7 Must-Have Features in Your Mobile Kitchen Trailer
If you are designing a mobile kitchen trailer or food truck, there are certain essential features that you will want to include. Some of these might go without saying. However, it’s still a good idea to make a detailed checklist upfront. This will help you prioritize what you absolutely need for your mobile foodservice business or special event.
Here are the must-have mobile kitchen features according to Mobile Kitchens USA:
1. Cold Storage
Unless you are serving food that doesn’t require any refrigeration or freezing, you have to have ample space for storing cold items. Ingredients, beverages, prepared desserts and other items require temperature-controlled environments to stay fresh. No commercial kitchen would meet code without a proper refrigerator and/or freezer. Whether it’s a walk-in unit or a smaller fridge, don’t forget your cold storage needs.
2. Dry Storage
In addition to your cold storage area(s), you will want to consider your dry storage needs. Shelves, cabinets and organized bins may be required for room-temperature storage. Some items may need to be kept from moisture, as well, so keep that in mind.
3. Cooking Appliances
We won’t get too specific here because your list of cooking appliances will depend on your menu. Some commercial kitchen appliances to consider are stoves/ranges, ovens, grills, deep fryers and microwaves. Think about any special dishes that require specialty appliances, and be sure to add those to your design list.
4. Food Prep Gear
You have places to store your supplies and appliances to cook your meals. Now, you need all the necessary food preparation accessories and spaces. Work tables, cutting boards and storage areas for your utensils, pots, and pans should be figured out as part of your mobile kitchen trailer design.
5. Sinks
Almost all mobile kitchens will require at least one sink. You may opt to have multiple sinks or multi-compartment sinks for washing ingredients, washing dishes and washing hands. A separate hand sink is a good idea to safety and worker sanitation. Larger mobile kitchens may feature a commercial dishwasher. Some of our clients will even buy or rent a separate mobile dishwashing trailer for large-scale kitchen operations.
6. Safety Equipment
Speaking of safety, don’t overlook important safety equipment. If this is a mobile foodservice business, your mobile kitchen will need to be up to code and include specific safety equipment. Fire suppression hoods and vent systems are a must. Non-slip flooring and mats, along with cleaning equipment and supplies should also be covered. Buy and find convenient places to store fire extinguishers and first-aid kits.
7. Power Sources
A major issue you will want to figure out when designing your mobile kitchen is how things will be powered. Will you be installing a generator or connecting to an outside electrical source? Will you be using natural gas or propane for certain equipment? Will you need an outside water tank and hot water heater? These are all important questions to consider.
If you are planning to buy or rent a custom mobile kitchen trailer or temporary kitchen unit, you have to plan carefully and understand exactly which features you will need inside and outside. We didn’t even mention things like stairs, ramps and service windows. The goal is to think carefully about everything you and your kitchen staff will require and then figure out how to efficiently include it all in the mobile kitchen.
Mobile Kitchens USA is here to help. We design and fabricate custom mobile kitchen trailers for clients every single day. Let us help you find the best mobile kitchen solutions with all the features you need. Contact us today for more information.