;
• restaurants.

This unit has a special through shelf at the bottom for convenient placement of additional plates and trays. And the available reliable wheels allow you to effortlessly move the structure, making it convenient:

• for banquets;
• weddings;
• offsite events.

• There is an electronic thermostat;
• good built-in lighting;
• guides are made of wood;
• there are additional boxes;
• 4 massive rollers;
• the presence of a braking system.

• Shown in one color only.

What does it consist of	Solid wood/stainless steel.
Power	3.5 kW
General dimensions	1495x855x1405 mm
The weight	100 kg
Country of Origin	France
What is the price	161733 rub.

gastrolux

Model TM-127/3GN/W is an offer from a domestic company from the WoodLine series, it will be an excellent option for placing and displaying ready-made dishes.With the possibility of heating or maintaining a constant temperature. It can be found both on distribution lines, and as an independent apparatus at a public catering or trade enterprise. Such an installation is perfect for organizing operating on the principle of free access:

• at hotels;
• restaurants;
• for self-service visitors to shops or supermarkets.

• The presented equipment has all relevant quality certificates;
• color can be customized;
• there is a backlight;
• good warranty period;
• there are small wheels;
• can be operated from a standard outlet.

• Insufficient number of shelves for additional dishes;
• brackets with folding mechanisms as well as special containers and dividers must be ordered online separately.

What does it consist of	Wooden frame / stainless steel
Power	2.4 kW.
General dimensions	1225x720xI400 mm
The weight	47.3 kg
Country of Origin	Russia
What is the price	264342 rub.

Expensive types of premium installations

Techno-TT BMW 212/1616

This design is made in a rather modest but pleasant design. The model is presented in a light or dark version and can become an unusual design solution when organizing:

• banquet;
• weddings;
• or any outdoor event.

• The device has a large capacity, 4 gastronorm containers can be easily installed in it at once.
• presented in 2 color shades;
• there are wheels;
• there is a lifting mechanism;
• the table is illuminated.

• No tray guides;
• only 1 shelf for additional accessories;
• crockery is not included.

What does it consist of	Veneer and MDF with artificial stone trim
Power	3825 kW.
General dimensions	1616x851x1555 mm
The weight	Up to 150 kg
Country of Origin	Russia
What is the price	306547 rub.

Apache

The company specializes in the creation of equipment for various branches of food production. The popularity of their ABB4 Murale model is the result of a long study of the modern market and the work of experienced engineers. Due to the convenient combination of a low price with quite capacious volumes, such installations are readily purchased by various:

• canteens;
• hotels;
• and restaurants with a large number of visitors.

A pleasant and convenient design of the unit allows you to use it not only in the kitchen, but also to expose it in open rooms.

• There are wheels;
• beautiful appearance;
• several color options;
• infrared heating;
• there are guides for plates;
• the table is illuminated.

• No.

What does it consist of	Stainless steel, wood finish
Power	3.5 kW
General dimensions	1420x750x1524 mm
The weight	123 kg
Country of Origin	Italy
What is the price	356622 rub.

Tecfrigo Isola

Thermal design 4M HOT - most often found in catering with a large number of guests. This is a great mobile option with a nice walnut finish that allows you to store already cooked food without letting it cool down.

• There is a backlight;
• the possibility of heating;
• the thermal salad bar has convenient dimensions;
• sliding doors at the cabinet below;
• two shelves for additional dishes;
• there is a special cap with dust protection;
• long warranty period;
• you can install guides for plates;
• good width of the thermal salad bar, easy to install 4 dishes at once.

• No.

What does it consist of	glass ceramics
Power	2.3 kW
General dimensions	1420x750x1524 mm
The weight	From 77 kg
Country of Origin	Italy
What is the price	423835 rub.

Outcome

Based on the numerous reviews given in the article, it becomes clear that establishments with salad bars have a higher income than those who decided to save money on their purchase. Since in this case, revenue increases by 15-20% as a result of the fact that the products are located in front of visitors. Based on this, it follows that the main advantage of such installations is their ability to demonstrate dishes and provide customers with a way to get acquainted with the available assortment. The best options for thermal installations for daily use from Russian manufacturers are more common in the interior of small retail shops or stalls. They are not as attractive as more expensive counterparts, but do an excellent job with their main purpose. But the options that are installed in a cafe or restaurant require more careful selection, in particular, this applies to the design of the installation. Which should be combined with the overall interior. In 2022, both of these options can be bought in an online store that sells accessories for catering and trade. And the above overview will help you decide which company's product is best suited for organizing your enterprise.