The NSW Government is providing rebates for small businesses who buy or lease up to five new commercial fridges.

If you are looking to replace your current fridge, choose from a range of energy efficient models and you could get a rebate of between $100 and $1490. Visit the Energy Saver website to find out more: energysaver.nsw.gov.au/commercial-refrigerators

REBATE APPLICATION PROCESS

# Step1

Find an eligible product on their website: energysaver.nsw.gov.au/commercial-refrigerators

# Step 2

Shop around for an eligible product, purchase or lease it from Cafeideas.

# Step 3

Fill out the easy online application form and attach evidence of your purchase.

# Step 4

Once approved the rebate will be paid directly into your nominated bank account.

*Offer available until 30 September 2021.

Investing in high-quality refrigeration equipment is crucial. Don’t be afraid of spending a little bit more at first, because you’ll save so much in the long run. Here is a non-exhaustive list of things you’ll be able to do by investing in high-quality refrigeration:

✓       Increase energy savings
✓       Reduce running costs
✓       Ensure safe food and beverage storage
✓       Meet Australian food safety standards
✓       Maintain your business reputation
✓       Decrease food waste
✓       Drive sales growth
✓       Lower equipment maintenance
✓       Ensure greater peace of mind

Today, we shed some light on SKOPE, a high-quality refrigeration supplier that has been providing the hospitality industry for more than 50 years. Here are 10 things you must know about SKOPE equipment before making your next purchase decision. 

#1 Research & Development

SKOPE invest a lot in Research & Development, and have a large team of engineers designing and testing each unit in their accredited in-house testing facility. This means, when you receive your new Skope unit, it has already been tested and approved.

#2 Performance & Reliability

SKOPE design products are made to last, with a focus on durability and extended product life. All cabinets are designed to handle the harsh Australian climate and busy work environments. They are reliable and won’t let you down when you need them most.

#3 Food Safety Compliant

SKOPE put safety first, and so should you. Food storage violations can incur expensive fines and affect your business reputation, while warm drinks are never a good idea for the customer experience!

All SKOPE units are meet the appropriate standards for their designed use, with food storage fridges all designed to keep food below that all important 5C temperature.

#4 Energy savings

All SKOPE glass-door fridges undergo rigorous testing before completing the mandatory Minimum Energy Performace Standards (MEPS) test. The majority of SKOPE units exceed the minimum requirements and are, in fact, classified as “high efficiency” models. 

#5 Sustainable

While Skope aim to raise standards in performance and design, they also want to lower environmental impact. Their new ActiveCore range is 3 times more efficient than similar brands on the market.

#6 Design

Aesthetics is very important, especially for front of house units, as your patrons will judge your place by the look and feel of the equipment (and furniture) you’ve selected. Skope units not only look great, but were also designed to be user-friendly. Easy-to-read digital temperature display, precise control to set the temperature, on-site diagnostic capability… you will appreciate these features.

#7 High quality components

For our supplier, only the best will of. With that in mind, SKOPE only use high-quality components. Cabinets’ outer shell is composed of steel that is 20% thicker than generic grade steel; premium industrial grade powder coating paint finish is used for a significantly more durable finish than regular; their LED lights are premium quality… Want to find out more about the components used? Have a look here.

#8 Extensive Range

Skope commercial refrigeration offers an extensive range of equipment. From upright fridges, to undercounter freezers, to open food displays, to ice machines... Skope is able to meet all your needs when it comes to commercial refrigeration.

#9 Made Locally

Many SKOPE fridges are proudly made in Christchurch, New Zealand, while others are made in China to SKOPE designs. SKOPE has had a partnership with Haier for nearly 15 years, with the build process and quality control exactly the same in both factories. SKOPE also sources product from premium manufacturers around the world, such as Irinox blast chillers, MISA cool rooms and ITV ice makers from Europe.

#10 Extended Warranty

All Activecore units now come with a 5-year warranty on parts and labour. To find out more, click here! 

So, wouldn’t it be great if you could find a winery that was just as gorgeous on the inside as it was on the outside? Well such places do actually exist! Take a look at these wineries with our favourite fit-outs and start gathering ideas for your venue...

Domaine Chandon

Recently renovated and without a doubt the most picture-perfect cellar door in the Yarra Valley, Domaine Chandon is simply sparkling with great design and amazing interiors. Take a seat at their luxe lounge bar beneath the fascinating kinetic mobile centrepiece and marvel at the endless vineyards through the floor to ceiling windows. The area is lined with plush banquet seating and opulent design elements which carry through to the restaurant and retail boutique.

TarraWarra Estate

Carved into a hillside, with a tunnel-like formation, the cellar door at TarraWarra is impressive to say the least. Once you enter through the stonework doorway and proceed through the linear designed cellar door, you can catch a glimpse of the blue Valley skies above via the circular skylights overhead. An immaculate space, finished with polished concrete floors, a tasting counter made from the reclaimed timber of St. Andrews pier and matching industrial bar stools. The beauty of this cellar door is matched only by the wines in your glass and the perfectly manicured grounds.

Rare Hare

Possibly one of the most instagrammable locations on the Mornington Peninsula, Rare Hare can be found on the same property as the uber cool Jackalope Hotel. Beyond the gigantic 7-metre-tall Jackalope sculpture that greets you upon arrival, everything about this location is a design dream. From the hotel restaurant Doot Doot Doot and cocktail lounge Flaggerdoot, to the more casual Rare Hare diner and barrel lined cellar door, it’s the ultimate in interior style innovation, meets country chic.

Explore the best of the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula with a private and tailored tour with Wine Compass. Need advice on fit-out? We can help you! Contact us today to discuss.

Here is what we love about the brand and these new styles you must look at before considering refreshing your outdoor area this Summer:

#1 Papatya means “daisy” in Turkish, and here at Cafeideas we love flowers.

#2 The company has been operating for nearly 30 years and has gathered impressive knowledge and know-how since its humble beginnings. In other words, they know what they’re talking about!

#3 Papatya is located in Turkey, which means our supplier’s designers are inspired by Europeans trends and put together an interesting mix of furniture styles and vibes.

#4 All styles are made of UV resistant polypropylene, which is exactly what you need in a country with harsh weather conditions.

#5 We love the fluid lines of each design. It looks nice and aery, and will blend in nicely with any type of table you select.

#6 The multitude of vibrant colours available for each style. You can find the tone that best suits your venue’s theme.

#7 All styles are stackable, so it’s easy for you to pack up and clean at the end of the shift.

#8 The chairs and armchairs are light weight, so you can move them around easily when it’s time to clean. You can also rearrange your space as it pleases you (no heavy chair to drag around).

#9 All styles come with small pads under the seat, so you won’t scratch them when you stack them.

Discover today our new line of Papatya outdoor chairs, bar stools and table bases.

The challenge

Three days out from opening the latest store – inside Myer Eastland – Calvin realised a communal table would be a key feature of the fit-out. Having dealt with Cafeideas in the past for other outlets, he remembered that a new showroom had opened in Melbourne and wandered in for a look.

What problems had you experienced?

For Calvin, bespoke is usually the preference when it comes to furnishings for his cafes. The short timeframe, however, dictated the need for a quick purchase. “The Cafeideas showroom is literally about 200 metres from my house,” he says. “So it was easy for me to pop in.”

Whilst in store, Cafeideas was able to guide Calvin through the many different options including colours, shapes and heights. The extensive range available to view in the showroom makes it convenient to pair table tops with bases and compare different products. “I’m very specific with what I want,” Calvin says. “It took a little while to get the exact combination but it was good to be able to mix and match the tops and bases to find the perfect end result.”

How Cafeideas helped

Calvin says that from the start, Cafeideas was extremely helpful and went to great effort to ensure the process resulted in satisfaction. “They actually made it seem like they were helping me fit out a hotel! They catered to my every need and nothing was too much trouble.”

Once the table was chosen, the order placed and payment made, the delivery process also ran smoothly. “I’d dealt with other suppliers and had lots of troubles with them. One told me it’d be eight weeks’ lead time on my order and lead time is very important. With others, on the day of delivery there were missing chairs or they didn’t deliver the colour I’d ordered. With Cafeideas, it was so simple. I shopped, chose and paid and the table turned up exactly as it was meant to.”

Competitive pricing wasn’t a key factor in Calvin’s choice to purchase the table from Cafeideas however ultimately, he was pleased with the price he paid. “It’s good quality for an ‘off the shelf’ product and I think the price was fair for what it is. I get a lot of things custom made but I’m very happy with what I bought.”

Follow-up, communication and problem management

Calvin says there were no problems at all in the transaction with Cafeideas was a consummate professional from start to finish.

Recommending Cafeideas

Already familiar with Cafeideas from previous projects, Calvin says he would always recommend the company and also use them again in upcoming ventures.

About Plantation Specialty Coffee Roasters

As at the time of writing, Plantation Coffee boasts six Melbourne locations; one in the QV Building, one in Melbourne Central and four within Myer department stores. Calvin says “stay tuned” because he has plans for global domination, beginning with more outlets in Australia then venturing abroad.

Since the first store opened in 2014, the intention for Plantation Coffee has always been to bring high street coffee to shopping centres. “That’s where there’s a big lack of good coffee and people really want quality coffee, even when they’re shopping,” Calvin says. “I was proven right when the first shop turned out to be very successful and we’re thriving in all six locations.”

By definition, ‘specialty coffee’ has to be 85 points and above to receive the classification. Plantation Coffee has always met the mark and is quickly becoming recognised as ‘the’ place to go for coffee when shopping.

Interestingly, a lot of the company’s notoriety came from its dedication to quality latte art. Many awards later, Plantation is redirecting its focus back to the coffee itself. “We still do great latte art,” Calvin smiles. “We’re known for it, but we also want to be known for our incredible coffee.”

Indeed, he says all staff are trained to be receptive to customers’ wishes. “We want our customers to feel comfortable at Plantation so we always make it the way they want it, with no judgment. If they want three sugars, we do it. If they want it extra hot, we do it. We’re not coffee snobs, we’re coffee experts.”

The menu includes the usual hot beverages as well as cold brew, cold drip, ice batch brew and iced lattes.

Plantation offers a range of coffee merchandise including specialty brewing equipment and associated consumables. “A lot of our customers love to make great coffee at home so we help them do that. And we welcome them when they come in with questions or need tips.”

The store offers whole Plantation blend beans and will grind them according to the customer’s requirements. Tea is also available and Calvin is proud to serve Tea Drop whose owner came through the ranks of business parallel with Calvin’s own experience.

When asked what’s next for Plantation, Calvin explains that there is scope for the brand to be infused into every Myer store in Australia. Beyond that, it seems New York is calling, as well as other coffee-loving metropolises around the world.

It only takes a few seconds for customers to decide whether they will eat at your restaurant or keep walking to the next one. The decision will be based on a few criteria such as your menu (of course), but also furniture, atmosphere and music.

Have you ever visited a restaurant not playing music? How awkward was it? Will you visit this place again? Music is a crucial ingredient of the mix and its power is undeniable. Business owners often underestimate the latest. Don’t do the same mistake!

Now you’re convinced you must play music in your restaurant, you might want to consider these few elements.

No matter what music you decide to play, remember it should enhance your restaurant’s theme and create a unique atmosphere inviting your customers to come back.

Colours are powerful - they catch attention, evoke different emotions and convey messages. Colours have an impact on the look and feel of your place, as well as mood and appetite of your customers. So when decorating your restaurant, selecting colours is as important as defining a seating arrangement, lighting used and music played.

While people’s perception of colours is subjective, we can group colours and their meanings the following way:

Greens

Green evokes nature, wellness and sustainability. It encourages people to relax and enjoy themselves.

• Ideal for health food restaurants trying to communicate freshness and healthiness.

Reds

Red evokes a passionate response. It increases your hear rate, blood pressure and even makes you breathe more rapidly. Research show that warm colours like red and orange can increase your appetite. This means, your customers’ appetite increases and you sell more.

• Ideal for fast foods and establishments with high turn around.

Yellows

Yellow is a bright and energetic colours. It makes your brain release serotonin, a chemical that makes you feel good, and less guilty about eating.

• Ideal for ice cream places, frozen yogurts and candies.

Blues and purples

Blue puts people at ease with thoughts of sky and ocean, and allows you to make a big empty room look a little busier and cozier. That being said, blue doesn’t make food look appealing and is actually a rather unappetizing colours. It evoke a feeling of thirst rather than hunger.

• Ideal for bars. If you really want to add blues to your restaurant, consider some elements only.

Light colours

White, beige and light grey help make a small room look bigger and less cramped. It also invites customers to relax and welcome to spend time comfortably. It also helps to give your restaurant a clean look and feel.

When selecting your colours, ask yourself what best represents your brand’s personality and what colours do your competitors use. Also, it is crucial for you to understand how colours work together, as you will need do select complementary colours.

It’s now time for you to define your colours scheme and how your true colours! Remember to keep it simple and harmonious. A few examples below.

It’s not always easy to plan and manage your inventory perfectly. You spend time trying to figure out how many fruits and vegetables you will need, and then end up with too much. No one wants to waste food and money. Watch this video to discover some ideas.

Watch the short video below to discover FLAT Technology and learn more about their two innovative solutions:

. Table bases, utilising patented hydraulic technology. This solution is ideal if you are purchasing new table bases
. Equalizers, simple screw-in replacement feet. This solution is ideal for existing tables

Here are a few tips to help you succeed and encourage impulsive and unplanned purchases!

The challenge

For Leo, who describes himself as “a bit old fashioned”, the need to touch and feel products before purchasing was key. Cafeideas’ Sydney showroom provided that opportunity as well as the chance to completely ‘play’ with different options. “We were able to wander around and see things ourselves but Vibha was always on hand to show us different selections and recommend particular items.”

With equipment downstairs and furnishings on the upper level, the showroom is an efficient space where Leo says there is no feeling of “getting in the way”. Browsing and being hands-on with the tables, chairs and other furniture items means moving things around, stacking chairs, lifting tables and arranging settings, all out of the path of those shopping for equipment.

What problems had you experienced?

Having dealt with other suppliers along the way, Leo explains that there always seemed to be something that was “too hard”. “We actually even had other suppliers come to us when they got wind of our new location opening and offer to show us their products. For me, I’m not looking to save $50 here or $100 there. I want efficiency, great customer service and a long-term relationship with a company that provides that. That’s Cafeideas.”

Certainly, when Leo explained that he was dealing with Cafeideas, other suppliers claimed they could offer better prices, faster delivery and stock on hand. “But for me,” Leo says, “I’ve established a good relationship with Cafeideas and it’s not worth destroying for the sake of a small amount of money. I actually do like to spread the love between various suppliers but for café furnishings, it’s always Cafeideas, and this time around we bought a lot of our equipment there too.”

How Cafeideas helped

At Cafeideas, Leo dealt with Vibha who he says “first and foremost, knows her stuff”. Vibha’s professionalism and proactivity were stand-out features. “Any time I had a query or needed feedback on something, Vibha would get back to me straight away and would have an answer within 24 hours. I know that when it comes to any issues, they’ll be solved quickly.”

Leo’s experience with other personnel was also positive. He found the delivery crew to be “super friendly and always on time”, saying that they would call to advise they were on their way.

In terms of the products, Leo found that Cafeideas have all aspects covered. “They have what’s on trend and what’s unique, indoor and outdoor settings, individual chairs, tabletops and table bases. It’s all very easy to choose what you need and you get to see it in person to see how it all works together.”

Leo calls the pricing “not over the top” and says it is in line with the quality and durability.

Follow-up, communication and problem management

Some of the tables Leo had selected were not available in square and whilst Vibha did explore the possibility of them arriving on time, she was forthright in saying they may not and so suggested round ones to ensure availability for launch.

“I appreciate this kind of openness because you don’t want to be promised something and then it doesn’t arrive, leaving you to clamour for a solution,” Leo explains. “We trust Vibha’s word and it’s reassuring to know we won’t be let down when we’ve got so much else happening.”

A problem with two tables arriving with the wrong finish was resolved promptly. “There was never any question that it would be sorted,” Leo says, “and we’re happy for Cafeideas to do what they need to because we know everything will be fine in the end.”

Recommending Cafeideas

Leo’s experience with other suppliers has been “hit and miss”. “I deal with a few different suppliers and some are excellent whereas with others, it’s never a pleasant experience, it’s just shopping. What’s important to me at Cafeideas is that there’s always recognition. The same way that I show my customers I recognise them and appreciate them, Cafeideas do that for me too. That’s the reason why I would definitely recommend Cafeideas to others looking for equipment and furnishings for their businesses.”

About S.A.L.T. Café

Named after the individual members of the Saul family, S.A.L.T. stands for Stacy, Angela, Leo and Tahki. Each plays their own important role in the business and collectively, they agree that customer service and providing a warm welcome are key. Love for the customer shows in everything they do, from ensuring a comfortable environment and seating to accommodating special requests. “We don’t charge for little things like extra jam with scones or a scoop of ice cream with cake. Those things will never make us rich and we are more interested in making sure our customers have a great time at our cafes,” Leo smiles.

S.A.L.T. is known for being family-friendly and is a popular spot for local retirees and business people meeting for coffee, morning tea, afternoon tea, breakfast and lunch. The All-Day Breakfast Menu features beautifully presented dishes including home toasted granola with tahini yoghurt and fresh fruit, and vanilla buttermilk pancakes with ice cream and maple syrup. The signature dish is the Superfood Brekky of kale, quinoa, avocado and a poached egg on sourdough dusted with turmeric. At lunch, customers can expect outstanding melts, sandwiches and burgers and a selection of healthy salads. One look at S.A.L.T.’s Instagram account shows a mouth-watering array of cakes, drinks, muffins, coffees and other temptations.

Bookings are taken for special occasions and groups. Father’s Day and Mother’s Day are big events at S.A.L.T Café where the latter attracts more than 200 hungry customers over the course of the day.

For a family whose passions are food and providing a wonderful experience, they are certainly in the right business. Now with three locations, S.A.L.T. Café offers an oasis of outstanding customer service and fresh, lively food in the suburbs.

Can't make it to one of our Sydney or Melbourne showroom? No problem! Simply call us on the video chat and we'll show you around. You'll be able to talk to one of our sales consultants and see our products in real time, all from the convenience of your computer or your phone. 

Want to know how the fabric of this chair look like? Or the exact colour of that table top? Sure, you can now have a closer look at anything you want! Same applies to our extensive range of catering equipment, of course! 

And don't be shy, it’s one-way video, which means you can see us but we can’t see you. Check out this 12-second video to see how it'd look like, and give us a video call whenever you need to!

Please note, we will request microphone access so we can talk to you.

This technology is compatible with both Apple and Android devices, and available on Safari, Chrome and Firefox.

Influencers and food bloggers have a role to play. With one single photo of your foods posted on their Instagram, they can bring you dozens (hundreds?) of new customers.

Like it or not, you need to embrace this trend, as it is here to stay. So, how to make your dishes instagramable?

#1 Choose the perfect plate

We had the pleasure of meeting Chef Luke Croston from the Press Club in Melbourne back in 2014 and we remember him saying ”we first select the plate, then we decide and design the dish served on it”. So yes, choosing the perfect plate is definitely where you should start.

First, the shape. You have a few options. Square, for a more traditional look and feel, or round plates, for warmer and welcoming meals. Why not consider bowls? It’s a simple way to change up your presentation, and it will make your dish look full and fresh.

Second, think about the colour. White is great, but how about serving on something more striking than white? Be bold and go for colourful plates.

Last, think about the size. Yes, size matters! You don’t want to overcrowd your plate, but you also want to make sure you don’t leave too much empty space.

#2 Place your ingredients

When placing ingredients on your plates, remember about the clock. From the diner's perspective, your protein should be between 3 and 9, your starch or carbohydrate from 9 and 12, and your vegetable from 12 and 3.

Another rule to remember is to place your moist and runny ingredients first, as they tend to move during delivery. You don’t want your beautiful dish to look like dog’s breakfast by the time it gets to diners’ tables.

While you should focus on the primary ingredient in the dish, the protein, you should also pay attention to the other ingredients and create a beautiful background. Think about colours and how you can play with contrasts - colour of the plate, as well as colour of the different ingredients you use. Same rule applies to texture. Try to mix different textures, and combine smooth and crunchy.

#3 Think about quantity

Some chefs find that smaller is often better, especially when serving meals to share. Small portions are perfect to encourage your customers to try new (and more?) foods, and also to indulge in a dessert!

When serving small portions, it is a good idea to serve odd amounts of food. Serving 7 prawns instead of 6, for instance, creates a more visual appeal and gives diners the impression they get more food (although it makes it challenging for diners to share evenly!).

#4 Get creative with sauces and garnishes

Once you’ve placed all your ingredients, top your dish with sauces or garnishes. It’s the perfect moment for your chef to show off his/her skills! Make sure you use edible garnishes (it sounds obvious but some places don’t!) that add something to the dish, but doesn’t distract from its original flavours.

Happy plating!

The collection includes a chair, an ottoman and two bar stools. All pieces of are made from a sturdy aluminium frame and the finish is hand painted in a hardwearing external paint. They won’t rust, which means you can use them indoor, as well as outdoors.

Inspired from European trends, the Royal collection is simple yet elegant. The colour is not solid and you will love its antique / vintage appearance - it will give an effortlessly sophisticated look and feel to your venue.

The 4 pieces of the Royal collection come in 4 colours: antique black, antique white, retro grey and retro light blue. You can mix and match, and create a combination of pastel colours.

We especially love the Prince chair and its backrest that looks like a crown. Don’t let its appearance deceive you, spindles are actually is extremely comfortable and the shape embraces your back.

The challenge

A short lead time and a tight, 7-day deadline seemed impossible to achieve and ultimately, Christina was grateful for an extra three days. The client didn’t want the venue closed for any longer than was absolutely necessary, so it was important to procure all the requirements quickly. That meant they also had to be deliverable without delay and could not simply be ordered from a range of manufacturers.

What problems had you experienced?

Christina had attended a hospitality trade fair in Sydney and was able to compare lots of different retailers. She knew it would be challenging to accommodate both the deadline and the budget and needed a supplier that could meet both needs. “Suppliers laughed at us when we told them our lead time and said we’d be lucky to source any furniture in under eight weeks. We simply didn’t have the luxury of that much time!”

The products Christina selected were solid timber tops teamed with iron Parisian bases. “The walnut table tops are just stunning.  They are such great value for money and look much more expensive than they were,” she says, “and the very heavy cast iron really gives them substance.”

Finding that Cafeideas had an abundance of stock on hand of the tables she had chosen was a relief. “We had a fit out of 200 square metres to organise. The products Cafeideas had were perfect. They look high end and completely match the look we wanted. But very importantly, it was a headache we didn’t have to worry about.”

How Cafeideas helped

With such a huge variety of furnishings on offer, Cafeideas was already a front-runner in the selection process. “But it’s more than that,” Christina says. “They run a very professional operation. While other suppliers laughed at us, Cafeideas took us very seriously and were keen to go the extra mile.” On opening day, the client announced he needed another twelve tables and Christina was concerned it would not be possible. “In a panic, I phoned the guys at Cafeideas and they literally put everything on hold to help us out. The tables arrived within hours!”

Christina was able to do all the purchasing via email and phone. After her initial inspection at the trade fair, she did visit the website and found it useful for comparing items.

Follow-up, communication and problem management

When working to rigid guidelines, being able to count on suppliers removes a great deal of stress. Christina says that Cafeideas were always easy to deal with and never tried to “over-sell”. “In fact, we changed some furniture specs around so had to revise our Cafeideas order as we ended up repurposing some of the original items and having others custom upholstered. The final value of our order was lower than originally discussed, but they never made us feel like it was an issue.”

As a result of the very positive working relationship, when outdoor tables that were purchased quickly for La Plaka needed to be replaced within months, Christina had already decided to purchase replacements from Cafeideas.

Recommending Cafeideas

With the La Plaka assignment squared away, Christina says she is looking forward to working with Cafeideas again. “When you find a supplier that makes everything so effortless, you stick with them. We wouldn’t hesitate to work with them again and are obviously very happy to recommend them to other designers for their hospitality clients.”

About La Plaka

The new La Plaka has come of age and now has a definite sense of glamour. Guests are greeted on the threshold by an image of Coco Chanel wearing a fez, (traditional Moroccan headwear) and once inside, are entranced by the sumptuous look and feel of the interior. What used to be a fairly clinical setup of white plastic tables and green plastic chairs has been made over to something different entirely. With luxe touches throughout, the formal dining with lush upholstery is divided with Arabic style screening from the more casual conviviality of the shisha lounge that opens to the street, and cosy booth seating. Quite the opposite to the current Scandi and industrial design trends, La Plaka makes use of luxurious finishes and plenty of colour with a rich palette that recalls the tapestry rugs sold in a Moroccan bazaar and the comparatively restrained mosaics found around Casablanca.

La Plaka is an alcohol-free restaurant and more than compensates with the creation of dazzling mocktails and other beverages including their unusual avocado smoothie. The menu is an assembly of mouth-watering Moroccan dishes such as koftas, succulent slow-cooked meats, breads with dips and various mezzes. There are also some intriguing Arabian and Lebanese additions like fattoush, shish kebab and Arabian skewers. Pomegranate, watermelon and mint make regular appearances across the menu, including in drinks.

Open 7 days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner, La Plaka is situated right in the heart of Burwood.

Here are a few tips to make sure your refrigeration equipment runs efficiently.

#1 Inspect the doors.

Make sure doors are aligned properly and check seals and gaskets. If not in a good state, this could result in cool air leaking, energy waste and spoiled food. 

#2 Shut the doors.

This one might seem obvious but worth repeating. Don’t leave the door opened longer than necessary and ensure that stocking up takes place as quickly as possible.

#3 Keep it clean.

Evaporator and coils get dirty over time, and it can block airflow and decrease efficiency. Make sure you maintain your equipment and keep it clean.

#4 Give it space.

Make sure you allow enough space around your unit to ensure a good airflow. Depending on the model specifications, you will need more or less space. To find out, you will need to refer to the specification sheet provided with your model.

Below is an easy test to see if your unit is working properly.

#5 Protect it.

Keep your refrigeration unit away from heat sources.

#6 Manage your stock properly.

The more stock you have in your unit, the less energy it has to use to keep your food cold. Don’t overload your unit with stock and avoid wasted energy. 

#7 Set the right temperature.

Every 1°C costs you money, so you better set the right temperature. That being said, make sure it complies with food standards, as food safety should remain your top priority.

#8 Give them a good night’s sleep.

Open-case displays are a great way to showcase food but they drain a lot of energy. When not in use, cover them in order to retain cold air.

The challenge

From the outset, Jerome was very specific in his vision. He desired to recreate an air of French royalty, replete with gold-framed mirrors and luxury touches that echo the magnificence of the Palace of Versailles, albeit on a much smaller scale. A self-confessed “fussy Frenchman”, Jerome was determined to secure exactly the right furnishings for his beloved Rosé Royale. He spent many hours in Cafeideas’ Sydney showroom, experimenting with various combinations of chairs, table bases and tops until he found the perfect result.

What problems had you experienced?

As a decorator by trade, Jerome has experience in stage design. He was concerned that it would be difficult to find exactly what he needed to fully realise his vision for Rosé Royale. “I had been working at another establishment and came to know about Cafeideas so my first port of call was their showroom. It was great because I was able to spend a lot of time in there, mixing and matching, putting different things together and I could physically visualise what it would look like in my own place.”

Worried that he was being “a bit of a pain” due to multiple changes of mind, Jerome said he was always made to feel welcome at the showroom and that staff never made him feel pressured to purchase anything other than what he felt was perfect.

“I’m old school,” Jerome says. “I do things with my hands and eyes. I need to touch things, carry them and see how they work. Then I could go online to the Cafeideas website and compare pictures next to each other to make a final decision.”

How Cafeideas helped

From his first dealings with Cafeideas through his former employer, Jerome was impressed by the professionalism and commitment of staff to helping customers achieve their goals. “I was happy that I could do everything through Cafeideas because I didn’t have time to shop around. I already had a good relationship with them so I didn’t even think about going elsewhere. They are so knowledgeable about their products and they don’t apply any pressure to purchase what they think is best, that it makes life a lot easier.”

Follow-up, communication and problem management

Upon opening, Rosé Royale was short of some of the higher chairs for a couple of weeks. “It looked a bit empty,” Jerome says, “but the guys at Cafeideas are problem solvers. They did their best to make sure we had what we needed as soon as possible. They kept me up to date at every step so I knew what to expect and when.”

There was also an issue with a “giant fridge” Jerome wanted for the bar. “It was way too deep and would take too much space so I checked the website, found some skinny fridges and called up. I had changed my mind again but they were very good about it and just made it happen, no problem at all.”

Recommending Cafeideas

Jerome particularly appreciated the “feel-good atmosphere” of the showroom. “It’s a pleasant place,” he reports. “You go and shop for furniture, the staff are all very nice and happy and it’s quite relaxed. You don’t have salesmen being pushy, trying to crack the deal the way car dealers do. You need time and you need to be able to make choices for yourself. The non-intrusiveness of their attitude was great. I’d be happy to recommend them to others looking to put together something special who want excellent service and a huge range of products at competitive prices.”

About Rosé Royale

A conversation with Jerome Dubois is sure to have anyone craving a glass of beautiful, chilled rosé, such is his deep passion for the variety. Born and raised in France, Rosé Royale takes him back to precious sensibilities, of visits to the Palace of Versailles, of summers in the French countryside and glorious vistas of hills in full bloom.

Rosé Royale is based on Jerome’s own experience of going into restaurants and finding twelve red wines, twelve white wines and only two rosé wines on the menu. “I wanted two red wines, two white wines and thirty-seven rosé,” he laughs. “Rosé doesn’t receive the respect it deserves so I wanted to change that.”

Indeed, Rosé Royale is a pink, green and gold-hued oasis of civility and charm in suburban Potts Point. Tastefully decorated with chandeliers, French murals and green walls, it attracts a steady clientele of both men and women, couples, groups of friends and even business people looking for a pleasant environment and a quality tipple. The drinks menu features classic cocktails with a rosé twist, with rosés from all over the world, and more to come.

The rosé theme even permeates the food menu with decadent dishes like the rosé-marinated salmon terrine served with caviar butter on toasted baguette and Coq Au Vin Rosé. Residual rosés are gathered from the bottles in the bar following service and put to use in the kitchen. Heaven forbid some precious rosé could go to waste or – perhaps even worse – be served as a drink at less than its prime! One can almost hear a cry of “sacré bleu” at the thought.

Rosé Royale is a world first. There is no other restaurant like it, serving rosé as its main beverage offering. “Rosé has so much to offer,” Jerome explains. “There is such a range in rosé, on your tongue, the bouquets, the different kinds of fermentation. The flavours go from light peach to dark redcurrants. I can work with any person and their usual wine preferences and introduce them to a glass of rosé that will literally give them goosebumps.”

Designed to be a sensory experience throughout, the menu is comprised of dishes meant for sharing.

Rosé Royale is open from 5.30pm to 11pm Monday to Thursday and from midday until late Friday to Sunday.

From humble beginnings in Alexandria in 2003, we have come a long way and we want to share our story with you.

Cafeideas is the story of a sister and brother who decided to take the leap 15 years ago and created Cafeideas. "We wanted to provide our customers solutions and ideas – not just be a “sales” orientated traditional business" says Cara.

When Cara & Damien set up a brand new showroom in Alexandria, Cafeideas identity was already stated loud and clear with a pink and vibrant façade you could not possibly miss. Pink has since become everyone’s favourite colour around the office.

As business grew, the team had to move to a new, bigger showroom. That’s how in 2007 Cafeideas moved to this iconic building in Chippendale, previously known as the Black Market. While the building was renovated (thank God), some sections and walls were kept untouched, as to keep the building history intact. If you are an old Black Market customer, your name might still be engraved on one of the walls. We invite you to come have a look!

After years of consideration and careful planning, Cafeideas finally opened a 2^nd store in West Melbourne in March 2017. You will find there an extensive range of café furniture and catering equipment spread across three floors.

While we have a website with an extensive range including over 5,000 products, we understand how important for you it is to be able to come have a look at products and touch them and test them. With that in mind, Cafeideas selected strategic locations allowing you to easily come visit one of our showrooms.

Cara & Damien worked hard to get where they are today and remained humble all the way up.  With a Sri Lankan background in their genes, they remain close to their roots and decided to give back to society.

Cafeideas has previously donated furniture to Sri Lankan schools and sponsored teachers salaries to work in the schools and provide children with an education. More recently in 2017, they made a donation to a parish in Elpitiya, Sri Lanka to contribute towards Christmas gifts and school supplies for 90 children. In January this year we visited the parish and met with the priest Fr. Bede taking over 200kg of rice, 50kg of milk powder and oat biscuits to feed the 90 children’s nutrition needs for a couple of weeks.

Here we are 15 years later, with two showrooms successfully running in Sydney and Melbourne, a 4000sqm warehouse in Padstow and an amazing team of 13 young and dynamic people. The Cafeideas journey also includes dozens of great suppliers and hundreds of fabulous customers and success stories we were proudly involved with.

What’s next? As we strengthen our relationship with major suppliers and expand our range of products, we might consider opening a 3^rd showroom in Queensland. Who knows! Not sure what the future holds, but we sure look forward to it! "Every obstacle is an opportunity" Damien reminds us whenener he gets the chance.

The Uxi range offers a minimalist design with strong expression and seductive curves. Here are a few facts you should definitely know about our beautiful range of furniture. 

1 – The Uxi collection was created by Polish designer Tomek Rygalik. Rygalik previously designed furniture for Ikea, Heineken and Siemens. 

2 - The Uxi family includes a matching chair, armchair and barstool.

3 - Furniture is made from beechwood, a very solid and durable wood that can take a lot of pressure over time. 

4 - The level of customisation offered is impressive. You can choose from 67 upholstery options, 31 finishes and 9 enamels, and get the exact look you want for your venue.

5 - Backrest was designed after a horseshoe, embracing the user’s back and offering maximum comfort.

6 - Simple yet elegant, the Uxi collection will fit perfectly in any restaurant and bar.

7 - All models from the Uxi collection can be stacked with each other, which is extremely convenient when it comes to storage.

8 - It is produced in Poland and shipped to dozens of countries all around the world.

9 - Rygalik designed another beautiful collection available at Cafeideas and you might enjoy it too: the Tolo range.

10 - The Uxi range is provided by supplier Paged collection, leading supplier of wooden chairs in Europe.

#1 Consistency is key

Your customers expect consistency from you. They need to know you will be able to make an excellent coffee every single time they visit your café. Making sure your coffee grinder is calibrated properly will allow you to ensure consistency.

#2 Keep it clean

Keep your coffee grinder super clean. Procrastination will leave your customers with a bitter taste, literally! You should clean your grinder at least once a week. To do so, empty it completely, wash it thoroughly and dry it well (coffee beans and humidity don’t like each other).

#3 Check the blades

Ideally you want the grinder blades to remain sharp. Natural wear and tear of the blades might occur and they might lose their edge. In that case, you will need to make some adjustment so keep an eye on the blades.

#4 Check the weather

The weather will have an impact on your coffee beans. When it gets cold, rainy and humid, your coffee beans will swell up and you will need to adjust your grinder settings. When it gets hot, coffee beans might clog up the pipes inside your grinder.

Once again, keep an eye on it and make sure you keep it clean. You don’t want to have to disassemble the whole machine on a busy Monday morning.

#5 Protect your grinder

Because coffee beans are so sensitive to weather and temperature changes, you want to keep it away from the entrance. Every time a customer opens the door, wind blows in and the temperature slightly drops (or goes up, during summer time).

#6 Taste it before you serve it

Make 2 / 3 shots in the morning before you open your café, just to make sure the grinder is calibrated properly. This way, you know you are ready to serve delicious coffee!

#7 Don’t get carried away

Don’t grind too much at once; start with one bag. If you grind too much coffee and keep it for too long, it will not only taste bitter, but also smell bad. Coffee grounds can be used as fertilizer and as they decompose, they release nitrogen, potassium and other minerals that you do not want your customers to smell! 

#8 Go for the best

If your budget allows you to do so, go for the best model. Marco recommends an automatic grinder because it ensures accuracy and consistency. And as mentioned in the 1^st paragraph #1, consistency is key.

While manual coffee grinders are great, they are not 100% accurate. All baristas have different grips and different ways to temper coffee, and that has an impact on the way your coffee tastes.

#9 Check settings

If you go for a manual grinder, remember to check the settings every single day, as they will slightly change, depending on the weather and how much you’ve used it the day before.

If you go for an automatic grinder, you won’t need to check every single day, but if coffee beans aren’t grinded properly, quickly re-adjust the settings.

The challenge

Though she was raised amidst ‘the restaurant business’, Sylvia’s comprehension of the finer details behind the scenes left her feeling a little out of her depth when it came to fitting out Belly Bao. With expert guidance from Damien at Cafeideas, she was able to open the eatery within her budget and with a sense of confidence and pride that has spurred her forwards to create some of Sydney’s most innovative Asian dishes.

What problems had you experienced?

Sylvia had worried that she wouldn’t know what kitchen equipment to select for Belly Bao. A Google search for ‘catering equipment’ led her to Cafeideas’ website and not long after, she dropped by the Chippendale showroom where she was met by Damien. “He was so helpful,” Sylvia says. “I told him what I needed and he told me the best brands I should buy that would do what I needed but which would fit within my budget.”

Expecting to be shown products out of her price range, Sylvia was pleasantly surprised to find that what she needed was more affordable than she’d anticipated. “I felt like Damien really wanted to help us and not just sell us on the higher margin products. He was very genuine in his approach and I really appreciated that.” Over ensuing visits to Cafeideas, Sylvia was also assisted by Vibha who, she says, was equally helpful and accommodating of the budget.

How Cafeideas helped

Not being familiar with the various brands of kitchen equipment available, Sylvia was forced to rely on Cafeideas to be transparent and honest in their recommendations. Additionally, as a self-confessed ‘hospitality newbie’, she had expected to face lots of difficulties in knowing exactly what to buy. “I really leaned on Damien to point me in the right direction. Aside from knowing which products to buy, I had to learn very quickly about gas fixtures, dimensions and other specifications. Thankfully, Damien is an absolute expert so he really relieved the burden on me,” Sylvia explains.

Timing was also an issue. “When you’re opening a new restaurant, time is money,” she says. “You need to open as quickly as you can. Damien was very on the ball and he connected me with the right products and specs, always getting back to me straight away. This saved me a huge amount of time and it was seamless from beginning to end.”

Prior to opening Belly Bao, Sylvia had considered making the furnishings by hand. However, once she began dealing with Cafeideas, she realised life could be much simpler if she purchased the table tops and legs from them too. “They always give us a really good discount, so we went with ready-made and it turned out a much better solution.”

Follow-up, communication and problem management

When Belly Bao’s ice machine arrived, it was meant to supply a particular shape of ice. Discovering that it didn’t, Sylvia got onto Damien who arranged for a replacement the very next day. Also, an under counter fridge that Sylvia had purchased a year and half prior for a previous location had broken down. “I emailed Damien, he replied straight away and it was repaired almost immediately. You just don’t experience that kind of service everywhere,” Sylvia smiles.

Recommending Cafeideas

In the past, Sylvia had purchased “a few odd things here and there” from other suppliers but found that working with Cafeideas was a far better solution all-round. “Nothing’s ever as good as at Cafeideas; the prices, the expertise, the genuine service they provide. I would never hesitate to recommend Cafeideas because they have everything you could need, brands you can trust and Damien always tells you ‘why’ you need a particular item, not just which item you should buy.”

About Belly Bao

On a trip to New York about seven years ago, Sylvia experienced the wonderful fluffy, steamed buns called baos. Original, authentic Taiwanese ‘gua baos’ are filled with slow braised pork belly, coriander, peanuts and mustard greens. With her tastebuds convinced, her mind began ticking over and the idea to open her own bao eatery stayed on a simmer on the back burner of her mind for years. Today, Belly Bao is a glimpse into her imagination and some of her dishes are the stuff of foodie dreams!

Sylvia’s hybrid bao/burgers – called ‘baogers’ at Belly Bao – feature handmade bao buns and Asian flavours. Choose from Angus beef patties and luscious melting cheese or go for pork crackling, soft shell crab, panko chicken or crispy tofu fillings.

If you’ve never heard of bao noodles, then drop by Belly Bao for Sylvia’s invention. The house-made bao dough is rolled and hand-sliced into noodles and served with pork belly, shiitake mushrooms and egg.

For dessert, prepare to have your mind blown! Imagine a handmade bao bun, flash fried so that it’s delicately crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. Imagine an entire Golden Gaytime ice cream, fresh bananas, salted caramel, cocoa powder and coconut and there you have a wicked Belly Bao dessert! Sylvia has also reinvented another addictive treat which caters for the high concentration of vegans in Newtown. “It’s our Pandan Bao Balls; our version of donuts but I might even say, better!” she laughs. The juice is extracted from pandan leaves, blended with sugar and coconut milk and added to the bao dough. Formed into balls, the dough is steamed, flash fried, rolled in sugar and topped with coconut and then served with coconut cream infused with pandan juice.

Currently BYO, Sylvia is waiting on the liquor license however its absence has not stopped hordes of hungry Sydney-siders dropping in for a bao feast. “People love us because when they want to experience something really different, they come in here and have a fun night out. Belly Bao really hits the spot for them.”

For Sylvia Tran, Belly Bao is a true labour of love. “It’s hard work,” she says, “but I’m really lucky to have my father helping me. And besides, I absolutely love what I do.”

Opening hours:

Tues-Thur 5pm - 10pm; Fri 11:30am-3pm, 5pm-10pm; Sat-Sun 11:30am-10pm

Do you remember the Robot Chef developed by Moley Robotics a few years back? How cool was that! If you missed it, check out the video below.

Well, a bunch of smart people took it a notch further and developed a Robot Barista. Engineering firm Aabak has created a wholly automated robotic coffee maker, and this robot barista can be found at the Once Alike café, hiding in one of the Collingwood backstreets and secretly revolutionizing our (coffee) world. 

Check out this 30-second video and discover the machine in action.

No matter how you feel about new technologies and artificial intelligence, you must admit this is pretty mind-blowing!

This machine doesn’t just spit cappuccino out. It grinds its own beans, fills a portafilter, picks up a cup, and pours milk, just the way any barista would do. Perhaps even more accurately (no offense).

Also, with such a robot barista you could finally guarantee consistency. Let’s be honest, no matter how good you think you are, your coffee is not always perfect.  This robot barista will be able to make the same excellent coffee every single time.

Last but not least, you could save a lot on wage. And as a business owner, this is something you should be interested in.

On the other hand, having a robot barista at your café takes away something fundamental: human interaction with your customers.

Your customers secretly enjoy watching you preparing their coffee (wishing you could hurry up a little).

A robot barista will deliver efficiency and consistency, but it will not build relationships with your customers. People will be loyal to their barista, not to a robot.

In a world where automation prevails and human interactions are less and less encouraged, ordering a coffee from a machine could be a little sad. Don’t you think?

Would you drink a coffee prepared by a robot barista? Or are you a more traditional coffee machine person?

By the way, the robot barista is named Rocky. If you are somewhere around Melbourne, please say hello to Rocky for us! Otherwise, let’s wait and see if the trend spreads out and makes it to the other states.

We added hundreds of new furniture styles last year, and in case you’ve missed it, we also added the Mali range.

This collection was inspired by cranes, beautiful birds with slender legs and perfectly aligned body. Cranes symbolize auspiciousness and luck in East Asia, where the range was designed and produced.

Combining industrial metal legs and a simple solid ashwood body, this industrial furniture collection presents a perfect match between durability and simplicity. 

The Mali set includes chair, ottoman and barstool, and is available in three different matt finishes: black, white and red.

Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, it will sit very comfortably in any restaurant area, balcony, and bar.

If you like the Mali range, you might also enjoy the Cuba range including dining table and bar table. This way you can mix and match, and get consistent seating options across your venue.

We tell you what we love about it , and why we don’t mind the price.

#1 Versatile

We were very impressed with how versatile the oven is. You can cook banana bread, omelets, pizza, French toast, burgers … the list goes on and on.  Some of us were skeptical, but after tasting the delicious food coming out of the oven, everyone was sold.

#2 Speed 

Well, its name says it all. A quick performance oven is all about cooking food within a tick. This Pronto oven can bake banana bread perfectly in 2 only minutes - crunchy on the outside and moist on the inside (just the way it should be, right?).

#3 Small footprint

The Pronto unit is compact and fits perfectly in any space. Despite its small footprint, the unit has a large cavity, big enough for a 14” pizza.

Some will say that the cavity seems small and it allows you to cook only one meal at a time, but because it only takes 2/ 3 minutes to cook each meal, it ends up being faster than an oven.

#4 Easy to operate

The Pronto oven is ideal for clubs, bars and small cafes with no kitchen. The touchscreen is extremely instinctive and anyone can operate it. No need to train your staff for hours; no need to have a Chef around to cook.

#5 Safe 

The oven doesn’t get hot on the outside, which means it is 200% safe to touch, even while cooking. Bartenders, for instance, can easily operate it without any Chef’s assistance.

#6 Design

Appearance does matter, especially when it comes to equipment sitting at the front of the house. You will love the Pronto oven matt black finish. So sexy!

#7 What about the price?

We won’t lie, the Pronto oven is an investment. It is more expensive than a standard microwave but you get much better cooking results and you can cook a much wider variety of foods, hence expand your menu.

Should you get a “proper oven” instead?  Well, you can if you want too, but it won’t take you 2 minutes to cook an omelet. It all depends on what you will cook and how elaborated your menu is. The Pronto oven gives you speed so its ideal for quickly prepared meals and fast turnover.

Also, time is money. With this Pronto oven, you can cook many of meals within minutes, which means:

1)   you don’t keep your customers waiting 15 long minutes to get their banana bread.

2)   You can serve more meals.

We have an ex café owner in our team at Cafeideas, Marco, and he said “I wish I had a speed cook oven, it would have allowed me to expand my menu”.

Discover the new Pronto quick performance oven and feel free to request a call if you want to discuss further.

The challenge

Ay says that the need for appropriate furnishings had led her to shop around at a few different suppliers, but she wasn’t satisfied with the products she’d found. A friend involved in supplying the hospitality industry with other needs put her in touch with Cafeideas.

What problems had you experienced?

Having already purchased the appliances and other kitchen equipment for West Wok from another supplier, Ay was accustomed to a low standard of service. “By the time we went to Cafeideas for our tables and chairs, we didn’t expect to find the service so excellent,” she says. They had had some issues with equipment and when they approached the retailer to seek assistance, were told that they would have to pursue the matter themselves with the suppliers of the products.

“This was extremely frustrating,” Ay explains. “When you are working hard to set up your business, you have a lot to do. We spent around $60K to $70K on brand new products at the other place and I would have expected that if I had an issue with anything, they would guide me or let me know how to deal with them. We were told that once they sell us what we need, they don’t do anymore and it’s up to us.”

How Cafeideas helped

Upon visiting the West Melbourne Cafeideas showroom, Ay was delighted to see that she could instantly choose the tables and chairs she wanted. “We found exactly what we imagined but there were even more options to choose from,” she says. “Cafeideas have more unique products than other suppliers. And we found out when we were there that they also sell kitchen equipment and appliances. If we’d known that sooner, we would have spent our money there instead because the service and range are so much better!”

Follow-up, communication and problem management

A small problem occurred with the delivery of the tables and chairs because West Wok is situated in Campbellfield Plaza, a small shopping centre. “There are a few restrictions in the centre with where you can park and where you can unload. This could have been a bigger problem but Dan resolved the issues for us very quickly and everything ran smoothly.”

Recommending Cafeideas

Asked if she would recommend Cafeideas to others in the industry, Ay says that as her expectations were exceeded from beginning to end, she would have no hesitation. “And if we open another shop, we’ll definitely use Cafeideas again too. Next time, we’ll purchase our kitchen equipment as well as our furniture.”

About West Wok

West Wok is a small, family-run eatery that serves authentic Malaysian dishes. Ay says that some of the dishes are customised to be a little less spicy, according to the Australian palate but that the food is what you would find in Malaysia.

Middle of the range pricing and a fun, vibrant atmosphere are what draw customers in to sample the scrumptious noodle dishes, laksas, sates, spring rolls and rice meals. At lunch time, the place is busy and buzzing with workers from nearby businesses popping in for a meal. At night, the customers are mostly local residents seeking satisfaction for their flavour cravings.

Ay’s husband, Steve has worked in the industry for more than 20 years and was doing long shifts anyway when they decided that if he’s going to work so hard, it might as well be for their own business. Ay will soon be joining him behind the counter and, in addition to takeaways and dine-in, West Wok will be offering home delivery through the range of services now available such as UberEats. 

Open 7 days from 11am to 9pm, West Wok is quickly becoming a favourite hangout for locals and Malaysian ex-pats who enjoy a taste of home.

When customers visit your deli store, your bakery, or your café / restaurant, you want them to see what you have to offer. The problem is, the more products you have, the less visibility. So if you have a wide range of items on display, it’s great, but make sure they are presented properly so your customers can find them, and buy them. Make sure your products get the attention they deserve!

 Some tips below.

 #1 Visibility

 Seeing is buying. Be strategic with positioning and make sure all your products are displayed in a visible way for your customers to see them.

 Want to introduce a new product or promote an existing one? Consider these 2 options:

- Place them at the check out counter. People standing near the point-of-sale area are likely already in the mood to buy, so the chances of them making an additional purchase are very high.

- Place them near one of your best sellers. The products you want to promote will gain in visibility.

 We’ve compiled a few beautiful examples for you. Have a look!

#2 Organisation

Organisation is key. You may have hundreds of beautiful products, but if customers can’t find them, they won’t buy them and your precious gems will remain hidden.

Be it by type, by country of origin, by colour, by expiry date, find some sort of organisation and stick to it. You really don’t want your place to get too messy. Customers will cringe and walk away. 

#3 Pricing

It is important to have price tags on your products. If no price is indicated, customers will tend to think it is more expensive than what it actually is. And since people don’t always want to engage the conversation and ask for the price, they might decide it’s “too expensive” and leave without buying.

#4 Creativity 

Have fun and be creative when it comes to decoration. You can use food displays, shelving, cases, wall shelves, boxes, glass jars, baskets, and plant pots… the list goes on and on.

You can also write names and pricing on the front window of your food display. If you do so, choose a nice font and colours, and allow enough space for customers to see through - because the focus should remain on what you sell!

#5 Use the proper equipment

That one seems obvious, but we thought we might say it once more. If you sell fresh foods and milk based drinks, make sure you get a cold unit to safely store your products.

We have an extensive range of food displays. Curved or square, bench top or floor standing options. See what works best. 

The challenge

Bringing together the designer’s vision of a warm, eclectic, welcoming and inclusive space was always going to be a challenge. Shane was determined to find all the right pieces of the puzzle so that the end result would be cohesive yet not look too contrived. “Mission accomplished!” he says.

What problems had you experienced?

Over his last five projects, Shane has engaged Jodi Foster of Foster and Associates to design the look and feel of Café 2773. Investing in professional expertise comes at a price and in order to maximise the return on that investment, it’s vital to source the appropriate furnishings to match the recommendations. “Café 2773 is based around a quaint, rustic cottage. We’ve amped it up with an edgier feel with industrial elements that give the place its contemporary personality,” Shane explains. “So we needed a supplier that could give us a diverse range of pieces that would work with what we were trying to create. It was great to be able to get all of it in the one place at Cafeideas.”

Indeed, the café’s fitout capitalises on the originality and cosiness of the cottage and extends to the outdoors where al fresco dining and roaming freely are all part of the fun. The venue can be utilised for casual snacks and meals during the day and smarter dining at night.

How Cafeideas helped

Shane says he was impressed by the vast product range at Cafeideas. “You can get what you need across a wide range of different styles, colours and qualities,” he says. “I steer away from doing things online. To me, it’s much more valuable to go in and be able to create visual stories, touch and feel everything, put things together and gauge heights and comfort levels.”

In one single visit to the Cafeideas showroom in Chippendale, Shane was able to select all the items he needed for the indoors and outdoors at Café 2773. “I didn’t want to shop around. I knew I could count on Cafeideas to have everything I needed at prices I would be happy to pay. They’re really affordable and they do good discounting for repeat custom and for VIP members.”

The Cafeideas VIP program offers an additional level of privileges including special offers and first-to-know product alerts. “We were due to add some outdoor furnishings in the next couple of weeks as soon as we’ve finished our balcony balustrade. Coincidentally, I got an email from Cafeideas last week highlighting some new outdoor furniture they’re getting in so it was a great prompt for me.”

Follow-up, communication and problem management

When a delivery of furniture didn’t arrive within the expected time frame, Shane admits to feeling more than a little apprehensive about his order. “Well, you can’t open without furnishings,” he says. “Thankfully, Cafeideas communicated with us very well and were extremely helpful in getting things organised. They actually loaned us some furniture and I felt it was the perfect compromise. Otherwise, we would have had to find some elsewhere and maybe even pay for it but they met our timeline with minimal hassle and the stress was removed.”

Recommending Cafeideas

Having dealt with other hospitality suppliers in the past, Shane says Cafeideas is now his first and only port of call when looking for furnishings. “I had a really underwhelming experience with another company back in 2011,” he says. “Their quality, their delivery, everything was unsatisfactory and I’m really happy to have found Cafeideas. We’ve used them for several properties over the years and I’d certainly recommend them for their product range and also for customer service and efficiency. These are important things when you’ve got timelines to meet and you’re looking for some very specific products. I always know I can rely on Cafeideas to have and do what I need.”

About Café 2773

Café 2773 is the latest venture for passionate foodie couple, Shane and Belinda Simpson. Having owned cafes in major shopping centres in the past, they decided it was time to invest in a business that would grant them an enhanced lifestyle as well as greater autonomy. The location, at the foot of the glorious Blue Mountains has provided an opportunity to get to know the locals as well as greet a constant stream of tourists. It’s also a place where they grow their own herbs for the café, purchase from local provedores and raise miniature pigs and chickens in their small farmyard.

“We wanted this place to be somewhere that everyone could come and find their happy spot,” Shane explains. “On any given day, we’ve got local families, bike riders, runners, hipsters and international tourists and people walking their dogs. This is what makes it so funky and vibrant.”

The menu too is an eclectic blend of cuisines, featuring Brekky Boards, smashed avo, macadamia pancakes and Pork Jowl Benedict each morning. At lunch, expect American burgers, steak sambos, pizzas and salads. At night, choose from an array of seafood dishes or a rib eye the way you like it. Green Bean coffee is roasted in-house and the alcohol offerings include cocktails, beer, cider and some good Aussie wines.

Local musicians provide live entertainment on weekends when the café’s patronage swells considerably. “We love it because our place becomes the go-to café, not just for the food and the coffee but because it’s a really inviting, energetic and happy place.”

Shane says that at Café 2773, customer service is one of the highest priorities. “We hand-pick our staff for their capacity to provide outstanding customer service. You could have the best food in the world but treating your customers well is really important.”

A devout marathon runner, Shane also owns the Blue Mountains Running Company which is also situated nearby. “I’m all about a fun, healthy environment,” he says. “One thing I absolutely love about Café 2773 is that a lot of local runs and rides start here; we’re like a clubhouse and I thoroughly enjoy being a part of that.”

Café 2773 is fully licensed and is open from 7am to 5pm Sunday to Wednesday and 7am to late Thursday to Saturday.

We have a lot of refrigeration equipment available online and we understand it can be overwhelming.

You know why you need a drink display fridge, but you are not sure what model? We get it.

Today we focus on Sanden, a company created in Japan on 1943 and that is now established in 53 countries. The Australian branch has been operating for 30 years now, supplying commercial refrigeration to the Australian market. Why should you consider Sanden for your next purchase?

#1 Complete range.

From upright drink displays, to under counter freezers, to cake displays, the Sanden range includes equipment for front and back of house operations. 

#2 Tested in Extreme Conditions.

All Sanden equipment is made and tested in Thailand, where weather conditions can get extreme. That means if all Sanden units successfully pass the test in Asia, then they are definitely ready to perform in your kitchen in Australia! 

#3 Beautiful design.

Upright and under counter stainless steel units have a beautiful finish that makes them look as good as more premium equipment. You will appreciate it, especially if you purchase back bar equipment (visible to your customers).

#4 Stock level.

Stock level is always high, which is great because it means you don’t have to wait too long before receiving your unit.

#5 After-sales service.

Sanden is big on after-sales service. If you happen to require assistance with the unit you’ve purchased, they will go above and beyond to help you out.

#6 Extended warranty.

Not many suppliers offer an extended warranty, but Sanden does! For any unit purchased, you can get a 3-year warranty. Ask us about it! 

#7 Environment-friendly.

Sanden strives to conduct every aspect of its operations in a sound manner to prevent adverse environmental impacts. They actively promote resources and energy conservation and even received a certification for sustainable manufacturing good practices. (If you would like to learn more, we invite you visit Sanden website).

The challenge

Mark and Dan had a clear idea of the look and feel of their new café and were desperate to do away with the old fit-out which Mark describes as “completely feral”. Happily, they were able to strike a sweet deal with Cafeideas and the resultant upgrades barely made a dent in the budget. In fact, through leasing instead of purchasing more items than they’d originally intended, even the working capital was bolstered.

What problems had you experienced?

Armed with set ideas, the boys thought they might be heading for a fall when told they would have to take over the existing Silverchef lease, but were pleasantly surprised to find that Cafeideas could turn it into an advantage.

“From the minute we met Dan Savage – or ‘Big Dan’ as we call him – we knew everything would be fine,” Mark explains. “We walked in to the showroom and to be honest, it was absolutely daunting!”

As chefs by trade, Mark and business partner Dan were impressed by the plethora of chairs, tables and bases. “We thought they just came in black and silver but we quickly realised things were going to get difficult due to the sheer choice. Straight away we knew we were dealing with a professional company. The showroom is sleek, clean, open, has heaps of natural light. We felt like we’d found everything we were looking for.”

How Cafeideas helped

The most valuable assistance Cafeideas provided was in allowing the boys to take over the old lease but upgrade to brand new, more appealing products, for only token additional value. “An upgrade is an upgrade, they told us,” Mark says. “So we were stoked that we could grab all this great stuff and it wasn’t going to break the bank.”

Dan from Cafeideas was a constant source of reassurance. “Dan’s a pretty good salesman,” Mark says. “But he doesn’t sell you anything you don’t actually need. He’s also a chef so he totally gets us. Once we opened, we rang him up and told him we need six outdoor settings for our local walkers to enjoy their coffee outside in the morning, but we didn’t want the tables. He knew exactly what we should get and sorted it out without any hassle.”

“The whole lease issue has turned out for the best because if it wasn’t for that, we wouldn’t have found Cafeideas. I’ve dealt with other hospo suppliers in the past and they just don’t come close to what Cafeideas have done for us. We wanted a stunning space, on our own terms, and nothing was ever a problem thanks to Cafeideas.”

The boys ended up leasing some of their favourite ‘toys’ like a waffle iron and Cryovac. “Dan talked us into leasing them because let’s face it, it the waffles didn’t work, or if they went off trend, we wouldn’t want to be stuck with the equipment.”

Follow-up, communication and problem management

Mark says that of the many, many items they purchased or leased through Cafeideas and Silverchef, only one problem occurred. “A glass washer didn’t turn up when it was supposed to but granted, we left it a little late to order. Dan did his utmost to get it here on time and when it didn’t, through no fault of his own, he was extremely apologetic. That was the only drama we had out of all our dealings with them and frankly, everything they do is with full transparency. I really appreciated the honesty.”

Once The Mad Ram had opened, Dan from Cafeideas personally drove out to the Yarra Valley to visit. “He drove an hour-plus to come and see us. You just don’t get that kind of service from most companies. Most just want your sales then you never hear from them again.”

Recommending Cafeideas

Mark and Dan rated Cafeideas very highly for flexibility, “awesome range” and honesty. “Honesty is huge,” Mark says. “They only sell you what you really need and also, if they haven’t got something, they’ll say so, but they’ll try their best to get it for you first. Their honesty makes them your number one port of call so we’re always going to go back. What I love most is they don’t pump your tyres up to get your sale and then not deliver. It’s nice being in hospo and dealing with people that are hospo too. It makes all the difference.”

From Cafeideas, The Mad Ram Café purchased both furniture and kitchen equipment. Among other things, they have purchased:

Ashwood natural matt finish table tops, Louvre chairs, Hairpin frame, a Norris glasswasher, Maxwell table bases, Vintage chairs, Finnick bar stools, a Washtech dishwasher, a Robot Coupe food processor, and a Hamilton blender.

About The Mad Ram Café

Best mates since doing their chef apprenticeships together twenty years ago, Mark Andersen and Dan McDonald were destined to go into business together. Five years ago they established My Mate’s A Chef, an in-home catering business that came about because they kept getting asked to cook for events. Over time, putting roots down at a real address was a natural progression. The Mad Ram Café is the result and after finding the perfect space that ticked all the boxes, it is now a reality.

“Everything had to be built from the ground up because we had such a clear picture of what we wanted,” Mark says. “It’s been a real project of passion and we’ve involved everyone from brothers, parents and partners to cousins and mates.”

Passion permeates every aspect of the business and the fit-out is a pure example. “We wanted this vivid white with reclaimed timber. All the wood in here is reclaimed Victorian ash and has been custom-made by my cousin, from the coffee pass and kitchen pass to the communal table, tabletops and bench seating. It’s exceeded our expectations.”

One step further is the menu, created around ingredients produced by local suppliers. “We use bread from Shannon Bennett’s Burnham Bakery up the road, our butcher is ten minutes away, our fruit and veg supplier is a five-minute drive and I went to trade school with the seafood guy so he’s a local too.”

The Mad Ram serves “honest, modern café food”, beginning with the 6am $10 tradie special of Toby’s Estate coffee plus Burnham Bakery Egg & Bacon Rolls featuring free range eggs and organic bacon, cheese, mayo and house-made relish. Mark says the carpark is a sea of high-vis and utes early every weekday morning and that the tradies “go absolutely nuts for the rolls”. After that, there is a constant flow of Mums, ‘DINKS’ (dual income, no kids), business people and coffee lovers. Increasingly famous for its Instagram hash tag, #youvebeenrammed, The Mad Ram is open from 6am Monday to Friday, 8am Saturday and Sunday. It seats 30 inside and 12 outside and will increase seating very soon. A liquor license is pending.

We compiled a list of must-have items that will help you to create that fresh atmosphere your customers sick and encourage them to visit your place again.

#1 Booth seating & Lounges.

Lounges and booth seats offer comfort, space and privacy. It is exactly what people want when they go out to chill with a group of friends. In a previous article, we explained at length why you should have booth seats. Lounges are possibility the most comfortable seating option available. And remember, the more comfortable they are, the longer they stay, the more they consume.

You can even complete your set with a low table and you create the perfect space where people sit comfortably to spend a nice moment.

#2 Bar Furniture.

It is important to have various seating options in order to create different dynamics within the same space. Consider having bar stools and bar tables for the ones who will only stay for one or two drinks.

We have several outdoor bar furniture options listed online. Be it wicker, timber or polypropylene, they all help you reach your goal. 

#3 Plant holders.

Everyone loves green.  In a previous article we explained why it is important to have flowers and green. It brings peacefulness, people are more inclined to relax and enjoy the moment spent at your venue. It creates a fresh atmosphere, something people desperately seek during warm days. We currently count two options on our website, the Fin base tall and the Fin pot with a seat bench.

And if you don’t have space for it, why not having a living green wall! 

#4 Outdoor heaters.

Last but not least, you will need outdoor heaters to keep your customers warm when the night comes. Our range available online includes stand-alone and wall mounted heaters. Different sizes options and styles available, go check it out!

A blender, often underrated, is a great piece of equipment. A blender is a must-have tool. It will allow you to add various healthy food options to your menu.

Why should you have one?

#1 Blenders are extremely versatile. They allow you to prepare a large variety of foods. Breakfast, lunch, dinner. There is no limit. 

#2 As a result, you can expand your menu. Acai bowls, fresh yogurts, banana bread, granola and homemade jam… the list goes on and on. Check out our Pinterest board for deliciously healthy recipes! 

#3 Blenders are small and compact, so you don’t need to allocate much space on your counter area.

#4 Ergonomic. Blenders are relatively easy to use. No lengthy and complicated training is required, and your staff can use it straight away.

#5 Most of the blenders listed on our website have removal parts that are dishwasher safe. They are easy to clean and maintain. 

#6 Attractive design with round edges. They will look just great on your counter.

#7 Small but powerful. Blenders allow you to prepare foods in a matter of few seconds.

#8 Most of the models listed on our website allow you to save programs, meaning you can offer consistency to your customers, no matter who operates the blender. 

#9 Blenders can be extremely quiet. Suppliers developed technologies in order to reduce noise and keep it to conversation level, so you can take a customer’s order without having to scream. 

#10 Our blenders are fairly priced. From $302 to $3,548, we have no doubt you will find a model that meets your requirements.

We count over 30 blenders and 20 juicers available online, go check it out. Vitamix, Hamiton, Blendtec… you will find all the great brands.

When is a burger not ‘just’ a burger? For Sergio Spagnuoli and his partner Coco Liang, it’s when it is carefully constructed to be a complex yet mind-blowing taste sensation that takes you to different regions of the world. Short of needing a passport to taste them, lucky Wolli Creek locals call Concept Burger their neighbour and have embraced its exquisite menu with gusto. Attention to detail is the hallmark of the brand whose menu was expertly developed with the help of renowned Sydney Chef, now Chef Consultant, Tomislav Martinovic. Sergio explained that Cafeideas was another vital element in the detail-oriented process of bringing Concept Burger to life.

The challenge

Meticulous in everything he does, Sergio was looking for a supplier that could deliver on price, quality, product knowledge and customer service.

What problems had you experienced?

When he began his online search for café equipment, Sergio initially encountered a couple of other suppliers who let him down from their earliest interactions. “I had one supplier send me a quote and when I told them it was too high for my budget, they sent another quote. Unfortunately, this quote was even higher than the first one!” he laughs. “I didn’t bother getting back in touch but they called me a week later to ask if I was going ahead and when I explained about the higher quote, they did nothing to try and secure my business.”

Conversely, when Sergio found Cafeideas online, he quickly identified that he could procure a great deal of what he was looking for and so gave the showroom a call. “I found that Cafeideas even do furniture which was a great surprise. When I called, I spoke with Vibha right from the start and she has been extremely helpful, always ready to help wherever she can. Other companies have not responded to emails and some haven’t even answered the phone! Cafeideas is a highly professional operation and I never doubted they would follow through on their promises.”

How Cafeideas helped

Sergio was impressed with the fact he could use the one supplier for so many of his requirements. “It’s so much easier to shop for multiple categories from the same shop,” he says. “Then you only have to deal with fewer deliveries, transactions, payments and so on and with Cafeideas, you always speak with the same person.”

Quality was another big factor in selecting Cafeideas. “We have gone to a great deal of effort and expense to make sure everything is perfect at Concept Burger. We need to deal with suppliers who understand this and who work with us in making sure everything matches, looks great and performs as it should. I always got the feeling that if we would not be happy with something, neither would Cafeideas and that’s how it should be in business.”

Additionally, Cafeideas invited Sergio to product demonstrations and he gladly went along. “They had a rep in store doing an informative talk and some training on some of the equipment. I found this really helpful and I appreciate that they make this service available.”

Follow-up, communication and problem management

One delivery of lamps arrived in incorrect colours and Vibha was quick to arrange a re-delivery of the correct items the same day. “No one passes the buck at Cafeideas. They just get it done,” Sergio explains.

Recommending Cafeideas

“There is no doubt I would recommend Cafeideas to others,” Sergio says. “They made everything really easy for us and their online presence has to be one of the stronger ones. I did look around quite a bit and of all the quotes I received, Cafeideas was always the one able to give me the best price. In fact, customer service and price have been the major difference.”

From Cafeideas, Concept Burger purchased: a Bromic chiller, Anvil heat lamp, Eswood glasswasher, Vitamix blender, Hoshizaki upright freezer, Austune underbench fridge, Ashwood table tops, Rons table bases, Barrel bar stools.

About Concept Burger

A seasoned world traveller, Concept Burger Co-Owner Sergio Spagnuoli has always had a taste for international cuisines. This, combined with a passion for a really good burger was the seed in his mind. Along with partner Coco, Sergio dreamed up a place where people could go and eat sumptuous burgers created with outstanding attention to detail, using spectacular ingredients from incredible suppliers like grass-fed beef from Haverick and buns from Brasserie Bread. He took it a huge leap further with the engagement of Tomislav Martinovic, a highly renowned Chef who has worked for the famous Heston Blumenthal among other prestigious credentials and who now offers Chef Consultancy services.

“For me, the difficulty was being able to interpret the concept because it is unique and quite complicated,” Sergio explains. “The final result that you see is what Tomislav helped us to pull together. It’s very distinctive. All the flavours are so particular and belonging of each country’s cuisine. Tomislav has very extensive knowledge of food from all around the world and he even described the exact position of every ingredient in each burger!”

Concept Burger’s location in Wolli Creek, a new residential area offers a taste of multicultural flavours. “A lot of the food outlets around here are particularly Asian,” Sergio says. “Customers who come in to Concept Burger try our Italian burger with Black Angus beef, provolone, smoked pancetta and pecorino and it blows their minds. Our French burger is vegetarian and features roast field mushrooms, truffle paste, Gruyere cheese and red cabbage slaw. Then we have our Argentinian which has Black Angus beef, amazing chimichurri sauce, grilled eggplant, chipotle chillies, smoked paprika and cheese. There really is nothing like our burgers anywhere else around.”

Whilst burgers are normally a fairly simple affair, Concept Burgers is disrupting the usual way of things. “Our burgers are quite complicated,” Sergio says. “But nothing that is worth it is simple, is it?”

Fully licensed, Concept Burger serves up wine, beer and cider as well as lush mocktails and smoothies.

Concept Burger is open Tuesday to Friday from 5pm to 9pm, Saturday 11am to 9pm and Sunday 11am to 8pm. It seats 44 inside and 20 outside.

And it’s a wrap! Fine Food Australia 2017 ended last week, and it was great to see you all. We introduced our brand new range of furniture and were thrilled to see your positive reaction. Among the most popular items were the following: 

Mali & Cuba range

This range includes a matching ottoman, chair and bar stool, dining table and bar table. It is exclusive to Cafeideas, which means you will not find these hidden gems anywhere else!

Ideal for indoor and outdoor use, all items are composed of a steel frame powder coated in matt black and solid ashwood. It is the perfect combination of rough industrial metal look and natural timber look.

More frame colour options available online for the Mali range, we invite you to have a look and find what best suits your venue!

Communal Tables

We had two communal tables featured on the stand, and it’s no wonder you loved them. Communal tables are becoming increasingly popular. They create this lovely, lively and friendly atmosphere customers look for when they visit your venue.

From trendy hipster cafes, to more elegant chic bars, communal tables can now be found everywhere.

Because it is all about flexibility, we have two options for you to choose from.

-       Buy a complete table, and simply choose the most suitable dimension.
See our brand new Peru communal table for instance.

-       Buy a table frame and add your favourite table top.
See our Blackburn communal table for instance.

Sona bar stool

The Sona bar stool was also displayed on our stand. A fairly new addition to our range of genuine leather furniture; it sure had an impact! The vintage tan leather contracts beautifully with the black metal steel frame. 

Its legs might look thin and frail, but they are actually strong and sturdy. Plus, its padded seat and backrest make it extremely comfortable.

While it was not on the stand, we also have a matching Sona chair you might love equally. Have a look online!

It is embedded in our company culture, and each day starts with a round of coffee for everyone in the house.

We compiled this list of fun facts for you to impress your customers when they visit your café! 

#1. Coffee comes from the fruit of the coffea trees and looks like cute little red cherries.

#2 Coffee is the second most traded commodity on Earth, after oil.

#3 Coffee cherries are elephants’ favourite snack, and the beans, or seeds, can be harvested, already hulled, from their dung. Smooth and caramel-tasting, elephant-dung coffee has been known to sell for $500 a pound.

#4 The earliest evidence of coffee drinking appeared in Yemen in the middle of the 15th century.

#5 Coffee is most effective if consumed between 9.30 and 11.30 when your cortisol levels are dropping before the next spike.

#6 Worldwide we consume about 140 million bags of coffee a year, that’s almost 10 million tons.

#7 The top 3 biggest coffee drinkers are:

    1.     Finland: 9.6 kg per capita (consumption of 2.64 cups a day)

    2.     Norway: 7.2 kg (1.98 cups a day)

    3.     Netherlands: 6.7 kg (1.84 cups a day)

Australia is far behind (42nd) with only 3kg per capita (0.83 cups a day) 

#8 Finnish workers are legally required to be given an official coffee break.

#9 In 2016, Australians spent $800 million on take way and dine-in coffees.

#10 Australians purchase 23.4 million kg of coffee products per year.

#11 Coffee peak hour in Sydney is at 8.00 AM where in Melbourne is it at 9.30 AM (what does this information say about Melbournians, we will let you decide!). 

#12 Each state has its preference. While VIC, WA, NT and QLD prefer latte, NSW and TAS favours cappuccinos.

#13 50% of Australians say a bad coffee makes them feel angry, 17% are left feeling regretful, and for 6% it completely ruins their day*. 

#14 47% of Australians claim they won’t ever go back to the same coffee shop if they receive a bad coffee*.

#15. You can swim in coffee at a spa in Japan. For an admission price of just 27 dollars, bathers can have coffee poured on them.

#16 We currently count 48 coffee machine listed on our website. From Wega, to Slayer to Conti, you will find all the big brands.

#17 Our range of coffee grinders is equally impressive and currently counts 42 items. Mazzer, Ditting, Mahlkoenig, Wega. We offer high quality at an affordable price.

#18 We have a new range of beautiful coffee cups and mugs. We also have matching teapots and plates. You will love them!

* Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com.au/2015/08/26/australians-love-coffee_n_8029268.html

#1 A Complete Range.

The new T collection includes a matching side chair, armchair, bar stool, two size table bases, and a bar table base. You can pick and choose, and get the total T look!

#2 Light Industrial Never Goes Out Of Style.

Light Industrial furniture perfectly combines cold industrial steel with warm natural colours. It is simply beautiful and pleasing to the eye. Industrial vibes might be more or less trendy, but with a light industrial look you will never fall out of fashion.

#3 Curved Shapes.

The ash veneer seat and backrest are nicely curved and extremely comfortable as the seat contours the chair exceptionally well.  

#4 Strong Legs.

The legs are made of mild steel, a robust and reliable material that will never let you down (pun intended!).

#5 Chairs & Stools Are Stackable.

The T chairs and bar stools can be stacked and neatly stored at the end of the day. It will give you more space to clean up and put everything back in order.

#6 An Underrated Feature.

The T bar stool comes with a footrest, a fabulous feature that most of the people tend to take for granted. Your customers will be able to sit on your bar stools and relax!

#7 More is More.

The side chair, armchair and bar stool are available in two colours: black stained ashwood veneer and natural ashwood veneer. You can mix and match colours, and maintain a harmonious décor with our dark and light option. 

#8 Beauty Is In The Details.

The new T table bases are a beautiful addition to our existing range. The center column of each table base has an overlay sleeve, which certainly makes the design more elaborated.

#9 Solid Bases.

All the T table bases have a large round disc base, which makes them extremely stable. A wobbly table might seem like a minor detail, but it can have a negative impact on customers’ overall experience. They also have adjustable feet just in case your floor is not level. 

#10 A Perfect Match.

The T table bases look great, and you can easily match them with our table tops, be it the HPL laminate table tops or the timber table tops. The T-600 table base is ideal for larger table tops (up to 120cm round).

Discover our T collection today!

Did you order too much? Your special didn’t sell as well as you expected? No matter what the reason is, you can easily use these overripe fruit and vegetables. We compiled some excellent ideas for you below.

#1 Make a soup of the day

An easy option! It will be especially popular during cold winter days. Since vegetables will soften when you boil them it doesn’t really matter if they’re not fresh and crisp anymore.

#2 Make a puree

Puree is seriously underrated yet it is a fabulous side dish. It can be served with meat or fish, or even on its own. It is actually very popular in France. Here is your chance to make it up for all these years spent ignoring puree! Zucchinis, potatoes, cauliflowers, broccoli… you can puree anything. The thinner, the better, and the fancier!

#3 Make a pasta sauce

Whether you operate an Italian restaurant or not, you can’t go wrong with a good pasta sauce! Plus, having a homemade sauce listed on your menu will look great.

#4 Make a salad dressing

Why not trying to blend your overripe carrots, onions and cucumbers, and add some olive oil, vinegar and condiments. See how it goes.

#5 Bake a quick bread

One of the most popular ones is banana bread, but the truth is you can use many other ingredients. Blueberry pancakes? Peach muffins? Be creative and test your limits. Why not try avocado brownies, beetroot brownies or sweet potato spice cakes?

#6 Make smoothies & juices

OK, that one is pretty obvious, but it had to be listed.

#7 Make compotes

Compote is the sweet version of puree. Sadly, it is also underrated. It is a great healthy option to add to your dessert menu. It is simple for you to make, and ideal for customers with a sweet tooth who want “something small”. A win-win for everyone.

#8 Homemade jam

Nothing tastes better than homemade jam. If you can, it is ideal to have fresh jam available for your customers to add to their toasts, scones or even their yogurts.

#9 Free staff meal

Last but not least, another excellent idea is to cook for the whole team. That way you avoid wasting food and you make your employees happy. The perfect way to kill two birds with one stone!

1 - Cook #delicious food that people will Instagram

It’s all about achieving ultimate cooking results isn’t it? Unox combi ovens allow you to achieve perfect cooking results every single time.

2 - Ease of use for everything in the house 

The touch screen interface is extremely intuitive and is simply a pure delight to use. Don’t waste time trying to figure out how to use your oven. Just use it.

3 – See the value in the money you spend

Most of Unox combi ovens parts are produced in Italy, they have control on quality, production time and price.  In other word’s they can offer you top quality equipment at a very competitive price.

4 – Start a beautiful journey with Unox

When you purchase a Unox combi oven, you start a long-term relationship. If you encounter any problem of any sort at any moment  you can count on the Unox team. The after sales support they offer is simply outstanding and their passion about the product is second to none.

5 - Reach higher and save space with a compact foot print 

In a busy kitchen space and how you organise it is a serious concern. Unox combi ovens have a compact design and are stackable, which allows you to really make the most of your floor space.

6 - Save time and stretch efficiency to the max

With so many things to do in a kitchen (preparing, cooking, cleaning) multitasking is a key word. On the Unox combi ovens many operations are automated and allow you to concentrate on other tasks to be completed. You will appreciate the washing system for example, as you will save not only time but also (your) energy! 

7 – Let your Unox oven become your best assistant

Talking about saving time, there is another great thing you should remember about the Unox combi ovens. You can set a timer for each tray and cook different things at the same time. Just leave it there and it will remind you when to take your tray out.

8 - Be creative and forget about limits

Unox ovens allow you to create and save over 250 customized cooking programs. You’ll then be able to repeat them cook with the same perfection each time. 

9 - Versatile as hell

Unox combi ovens allow you to cook, grill, steam, and bake… From dumplings to vegetables, fish to meat, croissants to cakes, the list goes on and on… Every cuisine can shine in a Unox combi oven.

10 - Never underestimate trays

A huge range of trays are available which is really great because they allow you to cook many different things. Use the ribbed tray to bake pizza or to grill your steak, use the perforated tray to cook French fries.  The lists goes on for the uses these trays have.

11 - Insanely long warranty available at a click

All Unox combi ovens come with a standard 1-year warranty BUT if you connect your oven to wifi, you can get an extended warranty that covers your equipment for 4 years. We think it’s totally worth it. 

13 – Having a hood means you’re flexible 

A hood with steam condenser can be added to your Unox combi oven. This offers you flexibility and possibility to place your oven anywhere you want, which is extremely convenient if you are limited on space

14 – Unox helps you install the whole thing!

Unox do things properly and when you purchase an oven they come to your shop to deliver and install and run through basics with you. They make sure you understand how to use your new oven so you will enjoy cooking with it 

15 – Get a free demo and become a Unox addict

We understand purchasing a combi oven is an important investment and that’s why we give you the chance to try before buying. We can organise FREE Unox demonstration for to experience the magic before you make any decision. No pressure, no obligation to commit. 

16 - Go green, save green

Unox is a beautiful company that supports sustainability. Their factory back in Italy have solar panels on the rooftop. The company is organized according to the principles of "lean manufacturing": light, synchronized and perfectly timed production flows

The challenge

Knowing The Fish Shak would be a high traffic venue in a busy location that is part of a costly Council redevelopment on the Southport Broadwater, Justin knew he’d need durable, attractive, quality furnishings. “It’s important that we respect the ambience of the area and create a quality atmosphere for customers to enjoy. Plus, we take great pride in serving top quality seafood so we wanted to make sure this benchmark was evident throughout the business.”

Justin was dreading having to travel all over the Gold Coast and even Brisbane to source appropriate furnishings and kitchen equipment, knowing it would involve transactions with several different companies. While searching online for hospitality suppliers, he came across the Cafeideas website and was pleased to learn that shipping was available Australia-wide.

What problems had you experienced?

Justin was keen to streamline the purchasing process as much as possible and had hoped to select a supplier who could offer a wide range of products. “Cafeideas has such a huge range that I was able to sit and choose everything I needed, all online, without having to drive around multiple suppliers here on the coast.” He says he had dropped by a few but found them difficult to deal with. “They said to bring in my best quote and they’d match it which I found frustrating because they basically wanted me to do their work for them. Cafeideas offered me better pricing from the start meaning there was no need to shop around.”

Not needing to purchase from multiple suppliers meant a straightforward transaction. “I don’t want to have to find three chairs here, ten chairs there,” Justin explains. “Cafeideas have great stock availability. I could order what I needed, they’d get it in for us then deliver it. If I had to wait for orders to come from different suppliers, I’d be forever chasing up deliveries. I don’t have the time nor the inclination to do that when Cafeideas makes it so simple.”

How Cafeideas helped

From the beginning (at Longboards), Justin was sold on the ease of doing business with Cafeideas. “Their website is so easy to navigate and I can sit in my office, add things to the cart and know they’ll be ready to go because their availability is visible on the site as you shop. If something didn’t seem to be available, I could call to ask.”

Another benefit of purchasing from Cafeideas was transparency. “Knowing that their prices were already better than other suppliers I’d contacted, I knew they weren’t inflating prices just to make it seem like they were giving me a good deal. I’d already done my homework and knew what I expected to pay and they were spot on. They’re determined to get your business from the start instead of giving you the run-around. Plus, they had a good variety of tabletops, not run of the mill but with a nice grain through them and not at the ridiculous price of having something custom made.”

After processing his initial order, Justin received a call from Cafeideas to discuss delivery and finalise payment. “One item I’d ordered was on request so they got back to us about when it’d be available and when it came in, they rang to organise payment over the phone. Simple.”

Justin says he was initially concerned that not being able to see and touch the products might be a detractor however when the goods arrived, they exceeded expectation in terms of quality and durability. “Ideally, I’d love a Cafeideas showroom in Brisbane or on the coast but the whole process was so easy and there were no negative surprises at any stage. I actually wondered what else I could get from them because the transaction was so straightforward. We saved money because we had only one freight charge per purchase and saved time by not having to leave the site to go shopping.”

Follow-up, communication and problem management

Cafeideas staff called once the orders had been delivered to check that everything was as it should be. Justin was pleased with the company’s communication and follow-up from beginning to end.

Recommending Cafeideas

“I would highly recommend them to anyone looking to purchase café furnishings and equipment,” Justin says. “I just wish they had a store somewhere in Queensland but that said, there were absolutely no problems dealing with them online.”

From Cafeideas, The Fish Shak / Shak Espresso purchased: Fiore bar table bases, Nardi HPL laminated white table tops, Fiore table bases, Corona maple table tops.

About The Fish Shak / Shak Espresso

The Fish Shak and its in-house café, Shak Espresso sit proudly at the newly redeveloped Broadwater Parklands at Southport. The Fish Shak offers an idyllic environment where people can purchase fresh or cooked seafood and either eat indoors or al fresco or take their meals away. With an emphasis on fresh, local, sustainable seafood, Justin reckons it doesn’t get any fresher. “I literally go down to the trawlers every morning and pick up the prawns and bugs myself.” Customers can either purchase their seafood to take home and cook, or enjoy it onsite where it’s freshly battered or crumbed in-house. “Our cold prep fishmonger’s room is where it all happens. Everything comes in here and is expertly prepared by our fishmongers,” Justin explains.

Fully licensed, the restaurant is popular among tourists and locals alike. Business people stop by for a quick lunch during the week and on weekends, the atmosphere is buzzing with happy families taking time out. The Fish Shak customers commonly stop in for a glass of wine and some freshly shucked oysters or a bucket of prawns and a cold brew, or for a spectacular serving of fish and chips. “We offer casual style dining and top notch seafood, all without the ridiculous white tablecloth prices,” Justin smiles.

Shak Espresso serves up luscious ice creams and Piazza D’Oro coffee and its skilled baristas keep the local regulars well caffeinated.

The Fish Shak is open from 11am to 8am 7 days and Shak Espresso from 7am to 4pm 7 days.

From table tops to ottomans to bar stools, we have a wide selection of rubberwood furniture, and we want to tell you what’s so special about it!

#1 Where it all begins

Rubber trees grow in Asia, Africa and South America. They can grow over 40 meters high and live up to 100 years.

#2 Rubber rules the world

Rubberwoods' most famous feature is the milky white sap, known as latex. Rubberwood produces all the latex used in the world for all rubber based products. Tyres, gumboots, rubber bands, rubber hoses… the list goes on and on.

#3 Eco-friendly to the max

Rubberwood is used only after it completes its latex producing cycle and dies. In other words, this wood is extremely eco-friendly in the sense that we use what was supposed to go to waste.

#4 Amazingly durable

Rubberwood belongs to the maple family, a true hardwood. In fact, rubberwood is one of the most durable woods used to manufacture furniture.  It is strong, flexible and resistant to fungus, bacteria and mould.

#5 Versatile

You can beautifully combine Rubberwood with other styles, such as industrial furniture.  Our Hairpin range is the perfect example of a dining table, stool and bar stools made from rubberwood. We sell Rubberwood table tops seperate and in a range of colours.

#6 How to care for rubberwood furniture

Simply use a solution of water and soap then dry it thoroughly with a clean cloth. We recommend using a furniture to wax to maintain your rubberwood tops, this will keep them looking their best for longer and help your tops last for years on end.

#7 Keep it inside

Rubberwood is not suitable for outdoor use as rain can leach the protective chemicals form the wood, hence exposing it to fungus attacks. It can also cause your top to warp or bow over time if left to sit, so make sure you keep your new tops inside!

We have a wide range of Washtech dishwashers and glass washers listed on our website, and here is what you should know about them.

#1 High quality equipment 

Washtech dishwashers and glass washers are made of heavy-duty stainless steel that ensures long-term reliability. Their solid construction makes them durable and reliable. They won’t let you down during rush hours, phew!

#2 Easy to use

Washtech units are extremely easy to use. Thanks to the simple operating systems, users can easily select the settings they want. No training needed, everyone can use it!

#3 Stylish 

The stainless steel shine will brighten your kitchen up; make it look clean and sleek. It might not be your main concern if the dishwasher sits in one corner of your kitchen, but you might care if it sits behind your bar where you customers can see it.

#4 Local

All Washtech units are designed in Australia and built in New Zealand. They are designed specifically for the Australian market and take into consideration the specific Australian conditions and regulations. 

#5 Energy savings

The new system developed by Washtech efficiently converts the heat from the wash and rinse cycles to pre-heat a cold water supply. This means, you can make considerable savings on energy, water, hence money.

#6 Warranty 

Last but not least, the Washtech units have a great warranty.  

- 5 years on cabinet parts

- 2 years on wash pump parts and labour

- 1 year on parts and labour

Our genuine leather furniture range includes chairs, ottomans, bar stools, and furniture is available in both black and natural colours.

With genuine leather you will be able to get a look that no other material gives you. We tell you why you should embrace the leather attitude. 

1 Elegantly vintage

 First and foremost, leather is elegant as hell! This material is flawlessly sophisticated and will bring a degree of quality to the decoration of your café restaurant.

Leather is also the perfect way to get the ultimate vintage look. You know, the kind of look that makes your place trendy and popular. Yeah, that’s exactly what you want.

Leather always seems to be in style. It was stylish 10 years ago and will still be in 10 years’ time.

2. Soft & comfortable

Genuine leather is absolutely marvelous and will be such a treat to your customers’ bottoms! Soft and comfortable, it will only get better with time, as leather gets even softer and suppler.

That being said, it will keep its shape and strength and age beautifully. It will not look worn out, but instead inviting your customers to have a seat.

3. Forever strong

Genuine leather is an extremely resistant and durable material. It doesn’t peel nor crack. Small scratches and marks might appear over time, but they will only bring character to your furniture.

Leather is resistant to dry abrasion, and it is partly waterproof. It will keep its quality over time and still look beautiful in 20 years.

4. Easy to maintain

Unlike other materials, leather is resistant to dust mites and fungal attacks. It is also lint and dust-free, which makes it super easy to clean.  Simply use a soft cloth, and perhaps moisturizing soap if you wish to.

5. Eco friendly

It might matter for some of you. Leather is natural and no chemicals were used in the making of it. Plus, leather is bio-degradable.

Starting a new business can be very challenging, but also amazingly rewarding.  We are here to help you get started.  

#1 Location is key. 

Picking the right location will be your top priority. And to do so, consider foot traffic, customers’ needs and parking options.

Ideally, you want to pick a location where people can park easily and access your café restaurant. You want a location where your business is actually needed and bring something new to the mix of businesses already existing.

Think here of King street in Newtown where you stumble upon one coffee shop every 2 meters … with absolutely no space to park. Perhaps not a good idea to open your café over there, what do you think?

Pick a place in a busy city center and it might be too difficult for people to park around. Pick a place in a suburban area and the foot traffic might be too low. Pick a place in an already-saturated area and competition might kill you.

It is up to you, really, to consider pros and cons and make a decision.

#2 Competition is healthy.

No competition in the area you selected? Great, everyone will come to your place.  But it might also mean no foot traffic.

As mentioned above, competition is one thing to consider when selecting a location. It is part of the game; don’t be afraid to embrace it. Competition is healthy because it is synonym of foot traffic. In means there will be lots of people walking around your area and potentially stopping by your café restaurant.

It will be up to you to find a way to stand out from the crowd and attract people. It really comes down to what you offer and the quality of your customer service. Give them a reason to visit your place and not the one next door.

#3 Know the council requirements.

Is the site you’re renting suitable to operate as a food business? Do you want to set up an outdoor seating area but don’t know how? You will need to get an outdoor dining approval.

Before you go on with your project, make sure you find answers to these questions. You will need to check the relevant business licensing authority in your state and see if you are required to obtain any permit or license.

#4 Negotiate your rent.

The lease duration and conditions will be another crucial aspect to consider. Make sure you reach an agreement that meets your business needs.

If that’s an option, prefer a long-term lease (5 years or longer), offering stability and security.

#5 Don’t worry about cash flow.

Starting a new business can be a costly exercise with significant expenses involved to get you started.

The cost of kitchen equipment and commercial furniture will depend on the product type, size, and brand. Make sure you do some research and don’t be afraid of investing in high-quality equipment / furniture that will last longer.

Are you worried about cash flow? We do have several finance solutions available. We invite you to check out our page and contact us for further information.

#6 Get ready and embrace the madness!

- Staff.

Don’t rush and allow enough time to hire and train the right people. It is important, as they will be the face of your company. You definitely want motivated staff that will help you start on the right foot and provide top customer service.

- Products.

Organise supply purchases and keep stock records. Make sure you don’t run out of anything as this could cause huge disappointment and you could get bad reviews form your customers.

Take time to set up your business and set it up right. Remember, you want to give a good impression from day #1. Build your reputation, encourage word of mouth, get your customers to come back, and grow your bottom line.

Shock freezing is the process of cooling food very quickly to a low temperature. The food is cooled to a -3°C within 90minutes. This process is often underrated because not understood properly. Yet there are many benefits.

#1 Fresher & better food quality

Shock freezing locks in the freshness.  The faster food is frozen, the smaller the ice crystals are. This means, less damage is done to the cell structure. Shock freezing preserves quality, texture, flavour and appearance.

#2 Safer & improved safety standards

Maintain freshness over time with superior food safety and comply with HACCP (hazard analysis critical control points - cold chain management). No more cooling on benches!

#3 Labour cost savings

Save up to 30% on labour costs through reduced overtime and being well prepared for peak demand periods in advance.

#4 Lower input costs

Produce can be purchased in bulk when prices are seasonally lower, then blast chilled and frozen for use at a much later date.

#5 Prepare food faster

Improve workflow and speed up preparation times. You will have delicious food ready to defrost, cook and serve to your customers.

#6 Batch & prepare ahead of time

Large quantities of food can be pre-prepared days or weeks in advance, then blast chilled or shock frozen to allow for rostered days off and demand spikes.

#7 Less waste

In a commercial kitchen, up to 40% of food can be thrown out. Irinox blast chilling technology reduces waste dramatically, by allowing better planning and significantly longer preservation of fresh and pre-prepared food. 

#8 Longer shelf life 

With bacteria formation being eliminated during blast chilling and shock freezing, food can be preserved in pristine condition for up to three times longer.

We have a wide range of Irinox systems able to help you with:  

- Pre-prepare meals without compromising food texture, flavour and freshness
- Cool and freeze food with speed and delicacy
- Continuously serve high quality food
- Reduce production costs
- Reduce food wastage
- Limit food weight loss
- Preserve food for longer

1. Made in Italy 

And everyone knows that everything made in Italy is absolutely fabulous! ❤

2. Designed in Italy 

The Nardi Net Relax chair was designed by renowned Italian designer Raffaello Galiotto and perfectly combines coolness and sophistication. It is a beautiful addition to the Nardi Net collection, and sets a new lifestyle trend for your outdoor area.

3. In love with the shapes of it.

You will appreciate the beauty of its slightly rounded body with a high back enveloping your body and providing full support. Plus, the armrests will allow your customers to lean back, relax and master the art of farniente.

4. Love its monocoque!

Uh?! Monocoque means the Nardi Net Relax chair is made of one single shell. This also means it is extremely solid as there is no glue to unglue, no screw to unscrew, no stitch to unstitch.

5. Fiberglass polypropylene.

No it is not an obscure spell, but the name of the resin the Nardi Net Relax chair is made of. Polypropylene is lightweight; chemical resistant and heat resistant… pretty much all the things you want your chairs to be.

6. Hot Hot Hot!

The Nardi Net Relax chair is UV resistant, hence ideal for your outdoor area. It will not deteriorate during scorching heat, definitely a plus in a beautiful country like ours! 

7. Stack it up.

You can stack up to 8 Nardi Net Relax chairs. The level of convenience here is insane! You will appreciate this feature as you can simply chuck the chairs in the wild grass at the end of the day. It will make it easier for you to clean up the place and be ready for another day.

8. It’s all about the final touch.

The Nardi Net Relax chair comes with a matt finish, which gives it a hell of a sophisticated look.

It’s time to rethink your outdoor space! Check out the new Nardi Net Relax chair and its terribly appealing colour options. While you’re at it, check out the whole Nardi Net range, as well as the Nardi outdoor tables to get the total farniente look. 

Thanks to their innovative technology, the Winterhalter glasswashers remove the need to polish glasses. This means, you can save a considerable amount of time and allocate this precious resource to another job to be done. And we know there is always something to be done in a café or restaurant!

#2 You save time, and time is money

Saving time means saving money. On average, customers state that a minimum of 2 hours per day are taken to polish their glassware. With the Winterhalter glasswashers, you don’t need to pay staff to polish your glassware.

Also, no manual polishing implies reduced glassware handling (obviously), hence reduced glassware breakage. Depending how much your glasses cost, you can save a lot of money.

#3 You keep your workplace safe

Lower glassware handling is the way to reduce the risk for you staff to cut themselves when polishing the glasses. So once again, you save time, money and you can shoo worries away!

 #4 It's too easy to choose

The Wintherhalter machines can be adapted to many uses – glasswasher, but also dishwasher, cutlery washer or bistro dishwasher. Simply select what you need and the supplier will preset the machine for you.

You will also need to decide what size you need – S, M, L, XL.

#5 Good looking

We don’t mean to be shallow here, but yes looks do matter. The Winterhalter machines have a beautiful shining stainless steel finish that will fit in any bar or kitchen.

Our supplier Winterhalter has conducted research in the Australian hospitality industry to identify the true cost of glassware breakages. Click on the button below to find out more.

These machines won the Best New Hospitality Product award at Fine Food 2016. Check out our Winterhalter range today.

With two distinct styles of conveyor toasters available today, each offers unique attributes and features.

The table below helps identify the key differences between the two styles available. 

Content provided by our supplier Roband.

The challenge

Fiona had long envisioned the bookshop and bar to be a stylish, unique place for book lovers to visit and lose themselves in precious words while enjoying a convivial atmosphere and a cocktail or a glass of shiraz. Architects and interior designers, seemingly convinced that the budget was a bottomless well of money, continually recommended expensive, high end design elements and furnishings. “Can you believe that a single ten-thousand-dollar chair was put forward?” she laughs. “Yes, it’s a ‘statement piece’ as they told me, but I’m not about to go into massive debt just to furnish my bar!”

Fiona additionally faced complications involving Council regulations and lengthy approval processes. “Why is there so much red tape in opening a business,” Fiona had contemplated. “I had been bleeding money, I was exhausted and frankly, shattered from everything I’d taken on at the time, including some very challenging personal issues.”

When it came time to select equipment and furnishings, a good friend in the hospitality industry suggested she look up the Cafeideas website. “It was such a godsend when I found them,” Fiona explains. “They literally saved me.”

Problems they had experienced

With the liquor license approval running close to the wire, Fiona was worried she wouldn’t be able to open in time. Still, she plodded on and researched numerous hospitality suppliers, finding the customer service to be “dismal”. “I was fragile,” she explained. “Everywhere I turned, there were roadblocks. Other hospitality suppliers either had no available stock or it was going to take 12 weeks to deliver. I had contacted companies several times and not even received replies. I was tearing my hair out just trying to do business with these firms, only to be treated with contempt, basically.”

How Cafeideas helped

From her initial experience with the Cafeideas website, Fiona felt that she’d found the answer to many of her supply problems. She dropped in to the showroom and was met by Daniel who instantly provided a sense of relief. “Daniel is a lifesaver, truly,” Fiona says. “I walked in and he gave me his full attention, took notes, provided recommendations and what impressed me the most was, he gave me promises. Now that everything is done and we’re open for business, I can tell you wholeheartedly that he lived up to every one of those promises, and then some.”

Looking to furnish the bar, Fiona found the range and availability of different price points unbeatable at Cafeideas. “I couldn’t afford bespoke fabrics and custom made chairs, no matter how much I might have wanted them. At Cafeideas, I could buy amazing products that look fabulous and which were not too expensive, and certainly not cheap and nasty. It was affordable for my budget and I know I can replace those items in a couple of years and achieve another fresh, new look. Everywhere else, I felt like I was getting ripped off. Cafeideas has been an entirely different experience.”

Follow-up, communication and problem management

Fiona says Cafeideas vastly exceeded her expectations. “You just don’t see that customer service ever, from anyone anymore,” she says. “And Daniel really is incredible. One day, I had some chairs delivered and didn’t have a drill. Daniel sent one over immediately. Can you believe that? Later, he even delivered a bottle of wine from his family’s winery, to congratulate me on the bar’s opening. Who does that? Nobody does that anymore!”

Daniel’s vast network of connections in the hospitality industry further simplified procurement of other items for Fiona. “He gave me tons of advice about the hospitality industry. I was starting to get confused and he helped me understand. He put me in touch with other suppliers for various things and I came to see that the reason he’s built such a huge network is because he knows his stuff and he’s such a consummate professional.”

Aside from furnishings, Fiona also purchased and leased equipment such as fridges and dishwashers. “Daniel’s advice helped me save a great deal of money, money that was better utilised in other areas. I’m enormously grateful.”

Recommending Cafeideas

“Without a doubt in the world, I’d recommend Cafeideas to others,” Fiona insists. “Considering the state I was in towards opening day, I couldn’t have done it this well without them.”

About Edition Bar

Already Managing Director of her own multi-national publishing company, New Holland Publishers, Fiona was keen to dip her toe in hospitality. The idea was to create a cosy, book lovers’ bar where passionate readers could settle in and enjoy an expertly curated selection of titles to purchase and enjoy. The result is Edition Bar which serves coffee and cake by day and wine, cocktails, dessert and cheeses by night.

“I love books and I love wine,” Fiona explains. “I wanted to put my authors’ books on display and provide somewhere where people could come and be surrounded by gorgeous reading material and be inspired.” Though New Holland Publishers specialises in non-fiction, Fiona has made sure there are also plenty of fiction titles on offer.

Since opening, Edition Bar has attracted a steady clientele in their mid-twenties and older. Professionals, retirees, corporate out-of-towners, tourists, locals, singles and couples drop by to while away an hour or more with a lush Prosecco or a beautiful cocktail. Display copies are available to read or customers can purchase their very own book from the hundreds and thousands on the shelves and sit in the comfortable lounges to read to their hearts’ content. The low volume music – think Frank Sinatra and ambient smoky jazz – permeates the atmosphere.

Fiona describes Edition Bar as having a very grown-up personality. “Oh, it’s very civilised, very warm and welcoming,” she explains. “You simply won’t find another bar like it and that’s what I wanted to create, a special place for a quiet tipple where you can get lost in the words on a page. You simply don’t get that kind of rich, sensory experience with e-books on a crowded train or a busy food court, do you?”

Edition Bar is open from 10am to 10pm Tuesday to Thursday and from 10am to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

]]> Mon, 01 May 2017 01:03:20 +0000 https://www.cafeideas.com.au/blog/why-people-are-mad-about-rose-gold/

What’s the matter with rose gold? Everyone is obsessed with it (but we kind of understand it as we also LOVE rose gold at Cafeideas). If there is one trend you must not miss this year, this is the one.

Let’s talk about it!

1. Wait, what is rose gold?

Rose gold, also referred to as pink or red gold, is a mix between yellow gold and copper. The shades of rose will depend on the ratio of copper applied. The more copper, the deeper the colour of the rose gold.

2. Classic & modern at the same time.

Rose gold first appeared in Russia during the 19^th century. Its popularity decreased for several reasons (not relevant to our business here, let’s move forward!) , but it is today back in the spotlight. Its timeless look perfectly combines traditionalism with modernism.

3. There is something special about you, rose gold.

Its unique colour makes rose gold very special. Its soft rosy blush is warm and delicate, and has this inexplicable soothing effect. That is something you don’t get with other metallic such as yellow gold or silver.

4. Shine bright like a diamond.

Rose gold brings instant luster to any dull place. Its glossy finish will add an effortless splash of dazzle without even trying and instantly light the whole place up! 

Not sure how to incorporate rose gold to your pace? Browse through our Pinterest board below and find inspirational café restaurant decoration. 

5. Its glamour look will make you jealous!

Its precious metallic tone is packed with charm and allure. Rose gold looks fabulous on its own, but combine it with marble and you will get the ultimate sophisticated look! Look at our bruhsed rose gold / marble coffee table below, a beauty!

 6. Versatile as hell.

You can mix and match rose gold with pretty much everything and anything. Rose gold is extremely flattering and also looks fantastic when paired with wood. Our wire coffee table will casually bring a chic look and feel to your place.

 7. Less is more.

Like everything else in life, don’t overdo. Too much of something is never cool. Never was. Never will. It might look tacky and out of fashion. We suggest you select only a few pieces.

We invite you to browse through our extensive range of rose gold and copper furniture. Chairs, ottomans, bar stools, tables… countless options for you to choose from.

We also have this brand new heat lamp you might love! A perfect option to enlighten your serving area (if you have any).

Please note, some of the styles displayed here are available by indent order only and a lead-time applies.

Getting it right matters, right? Beverages need to be cold, food needs to be well presented and above all, safe. A bad customer experience can be a lost customer.

How do you make the right choice about refrigeration? There are lots of types of refrigeration suitable for different purposes with all kinds of features.

To help you get it right our supplier SKOPE put together a simple guide to their refrigeration range.

As a hospitality provider your focus is on delivering outstanding experience to your customers. SKOPE’s job as a commercial refrigeration supplier is to give you a reliable fridge, freezer, blast chiller or cool room that will keep your food safe and drinks cold 24 hours a day. You don’t want refrigeration failures that result in food wastage, unhappy customers or a repairman in the middle of your café or restaurant trying to fix the problem.

At the heart of food safety or serving an ‘ice’ cold beverage is tight temperature control. Not only do SKOPE fridges hold tight temperatures to protect perishable food items, they’ve been designed to rapidly cool beverages to 5° (or colder) in the fastest and most efficient way.

Choosing the Right Equipment Matters to your Bottom Line

The refrigeration you choose makes a huge difference to the performance of your business. Choosing and maintaining the right refrigeration can make a significant difference not only to your trade, but to your bottom line. Selecting the wrong type of commercial fridge or freezer increases the risk of unsafe food which could damage your reputation.

SKOPE offer a variety of options, from glass door front-of-house display fridges that drive sales, through to fit for purpose industrial fridges or freezers. Can’t find what suits your specific requirements? We can design something perfect for you.

One aspect that doesn’t change when you choose SKOPE however is our ongoing commitment to reliability, quality of build, and energy efficiency.

SKOPE have 50 years’ experience keeping your drinks cold and food safe and are market leaders in energy efficient products. You can depend on us for the best in refrigeration and our unique ActiveCoreTM technology can help lower your operating costs. We offer the ability to customise the solutions to suit your requirements and you can rest easy with our superior warranty protection.

We compiled these top trends for you to consider. While you may not embrace ALL of them, you can’t ignore them.

1. Green is the way to go

People need green in their lives - it brings peacefulness and freshness. It makes them feel better about themselves and encourages them to consume more!

Plus, lush vegetation contrasts beautifully with the surrounding grey urban jungle and helps you create a real haven of peace.

Don’t have enough space? Shoot for the stars and go vertical! Living walls are one perfect option to create a verdant backdrop.

2. Cultivate your inner (herbs) garden

If you decide to go green, you may even go a little further and grow a herb garden. It is a trend on the rise and it can’t get any cooler. 

Mint, basil, parsley, thyme, coriander, and chives… awesome! Some places also provide small scissors, clearly inviting patrons to help themselves! If you are interested, read this article providing advice on herbs maintenance.

3. Enlighten your customers

Lighting sure does help you set the mood. We previously wrote a blog listing a few beautiful lighting options, have a read to find out more!

Fire is also a great option, provided it is 200% safe and under control. You don’t want to set your place on fire now do you. 

Look at these string lights below for example. It doesn’t provide much light but looks good as hell! It is simple to install, inexpensive and provides a maximum effect for a minimum investment.

4. Tile it up

Be it on the wall, on the floor or on the table, tiles are very trendy! They certainly add some character to your place AND are super easy to clean and maintain.

It doesn’t burn nor melt the way wood could, yet another reason for you to embrace that trend. Check out our mosaic tables.

5. Be bold. Be bright!

White walls are great (if you are able to keep them clean and white). Colourful walls are fantastic! They are a great way to communicate with your customers and tell them what your place is about. They create vibes, evoke emotions, and even stimulate appetite. Follow our wall colours guide and find out what your options are.

6. Wicker, this fabulous material

Go figure why, our brains tend to associate wicker with holiday and lazy summer days spent on the beach. Wicker has this magic power and we love it for that!

It is also UV resistant, which makes it ideal for outdoor use. It is easy to clean and doesn’t require much maintenance. It is a light material that you can move around easily AND it is very comfortable (compared to some wooden seats). Check out our wicker range.

7. Create bubbles of intimacy

Benches are perfect pieces of furniture to create a convivial environment and a friendly atmosphere where people share the space. 

Benches are large and wide, and provide more room for your customers to sit. They are comfortable to the max – just what your customers look for when they go out to relax!

It is also a great way to diversify your seating options and make your place visually more interesting. 

8. Let it flow. Let it flow. Let it flow.

Have you thought about having a pond or a fountain? How nice and relaxing would it be for your customers! Not only the sound of water is soothing, but it also blocks distracting and unpleasant noises. 

It would also compliment your décor and brings elegance to your place (and natural humidification – very much appreciated during scorching summer days).

No doubt you’ve already come across the world-famous Bentwood chair. It looks elegant, it’s solid, durable and it perfectly fits anywhere. But… did you know the real story behind this chair?

1. The Bentwood chair is the most popular chair. In the whole universe.

More than 80 million pieces have been produced to date. No wonder, the chair combines simple design and durability – everybody wants it!

2. It was previously named the ‘Chair No. 14’.

A little impersonal, isn’t it? It was also called the ‘Thonet chair’ after the German designer Michael Thonet who did not create the Bentwood chair, but made its production easier. So even though this chair was designed 2 centuries before he was even born, he took all the credit for it!

3. It finally became the ‘Bentwood chair’.

The chair finally became the ‘Bentwood’ chair, named after the way they are produced. Makes much more sense!

4. The Bentwood chair is stronger than your love for chocolate.

Combining moisture and heat, the wood is made flexible and soft enough to be easily bent. Once dried, the wood hardens and keeps the new shape for the rest of its life.

5. In beechwood place your trust.

The other reason why the Bentwood chair is so sturdy: it is made from beechwood, a solid and durable wood that can take a lot of pressure over time.

6. The same but not the same.

Not 2 Bentwood chairs look the same because they are made from various types of timber. Also, the backrest part is done manually using a mold and will vary slightly from one chair to another. Even better! It sure adds some character to your place.

7. Michael Thonet was cuckoo.

During the World Exhibition held in Paris in 1867, he threw a Bentwood chair from the top of the Eiffel tower to demonstrate its quality and solidity. As we could expect from a chair falling form 300 meters, it smashed on the ground but the crowd went crazy. Note, it was a fabulous marketing stunt and sales went through the roof.

8. Super stars love it!

From painters to scientists, numerous famous personalities have owned a Bentwood chair. Albert Einstein, Pablo Picasso, Toulouse Lautrec – see painting below, we clearly see 2 Bentwood chair!  Are you impressed?

9. Such a long trip.

Our Bentwood chair is supplied by Paged Meble, a popular Polish manufacturer exporting in 50 other countries. The chairs are made in Poland and sent to Australia with lots of love.

10. More is more.

The Bentwood chair is available in 11 colours so you are sure to find the exact colour that meets your requirements.

Our range includes chairs, ottomans and bar stools AND we have heaps of different options. Go have a look today and join the Bentwood movement!

Have you ever been to a restaurant, proudly made it through the meal with some dessert room left for something yummy, but rapidly changed your mind after having a look at the boring options listed?

It happens more often that you’d think. Seriously, having an appealing dessert menu is crucial for you café restaurant. And I’m not saying that because I have some sort of sugar addiction.

We could see a dessert as the grand finale to a dining experience. Having a strong dessert menu, as well as a cocktail menu, represent brilliant opportunities to boost your business’ bottom line.

Your customers might not be aware of it, but they want a dessert. Sugar lifts their mood – it is almost magic! It’s because people associate sweetness to happy memories. We could even say that serving them a dessert is making them a favor. Is it far-fetched? 

Make sure you have more than 2 options listed on your dessert menu. But … don’t have too many options, some customers might be overwhelmed and end up not ordering anything at all. We don’t want that.

 Also, be creative, and don’t be afraid to experiment! People go out to be adventurous and try new things, not eat something they can make themselves at home. Coloured food is an easy way to offer a different and memorable experience to your customers.

Don’t forget about the customers keen to eat something but not sharing the sweet enthusiasm. Have some healthy options listed – sugarless cakes, fruit cups, and gelatos… it doesn’t have to be fancy nor complicated.

Last but not least, for the customers using the “no more room” excuse, have something small listed on your dessert menu. By the way, that’s a lie; there is always room for dessert.

Your ultimate draw card to convince them is the café gourmand. Le what? The café gourmand is an espresso served with a selection of mignardises (also called petits fours). It’s the perfect alternative for customers with a sweet tooth but a small appetite. The café gourmand is extremely popular in France, and for some strange reason, extremely hard to find here in Australia. A great opportunity for you here! 

Expand your dessert menu today. Have fun. Seduce customers with your sweetness. Blow them away. Make them come back.

The Bee Lab an Innovative Hive of Sweet Activity in Sydney’s Regent Place

When Michael Notaras was fitting out his iconic honey dessert café ‘The Bee Lab’, he was on a short timeframe so finding the right equipment at the right price and which could be delivered pronto was of huge importance. Luckily, he found Cafeideas who helped him to open on time to spread honey goodness to all who ventured by.

The challenge

“We had a short lead time for our fitout and needed to take delivery of our fridges, our icemaker and other equipment as quickly as possible,” Michael explains.

Having already researched what was needed, Michael had received quotes from various suppliers and then heard from other business owners and friends in the industry about Cafeideas. Without the time to drop by the showroom, he called and was connected with Daniel who immediately focused on fulfilling the order without delay.

“I never went into the store,” Michael says. “I had ideas of brands that I wanted and I knew the dimensions of our floor plan so the specs were all sorted. I was able to tell Daniel what I was looking for and he walked me through the whole thing. He set up a quote that was reasonable and he was able to promise that what we ordered would be delivered by when we needed it all.”

Problems they had experienced

With timeframe the most important consideration, Michael was unable to purchase the exact fridge he had decided upon but Daniel was able to supply a different one on time that has turned out to meet expectation. Also, there was an issue with a blender that was meant to arrive on a separate delivery but which failed to materialise and Daniel personally delivered it to The Bee Lab to avoid any problematic delays.

How Cafeideas helped

From the beginning, Michael had emphasised his short lead time to opening. He says Cafeideas went above and beyond to ensure all items arrived by the promised date. “I was surprised when Daniel turned up with the blender himself,” he says. “Stock availability was crucial but I never expected hand-delivery of one of the lower cost items. It made a big difference, knowing that they were keen to be there for us all the way. Even if there were small problems, they were all resolved to my satisfaction. Daniel is a great guy; he literally went out of his way to make sure everything was done right.”

Follow-up, communication and problem management

Michael was pleased with the easy flow of communication between him and Cafeideas. “There were a lot of emails back and forth and lots of phone calls but to get a large order like ours through takes a good level of coordination. Daniel kept me in the loop the whole time.”

Additionally impressed by the quality, product range and customer service, Michael says that even though he had been in contact with other suppliers, he had ultimately chosen Cafeideas for the way his enquiry was managed from the beginning, as well as the pricing and timeframe promises.

Recommending Cafeideas

Having found Cafeideas himself through other people’s recommendations, Michael says he would have no hesitation in recommending Cafeideas to others in future too.

From Cafeideas, The Bee Lab purchased: a Turbo Air under coutner drawer freezer, an Eswood under coutner glass & dishwasher, a Scotsman under bench ice maker, a Semak microwave oven, a Lassele under bench fridge, and a Hamilton Beach blender.

About The Bee Lab

Dessert cafes don’t come much quirkier than The Bee Lab, where the emphasis is on that superfood of all superfoods, honey. Passionate about this liquid gold from having worked in other honey-focused businesses, owner Michael Notaras sought to establish an outlet where people could go to enjoy honey-themed drinks, confectionery and desserts and perhaps even learn more about its health benefits.

“We created it with a fun laboratory concept because honey just has so much to offer in terms of health and nutrition,” Michael explains. “There is fascinating science behind honey and it boasts amazing medicinal properties. Honey – in particular, the Manuka variety – is actually antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, to varying degrees depending on the type. We love being able to offer it in delicious ways and get the opportunity to educate people and help them with their ailments like sore throats, IBS and other digestive issues.”

Available for retail sale are various honeys and candies. Meanwhile, indulgent offerings such as smoothies, honey water, honey sodas, mousses and other desserts and their signature dish – Honey Puffs – are well loved by The Bee Lab’s growing customer base. Michael says a great deal of time went in to perfecting the drink mixes which are like no others available anywhere else. “We serve them in lab flasks and beakers to reinforce the fun laboratory feel.”

To really enhance the overall experience, once a customer receives their order, they are offered a selection of floral flavourings sprinkled from test tubes lined up in a rack. “We have lavender, peppermint, rose petal and ginger and customers can add their favourites.”

Designed to be bright and enticing and with a honeycomb motif throughout, The Bee Lab’s aesthetic is reflected in its light fixtures, seating and wall décor. The Bee Movie is on constant loop on screen in store, tempting children in whose parents follow and are invited to learn more, enjoy tastings and purchase something delicious.

Opened in October 2016, Australia’s only honey dessert bar is open 7 days a week from midday to 9pm Monday to Thursday and midday to 9.30pm Friday to Sunday. Located on the lower ground floor of Regent Place, it is conveniently situated next door to the George Street Cinemas.

After a trip to Melbourne, aka foodies’ heaven, we got all excited about all these beautiful cakes, funky drinks and colourful foods. We thoroughly documented on our Instagram feed – go check it out if you have a second to spare! A thought came to us at the end of our colourful saga: why so few places offer super-duper cool-dyed foods?

Ever growing competition pushes you to come up with something to stand out from the crowd. It’s challenging, we know. Something new, something different, something colourful. Have you tried coloured foods? Maybe now is the right time.

It is not a concept working for everyone, but if you can add some colour to your menu then just go for it. It won’t go unnoticed, that’s for sure. Foodies or not, your customers will love it. There will be reluctant ones put off by all these unusually vivid colours, but overall we have no doubt the reception will be fabulous!

Why we think you should make the leap?

✓  You will attract plenty of attention

✓  You will see more and more customers lining up at your front door

✓  The word-of-mouth will be stronger than you can dream of

✓  You will encourages customers to consume more

✓  It will become OK to sell a $7 Smurf latte

Blue drinks, black breads, green foods? How cool is that! So many ways for you to show your personality! Get creative - it will be loads of fun for you to create and for your customers to consume. 

Now, what kind of food colouring should you pick? Liquid, gel or powder? We came across this great blog* listing different options, as well as their pros and cons. Natural colourings such as saffron, turmeric and beetroot are also an option.

While it is a fairly safe practice (Europeans have been doing it for years now and as far as we know they are still alive), you might want to check carefully what ingredient you use and make sure it doesn’t contain citric acid!

Looking for inspiration to distinguish from the crowd? Head to Cafeideas Marketing Ideas Blogs and get some fresh ideas!

* Please note, we do not endorse this website.

How to rock your outdoor space?

Add some green! Your customers will love that. Plants, synonym of life, are known to have a calming effect on people, encouraging them to forget about their hectic work life and enjoy your café restaurant.

The colour green evokes freshness, nature, and wellness. Consciously or not, customers feel more relaxed when surrounded by plants, and their overall experience is enhanced. They might even be keen to stick around a little longer and consume more?

Additionally, if your customers enjoy it, your staff will appreciate it too! You do want to keep your employees happy and energetic, don’t you?

Plant pots

We have recently added to our range of outdoor furniture these pretty cool plant pots. Their design was inspired from the ancient Roman architecture and combines classical shapes with modern material. While they might look big, heavy and imposing, they are actually light, easy to move around and require minimum maintenance.

Their UV stable property makes them ideal for your outdoor area. You will find the short version, tall version, and the model with a seat bench. Green, white or black, we count many different colour options for you to choose from. Visit our website to find out more.

Matching chair and bench

You will also like our matching Obie arm chair and Obie Bench, also called the love seat. Go have a look today! And please note, a lead-time applies. Order today to be ready for this summer.

Organising your food allows you to maintain the integrity of everything you purchase. No food spoilt, no money lost, no time wasted. It becomes much easier to clean up and easier to see what you need and restock.

1. Leave enough space between items.

It allows cool air to circulate around items and keep them at the right temperature. Using the space effectively increases quality of the food - don’t try to squeeze everything in!

2. Label everything.

Shelves, products, … everything. Yes, it is time consuming but it is at the same time very helpful. Labeling allows a smooth operation in your commercial kitchen, so your staff aren’t wasting time looking around for a specific food. At the end of the day, it’s all about efficiency!

3. First in first out.

You will want to pay attention to the use-by dates and make sure you use items expiring first. Simply place newer items in the back of your fridge so your staff knows straight away what items to grab first.

4. Store meats on the lowest shelves.

Because any food in contact with raw meat should be thrown away directly, you don’t want to risk any cross contamination. If you store meat on a higher shelf, any drop drown would contaminate the rest of the food

5. No food on the fridge floor.

Water or other contaminants might drip from the upper shelves and contaminate your foods.

We have an extensive range of commercial fridges – over 300 models for you to choose from. Display fridges, storage fridges and under bench fridges, they all supplied by great brands with highly innovative technologies and advanced features allowing your to meet Australian food standards.

Problems they had experienced

He says another problem he experienced was being a small business owner, with time and budget considerations weighing heavily. “Cafeideas really helped me work within our budget. Vibha would suggest items in various ranges and then ultimately, she helped us choose a feature table that was a bit more expensive, and other items which were close to what we wanted but more affordable.”

How Cafeideas helped

One hiccup that occurred however was when the feature table’s legs couldn’t be delivered in time for opening. “The Cafeideas people sent me two temporary legs and said I could paint them as I like, use them and then they’d be replaced when the proper ones came in.” True to their word, Cafeideas delivered but it was the solution-finding that impressed Jiggy. “These guys are always quick thinking. The table wasn’t exactly as we’d wanted it for opening but at least we had a solution. I was so stressed at the time that just having it taken off my hands was a huge relief.”

“I think the Cafeideas people read their customers really well,” Jiggy comments. “They were cool enough to make suggestions at different price points and gauge whether I’d be happy to spend that, then adjusted their recommendations.”

Asked if he would recommend Cafeideas to other business owners, Jiggy is clear. “I have already recommended them to friends of mine! Cafeideas makes everything so convenient. They’re Sydney-based so dealing with them is reassuring. If I have any issues, I can simply call them and there’s a same day or next day solution. I can always ring and speak to someone who is authorised to take action, there and then.”

About The Sugar Hill Cafe

The Sugar Hill Café also serves classic Reuben sandwiches, another typical NYC offering that consists of house-made corned beef and house-made dressings.

“You could say our coffee is the hero though,” Jiggy says. “We use Ali Reserve by Di Bella, a Brisbane roaster, and we’re actually the only place in Sydney serving it.” A Fair Trade blend, it’s appreciated by coffee lovers, along with the weekly cold drip coffees that are randomly selected. “They’re micro lots that are very seasonal. They’re so random, we never know what’s going to come in but it’s always good to be able to serve something interesting and different each week.”

The cakes cabinet groans under the weight of spectacular Italian pastries and cheesecakes from Pasticceria Papa. “Oh they draw a lot of people to our shop. We’re the only place in Lidcombe where you can get them.”

The Sugar Hill Café vibe is friendly, welcoming and relaxed. The food and coffee can be enjoyed at the tables or packed to go and the customers include Mums with prams, business people, shoppers and locals.

The café opens at 7.30am for breakfast and serving lunch through to 2.30pm followed by café cakes and coffee until 6pm.

Wed, 01 Mar 2017 06:42:54 +0000 https://www.cafeideas.com.au/blog/say-no-to-grated-carrot-stuck-on-your-glass/

Discover today our new Winterhalther line, freshly added to our already-extensive range of dish and glass washers. Arriving straight from Germany (and actually made in Germany), this range offers excellent quality and innovation.

Created several decades ago and now present on all the continents, the company has since gathered know-how and extended its range from commercial dishwashers to glass washers and water treatment devices.

We proudly count on our website the under counter and the excellence-i series.

1. Under Counter series

These units are compact, powerful and economic. They offer versatility and can be adapted to many uses across multiple industries. 

All models come with integrated chemical dispensers and pumps, as well as drain pumps supplied as standard.

Because we understand you have different needs and on-site requirements, several sizes are available for you to choose from.

2. Excellence-i series 

These units have the same specifications as the UC series, and also count the built-in reverse osmosis feature. The water treatment process is fully integrated into the wash process to deliver ultimate cleaning performance (regardless of your water type). 

In other words, you will love this feature because it means you won’t have to waste time polishing your glasses! They will come out sparkling and flawless. 

Don’t underestimate the importance of having excellent equipment and browse through our Winterhalter range today. Contact us for further information.

Patrons might not always have cash, but they will always have their credit cards*! Remember that when designing your customers’ experience.

Food, music, atmosphere … sure, but what about check out? Make it as easy as possibly, and make them leave on a good note with the firm intention to come back.

Why should you consider being a cashless place?

1. Security: no cash to be stolen!

2. Speed and efficiency: no cash to be not slowly handled, nor coin to be dropped on the ground.

3. Convenience: customers might not have cash but will always have their credit cards*.

4. Knowledge: you would be able to collect data and know more about your customers’ habits (which is impossible if your customers always pay in cash).

That being said, let’s keep in mind that not everyone has a credit card (only a minority though) and that implementing such a system might imply extra fees (but you would make it up quickly as you’d be able to process more customers).

To go cashless or not to go cashless, it’s up to you to decide. Remember it all comes down to convenience for your business, but most importantly for your customers. For whatever reason, customers are often in a rush and have no time to waste. And if you are able to provide a smooth and easy experience, they will love you for that and return.

More and more places do it. What about you?

* Over 70% of Australians adults own a credit card, according to a recent survey,. Source: https://www.finder.com.au/credit-cards/credit-card-statistics

This new range offers the perfect combination: you get the look and feel of wood, and the solidity and durability of ceramic.

These tiles are actually flooring tiles. If they can be used for walking on, they are more than suitable for table usage! There are baked at 1200°C

Top advantages of ceramic:

1. Extremely solid and durable (even harder than some metals!)

2. Does not stain

3. Does not burn

4. Non porous, meaning it’s water resistant, humidity resistant and moisture resistant

5. Very hygienic and only requires low maintenance

6. Reasonably priced

Our range includes 4 different styles: the Hamilton, the Antique, the Dark Walnut and the Rustic Oak.

Each tile is textured, which means you can touch and feel the wood grain of natural wood (even though it is not wood). It is more real than you and I, and it will look just great in your restaurant.

Plus, the pattern of each table top is unique and will be slightly different from top to top. If you purchase several same style tops, you can create a theme and at the same time bring some variation. And variation is good!

Table tops are 40mm thick and are set within a powder coated aluminium frame. They are solid and will hold up in any weather.

We have several size options, as well as custom sizes available on demand. Ask us about it. Also, have a look at our wide range of cafe chairs and ask us about matching seating options.

Last week we were invited to celebrate 1 year with Burrow Bar, a trendy hidden cocktail bar.

We introduced them in a previous article, and outlined the challenges they faced when building their business. Last week we were proud to see how far they’ve gone since they opened back in 2015. They even hired staff to help coping with the overgrowing crowd pouring through the doors everyday from 5PM.

The place has such a special atmosphere! It feels like sitting in your living room, listening to good music, drinking deliciously creative cocktails, and just chilling with your friends.

It is cozy, comfy (possibly due to our furniture!). You just don’t feel the need to go anywhere else. And because there is no window, you easily lose track of time and let yourself go, just enjoy the moment.

Powered by a super-positive energy, all members of the team behind the bar are just great. With big smiles on their faces, they surely know what they are doing – every single cocktail tastes delicious.

And rum lovers, you will be in heaven! Burrow Bar has a whole range of homemade rums, including ginger, coffee and vanilla - tasted and approved! They mix all ingredients and let them infuse for a few days before adding the new bottle to their magnificent collection. Flavours are unreal!

If you’re not into rum, don’t worry; they also have some delicious homemade cinnamon whiskey.

The place is real hidden gem located in one of the narrow back alleys near Wynyard. We highly recommend you to go have a drink if you are around (and even if you are not around – definitely worth the trip to the city!).

Want to share your story? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at sales@cafeideas.com.au

Fri, 09 Dec 2016 10:07:00 +0000 https://www.cafeideas.com.au/blog/fish-and-co/ Long-term Cafeideas customer Sajad Akhlaghi knew exactly where to turn when opening his most recent establishment, Fish & Co at the Tramsheds Harold Park. Already familiar with Cafeideas’ product range, customer service standards and convenient location, he made a conscious decision not to shop around but instead to check off his considerable shopping list at the Chippendale showroom.

From Cafeideas, Fish & Co purchased: Pitco gas fryer, F.E.D. bar prep top, Roband hot bain marie, Eswood glasswasher, Austune freezer, Exquisite under bench chiller. Exquisite under bench freezer, Exquisite cake display cabinet, Coreco bottle cooler, Bromic back bar chiller, Goldstein gas fryer, Goldstein 4 burner gas range, Goldstein gas griddle / toaster, Skope pizza counter chiller, Exquisite stainless steel freezer.

About Fish & Co

Committed devotees of sustainable and ethical food sourcing, Sajad Akhlaghi and his wife and co-owner Belinda Guymer have poured their heart and soul into their eatery, takeaway outlet and retail shop, Fish & Co, in the Tramsheds Harold Park. The couple believe in doing their utmost to promote the use of wild caught seafood that impacts minimally on the marine environment so that it is preserved for future generations.

“We like to know where the food is from,” Sajad explained. “With everything we serve, we know who caught it and which part of which ocean it came from. Most of what we offer is certified by the Marine Stewardship Council and the rest comes from well managed sustainable fisheries.”

Fish & Co’s predominantly family-oriented customer base have demonstrated their support for the business’s values by returning time and time again. The menu has a sharp focus on healthy, organic and wholesome ingredients. In fact, even the drinks menu lives up to these lofty goals.

“We work with two wineries in particular,” Sajad continued. “One is certified organic and the other is organic (though not certified) and very sustainable. They provide us with wine in special kegs which saves an incredible amount of cardboard, bottles and other disposable waste.” Indeed, Fish & Co serves much of their wine, beers and kombucha from the tap.

“We don’t sell anything with chemicals in it so we don’t even have soft drinks. It’s important to us to be a place where people can come in and know exactly what they’re eating and that it’s completely nourishing and good for them.”

Customers can choose to take home ready-cooked fish and chips, salads, vegetables and a NZ Hake Burger or dine in and enjoy a more comprehensive menu that includes freshly shucked oysters, fish tacos, wild prawn cakes, whole NSW lobster, Thai green seafood curry and a selection of exquisite desserts.

Fish & Co is open from 11.30am to 10pm 7 days a week. 

Combined with the right furniture and decoration, plants can help you create a real haven of peace, a place where customers come to relax and enjoy what you have to offer.

In a previous article, we told you how you could make your outdoor area awfully good, and we also introduced our new range of plant pots. Today we tell you what sort of plants you should go for and how to look after them.

Small gardens

The latest super trend is to plant your own herbs garden. Decorative and useful for culinary purposes, herbs provide cute little flowers and flavour your food.

Everyone will agree there is nothing like the taste of homegrown and handpicked herbs! Your customers will love the concept, as well as the flavours in their dishes.

Mint, basil, parsley, thyme, coriander, and chives… the list goes on. Just plant whatever edible herbs you can think of!

You will need to be mindful and organize them properly. Some herbs, mint for instance, are incredibly invasive and might overtake other herbs.

How to look after your herbs?

Herbs are easy to grow and don’t require much maintenance. Just make sure your staff doesn’t overwater them and customers don’t spill their drinks in it.

Also, you will notice the difference between annual / biennial and perennial herbs.

Annual and biennial herbs grow fast and need to be sown at intervals throughout spring and summer to ensure continuous supply. Examples: basil, coriander, parsley, and dill.

Perennial herbs grow slowly and live longer, hence require a more permanent home. Examples: mint, thyme, oregano, and chives.

No matter if you go for beds, borders, containers or windowsills, make sure you place them in a sunny spot, protected from the wind.

Having an herbs garden will make your café restaurant trendy and welcoming. It looks good and it tastes good. What are you waiting for? You can find all this information easily online.

Heard or read the HPL word somewhere but not quite sure what it mean? No more mystery, we tell you everything about it.

What is HPL?

High Pressure Laminated table tops are composed of the following layers bonded at very high pressure and temperature:

-       A kraft paper impregnated with resin (really strong paper or cardboard)

-       A decorative film layer (like a wood grain, plain colour, or pattern)

-       A clear protective laminate

Benefits of HPL: 

-       Extremely solid and durable

-       Flame retardant

-       Offers extra protection

-       Great antibacterial properties

-       Very hygienic

HPL table tops

We count a dozen of HPL table tops – check them out and discover various styles. You will also find our new favourite table top, the classy-as-hell Calcutta marble top. 

The marble trend has been around for a while now and its popularity keeps increasing. Often associated with Ancient Greek sculpture and architecture, marble offers this classical and luxurious look. Its glossy smooth surface makes it cold and effortlessly elegant.

Simple yet beautiful, the marble pattern is extremely versatile and can be combined with various textures. For instance, it contrasts beautifully with stainless steel, rose gold and timber. 

Reasonably priced, you can get the marble look but keep your money in your pocket! Go check our Calcutta marble top today and make sure you also have a look at our beautiful brushed rose gold marble coffee table. A gem! Please note, a lead-time applies, as well as a minimum order quantity.

The best way for you to exist online is to attract foodies (or food bloggers), seduce them and make them talk about your brand.

How?

Be visual. Images speak louder than words. Foodies love that, and you can be sure they will spread the love on social media – unless your brand is really uncool, but that’s another story.

It can be scary to rely on foodies but that’s the way it is, so you better embrace the trend and maximize the potential of online media

Foodies possibly represent your most precious tool – feed them and see what happens. Feed them with something visually beautiful, something they take a picture of and share of social media. Coffee cups for instance?

An increasingly popular and effective way to encourage word-of-mouth is to have branded coffee cups. It’s rather simple to organize, and it looks amazing on pictures, not matter what angle you choose.

Look at Instagram and the 55,356,518 posts using the hashtag #coffee , not even mentioning #cappuccino and #latte ! There is a fabulous opportunity for your coffee cup to be featured online and your brand to be promoted (for free)!

So, why should you have brandwed coffee cups?

#1 - It really looks awesome.
It will look just great, no matter what theme you've chosen for your cafe. It will complete it and bring extra good vibes. 

#2 - Your coffee will taste heaps better.
No, it's absolutey not a placebo effect. A beautiful coffee in a beautiful coffee cup. Your customers will feel beautiful. 

#3 - It encourages customers to take pictures.
And we all know what will happen with these pictures. They will be shared on social media and consumed by other (potential) customers. 

#4 - It will attract foodies to your cafe.
This is a direct consequence of the #4. Foodies have this uncanny ability to generate buzz and word of mouth. They are able to attract new customers to your cafe and pretty much advertise your brand for free! And *this* should be your ultimate goal! 

#5 - It offers extra space to show off your name & logo.
Every single inch of paper is a fabulous opportunity for you to stamp your logo on it. Consider is as a great promotion tool wiht a greater ROI than you expect. Just go for it! 

#6 - It will improve brand recognition.
Your customers need to be exposed to your brand and logo a few times before they recall it. 

#7 - It will eventually increase customers’ loyalty.
By providing an overall great experience with good coffee and awesome coffee cups, you'll give your customers many reasons to enjoy your place and come back.

Foodies have a powerful influence and can bring new customers to your business through social media. Don’t underestimate this opportunity.

If you can afford it, go for it! It’s only a small extra to pay to receive great social media coverage.

When Andrew Ferri, Owner/Chef of Figtree Gourmet Kitchen went along to the Fine Food Show at Homebush in 2015, he wasn’t particularly looking for new furniture for his iconic pizza restaurant. However, when he came across the Cafeideas exhibit, he couldn’t help but notice that the tables he’d had in mind to replace his existing ones were right in front of him.

The challenge

Problems they had experienced

How Cafeideas helped

Follow-up, communication and problem management

Recommending Cafeideas

Andrew was also delighted by the large selection of products, the quality on offer and the range of price points available. “Actually, I saw Cafeideas again at the Hordern Pavilion a little while ago and noticed some really nice chairs. We don’t need new chairs for the restaurant just yet but I’ve got my eye on some for my house renovations.”

His final word had to do with the difference in dealing with Cafeideas over other companies. “Cafeideas are definitely more professional than others I’d dealt with. What makes the difference is that they really show you that they value your business. You’re not made to feel as though anything is a problem because they always seem to make the effort to go the extra mile.”

From Cafeideas, Succulent Cafe purchased: [Cafeideas will enter products here.]

About Figtree Gourmet Kitchen

Andrew started his career in restaurants, hanging out at his Roman Dad’s pizzerias from as young as 8 or 9. “Pizza is in my blood,” he says. “Once I started to drive at 17, I needed to make some money so Dad put me on and I learned from the ground up what it means to serve customers and provide a good product.”

Andrew bought his own first pizza restaurant at 24 and hasn’t looked back since.

Today, Figtree Gourmet Kitchen is Illawarra’s longest established wood-fired pizza restaurant. Having won multiple awards over the years including the Lifestyle Food Channel’s NSW state award for Favourite Family Restaurant and the Restaurant & Catering Association’s ‘Best Pizza Restaurant South Coast’, Andrew is obviously doing something very right.

“It’s all about the quality you provide for your customers,” Andrew tells us. “We refuse to skimp on ingredients or the way we do things because we simply don’t want to appeal to the lowest common denominator. It’s why we don’t run coupon deals and we don’t even offer a Tuesday night special. We’re not Dominos, we don’t try to be Dominos and our customers appreciate us for exactly who we are … a pizza restaurant that cares enough to consistently serve really good food.”

One look at the menu confirms this philosophy. Figtree Gourmet specialises in gourmet pizza toppings. The Reef n Beef pizza features premium quality scotch fillet and tiger prawns plus a lemon fennel cream. They make a hugely popular Tandoori Chicken pizza with fresh tandoori chicken, minted yoghurt and mango chutney. Aside from the pizzas, Figtree Gourmet devotees clamour for the Prawn Hot Pot which is one of the restaurant’s biggest sellers, along with the Veal Scaloppine which features quality veal backstrap. As for the coffee, Figtree Gourmet Kitchen serves Vittoria’s top of the range Cinque Stelle roast.

BYO, the restaurant is casual and welcoming. Its customer base features locals who drop by for a meal when they don’t feel like cooking, and people looking for a good night out with excellent food and friendly service.

Open for dinner from Tuesday to Sunday nights, Figtree Gourmet Kitchen also opens for lunch for private functions.

]]> Mon, 24 Oct 2016 01:51:00 +0000 https://www.cafeideas.com.au/blog/smoked-food-smoker-oven/ Smoked food, yet another trend spreading fast this year. If you want to make it to the super-cool-places-to-visit top list, you’ve got to embrace the movement and smoke everything you can!

Trust our supplier Moduline to help you with that. Created in 1989 in Italy, they have know-how, experience and a great range of equipment.

Their new smoker oven is ideal for restaurants, hotels and pubs, and will allow you to use innovative technologies to cook traditional recipes. Both cold and hot smoking options are available.

Cold smoking – food is kept in a container filled with smoke long enough for the outer layer to pick the smoke flavour (think smoked salmon).

Hot smoking – food is exposed to heat and smoke at the same time (think smoked meat).

This trend is here to stay, so express your inner caveman and get a quote today! 

Love your beautiful wooden tabletops? Heartbroken they get scratched all the time? Don’t throw your tables away just yet, we know a few (unconventional) ways to get rid of all these marks and we happily share some tips with you.

Small scratches

Small scratches are only on the surface and don’t actually penetrate the wood underneath the finish. In that case you simply need to fill in the scores. We have 2 options for you to choose from: 

1. Apply some paste wax over the surface and buff. Super simply, super quick and it does the trick perfectly!

2. Mix lemon juice + olive oil, moisten a cloth with this mixture and rub it over the scratched area until it disappears.

Big scratches

Big scratches are deeper and actually go through the surface, into the wood. You will know it’s the case when there is discoloration and the colour goes lighter. In that case, you need to recolor the grooves to make them disappear. 

1. Choose a “color agent” from the following options

. Furniture wax

. Nuts

. Coffee grounds

. Tea bag

. Marker / pencil

. Shoe polish

2. Follow the direction of the scratch and apply the color with the small brush or any other kind of applicator.

3. Once the scratch is colored, apply some wax on the surface to restore the finish.

You will find on our website a wide range of slicers with different capabilities and features, and we understand selecting the right meat slicer can be overwhelming. No worries, we are here to help.

First and foremost, you should define what you will slice and how much. Then, it all depends on the budget you are willing to spend.

1. Light-duty slicers

These slicers are ideal if you are planning to slice meat in small quantities. They can’t operate for longer than 2 hours per day or would risk burning out quickly.

These light-duty slicers are simple and, while they can be operated safely, they don’t offer as many safety features as other models.

2. Mid-range slicers

These slicers have larger blades and can be operated for a longer period of time. While all the models are designed to slice meat and vegetables, some of them can handle cheese slicing.

3. Heavy-duty slicers

These heavy-duty slicers can be operated for several hours per day and slice anything: meat, vegetables and cheese.

They come with more usability and safety features, and offer more precision, safer operation and smoother use.

While heavy-duty slicers are more expensive than the rest of the range, you will make up the cost difference more quickly than you think with an increased productivity and safety.

4. Manual vs automatic

Manual slicers will be ideal if you slice a small amount of food, as it is operated manually and requires constant staff assistance and is physically demanding.

Automatic slicers, on the other hand, are equipped with an electric motor, which means then can continuously slice a large amount of food without staff assistance.

Purchasing a meat slicer allows you to slice more, better and ultimately, to improve efficiency of your food service. Browse today through our wide range including the great brands Brice, Grange and Noaw.

Manuel and Irene Katakis were in the fruit and veg business for years but decided they’d like a change of pace. A huge fan of ‘good’ burgers, Manuel chose to open a new enterprise that would offer quality burgers in a beachside location, with the name branded right into the bun. The result is Bare Grill, situated a hop, skip and a jump from the beach at La Perouse. An online search for ‘shop equipment’ led him to the Cafeideas website.

The challenge

Setting up a café for the first time can be a daunting experience. As Manuel himself professes, it can be fraught with complications that you can’t anticipate. “We thought we knew everything we needed but when we went to the Cafeideas showroom, we found that the advice we were given saved us from making some costly mistakes.”

Problems they had experienced

Manuel was surprised to find that sourcing café furnishings and kitchen equipment wasn’t as straightforward as he’d hoped. “We did try to call around a few other suppliers but not one of them seemed to be all that interested in helping us out. They didn’t have items in stock or weren’t sure when they’d be in and couldn’t really advise. When I called Cafeideas, I was really impressed with their professional approach.”

During the first phone call, Manuel made an appointment to go into the Cafeideas showroom to see the products in person. Asked if he could have purchased online, he says the possibility was there because the range on the website was extensive, but the invitation to go in and meet the staff seemed promising.

How Cafeideas helped

Manuel’s first impression of Cafeideas was that the large selection of furnishings and equipment would mean this would need to be his only port of call. “I was amazed,” Manuel says. “Everything we needed was in stock and they had it all there to look at and touch. They showed us around the showroom and we were able to pick out exactly the tables, table tops and chairs we needed.”

As for the equipment, Manuel had quite a clear idea as to what was required but upon discussing their needs with Daniel, discovered that there were better options. “We were about to waste money on expensive equipment that we didn’t really need and we were also going to waste money on buying cheaper items that wouldn’t go the distance. Daniel helped us understand where we could get durability and quality, without spending more than was necessary.”

The visit to the showroom resulted in an order for all the products Manuel needed for Bare Grill. He was grateful that he didn’t feel “sold to” during the visit and came away feeling relieved that all the requirements were now organised. “If we hadn’t dealt with Cafeideas, I don’t know what we would have ended up with,” Manuel explains. “Buying from Cafeideas, we got real value for money, great advice and felt comfortable with what we ultimately purchased.”

Follow-up, communication and problem management

Upon delivery, every item arrived in perfect condition within the agreed time frame. “Everything was exactly as we had ordered,” Manuel says. “We didn’t have a single problem with our products or our dealings with Cafeideas and feel very happy that we found their website when we did. We were always able to get someone on the phone when we had questions and weren’t left in the dark wondering about our order. When it all arrived, it was packed well too. Basically, the people at Cafeideas really know their product and they know how to provide excellent customer service.”

Recommending Cafeideas

Manuel says he would recommend Cafeideas without hesitation due to the level of customer service, product knowledge and genuine expertise he received.

From Cafeideas, Bare Grill purchased: [Cafeideas will enter products here.]

About Bare Grill

Bare Grill opened in 2014 after Manuel and wife Irene went on a research mission to the U.S. to find the perfect burger. The restaurant serves American-style burgers, steaks and ribs with a supreme focus on New South Wales’ best burger. “We reckon they’re so good, we’re willing to brand our name onto every single one,” Manuel laughs. Every burger does in fact have the Bare Grill logo emblazoned into the top of the bun.

Pride in the quality of the ingredients used is evident in the grass fed beef that goes into every patty. “We use an 80/20 mix because you need the fat for succulence and flavour,” Manuel explains. “And we make everything in-house including all our sauces.”

The sauces had to be worthy of being included with the quality grass fed beef. “Our Bare Sauce is a secret recipe made using top notch ingredients. We also make our own Truffle Mayo and Carolina Sticky BBQ Sauce which our customers literally lick from their fingers.”

Though the menu also includes ribs, buffalo wings and steaks, the burgers are the true stars of the show at Bare Grill. A mountainous burger – the Bare Grill Challenge – has triumphed over all who have attempted it, except one brave man. It features 10 beef patties, 10 rashers of bacon, 10 slices of cheese plus the luscious sauces and a side of fries and everything must be consumed within 30 minutes. The reward is the meal is on the house and anyone who can beat the burger gets their photo up on the Honours wall.

Regulars clamour for the Epic Fries, a superb plate of waffle fries loaded with pulled pork, cheese, chipotle mayo, bacon and shallots.

Bare Grill is BYO and also does a spectacular coffee plus milkshakes and the irresistible Freakshake! Choose from the Nutella Bomb or the Golden Gaytime which literally features a whole Golden Gaytime ice cream.

Offering takeaways for lunch and dinner to the starving beachgoers, locals and tourists, Bare Grill is open from Monday to Wednesday from 11am to 8pm and Friday to Sunday from 11am to 9pm (closed Thursday).

]]> Thu, 22 Sep 2016 05:48:00 +0000 https://www.cafeideas.com.au/blog/mosaic-tables/

You will find several patterns: diamonds, hopscotch or slate. Up to you to pick what best suits your place!

All the different models come with legs made from black pickled Siberian pine. Their wooden look will perfectly contrast with the icy look of the tiles.

Our mosaic tables look amazing AND they offer countless benefits:

1. They are hygienic.

Because of their smooth surface, tiles are extremely hygienic, and microbes and other microorganisms don’t stand a chance.

2. They are easy clean and maintain.

You don’t need to use specific chemicals. Simply wipe away with a damp cloth and your tabletops will be sparkling clean!

3. They don’t burn, nor melt.

Do you have customers smoking and unable to aim for the ashtray? No need to be afraid of falling ash any more!

4. They don’t stain.

Your customers can now freely spill their glass of red wine. Stains will easily disappear when you clean afterwards.

5. They don’t crack.

They are scratch and crack-resistant.

6. They offer great durability.

Tiles have a very dense surface, which makes them solid and extremely robust. And because of the benefits listed above, they will last for a long while.

Adding mosaic tables to your place will help you enhance your restaurant decoration, add some colors and harmony to the place. Discover our mosaic tables today!

The Moretti family, one of our suppliers, has been in business for 3 generations and knows a fair bit about pizza. With the same tradition and passion they shared decades ago, they now offer a wide range of pizza ovens allowing you to bake perfect pizza.

Conveyor pizza ovens

Conveyor ovens are designed to rapidly heat, cook and bake your pizza without sacrificing taste, quality and consistency. Sometimes quantity and quality go hand in hand.

The Moretti conveyor pizza ovens are ideal for businesses with a high demand. They will allow you to increase food output, maintain consistency and save time.

These pizza ovens are easy to use, so no intensive staff training required. And because safety comes first, the Cool-around technology was developed. This revolutionary system maintains the external oven temperature within very low values. In other words, the internal temperature might reach 200°C but it will only feel like 38°C around the machine. Staff can operate safely at all time.

Wood fired pizza ovens

In case you want something more traditional, our same supplier also provides a range of Vesuvio wood fired pizza ovens.

You won’t get the same speed as the conveyor ovens but will definitely get this oh-so-authentic taste. It locks in freshness and texture for longer. You can’t fake it; nothing tastes like a wood-fired pizza! 

Plus, you can bake many other things with a wood fired pizza! Bread, vegetables, stews, fish and desserts… we give you some ideas here! Get creative and expand your menu offerings!

Plus, it will look just awesome in your restaurant!

Browse through our extensive range today – conveyor pizza ovens here and traditional pizza ovens there. – and find the model that best meets your requirements.

Originally designed for residential kitchens, it definitely applies to small commercial kitchens with 3 major workstations and a maximum of 2 cooks in the house.

The kitchen triangle was developed in the 40’s and may seem old and simplistic, but it still applies, believe us! Things have changed a great deal since then, but the basics remain.

The 3 workstations of this magic triangle are as follow:

1. The sink – where you clean and prepare

2. The fridge – where you’re likely to store food

3. The cooktop – where you cook

The main idea is to plan an ergonomic work area to reduce the distance and effort required to work effectively in the kitchen. You will enjoy having a beautiful kitchen but remember that functionality is paramount.

When organizing your kitchen work triangle, you may want to consider these few rules:

- The work triangle should not cut through an island, cabinet, or any other obstacles by more than 30cm

- No major traffic patterns should cross through the work triangle

- A full-height obstacle, should not come between any two points of the triangle

If the work triangle concept doesn’t apply to your current kitchen (because you have more than one cooktop for instance), keep in mind the different steps of the kitchen flow when organizing it:

1. Raw materials coming in

2. Food storage

3. Preparation area

4. Cooking station

5. Cleaning

Think about how well you must be able to get around the kitchen, and remember you should be able to fly from one station to another (especially during rush hours)!

If you need any help with organizing your kitchen and/or have any further questions, simply email us at sales@cafeideas.com.au. We’ll happily provide extra advice.

Hairpin chair.

This chair will be ideal for your outdoor area. The UV resistant wicker is tough, looks good and will help you maintain the summer vibes all year round. A black steel frame compliments the brown wicker, and the legs shaped to look like hairpin bring a different touch.

Hairpin ottomans.

Our Hairpin range currently counts 4 ottomans. While 2 of them were already introduced a while back, the Hairpin industrial ottoman was added recently, as well as the Hairpin ashwood ottoman.

The 1st model is made of solid steel and comes in either coffee rust or antique red copper. Simple and solid, it looks good and does the job.

The 2nd model is made of an ashwood seat and a steel frame (coming with either a matt black or white finish). The frame is galvanized prior to powder coating, which means it can weather any condition.

While we recommend you to keep the industrial model indoor, the ashwood version can be used both indoor and outdoor.

Hairpin bar stools.

As for the ottomans, we count the industrial. and ashwood bar stool options.

Exact same specifications and color options available. Only the seat height will differ – the bar stools stand at a standard 75cm.

Hairpin booth seating.

Extremely exciting addition to our Hairpin range, the booth seating! Made of a HPL laminate shell and black steel frame, this model is sleek and solid.

Please note, the shell is made of the Indonesian palm laminate; not as shown in the image but slightly darker.

It is comfortable and provides extra space to seat – your customers will love it! Diversify your seating options and consider this booth seating. Still have doubts? Read our blog on booth seats.

Visit Cafeideas website and browse through our Hairpin range. Looking for something similar but different? Have a look at our Kaemi range!

Branding

Dressing your staffs with uniforms should be part of your branding. Just like the colors you select for your venue or the way you lay your tables, uniforms contribute to the overall atmosphere. It’s the cherry on the cake that comes and completes your theme. It allows your restaurant to have a unified look and feel, and it shows your customers what your place is about.

Customers’ perception

From your customers’ perspective, uniforms bring a sense of uniformity and consistency. People visiting your place know they can expect the same experience each time they return, and that’s exactly what you should aim for.

performance

Uniforms do have an influence on how staffs feel and act. If dressed the same way, they will definitely feel part of a team working to the same end. Feeling they belong to a group, they will be more confortable and more likely to provide great customer service. Ultimately, you want them to treat customers in a consistent way, and aligned with the rest with your restaurant branding.

Chef works

Chef works has been distributing culinary apparel brand for over 45 years, and supplying the best Chefs all around the world. At Cafeideas, we are proud to have an extensive range including aprons, pants, shirts, and headwear... nearly 300 items! From traditional to more modern designs, we have something for your chefs, your waiters, your bartenders and anyone else in the house. All Chef Works items are made of high quality cotton and offer comfort and sophistication. The fabric is pre-tested for durability and strength, and selected based upon resistance to increase longevity and performance. In other words, with Chef Works you get excellent quality than looks good for an entire shift (and launder easily). Visit Caféideas website today and have a look. Denim element is especially popular at the moment; you might want to check our Urban collection out too!

Lighting design is often overlooked and yet it completes the overall atmosphere of your restaurant. Whether you opt for a dramatic, comfortable or casual theme, lighting helps you to set the mood and it is important to get it right. It influences emotions, energy and mood.

When designing your restaurant lighting, try to create for your customers an experience involving all senses. Taste, obviously, but also smell, touch, hearing and sight. Lighting should look beautiful, but most importantly it make your customers feel comfortable.

3 different types of lighting can be identified and your restaurant should include them all:

Task lighting – to allow basic tasks (such as reading the menu)

Ambient lighting – to set the mood

Accent lighting – to emphasize specific areas or objects in your restaurant

Where to start?

First things first, define the layout.

Select where you want to have lighting positioned and try to find the perfect combination of daylight and electric light. Some rooms might not need additional lighting?

Then, define what kind of fixture.

Ideally, you want to use a mix of several fixtures having different purposes (task / ambient / accent lighting). We help you further in the next paragraph.

Finally, define how the light level should be.

Too bright? It could ruin an intimate atmosphere. Too dimmed? It could keep your customers isolated (can’t read your menu, can’t see their partners, can’t share the love).

What fixture options?

#1 PENDANT lighting hanging from the ceiling. It can be positioned over tables, bars, and countertops.

Purpose: task and accent lighting.

#2 CHANDELIER, either hanging from the ceiling or standing on tables. It doesn’t provide much light and is purely aesthetic. Candlelight is proven to be highly relaxing.

Purpose: ambient lighting.

#3 WALL LIGHT, practical as well as decorative. Ideal to illuminate interiors and exteriors.

Purpose: task and ambient lighting.

#4 FIBER OPTIC CEILING LIGHT, used for aesthetic purpose only, creates a dazzling lighting effect.

Purpose: ambient lighting.

#5 ANTIQUE STYLE LIGHT BULBS, usually hanging by themselves. With their clear glass envelopes, they are very attractive and emit a flattering warm light. Currently very popular and match perfectly vintage / industrial restaurants.

Purpose: task and ambient lighting.

#6 TRACK LIGHTING, multiple fixtures attached on ceiling or beams. Ideal to create focal points.

Purpose: task and accent lighting.

#7 ROPE & STRING LIGHTS, reminding your customers of holidays. They look gorgeous but doesn’t provide much light

Purpose: ambient lighting.

So you see, there are countless lighting options for you to choose from and play with.

Unless you run a dark restaurant where customers eat in a pitch-dark room, you do need to worry about lighting. Get creative, and remember, your ultimate goal is to create a welcoming environment and invite your customer to return.

A while back we told you about our new industrial bar stools. Today we tell you about our new industrial chairs.

Nova chair

Simple yet elegant; stylish yet functional, this chair has it all!

Don’t let the Nova chair fool you with its thin and delicate look; it is actually sturdy and extremely solid.

Composed of a black steel frame and antique stain seat and backrest, this model perfectly combines rustic and chic.

Raze chair

The Raze chair combines cold industrial look and warm natural colours. Looks like the Maple antique stain seat and steel frame were meant to be together! Note, you can select either a matt black and white frame.

Unusual yet aesthetics shapes, this design is certainly unique. The curved backrest will hug your customers’ back and offer great support, hence enhancing their experience.

You’ll also appreciate the fact that this chair is stackable and can be easily stored at the end of the day.

Lara chair

At first glance this chair might seem cold and unwelcoming, but is actually warm and surprisingly comfortable.

Here again, you will appreciate the perfect combination of steel and wood - solid steel legs in natural steel clear coat and a rubberwood timber seat. 

This stripped-down design offers great versatility and can fit anywhere. It can either tone down a busily decorated restaurant, or keep it sober, simple and classy. 

You might also be interests in our matching armchair version. Have a look!

Alexis chair

Last but not least, the Alexis chair. Here is another unique design! Smooth and sleek on the outside, but strong and solid on this inside. 

With this model, you get both the stylish look and the incontestable strength. It might look like wood but this chair is actually made of plastic.

The seat and backrest are actually one big ABS plastic shell. What is ABS plastic anyway? It’s a very solid material providing excellent impact resistance and toughness. Plus, the solid steel frame offers extra solidity and stability.

Please note, all chairs listed above are suitable for indoor only.

No further introduction needed at that point. Visit Cafeideas website and browse through extensive industrial furniture range – over 100 styles now available!

Frenchman Patrick Dumas has found his nirvana, owning and running Succulent Café in glorious Byron Bay. The location is idyllic of course but it can also be a hindrance when the time comes to shop for products that are not readily available in the local area. When shopping online for chairs for the café, he came across the Cafeideas site as well as websites of other suppliers but found that Cafeideas was “the best one in terms of product information, price and choice”.

The challenge

When outfitting Succulent Café’s al fresco dining area, Patrick was determined to find chairs in a particular colour but seemed to encounter a lot of black, red, white and silver. What he was looking for was a subdued green along the lines of avocado or olive. Being located in Byron Bay, it was important also to deal with a company that could be relied upon as an online-based supplier. After all, Patrick wasn’t about to jump on a plane or drive for hours to visit a showroom. The practical considerations of researching and purchasing online were a major deciding factor when choosing Cafeideas.

Problems they had experienced

“We needed to accommodate a certain budget,” Patrick explains. “Of course we wanted quality but we needed to make sure we got the right product at the right price. We feel we achieved this with our Cafeideas purchases.”

Patrick was initially concerned that without being able to touch and feel the products in person, to identify the quality and durability, he might be left with chairs that wouldn’t be suitable. “You gamble a little bit when you buy online. You can’t really see the true colours sometimes.”

Additionally, the fee to deliver the order was higher than expected. This was offset however by the competitive pricing of the goods he ultimately ordered, and Patrick was also happy that everything was packaged sufficiently so that no products arrived damaged.

How Cafeideas helped

The large selection of café and restaurant chairs on the Cafeideas website gave Patrick the opportunity to consider a range of options. He was impressed that each product listing was supported by multiple images taken from various angles, clear specifications and even photos of the colour swatches. The ‘compare’ function made it easy to decide between Patrick’s shortlisted items.

“All the information I needed to choose what I wanted was available. It wasn’t necessary to spend time calling Cafeideas or going back and forth. I could see that the chairs were stackable which was very important for my needs and I could see that I could get the right colour that I had in mind. The only thing I couldn’t do was touch the product.”

Follow-up, communication and problem management

Patrick reports that one of the chairs broke roughly seven months after purchase. He was asked to provide a photo of the damaged chair and within a week, the replacement was delivered. “I was very happy with that,” Patrick says. “Nothing has been difficult at all in dealing with Cafeideas. Whatever they promise, you know you’re going to get it. There are no bad surprises. I would definitely recommend Cafeideas to others without any hesitation. They make it a top priority to look after their clients.”

To date, Cafeideas has supplied Succulent Café with more than two orders of furniture and Patrick plans to continue purchasing from the company.

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About Succulent Cafe

Patrick and his wife Maree took over the ownership of Succulent Café in 2010 and have enjoyed adding their own touches to what is offered there.

“We have a really loyal customer base,” Patrick says. “We have a few customers who are literally here every single day for breakfast. They don’t even have to order anymore; we just know what they want. Others are not from Byron Bay but they make a point of coming to Succulent Café every time they’re in town, sometimes every day.”

With an emphasis on fresh food made daily using top quality ingredients – organic where possible – the café churns out gourmet muffins (“loaded with fruit or chocolate chips”, Patrick insists), cakes, friands and cookies, all made on the premises. Opening at 7am for breakfast, there are always eggs on the menu as well as house-made bircher muesli, organic sourdough fruit toast and homemade pancakes. Toby’s Estate coffee is the brand chosen for its consistency and quality.

Lunch options include open sandwiches, salads and mixed plates of delicious ingredients such as smoked salmon, house-made tapenade, grilled free range chicken, grilled haloumi, Bangalow ham and grilled field mushrooms.

Patrick says flexibility is a top priority. “We don’t assume every customer likes every dish the same way. We are always happy to accommodate what they want whether it’s fat free, well done, vegetarian, vegan, cooked in butter or without added salt. Everything we do is fresh, ‘a la minute’. At the end of the day, we want the customer to be happy.”

Having trained as a chef, it’s initially a little surprising that Patrick doesn’t spend much time in the kitchen. Instead, he prefers to be out the front, serving customers and making sure they enjoy their visit. He has spent many years in charge of Food & Beverage in luxury hotels in Singapore and China and feels at home talking with people and learning about them.

Succulent Café is something of a home away from home for a number of celebrities including interstate authors and singers. A bit of discreet celebrity-spotting happens from time to time however Patrick is keen to withhold the names of his publicly-known customers. “After all, I want them to come back!” he smiles.

Open 7 days a week from 7am to 2pm, Succulent Café seats 65, including indoor and al fresco dining.

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If yes, the answer is Simply Stainless!

Simply Stainless is the leading modular stainless steel brand in Australia and New Zealand. They have been around for nearly 2 decades and currently supply over 20 countries around the world.

#1 Wide range

From workbench to wall shelving, Simply Stainless offers an extremely wide range – almost 100 items available at Cafeideas! Various models, countless size options, they have everything you need.

#2 High quality products

All Simply Stainless items combine quality and reliability. They are made of stainless steel, and manufactured according to Australian and International Standards.

Tops and under shelves are made from 1.2mm thick stainless steel, making them extremely sturdy and allowing you to place heavy loads - up to 480kg!

#3 Stylish design

Simply stainless benches are elegant and will perfectly fit in your back or front of house. They look great; you can shamelessly place then anywhere!

To keep them clean and maintain their shine, we provide you some useful information here.

#4 Lifetime warranty

Simply Stainless offers a lifetime warranty and will replace the product with the same or its superseded model in the carton.

Browse through our Simply Stainless range today and find what you are looking for. It’s simple to buy, to ship, to store and to install!

Customers love cocktails more than ever before, and you should make the most of it. If you work behind the bar, you know there are different castes among drinkers. Wine drinkers, beer drinkers, and cocktail drinkers. While the first 2 categories are pretty easy-going, the last one is more demanding.

Cocktail drinkers want the affordable luxury of a single special cocktail that they can’t get at home. They are often adventurous and enjoy tasting new flavors, new combinations – they will definitely love finding new options on your menu.

Your menu

Updating your cocktail options allows you to add movement to your menu, as well as your blackboard, website, Facebook page. It’s a good sign, it means your bar is alive and keeps breathing. Your customers will be even more interested and keen to go back to taste your next home-made potion.

Your menu should be a festival of colorful, weird and wonderful cocktails. The weirder, the better!

Your cocktails

Camel milk or pickled egg, no matter what obscure ingredient you use, just make sure they are super fresh! And if you can throw some low-calorie cocktails, you will score some points with the health-conscious.

The cherry on the cake: provide some DIY options for a full personalization. Your customers will love it and might even get a 2nd drink!

Your bartenders

Having comfortable furniture and great music is not enough. You will need super bartenders providing excellent customer service and with a set of super skills. Being a bartender requires some serious skills.

- Great memory. You definitely want someone able to memorise hundreds of recipes and who doesn’t need to check recipes on Google every 5 minutes.

- Dexterity. Your bartender should be able to juggle with 2 shakers, 1 muddler and 2 jiggers – at the very least!

- Sommelieresque skills. You definitely want someone able to move fast but take time to stylishly fix cocktails and offer a great show. Your bar should become a theater!

- Consistency. A good bartender should be able to make the same delicious cocktail 4 times in a row.

Winter wonderland

Now we are in the heart of the winter season, don’t let the rain send your customers home, and beat the cold season! Update your drink menu and add seasonal options to attract customers with winter beverages. Have you consider mulled wine? We share some recipes below!

Be creative and go loco, but make sure your cocktails always taste good. If your customers like it, they will buy a 2nd drink and very likely come back!

And in case you need a milkshake mixer, a blender or ice crusher, visit Cafeideas website, we have a few options listed

Greece, yet another beautiful European country with a vibrant culture and colorful influences. Our range of Greek furniture includes side chairs, arm chairs and bar stools.

The seats and backs are made from high-quality UV treated rattan, and the aluminium frame is hand-painted with a wooden finish. These chairs and bar stools are ideal for your outdoor area, and will transport your customers to Mykonos in a matter of seconds!

We have two and three-tone weave options available, coming with different patterns (diagonal and diamond), as well as different tones of blue and grey, reminding you of the beautiful Greek beaches. The frame, too, comes in either natural bamboo or warm coffee.

All models are super light so you can lift them with only one finger and easily move them around. Plus, they are stackable and can be stored wisely at the end of the day.

• Mykonos side chair

  

• Santorini side chair

  

Recently added to our Greek range!

• Rhodes side chair

  

• Crete side chair

  

Browse through our range today and discover our Greek side chairs, arm chairs and bar stools.  τα λέμε !

Be it a vegetable julienne or French-fries, each delicious dish comes with an equally delicious side. Accompaniments complete and compliment the main piece, and that’s why you shouldn’t neglect them.

Robot Coupe, the food preparation specialist, has been around for over 40 years. The company was born in Burgundy, France, where the famous Dijon mustard also originates from - it says it all! The brand is already famous among chefs, no further introduction needed.

Robot Coupe has developed a wide range of machines adapted to each professional needs - restaurants, institutions, delicatessens, caterers… From food processors and cutters to mixers and blenders, we proudly count nearly 100 of their products on our website.

Today all lights are on the CL50 ultra vegetable preparation machine. Your best kitchen assistant, your best friend and we dare say an extension of yourself!

High quality.

All Robot Coupe items are made in France, a guarantee of quality!

The CL50 model is composed of a stainless steel motor base and is durable and reliable.

Its robust construction backed up with an induction motor makes it ideal for intensive use and perfect for heavy-duty jobs.

Thank to its large hopper you can process bulky vegetables and produce up to 5kg per minute, with flawless cutting precision.

Versatility.

This machine is to your kitchen what mashed potato is to a steak – indispensable! A wide range of attachments is available and offers a total of 48 cutting options. Talk about versatility!

With this Robot Coupe vegetable preparation machine, you can:

✔ Slice

✔ Dice

✔ Grate

✔ Cut

✔ Julienne

Maintenance.

Well, very little maintenance required! The CL50 is very easy to clean as all parts in contact with food can be removed.

We put together a selection of French foods and drinks you could use to celebrate next week! From crème brulee for beginners to Bourguignon beef more experienced ones, you will find lots of recipes. Bon appetit!

WHERE?

do you find your employees? You can start with a printed ad in your shop and use word of mouth. You should also spread the word online: social media, and why not on your website if you have one. If you don’t, there are many websites allowing you to list your job ad and find the right candidate (Careerone, Seek, Sidekicker,…).

WHAT?

skills should you look for? Your employees will be the face of your business so you definitely want them to present well. You will also want them to be able to take an order right, to remain courteous at all times and be able to cope with difficult customers. For the rest, we all have different standards and expectations, so it will be up to you!

HOW?

to keep your employees motivated? They run your business – remember that! You should treat them well and value their work to push them to provide an excellent service.

- Tips (avoid pool tips where the slacker relies on the hard worker – not a good dynamic!)

- Free catering

- Movie tickets

- Bottles of wine

- Gift cards

- Holiday with pay on their birthdays

- Organize a Christmas party

- Select an employee of the month

- Do you serve wine in your restaurant? Organize sampling for your staff so they can learn in a fun way. They will be only better at selling it later on!

Friend and long-time customer Richard from the Oricco charcoal chicken restaurant provides extra advice. Be organized, as much as possible. Organize and communicate a roster so everyone knows when he or she is expected at work. Also, don’t hesitate to delegate tasks, employees feel trusted and motivated to outperform. Last but not least, make sure you have a pool of casuals you can call in case of last-minute change in your roster.

A big thank to Richard for his valuable input on this matter.

Advantages.

- easy to use

- faster to cook and bake

- consistent quality

User friendly.

The touch screen generation is all about convenience. With an icon-driven menu, it is extremely intuitive and easy to use. No time wasted staring on your oven trying to work out buttons, options and functions.

This new touch screen panel gives you a quick access to cooking control - you will appreciate this feature during rush hours when each second matters.

It also becomes so uncomplicated to train your staff. Even the less experienced members of your team will be able use the new Turbofan touch screen ovens.

Perfect and consistent results.

The multi-stage cooking feature is a great addition to the Turbofan series. This feature allows you to design more accurately the cooking steps and achieve desired results. No compromise on the quality of the meals you serve!

On top of that, you can program up to 99 recipes, enabling you to save time, and more importantly, to achieve consistent results and evenness of cooking (or baking).

A shelf timer was also added to allow you to track different products placed on different shelves. A great tool to avoid overcooking one of your ingredients.

Choosing a touch screen model means making the most of intuitive functionality and pre-programming usability. Visit Cafeideas website today and browse through our range of Turbofan touch screen ovens.

Many of your customers are just like that, and understanding the thinking behind why they love to sit in booths is an important aspect of furnishing your restaurant.

#1 They are comfortable

First and foremost, booth seats are extremely comfortable.> Most of them have soft, padded seats and backs, and provide greater comfort than wooden stools or aluminium chairs. Plus, booth seats tend to be sturdier, a feature you will appreciate.

Plus, their high backs not only give your customers additional support, but also cut external sounds and commotion. Booths allow creating a very cosy environment, a real cocoon.

#2 They provide more space

Because booth seats are large and wide, they provide more room to your customers to sit, extend their legs and spread out. They won’t feel cramped and confined to their tiny chairs.

This extra space will surely help your customers to relax while they eat and have an even better overall experience. It’s all about keeping them happy, isn’t?

#3 They offer privacy

Last but not least, booth seats allow you to create intimate mini bubbles. The constant rush of staff members and other customers around tables can be seriously annoying and interrupt diners’ peaceful moment. Because booth seats are usually located against a wall, it blocks one side of the table, hence decreases traffic around.

Booths are like shelters offering protection from all disturbances, hence making customers’ dining experience more pleasant. Your customers will definitely enjoy having their very own separate space within your restaurant.

Diversify your seating options today and consider booth seats. Have a look at our photo gallery - our famous customer Koi Dessert Bar already adopted them and it looks great!

Alternatively, have a look at our Pinterest board where you can find some decoration inspiration.

We are about to extend our range so stay tuned, more models and colors to come soon!

It’s that time of the year again. Temperatures drop; shivering customers hurry along and stop where they find a heater. You don’t have any? You might be losing potential customers!

A while back we introduced our range of Bromic heaters. Today we tell you more about the brand new Cobalt Smart-Heat Electric™ heater.

Why should you have an outdoor heater?

#1 Warm and homey atmosphere. Having an outdoor heater allows you to extend the outdoor season, create a comfortable place, and provide your customers with a cozy experience.

#2 Enhance your outdoor area. With outdoor heaters, you can expand your outdoor space, if not create it, and expand your database. Customers enjoying might even return and become regulars!

#3 Simple & Safe. Outdoor heaters are precious tools and provide instant heat. They are much safer than a fireplace and more convenient to operate.

#4 Low maintenance. Last but not least, they are hassle-free - perhaps one of their biggest advantages! Very little maintenance is required and once you installed them, outdoor heaters will efficiently and quietly do their job.

Why should you choose Cobalt Smart-Heat Electric™ heaters?

#1 Solid structure. Made of stainless steel and quartz elements, they are reliable and durable. The Bromic outdoor heaters will weather cold temperatures without fail, and heat your customers for years to come. They provide strong heating performance and can cover a large area.

#2 Attractive design. With their simply yet appealing style, you can easily (and proudly) install these outdoor heaters anywhere. You can choose from different dimension options to perfectly fit your place requirements.

#3 Wireless Control. You will appreciate this feature, as it will allow you to adjust remotely heating output. Too easy! 

#4 Easy to clean. The Cobalt Smart-Heat Electric™ heater should be cleaned on a regular basis to prevent any build up. Simply wipe surfaces down with a damp cloth and soapy water.

Discover today the new Cobalt Smart-Heat Electric™ heater. Alternatively, find out about the rest of our Bromic range, including hanging, wall mount, ceiling or stand-up heating models.

Arranging your seating area is a crucial part when setting up your restaurant. It will affect the restaurant performance and customer experience, so you better get it right!

At Cafeideas we are here to help and provide advice based on our knowledge and experience. For you, we have put together this rough guideline outlining a few steps, but please note these are only recommendations. There is no single approach, as it will depend on the kind of food your serve, as well as the operating hours and several other factors.

What operating hours?

This is the very first thing to take into consideration when creating your sitting area.

Do you serve breakfast, lunch or dinner? Perhaps you serve all of them? In that case, the preparation time between each shift will be short and you will need an optimal set-up to allow your staff to operate faster.

This means, you should allow enough space between the tables for your staff to pass through and access the kitchen, as well as adequate cafe chairs to tuck under the tables and keep all paths clear.

What type of cuisine?

The way you arrange your seating area depends on the kind of food you serve. Serving huge seafood platters or extra-wide pizza? You definitely need enough space for wide tables.

Offering take-away food? Then you won’t need as much space because your customers won’t stick and simply rush in and rush out.

What serving dishes will you use?

Think about the plates and cutlery you will use. Wooden boards, for instance, are on trend. They look great but are quite space consuming! As much as we love them, we agree they might not be the easiest kind of dish to use.

You should have a clear idea of the kind of food you will serve and the plates you will use to do so.

What table top sizes?

Once you have defined all the above, you can start thinking about your tables. For your information, the standard size is 60 x 60 cm and it comfortably accommodates 2 persons. Then you can find the 70 x 70 cm, as well as 80 x 80 cm dimensions, ideal for 4 persons. Finally, the communal tables are just perfect for larger groups.

Ideally you should select tables that you can easily move around to create different configurations. Square tables allow you to do that as you will be able to join and align them easily, which makes them ideal if you expect larger groups. Round tables do not offer this flexibility but are great for smaller places such as take-away shops and cafes.

No matter what combination you go for, bear in mind you need a variety of table sizes and shapes suitable for small and large groups.

How many table can you fit in?

Now you know the shape and the dimensions, you can define how many tables. We recommend you to leave at least 1.6 meter between tables to allow customers to pass through and staff members to circulate and operate smoothly.

We hope this non-exhaustive list of steps will help you get started. We strongly encourage you to draw a seating plan and define ahead what layout best works for your space. And if you have any burning questions, feel free to ask us and simply send an email to sales@cafeideas.com.au

Love the wooden look but afraid it might not last? We have exactly what you need! A whole range of aluminum chairs and stools finished with a wooden finish. They look great, they are solid and reasonably priced – we tell you everything.

Stylish & Comfortable

Our heavy-duty range of chairs and stools features a durable aluminium frame, finished with a heat transferred wooden finish that is textured and resembles real wood. For extra comfort, they come with an upholstered seat.

We have various colors and options allowing you to mix and match.

Where the aluminium frame can weather any conditions, the upholstered seat does not and we recommend you to keep these chairs and stools indoor. Only the all-aluminium Bistro chair version can be used outdoor.

Solid

These heavy-duty chairs and stools have a solid structure and their strong base will remain stable, preventing sagging the way other materials could do after a few years.

No screw, no weakness. The fully welded frame is much stronger and durable, and will outlast any timber or wicker chair.

Low maintenance

Because of the construction of the frame and the material used, these chairs and stools will not rust, rot, or peel. You can be sure will not stain any surface and additionally, they will perform in any weather for years and last many years.

Convenient storage and transport

The aluminum frame might be super strong but is also super light! This makes it easier for you to move furniture around and rearrange your sitting area as you go.

Plus, all our furniture is stackable, making it even more convenient to store and transport.

Different names, same characteristics! Discover today our best seller, the Bistro range, as well as the Modena range, and the newly added Malvern chairs and armchairs. Alternatively, discover our photo gallery and see how other customers used these chairs and stools.

Any additional questions? Leave a comment below and ask us!

Who said size matters? Small yet valuable, this tool can turn out to be essential in your kitchen. Discover today the Unox ceramic glass contact grills, combining elegance and power.

Ideal for cafes, bars and fast food restaurants, these contact grills are extremely versatile. From sandwiches and focaccia to grilled meat or vegetables, you will be able to cook anything and cook it well.

With their compact design, they can fit anywhere on your bench top and are simple to use. Thanks to a thick fiberglass insulation reducing heat loss and keeping temperature to a minimum on external surfaces, these Unox SpidoCook contact grills are also safe to operate.

These contact grills are composed of a heating element using the SBH technology and ceramic glass bricks all around. The SHB technology developed by Unox allows the ceramic glass bricks to quickly reach a high temperature, reducing by more than 80% the time of preheating, enabling considerable energy savings.

The ceramic glass elements used are perfect material for contact cooking as they are shock and thermal shock resistant, as well as dense and non-porous. In other words, they don’t absorb the taste of cooked food and keep aromas intact.

You will also appreciate the non-stick characteristics of the ceramic glass elements allowing a quick and easy clean.

The Unox SpidoCook contact grills come with different options: smooth, ribbed or transparent top plates, single or double, manual or digital control. Browse through our range today and discover all the different options available. The range also includes fry tops using the same technology, have a look!

Our dear customer Soul Origin has already adopted it, as well as Iron Wood, Espresso Organica and many others. Will you be the next one?

The challenge

Having dealt with Damien at Cafeideas numerous times before, Julian knew that in terms of quality, pricing and customer service, he was going to enjoy the same benefits. “I knew exactly what I wanted because we had the place architecturally designed in great detail,” Julian says. “But in this case, I was determined to get lots of quotes because at Urban Paddock, I’m working with a business partner, Stan Loupos.” Eight requests for quotes went out and none could beat Cafeideas on the three abovementioned points, so the decision was made.

“Cafeideas have always been competitive on the particular brands of items I was looking for,” Julian explains. “Competitive to the point that they have beaten all the other quotes. I know they’ll always look after me.”

Ordering for the kitchen equipment was straightforward for Julian because his planning had incorporated all the specific items that would be needed. The furniture however was another matter and he felt a visit to the Cafeideas showroom was imperative.

“It’s the real thing,” he explains. “You go into the showroom and it’s all on display so you get a real feel for the comfort, the quality and the durability. They display a huge array of chairs and you can mix and match, sit at tables to gauge the height and get an idea of how heavy items are for staff to carry.”

For Urban Paddock, Julian selected short and tall stools, high back chairs, normal chairs, stackable and non-stackable ones as well as outdoor, weatherproof furniture.

“I could feel how they’d move across the floor, how comfortable they are and whether they felt like they were of good quality.” For Julian, country of manufacture is also important so being able to discuss such details with the knowledgeable staff at Cafeideas was valuable.

Problems they had experienced

Julian says that nearly everything has gone smoothly with the fit-out and establishment of Urban Paddock and as far as Cafeideas is involved, there have only been a couple of chairs and a toaster that have been problematic.

How Cafeideas helped

“The service is always amazing,” Julian tells. “We had some problems with a couple of chairs and Damien had them replaced within two days. In a venue that seats 165, it’s not like two chairs are going to be a huge problem but still, you also don’t want to have to deal with it back and forth. It was resolved immediately.”

The toaster too was organised to be repaired by the manufacturer and was fixed within two days. Julian says this kind of service is not the norm. “I’ve bought bits of equipment in the past from other companies and they just don’t want to know you. Even though price points are an enormous deciding factor, you also need to be able to count on prompt service because your business depends on it.”

Julian is also pleased with the follow-through provided by Damien and Cafeideas. “They’ve checked in on how happy we are with our purchases and I’m really pleased that Damien himself has been in for lunch to have a look.”

“I feel one hundred per cent looked after by Cafeideas,” Julian smiles. “It’s good to deal with a company that has the products, the variety, the quality and the know-how, and you can genuinely count on the level of service they provide.”

From Cafeideas, Urban Paddock purchased: Veneto chairs, Rons table bases, Brown table tops, Darlinghurst stools, Darlinghurst bar stools, Darlinghurst chairs, Clifton bar stools, Vintage bar stools, Dome table bases, Exquisite chiller, Hobart glasswasher, Austune undercounter fridge, Baron oven, Goldstein salamander, Hobart dishwasher, Hamilton ice blender, Woodson toaster, Scotsman ice maker, and Unox MIND.Maps oven.

About Urban Paddock

Situated in a prime position among the three office towers which accommodate around 9,500 workers, Urban Paddock is a 165-seater café/restaurant that acts as a leafy garden oasis during busy corporate schedules. It’s a place that’s equally comfortable to host clients for business meetings or for office staff to take a load off, enjoy a quality, upmarket meal and feel refreshed.

“We’ve designed the menu to provide beautiful food at reasonable price points – around $18 to $23 – and to be ready within ten to twelve minutes. The food has to be priced such that our customers can come in multiple times in a week.”

Open for breakfast and lunch in the day, Urban Paddock is vibrant and very social in the evenings, offering share platters in lieu of a more formal a la carte menu.

The ingredients are sourced locally and the menu hones in on the increasing trend for consumers seeking specific health virtues in their food. “We cover fish, vegetarian and meat. We offer items that are gluten free, low carb, dairy free; we respect our customers’ choices and do our best to give them what they want.”

Service is high on the priorities at Urban Paddock. “We offer an extremely high level of service,” Julian says. “It has to be that way. We’re in the middle of a very busy environment and people need to know they can count on us to provide what they need or they won’t come back.”

The local focus extends to the drinks menu as well. “We offer only premium pour spirits such as Ketel One vodka and Tanqueray gin and our cocktails are made with top notch ingredients. We have boutique local beers on tap and a range of excellent wines.”

Though open only from Monday to Friday to satisfy the hunger and thirst of the corporates, Urban Paddock does offer functions 7 days a week.

Urban Paddock is open Monday to Friday for breakfast from 7am, lunch from 12pm and offers share plates from 4.30pm until late.

A few weeks ago we praised communal tables and the great vibes they innately bring to your restaurant, remember? Communal tables are to spread joy, so food is to share! Sharing platters are on trend and if they are not listed on your menu yet, it’s time to make the leap.

It might sound obvious to some of you, but many restaurants still offer no sharing platter, or just one not-so-tempting option. How sad is that! Keep in mind that the more options listed on your menu, the broader your customer base.

Whether it’s dinner for 2 or lunch for 20, your menu should definitely offer appealing options for groups. Share plates, antipasti, tapas, snacks … no matter what you call it, you should allocate more space to it!

Because some people struggle so much to select one meal option and when they finally pick something after a 30-minute discussion, they end up regretting their choice.

Because some people get this serious food envy when someone else orders something that looks hundred times better (and everyone knows they won’t share).

Because some people are keen to get adventurous and try new flavors but are still quite shy and don’t want to feel obliged to eat it all if they hate it.

With your sharing platters, customers will be able to taste a wider selection of flavors and delicious bite-size nibbles. They will be more free and relaxed, the atmosphere will be friendlier (considering customers don’t start fighting over food), and their experience will be improved. Bottom line, customer loyalty will be higher than before.

On top of sharing flavors, experience and time, your customers will also be able to share cost and they will surely appreciate it.

On your end, organizing sharing platters is super easy! Get awesome plates (wooden and chalkboards are our big favorites!) and artistically place all your ingredients on it. Plus, it will allow you to serve everyone at once, so no more impatient customers complaining their friends were served before them!

Depending on your niche, you can serve delicate food in a fancy way, but you don’t have to. À la bonne franquette can be absolutely charming too! And if you can include vegetarian sharing platters to your menu, you might even be able to attract some more customers! And the absolute cherry on the cake would be to add sharing dessert platters to your menu!

Keen to try but have no inspiration? We have put together a whole bunch of terrific share plate recipes for you. We invite you to visit our Pinterest board to dig in!

Selecting commercial bar stools might be more complicated than you think. Style, color, design … we believe you already have a rough idea of what you want. But did you consider what height it should be? Do you want your stools to swivel? Should they have armrests?

Here is a non-exhaustive list of factors to consider when selecting commercial bar stools. All you need to do is choose wisely the best ones that are perfect for your needs and compliment the theme of your place.

#1 Positioning

First of all, you should know where you will place your commercial bar stools. This will help you to decide on the colour and the style you need, especially if you divide your space into different areas with different themes.

A light colour might fit here next to your window but a darker colour might be better at the back near your bar area.

#2 Height

The height will also depend on the positioning of your commercial bar stools, as well as the countertop or the tables you will use. Indeed, remember to allow enough space for customers’ legs between the top of the seat and the bottom of the countertop or the table. It sounds pretty obvious but some restaurants and cafés seem to forget about that!

#3 Comfort

Select stylish commercial bar stools but please don’t cut on comfort. Comfortable stools = happy customers = returning customers.

If you can, select commercial bar stools with padded seats and offer an amazing seating experience to your customers! They will be able to sit for a longer period painlessly and enjoy their meal. This is especially important in bars and pubs where you expect your clientele to sit for a while.

In restaurants, however, you might get away with slightly less comfortable commercial bar stools since the bar counter is not be the main area but just a transition when people wait till their table is ready.

#4 Swivel

The swivel option allows your customers to move from side to side without having to move the base of the commercial bar stool, which can be extremely convenient at times.

Bar stools with swivel will be great at the bar counter but you might want to keep them away from your tables - customers might not enjoy spinning around while eating!

#5 Footrest & Backrest & Armrest

Often underrated, footrests are so important! They allow your customers to sit comfortably without having their legs dangling till it hurts. Female clients wearing heels all day long will love you for that!

Same with backrests, they can bring some extra comfort, a plus your customers will find valuable!

Finally, armrests are also comfortable and they look good. Just be aware they are more challenging to fit correctly as they don’t tuck under your counter or your tables.

Wooden, aluminum or polypropylene, industrial, rustic or Parisian, we have an extensive range matching various styles. Visit Cafeideas website today to discover all our commercial bar stool collections, including the Nardi outdoor range.

Using spotless cutlery, glassware and plates is as important as the rest in order to offer a flawless overall experience to your customers. Consciously or not, they do pay a lot of attention to every single detail in your restaurant. You wouldn’t want anything to shade the mouth-watering meals and drinks you serve, would you?

Of all appliances in your kitchen, dishwashers operate the longest (some for over 18 hours per day, including breakfast, lunch and dinner), so you better aim for the best quality!

Discover today Washtech. Founded in 1981 in New Zealand, the company has since extended its range and now includes under-counter and upright commercial dishwashers, as well as glass-washers and ware-washers.

Washtech is today the largest manufacturer of wash equipment in Australia and proudly offers powerful and durable machines with a simple yet effective design, and an ease of operating. With the Washtech units, there is no compromise on quality - they deliver high volume and high efficiency.

The company gained the ISO 9001 certification* a few years ago and has been proudly maintaining it since then.

Today Washtech is excited to introduce its brand new M2C professional pass-through dishwasher. Made in New Zealand, just like the rest of the range, this unit can be placed anywhere in your kitchen as it is suitable for in-line or corner installation.

The innovative condensation hood is what you want to hear about. The heat recovery condensor uses exhaust air to heat incoming water, which means this allows major energy savings (35%) and costs savings (approximately $1,200 per year in a busy restaurant).

Additionally, this means the steam emitted is significantly reduced, which is ideal for places with poor ventilation. As a result, your kitchen will be cooler which is recommended for your employees, as a humid and damp work place can make them feel tired. On top of being an environmentalist, you will be able to offer a healthier workplace.

Is your chef not the cautious kind? Moving fast and slamming doors during rush hours in the kitchen? Don’t worry, this Washtech M2C unit is extremely robust and will weather rough use.

Plus, extra warranty applies on labour, wash pump parts and cabinets parts so you are all covered for years!

Discover our Wastech range today and have a look at this shining brand new M2C passthrough dishwasher.

* Iso 9001 certification: world's most widely recognized Quality Management System.

Does your place currently offer takeaway? If yes, that’s great! If not, you might want to change this today. Know your customers and understand them.

While some of them will take time to dine in and make use of your comfortable furniture, some others will only rush in and rush out. And they will expect the same menu options, which is absolutely legitimate.

Either way, we share with you some tips to consider when organising takeaway, as it requires a little bit of planning.

Space
You should organise your area wisely. If you have street frontage, that’s excellent, this way you’ll be able to show off your takeaway option! If you don’t, try to partition your venue so the line for takeaway orders is separated from the sit-down diners. Be careful when doing so - you don’t want to favor takeaway food and detract from the in-house dining experience.

Also, why not offering online order to facilitate and fasten your order process? Another thought for you to consider! Bear in mind, making ordering process easy allows you to build profits and improve customers’ loyalty.

Menu
Have you ever visited a place where the sit-down menu is mouth-watering but only 2 options are listed on the takeaway menu? How disappointing can it be?

Don’t be like that, and make your entire sit-down menu into takeaway dishes. It will actually be much easier for the kitchen and this way, customers will really get an idea of what you offer.

When crafting your takeaway menu, take into consideration how well the food will travel (getting cold? melting? disintegrating?), and try to create food that can be eaten by hand or without cutlery.

Finally, you might need to resize your portions, and that’s okay, but make sure it matches your sit-down menu in quality!

Quality takeaway food is definitely setting in on the ever-changing Australia’s dining scene so you better get used to it! Remember to find the right balance to make sure the food represents your restaurant’s standards and your customers’ expectations.

The challenge
Gino and his wife Maree have been involved with Cafeideas for more than 12 years, having purchased many items for their previous business, The Little Fish Café. They initially began their new quest for products when searching for refrigeration equipment for the new bar.

Problems they had experienced
From time to time, Gino says he has sought products and smaller equipment items from other retailers but found that the only result was wasted time. He says he ordered food processors and ice crushers, only to be disappointed when the companies he tried to deal with failed to follow through on pricing, were extremely vague about their product lines and couldn’t provide firm answers regarding availability.

How Cafeideas helped
This time around, Gino and Maree originally dealt with Cafeideas Manager, Damien.

“He was really helpful in actually putting together a little plan for the bar and helped us determine the best way to fit the furniture we were looking at, including high stools,” Gino explained. When the task turned to refrigeration, the pair were put in touch with Vibha who has remained their Account Manager since.

“Vibha has been extremely helpful,” Gino continued. “The communication has always been great. She gives us quotes, arranges deliveries and there is never a problem with anything.”

Gino explains that Vibha’s expertise was very helpful in determining the precise products that would be suitable for the purpose including dimensions, brands, functionality and quality.

“The thing that really impresses me about Cafeideas is that they speak our language,” Gino says. “We’re experienced operators and some of these other suppliers are simply not in our league and we find we need to educate them on what we need. At Cafeideas, they are always good to their word, they know their stuff and they follow through every time.”

Asked if he would deal with Cafeideas again in the future, Gino was adamant: “They’re our first port of call,” he says. “The whole process, the range and the service are easy and we never have any problems.”

From Cafeideas, Bar Florian purchased: Boronia beechwood timber chairs, Darlinghurst bar stools, Clifton beechwood timber bar stools, Vintage side chairs, Paris table bases, Nardi Fiore table bases, Nardi Fiore bar table bases, a F.E.D. meat slicer, a Norris dishwasher and a Exquisite back bar chiller.

About Bar Florian
A regional antipasto bar located in picturesque Port Macquarie, Bar Florian is a labour of love for husband and wife team Gino and Maree Cunial. Since opening, it has become known as more of a destination venue for theatre-goers and concert fans, particularly in the 30-upwards age bracket.

What makes Bar Florian unique is that it is the holder of the only Small Bar License in its region which is unusual for country areas. Licensed to serve up to 60 people – with or without food – and only permitted to serve patrons aged 18 or older, it presents a decidedly grown-up atmosphere where patrons can enjoy a spectacular cocktail or choose from an ever-evolving menu of fine meats and cheeses.

“We source our cheeses mostly from France,” Gino says, “and our meats are all produced in the northern Italian style.”

Manager Andrew Devlin is a large part of the Bar Florian ethos. Having previously tended bar in top Sydney and London venues, he is renowned for his flair for cocktails. With a wine list that features an exciting selection of wines including varietals unique to Italy such as Chianti, plus boutique and craft beers and a large array of top shelf spirits, it’s no surprise that Bar Florian is making quite a name for itself as a nightspot for discerning adults who appreciate the finer things in life.

Bar Florian is open from 4pm to 11pm Wednesday to Saturday and 2pm to 8pm on Sundays.

Want to recreate this magnificent Parisian look and feel in your place? Effortlessly chic and flawless? You will love our Parisian range! Chairs, armchairs, ottomans and bar stools … various options to choose from.

This fabulous wicker range is inspired from the elegant Parisian brasseries and brings from Europe all its charm. Made of high-quality UV treated materials, you can show off these Parisian chairs on the street or any other outdoor area - just the way they do in Paris! The chairs will equally look good inside. Plus, the hand-painted aluminum frame with its wooden finish will perfectly compliment the oh-so emblematic 2-tone weave.

Our Parisian range is extremely versatile it’s almost magic! Depending on a few elements such as lighting, space arrangement and table presentation, you will be able to create a fancy and chic space or a simple and informal environment.

The Parisian furniture not only looks good but also is extremely comfortable - comfortable enough so your customers can sit and enjoy the moment instead of painfully moving on their chair the whole time. The seat and backrest are firm and provide an excellent support. Additionally, the bar stools include a footrest with a perfect height to provide leg support - not always obvious!

If you want to complete this Parisian look, we recommend our matching tables including the Gentas marble table top and Paris table base.

If you want to go further and get the total Parisian look, we encourage you to dress your waiters with one of our Chef Works white aprons!

Browse through our Parisian range today and find out what color combinations are available at Cafeideas.

Oliver Brown, Shingle Inn and many other customers have already adopted the Parisian style … will you be the next one?

The environment that an airline creates on its planes and in its lounges leaves a lasting impression on passengers. Many details come together to create a luxurious and relaxing environment.

Singapore Airlines understands that and this is why they selected ice machine supplier Scotsman. Singapore Airlines wants the very best for their customers and has very strict criteria for choosing suppliers. On the other hand, Scotsman provides high-quality products and exceptional after-sale services. Match made in heaven!

Scotsman is the world’s leading ice machine manufacturer and has been providing businesses over the world for decades. The company offers high-quality and reliable products backed up by an excellent after-sale service. Their extensive network includes key hubs such as Singapore, South Africa and Dubai, and allows Scotsman to provide this high standard of service - definitely an added value!

Last but not least, their attractive design fits perfectly with the rest of the luxury Singapore Airlines lounges. Appearance is crucial because the airline pays attention to details in its lounges and everything has to fit well the larger design. Singapore Airlines uses the same style and equipment in all their lounges, providing a consistent passenger experience all over the world.

Visit Cafeideas website today and browse through our range of Scotsman ice machines.

Singapore Airlines runs a fleet of 105 aircrafts and operates passenger services to over 60 cities in more than 30 countries around the world. It is one of the best airlines in the world and has achieved that status by setting very high standards.

Have you ever considered online booking for your business? Then perhaps today is the day! As mentioned in a previous blog, being online has become crucial for your business. Be online, have a website, communicate on social platforms. And offer online booking.

It is no secret the way we communicate has dramatically changed over the past few years. Many people do everything on their phones but don’t like to actually get on the phone. So why not offer your customers a new way to make a booking without having to place a call? Quick and easy!

A few platforms, such as Yumtable and Dimmi, could allow your customers to make an immediate reservation online, as well as checking your trading hours, your menus and reviews.

What benefits are in for you? Being listed on these platforms, you will be able to:
✔ tell the world you exist and what you do (especially if you don’t have any website)
✔ be found more easily (as these websites are organized around categories)
✔ reach a broader database of online customers
✔ create a loyal customers database (as these websites use a reward system so customers tend to come back, hence more opportunities for them to find you and your appealing deals)

Afraid of competition on these platforms? You’re right! If you have a website, we recommend you to attract customers to your website and don’t let them wander off. How to? Simply embed a widget on your webpage allowing them to book online via your website. Too easy! And while making a reservation, they might even check the rest of your website, including your menu, photo gallery or even upcoming events.

Alternatively, you can also add a link to your eNewsletter (if you send any) and on your Facebook page (is you have any) alto let your customers know they can book online.

Ask around, is it worth the work? And if you think it is, don’t be afraid and get into the online booking game tomorrow!

The furniture you select for your restaurant is as important as the rest. Creative drinks? Appetizing menu? Excellent customer service? Great! Now you don’t want your customers to leave your place with a negative opinion just because your furniture isn’t great. Just because your tables are wobbly, for instance.

Unstable tables are one of the worst things that can happen when visiting a restaurant and we don’t quite understand why so many places carry on blissfully ignoring that issue.

We’d like to encourage you to address that problem today and have a very simple solution we think you should consider. Discover today Flat Technology, a multi-award-winning technology that allows you to instantly level your table bases, stabilise your tables and align your table tops.

This worldwide-patented technology is unique and delivers functionality and cost savings never seen before in the hospitality industry. Composed of 2 simple elements, it is extremely easy to install and use. Images speak louder than words, so we invite you to watch this 3-minute video and see by yourself.

With this fantastic Flat Technology system, you will never have a wobbly table problem again! You will improve your customers’ experience and increase return business.

Have a look at Cafeideas website today and discover our extensive range of table base options. Table and bar table bases are available, you will surely find what you need.

We also invite you to watch this short video from Jimmy Kimmel speaking out against wobbly tables, such a sensitive topic. It is quite hilarious and we thought you’d enjoy it!

The challenge

“I was looking for some quite specific items to go in the interior greenhouse we were installing at Chatswood Chase,” Padraig says. “I needed something to add to the light and airy feeling and the furnishings had to be very light and blonde.”

Padraig was served by Vibha, who helped to match the perfect light wood table tops with white metal bases. He says the end result is very uniform and beautifully complements the greenery effect.

“It’s great to be able to go to a showroom and have a look at products yourself,” he says. “It helps to clarify the vision you have and I found that some of the items I’d been considering were actually better than I’d envisaged.”

An additional benefit was Cafeideas’ proximity to the City. “A big advantage that first appealed to me about Cafeideas is that they are not out in an industrial area,” Padraig explains. “I could actually go there and spend just a few hours as opposed to losing a day, counting travel time there and back. When you’re running two restaurants, time is extremely precious.”

Problems Burnt Orange had experienced

Over Christmas, Padraig needed urgent assistance to replace a freezer which was becoming unreliable. “We can’t afford to be without a freezer at any time, let alone the busy Christmas period so we needed to find a solution quickly and turned to Cafeideas.”

How Cafeideas helped

Vibha was able to help Padraig get the order in before close of business on Christmas Eve and take delivery of it the first opportunity once the vendors reopened after Christmas. “I thoroughly appreciated her understanding of the urgency when it came to the equipment side of the business.”

Padraig says he’s dealt with other suppliers before but has found Cafeideas to offer a superior level of service: “They’re pretty on the mark in terms of delivery and expected dates. That seems to be pretty professional compared to a lot of the other companies out there.” He was also happy with the quality of the products on offer at Cafeideas.

From Cafeideas, Burnt Orange sourced the following products: Bistro chairs (upholstered), Fiore table bases, Victorian ash aged table tops, and Bromic upright freezer.

About Burnt Orange

A destination shopping and dining experience, Burnt Orange in Mosman is a favourite haunt for locals and a must-visit spot for tourists. Inhabiting the circa 1930s golf clubhouse, resplendent in historic sandstone, the venue features a café/restaurant, Signals Room for elegant functions and an award winning boutique retail store that offers an eclectic array of clothing, books, jewellery, children’s wear, toys, food, homewares and gifts. Padraig says that visitors love the casual, relaxed feel and the opportunity to browse a while before taking a table for a meal. Burnt Orange’s café was voted No. 2 in Sydney for their High Tea, by Time Out, due in no small part to their sumptuous house-made scones and jam accompanied by glorious views of Sydney Harbour.

Breakfast, lunch or High Tea, the focus is on lighter dishes that tempt even the virtuous foodie. Fresh trout is smoked on the premises, the Green Goddess chicken salad is a huge favourite and the children go crazy for the buttermilk pancakes.

Signals Room seats 80 for meals or serves canapes for 120 guests and with its balcony that overlooks the harbour, makes a compelling setting for an intimate celebration.

Meanwhile, Burnt Orange’s new Chatswood Chase location has its very own personality and features an ivy-wrapped metal structure fondly known as ‘the greenhouse’. The menu there too is sumptuous, with a slant towards the ocean. The fish pies and salmon cakes have been huge hits and the Alaskan King Crab Benedict has earned a growing number of devotees.

Burnt Orange is open from 8.30am to 5.30pm for breakfast, lunch and high tea, seven days a week.

A while back we baked pizza here at the showroom and between 2 bites of yumminess, one of our sales persons (Vibha, not to mention her) suggested it would be a great idea to write an article about the Exquisite MTC360H unit. “This pizza preparation chiller unit is great and deserves to be featured in our blog”, she said.

The MTC360H sandwich / pizza prep. chiller is reliable, esthetically appealing and versatile. In other words, it combines all the features you want and need.

Both internal and external parts include stainless steel, which means they are solid, durable and reliable. This unit is built to last and weather the toughest conditions with ambient temperatures rising up to 43°C. Plus, the stainless steel finish will give a glowing shine to your place!

You will also appreciate the marble top bench. It looks beautiful and is easy to clean. While it is primarily for sandwich preparation, it is also perfectly suitable for pizza preparation.

The MTC360H unit is equipped with a dynamic fan forced cooling system that improves the air circulation and makes sure that, no matter what shelf your foods are sitting on, they will be chilled and protected the exact same way.

The self-closing doors will minimize opportunities for the chilled air to sneak out, better managing temperatures. The integrated handles will also help you to be faster when opening and closing the doors during rush hours.

This Exquisite sandwich / pizza preparation chiller includes an automatic defrosting system (here you can thank our supplier for this feature). This way, you won’t need to manually defrost the frost buildup, and get a more uniform temperature throughout the unit.

Visit Cafeideas today to find out more about this Exquisite chiller unit.

Are you starting a new business? Refurbishing your place? Do you need financial advice? Don’t stress, we are here to help. We understand planning your finance is a crucial part of your project and it can be overwhelming. We are here to bring some clarifications on the several finance options we offer.

SilverChef

Operating in 3 countries (Australia, New Zealand, Canada), Silver Chef has been serving the hospitality industry for 30 years and has already helped over 30,000 customers.

This finance option is all about flexibility. With their Rent-Try-Buy option, they let you try equipment and furniture during 1 year before you decide what to do with it. At the end of the term, you are offered 5 options:

✔ Upgrade: give back the equipment you rented and upgrade to something better.
✔ Purchase: purchase the equipment - you can actually do it at any time during your contract and receive 75% of the net rent you have paid.
✔ Rent: continue to rent the equipment – you can return it anytime.
✔ Return: simply return the equipment after the contract ends.
✔ Easy own: rent for another 3 years and see your weekly rent decreased by 30%.

RentLite

The application process is extremely easy and only involves minimal paperwork. No security bond, no deposit, no documentation fees. You can apply in-store or even over the phone.

This finance option is perfect for those of you who exactly know what they want and do not require flexibility. The only option available at the end of the contract is to purchase.

Simply choose from 1, 2, 3 or 4-year term contracts to rent the equipment and own it at the end of the term for only $1.

Thorn

Thorn is a leading Australian provider of financial services and offer 2 types of options: rental and chattel mortgage.

The rental option is a 1 or 2-year contract and at the end of the term, you will be offered 4 options:

✔ Upgrade: upgrade your equipment and commence a new contract.
✔ Purchase: negotiate your own purchase price.
✔ Rent: continue to rent the equipment.
✔ Return: simply return the equipment after the contract ends.

The chattel mortgage option involves more paperwork and is suitable for established businesses able to provide more financials. This finance option allows you to own the goods from the start and take full ownership of the equipment once the final payment has been received.

All these options offer great tax benefits and you can claim your rental payments for tax deductions at the end of the financial year*. We invite you to visit Cafeideas website to find out more.

Feel free to give a call to our sales team on (02) 9690 2116 to discuss these options and get more details.

*Your annual turn over must be less than $2M and equipment purchase less than $20K. To find out more visit our website.

While most of us might be thankful to be done with school and all it implies, you’ve got to admit classrooms were quite stylish places to hang out and we kind of miss that. Chalkboards, industrial tables and vintage seats … Well, we do think so and are excited to introduce the Student range.

Are you looking for something vintage? Industrial? Hipster? Bohemian? Antique? Then this Student range is the answer for all of that!

We already had the Student side chair listed on our website, and have recently added the Student bar stool and the Student ottoman. Get excited, you now have more options to pick from to give this vintage schoolish look to your place!

The chair, stool and bar stool are composed of walnut stained plywood seat and back rest (see close-up photo on the side), and have a heavy-duty steel frame, making them solid and durable. The frame comes in different finish options: black, white, baby blue and yellow. Visit our website to find out what colour option is available for your favorite style.

All these options are stylish and very comfortable. Yes, these 2 adjectives can go together! The curved edge of the chair and the bar stool perfectly supports and accompanies your legs. Plus, the footrest allows you to rest your feet (well, the name says it all!). We all know hanging legs can be dreadfully painful after a while, and we carefully selected these items so your customers don’t leave your place with sore legs. The ottoman being only 44 cm high, you will not have any problem finding an enjoyable position for your legs.

Last but not least, they are stackable. We know this comes extremely handy when it’s time to tidy-up your place and put everything back in order.

While you might want to have these chairs all over your place, please note that these chairs, stools and bar stools are suitable for indoor use only.

Visit Cafeideas website and select your favorite Student style.

We’ve called it ActiveCore and it combines the best energy saving technology on the market, with a number of innovative features designed to deliver optimal performance, efficiency and reliability.

Before starting on this design and engineering project, we spent a lot of time with our customers listening to what matters most to them. Top of the list – as you might expect, was the need to avoid or eliminate downtime or wastage to a business when a refrigeration unit or chiller fails.

We understand the last thing you need on your hands is product wastage, or a repairman in the middle of your cafe or shop trying to fix the problem onsite.

The wishlist also included a desire for quieter fridges that are less obtrusive in a hospitality environment, shelving that’s easy to move and adjust to fit different bottle and product heights, slick modern design and branding opportunities, maximum performance to quickly chill down products and keep them at the optimum temperature – especially when it’s hot outside, and energy efficiency that actually makes a difference to your power bills.

We’ve done it all with the new ActiveCore chiller range.

We are confident that the new ActiveCore products will meet the needs of our customers for many years to come – just as our existing technology has effectively stood the test of time.

Interchangeable ActiveCore Unit

Perhaps the most innovative aspect of this new range is the invention of the ActiveCore unit which is the heart of each chiller.

What makes it so unique?

ActiveCore Unit The ActiveCore unit in each chiller can be quickly and easily removed for maintenance or swapped out for another unit. No more waiting for repairs to be completed, no wastage of food, no disruption to your business.

Energy Efficiency that makes a difference

ActiveCore will deliver improved cooling performance, optimised airflow and redesigned components to ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency for years to come.

We’ve done the maths on how much replacing your existing chiller with one of the new ActiveCore chillers can save you in energy costs alone, and you are looking at a 35% – 55% saving in power consumption for a top mounted or bottom mounted chiller.>

Your power bill (per fridge) can go from $1,125 per year to just $509 per year – that’s a saving of more than $6,000 over 10 years.

And yes, we are confident that your ActiveCore chiller will still be working hard in your business after 10 years, just like previous SKOPE products, which are still working hard for their owners.

Original article available here: http://www.skope.co.nz/blog/introducing-skope-activecore-advanced-refrigeration/

The challenge

The decision to establish Burrow Bar was one that developed organically following a conversation between the two couples. Bryce and Jonny have been best mates for 35 years and, together with their partners, wanted to realise their dream of owning a bar with a vibrant personality and a focus on bringing people together for unique and interesting drinks and food.

Problems they had experienced

Once the basement site was finalised, the new challenge was in learning how to do the due diligence required with regards to licensing, DA and Council approvals. The team spent eighteen months researching food premises guidelines, building codes and the equipment required.

Upon researching ‘commercial kitchens’ and ‘commercial bar equipment’, Bryce discovered Cafeideas.

“The website is very useful,” Bryce explains. “We were happy to see it included pricing so we could gauge whether we were looking at equipment we could afford. Also, the category breakdown was helpful in leading us to other ideas that we may not have otherwise considered.”

How Cafeideas helped

When Team Burrow entered the Cafeideas showroom, they found a good indicative range of the products on offer. They found staffer Ashleigh to be “incredibly helpful, and very knowledgeable about the products”. She encouraged touching and feeling the products to understand the build quality. Additionally, she offered for them to bring in their own ingredients and trial the combi oven instore.

“We didn’t do that but Cafeideas gave us tickets to the Fine Food Fair so we could see it ‘in the flesh’ there. Well … the combi oven is phenomenal for us at Burrow Bar and we didn’t realise just how versatile it was until Cafeideas walked us through it!”

During the setup phase, Ashleigh left Cafeideas and Bryce was put in touch with Daniel Clark who took over about two weeks before delivery and spent a couple of hours familiarising himself with the account. He organised financing through Silver Chef to alleviate cash flow issues and arranged for all the products to arrive on time.

“I feel we might have been a nightmare to deal with at times due to stress but Daniel was 100% capable and patient with us. He really ‘got us’ and even surprise-visited us when we opened. We were so grateful for his advice and support and without his help, we would have had far worse stress.”

Bryce says he was particularly impressed with the expansive product range at Cafeideas and that if there was something they couldn’t supply then Daniel could tell him who could. Daniel was also able to advise which products, brands and specific models of equipment would be most appropriate, without ‘overselling’.

“The follow-up service has been every bit as good as the service during the buying phase,” Bryce says, “and that’s why you go back to the same company instead of shopping around for the next cheapest price.”

From Cafeideas, Burrow Bar sourced the following products: Exquisite back bar chiller, F.E.D. bar cooler, Unox ChefTop Mind.Maps combi oven, Anvil induction cooker, Roband grill station, Woodson counter top filter hood, F.E.D. workbench fridge, Washtech glasswasher, F.E.D. under-counter freezer, Hoshizaki ice maker, Bologna bar table bases and Darlinghurst bar stools.

About Burrow Bar

Burrow Bar is a dedicated cocktail bar serving unique and interesting cocktails using fresh, quality ingredients. Tucked away in an almost secret location in a George Street basement, the bar has been eagerly adopted by local office workers who noticed dust-covered tradies – as well as Bryce, Jonny, Chau and Pie – emerging from the mysterious hidey-hole in the laneway throughout the construction and fit-out days. “They were counting down the days,” Bryce shares, “very excited to have ‘their own’ bar!”

Indeed, Burrow Bar has been wholeheartedly embraced by those very office workers who now drop by for a drink or something delicious to eat. The small kitchen turns out fresh, house-made breads and other tasty tidbits, all made with quality produce and loads of pride.

The drinks themselves are the stars of the show and encourage a sense of curiosity and adventure. “We like people to try new things,” says Bryce. “We enjoy chatting with our customers up at the bar and we frequently recommend or suggest different drinks. We’ve got a beautiful long bar for people to sit at and watch how we make our cocktails.”

With nearly fifty years of bartending experience between the four co-owners, Burrow Bar provides ‘next level’ drinks yet at affordable prices. As Bryce tells it, they want to be highly accessible so customers can experience their special brand of personalised service and exquisitely created and poured cocktails. Even down to the fruit juices used, Burrow Bar uses a slow press juicer which makes a phenomenal difference to the end result.

“Our customers can literally watch us chop up an apple and juice it to produce full bodied, creamy, still green, not separated juice to top up their Zubrowka,” Bryce proudly explains. He says it’s partly why the cocktail menu is ever-changing, to reflect the coming and going of the seasons.

Designed to be a cosy, welcoming space for talking, socialising and meeting new people, the basement has been stripped of its modern day disguise to reveal the original and stunning Federation era convict-laid bricks. Low lighting, dark wood furniture and lush décor all contribute to the overall feel of stay-a-while comfort.

Contact details

De Mestre Place, Sydney NSW 2000 (it's quite hidden so look for the dimly lit B)
http://burrowbar.com.au/
https://www.facebook.com/burrowbar/
Open from 4pm to 7pm, seven nights a week.

We have a vegetarian person in our team and we can tell how laborious it gets to find a place to eat. We select restaurants we visit based on the vegetarian options they offer – and sadly, we have to turn down many of them.

Don’t do the same mistake. Think about all these customers you might be loosing because you don’t offer interesting vegetarian options! And think about all the customers you might attract if you were to change that.

Vegetarian meals don’t have to be complicated, nor boring. Why would they be? So many vegetables and other ingredients available for you to use! Get creative and expand your menu with exciting vegetarian recipes. If you need some inspiration, have a look at the Seasonal Good Guide website and find out what fruits and vegetables are in season in your region. Alternatively, you can have a look online and find hundreds of recipes. We came across the SBS website listing quite exciting recipes. Check it out here.

Start introducing (appealing) vegetarian options to your menu and attract more customers. And since it’s a great selling point, make sure you let everyone know. See our previous blog listing different ways to communicate with your customers.

Hate it or love it, the communal table trend is definitely well settled in. Restaurants from McDonalds to Chiswick have adopted it and now provide beautiful spaces with large communal tables. What about you?

No matter what your customers’ motivations are, we can fairly assume they go out to enjoy themselves, have great food, drinks, and interact with others. Having sharing tables in your restaurant will help you creating a welcoming and friendly atmosphere where people can spread joy and food! Plus, it will allow you to maximize the space and seat more people.

Being sandwiched between strangers can be an absolute nightmare but it could also be a lovely experience. It depends on people, obviously, but also on how you arrange the space. We have a few options available here at Cafeideas.

In the table section, you will find the Blackburn industrial table and the York industrial table, recently added to our industrial vintage range. Both table frames are made from mild steel with textured epoxy and the metal edge on their tops gives them a heavy-duty industrial look and feel. They are also very durable. These tables are for indoor use only and can have up to 10 people sitting around.

In the bar table section, you will find the Canal bar table and the Artwood dry bar table. The Canal bar table is composed of a mild steel frame that looks like plumbing pipes and a corona maple top, thick and durable. Made from a brushed aluminium frame and polywood slats, the Artwood dry bar table is available in different colours and dimensions. While the 1st option is for indoor use only, the 2nd one can be used outdoor.

Browse through our options today and create the perfect communal space tomorrow. Browse through our industrial furniture range, including our fantastic Hairpin range of barstools and stools.

Christmas holidays are over but hey let’s don’t get too sad and try to maintain the summer spirit. And summer = barbie! We still have many sunny days ahead of us, with many customers to visit your outdoor area and many summery meals to be served. Let’s make the most of it!

Our supplier Semak recently launched their new M28C2 charcoal rotisserie, which might be just what you need. Designed to roast chicken, lamb, pork and beef, this new model will be the perfect tool to serve meat with this oh-so distinct smoky aroma and taste. There is no better way to cook meat than roasting it over charcoal fire. Meat lovers will guarantee you that!

The M28C2 rotisserie comes with 13 spit positions per cooking tier and 2 cooking tiers, which allows you to evenly cook up to 28 birds at one time. This new model was built to retain the maximum amount of juices with a crispy delicious texture. Your customers will love it and thank you for that!

With its heavy-duty stainless steel construction, the M28C2 charcoal rotisserie is built to withstand the toughest conditions. Its carbon steel firebox and fireproof paint finish make it resistant, reliable and safe to use. This model also features a layer of replaceable heat resistant firebricks in order to maximize heat transfer. Plus, a storage cupboard with sliding doors was added at the bottom of the unit, which comes handy to store extra accessories.

Purchase this new Semak charcoal rotisserie today, add some new smoky options to your menu tomorrow and start spreading the yumminess.

Pure forms, humble materials, stripped-back styles, these new stools are dramatically different from what are already have. Say hello to our new range of industrial stools!

Dane bar stool, chic rustic.

“Simplicity is the ultimate form of sophistication”. We can only agree when looking at this new bar stool. With its minimalist design, this Dane bar stool is stylish and elegant. We love it!

This bar stool is composed of a natural ash wood timber seat and a steel frame that comes in 2 colors, black or white. A footrest was added, for extra comfort.

Reznor bar stool, rough luxury.

This bar stool is wider than other models and is quite imposing, almost looking like a throne. This unique criss-cross style will certainly add depth to your space and enhance your customers’ experience.

The steel frame is zinc plated prior to powder coating and can be used outdoors where it will weather any condition.

Lastly, this stool is stackable, which is always a plus when it comes to storage.

Maxx II bar stool, delicate industrial.

Simple but not simplistic, delicate but not fragile, this heavy-duty bar stool is all about subtlety.

Composed of mild steel, the Maxx II bar stool can be used indoor, as well as outdoor. To perfectly match your place’s theme, you can choose from the antique brass and antique nickel finish options. The 1st option being warmer and the 2nd slightly colder. No matter what color option you select, its rough aged look will help enhance your place’s charm.

Visit Cafeideas website and discover our new range today!

]]> Sun, 03 Jan 2016 14:04:00 +0000 https://www.cafeideas.com.au/blog/Nardi-Faro-Lido-Stools/ A few weeks ago we were delighted to welcome Davide and Marisa, Nardi Export Managers, arriving all the way from Italy. Carrying Nardi’s values it was exciting to hear them talking with passion about their products. Relaxed, vibrant and bright are words coming to our minds when thinking of the Italian brand, their people and their range. Like their tagline states, it’s all about feeling better with Nardi furniture.

Meeting them was a great opportunity to discuss the 2 new models we recently added to our fabulous Nardi range: the Lido and Faro bar stools. No better timing for you to explore further options and get new styles for your outdoor space.

Both the Lido and Faro bar stools are available in various colors, which will allow you to customize your outdoor space and make it look colorful and fresh. Plus, these Nardi bar stools are anti-UV treated which means they will be just perfect for your outdoors area! Even though they are made in Italy, they will perfectly weather our tough Australian conditions without failing.

These bar stools are composed of fiberglass filled polypropylene, a very high quality of thermoplastic resin. The latest technology was used to make them and we are proud to highlight these products are 100% recyclable, just like the rest of the Nardi range.

Discover these 2 beauties today and have a look at the rest of the range while you’re at it. You too be part of the #feelingbetter wave!

Designed and manufactured in Monaco, the Monte Carlo model combines 60 years of handcrafting with modern technology and is the Rolls Royce of the coffee machines. It is beautiful inside out, really. It counts an enchanting design that will charm your customers, as well as a well-engineered construction allowing the best taste extraction and flavor retention you could imagine.

You will love its modern, yet classic design, and its round curves will seduce more than one customer. Raise your hand if you’ve never picked a place solely based on their coffee machine. See? We’ve all done this! Even though the quality of the coffee beans and the baristas’ skills are also involved in the equation, in the collective unconscious good coffee machine is equal to good coffee. And that is exactly why you do need to invest in a great-looking coffee machine.

The Monte Carlo model comes in mat black or mat white, and is equipped with LED barista lights and LCD screens – it is fancy and actually convenient.

It is available in 2 and 3 groups and includes 2 independent boilers with different water temperature settings. Parameters of each group can also be set separately.

Plus, their new innovative pre-infusion system allows you to brew the coffee before the shot, hence extract the full flavor of the coffee.

Our supplier Boema carries Conti’s values and places customers first. Focusing on the after sales and customer services, you can be assured that you will receive the adequate assistance with any of your Boema coffee machine.

To help you make your decision, Boema has put together an exciting package deal for you! If you purchase a 2-group Monte Carlo coffee machine this month, you will also receive a free Eureka Olympus grinder valued at $1,600 and 10kg of coffee (which is equivalent to 700 cups of coffee).

A while ago we were telling you about the millennials generation, a large portion of your customers whose spending is increasing but attention span waning. You better watch for them and provide them with great content!

Now you know where to reach them, let’s discuss content. Millennials like images because it’s easy to consume. It looks nice, it’s entertaining and it’s no brainer. And it’s perfect for you because you work in an industry where foods and drinks are omnipresent so you will have plenty of material to create and share awesome visual content. Great content will be liked and shared with friends and word of mouth will be on its way!

First and foremost, show your place, your foods and your drinks. If you’re feeling generous, perhaps even share some recipes! You can also show off your cafe furniture, your terrific coffee machine, and your funky benchtop equipment. Share the vibes of your place, the atmosphere, and invite everyone to come and pay you a visit.

Give it a go today. Post a simple black and white photo of a cappuccino with a Rosetta leaf and see what happens. Start counting how many likes and shares you’re getting. Go on, it’s easier than you think! Instagram filters will make even easier for you!

Don’t hesitate to show what’s happening behind the stage and post sneak peek pictures. People like to feel like they are part of it. Introduce your staff members, show your kitchen (if it looks good! If it doesn’t, show something else!), show the barista making coffees. Show them everything!

Show your customers what makes you different from others. Book restaurant? Cat café? Industrial bakery? Whatever concept you choose, make a clear statement and differentiate yourself from your competitors. Share your values and be genuine, this will only increase brand loyalty. Customers will like your place for a specific reason and will come back for that same reason.

If you support environment sustainability, have green initiatives and offer bio foods, let everyone know about it!

Remember, the more appealing your content is, the more likely these people will visit your place and bring their friends along. Be online today and keep posting!

The Uxi range
Matching Uxi chairs and bar stools are made of timber beechwood, solid and durable wood. The Uxi is a reduced design with strong expression of shape and form provided by a cross structure and backrest in the shape of a horseshoe embracing the user for ultimate comfort.

Both the chair and barstool models of this range can be stacked with each other, which is what makes Uxi a unique collection.

We can customise the colour of the stain and fabric seat to your requirements, using the extensive variety of colour options from Paged.

The Tolo range
Made from beech plywood, the Tolo range combines solid wood and plywood to ensure a durable and stable structure of the chair and this is due to a unique technology developed in Paged while working on this design.

It is an innovative stackable chair with the construction being a mix of bent element and moulded plywood.

The unconventional solution allows for combining different kinds of wood, making every chair an original composition.

Please note, all models mentioned above are not part of our stocked range and a lead time applies up to 16 weeks.

Visit our website today and discover these Polish gems! You can also find out about the rest of the Paged range with this article we published last year.

Established for more than ten years at its Cronulla location, Opah Restaurant was ripe for a new fitout. Part of that included finding the right tables and chairs that would suit the revitalised interior, but without sending the budget into a tailspin. General Manager Matt Macris says he was looking for the right balance of quality and affordability so that, across the task, more could be achieved.

“We provide a new vibe, a fresh feel that’s really fun and playful,” Matt explains. “We want to keep up with the trends while still providing the food and drinks we’ve become famous for.”

What problems had you experienced?

“We have a really vibrant atmosphere at Opah,” Matt says. “And across our venue, there are a number of different ways to eat, drink and enjoy. So we needed to furnish each section accordingly, for the comfort of our customers and all the operational practicalities.”

Opah is a popular venue for large groups celebrating birthdays, work functions and family get-togethers. There is also a more formal dining area, a cocktail bar and the open plan casual section. The furniture Matt ultimately selected featured designer appeal and he says was of excellent quality, “particularly for the price”.

How Cafeideas helped

One of the first things Matt noticed about Cafeideas was that the website appeared very high in the Google search rankings and he didn’t have to look too far to find it. “The website was awesome,” he says. “It’s easy to get around and you can see everything in full view. There are plenty of viewable options so you can see all chairs in one go, or filter by price.”

Having narrowed down a shortlist of options online, Matt then made his way into Cafeideas where he was able to see the products ‘in the flesh’. “I was able to touch and feel the chairs and determine that they were built well and would last a long time. And I was actually amazed at the prices. There was a wooden chair that I saw elsewhere for $180 and at Cafeideas, it was just $80. To be honest, I received some quotes that scared me, from other suppliers!”

Matt was assisted at Cafeideas by Vibha who he says was exceptionally knowledgeable and provided efficient follow-up throughout the transaction.

“I know that in expensive showrooms in the City, they’ll have five different chairs on display but at Cafeideas, there are over fifty and they were all way below what I’d expect to pay. Vibha took the time to understand our needs and to help me select exactly what we’d need, at the budget I had in mind.”

When asked if he would deal with Cafeideas again in the future, Matt said he would make the website his first port of call and would certainly pay a visit to the showroom again.

From Cafeideas, sourced the following products: Interlace bar tables, Interlace bar stools, Interlace arm chairs, Alba bar stools, Bistro chairs, Kew Bentwood chairs, Boronia Bentwood chairs and Rustic side chairs. 

About Opah Restaurant

Situated within a mere stone’s throw of Cronulla Beach, Opah Restaurant could almost be on an idyllic Greek island, with its sea breezes and the fresh aroma of the ocean. Established over ten years ago, it is a favourite haunt of local party types, cocktail lovers and those seeking a wind-down drink at the end of the day. It’s also the scene for large private and work group gatherings, where guests can let their hair down and have a good time. Fully licensed, it also welcomes BYO bottled wine for their famous Greek Yum Cha, an institution in itself! An all-you-can-eat tapas-style extravaganza, it is frequently booked out thanks to its traditional Greek menu that includes spit roast lamb, flat breads with dips, seafood and desserts, among other fabulous dishes.

Matt’s father, Gary started the business in Brighton-Le-Sands fifteen years ago and then Opah relocated to its current location five years later. “Here at Cronulla,” Matt says, “being close to the beach, it’s a much more social kind of environment. As we’ve evolved, we’ve made sure we continue to live up to that energetic party atmosphere and our recent fitout was important for that.”

Indeed, while Opah welcomes families, revellers, couples and guests of all ages, it’s known for its old-school Mediterranean hospitality where “eat more” (not less!) is commonly encouraged by staff at the all-you-can-eat Greek Yum Cha.

Food-wise, Opah is a magnet for Greek food fans. Menu staples include moussaka, souvlaki, garlic prawns, calamari, abundant platters of Greek meats and seafood and of course, luscious desserts and sweets such as baklava, galaktoboureko and their incredible signature Death by Chocolate for two!

Now that Opah has had a bit of a nip and tuck, she’s ready for another ten years of high energy fun, food and fabulousness.

While we’ve been thinking for years that waffles were only served as sweet snacks or desserts, we recently found out they can also be served as flavorful savory main meals.

We came across this series of delicious recipes the other day and thought we would share the love with you. It’s time to dust your waffle makers! Don’t panic if you don’t have any, we’ve got you covered with our range of Roller Grill waffle makers.

Manufacturing their products in France for over 65 years, Roller Grill has built a strong know-how, and delivers solid and reliable products. Their broad range of waffle machines includes various shapes and dimensions: single, double, round, square, rectangular, and ice-cream-cone like… Have a look today and find your favorite style.

These waffle machines are composed of highly conductive cast iron plates that allow the heat to spread evenly and give golden and crispy waffles very quickly. Plus, a removable drip tray was added to collect any batter excess, which makes it easy for you to keep clean afterwards. You’ll appreciate this feature as we all know how messy it can get when making waffles and splashing batter all over the place.

Have a look at our Roller Grill waffle makers today, there are on special and you can save up to 19%!
Also check these recipes out and get inspired!
✔ Cheese and potato waffles
✔ Spicy pumpkin waffles
✔ Mashed potato, cheddar and chive waffles
✔ Chicken waffles

* Source: Cafeideas waffle lovers!

So how to reach these millennials? Online, as it is where they spent most of their time! Don’t be afraid and go meet them on social platforms or be ready to disappear into puffs of dust.

Website
It is quite important to have a website as customers will most likely check online before visiting your place. We know it can be tedious and pricey, so why not considering a one-page website instead? Simple is sometimes better. Only basic elements would be needed: contact details, address, trading hours, menu, and if possible, a photo gallery.

Facebook
Have a Facebook page. It is a must. Don’t question it. If you don’t have one, you don’t exist - no kidding. Australia counts 14 million monthly active users* on Facebook and while you won’t reach all of them, obviously, you will reach more people than you think. Word of mouth is a serious thing and your content might go viral within a second. Check our Facebook page if you feel like.

Instagram
Don’t be shy, reach for Instafame! It’s not that complicated you know, simply take a picture, apply a few filters and boom you are ready to post a terrific photo, like a boss. With 5 million monthly active users*, you definitely don’t want to miss out on this opportunity! Remember to use relevant hash tags to make sure millennials find you. Check our Instagram page for some inspiration.

Pinterest
This social platform only counts 320 thousands of monthly active users* and sadly is quite underestimated. If you have time, create a Pinterest page with boards that reflect your place and its atmosphere. And photos of your delicious dishes, of course! Have a look at our Pinterest page if you need some inspiration.

There are many other ways to be present online. Websites such as The Urban List and Time Out could help you get more coverage. Stay open to all opportunities!

In another article we will help you figure out what content to share with your customers. Stay tune!

*Source: http://www.socialmedianews.com.au/
Note: we do not endorse any of the websites mentioned in this article

Want to give a wooden look to your place? Want to differentiate yourself from your competitors? No, you’re not asking for too much and yes, you have come to the right place. We have what you need! You will love our range of custom made wooden furniture including tabletops, complete tables, benches and other seating solutions.

Ideal for cafes, restaurants, bars and pubs, these pieces of furniture are incredibly versatile as they allow you to create a rough and industrial look, as well as a natural and peaceful haven where customers can reconnect with Mother Earth.

Tabletops

We have recently added to our website a whole bunch of custom made timber tabletops. We now count 100 different styles, similar but very different at the same time. Rubberwood, hardwood, distressed, aged parquetry style, dark brown, light sand, multi-color stained, lime or white washed … you name it, we have it. As these tabletops are custom made, each table ends up being slightly different. Your place will never look boring! Cherry on the cake, you can select from various size options and get exactly what you need.

Whether you use them for your indoor or outdoor area, these tabletops are durable and will stand strong no matter what the weather is. Please note, if you choose to place these tabletops outside, you will need to cover them and keep them out of the direct sunlight.

Discover today our range of custom made timber tabletops, including the brand new Pontus line wash tabletop. Available in round, square and rectangle, this model comes in 600 x 600 mm and can be customized to your required dimensions.

Seating

If you’re after something unusual, catchy yet simple, have a look at our custom made log stools. Made of solid hardwood, these logs measure between 450 and 460 mm high and their diameter vary between 300 and 330mm, which is wide enough to allow anyone to sit on it.

Alternatively, we have more conventional seating solutions such as our Hypnos bench. Freshly added to our website, this bench will be just perfect for your outdoor area during summer days. This timber bench comes with a raw finish and will certainly add a special something to your place.

Visit our website now and discover our range of custom made timber furniture.

Toffee Side Chair Galvanised

Toffee Bar Stool

In terms of industrial furniture and the ways in which these items contribute to your visual style, you'll quickly find that cafe chairs are one of the most important elements for one simple reason: volume. You'll have more cafe chairs in your business than almost any other type of restaurant furniture, which is why you should always invest in high quality items like the Toffee Bar Stool. This bold item makes an immediate statement to all patrons who walk through your door for the first time. It's a heavy duty steel bar stool that includes three different industrial finishes for you to choose from and comes in a 75cm seat height. It is also available in ash wood if you prefer. Not only that, but these stools are also stackable for incredibly easy clean up.

Toffee Side Chair

Not all of your customers will necessarily want to sit at a bar stool, however, which is why complementary items like the Toffee Side Chair are so important. This item comes with a heavy-duty steel frame construction, is just as stackable as the stools are and is available in both galvanised and matt red rust industrial finishes. It was also designed with a high curved back to provide maximum comfort at all times, helping to make sure that your paying customers stick around as long as possible.

Compete Blade Folding Cafe Table

No discussion of finding your style through cafe furniture would be complete without taking a look at bar tables. The Complete Blade Folding Cafe Tables line includes a complete cafe table base and table top that are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The feet adjust to give you the extra weight that you need and it is available in stunning aluminium and black powder coated finishes to help you find an option that fits in line quite nicely with the feeling that you're trying to create.

These are just a few of the many wonderful commercial kitchen equipment and cafe furniture products that we offer at Cafeideas that can help you find your style and build the business you've always imagined. Join us next week as we discuss additional coffee shop essentials like food that will help seal the deal and drive those customers directly through your front door.

Last year we told you all about our Hoshisaki ice machines. Today, as we draw closer to summer, we keep you updated with new products freshly added to our extensive range of refrigeration equipment.

Discover today the Hoshizaki chillers and freezers. Perfect for everyday commercial kitchen usage, they are reliable, easy to maintain and offer great flexibility.

The Hoshizaki series includes chillers, freezers, uprights, countertops, single and double-doors. Available in a variety of sizes and styles to suit all needs, these cabinets were designed around your needs and requirements.

Their clever design allows you to easily keep them clean at all times. It is well known that cleaning is a great activity to reconnect with yourself, but who has time for that in a busy commercial kitchen? That being said, hygiene matters a lot and that is why Hoshizaki made it easier for you to keep your units and kitchen spotless clean.

First, all units are equipped with a front loader air filter easily accessible for effortless cleaning or replacement. Then, the stainless interior and base with rounded edges represent another smart element allowing quick and efficient cleaning. Plus, you can easily remove the door gasket without the need for tool and clean them as often as you feel like.

The other cool thing about the Hoshizaki units is the fact they offer great flexibility. Where most of other brands’ units range between 700 and 750 mm deep, the Hoshisaki series offers more flexibility with 600mm deep units that fit under any benches.

Last but not least, all the Hoshizaki units are HACCP approved, which means they comply with the preventative food safety system analyzing microbiological, physical and chemical hazards. In other words, these units will allow to safely store all your foods.

Visit Cafeideas today and browse through the Hoshizaki range.

Commercial Kitchen Equipment

Various types of commercial kitchen equipment are a necessity for delivering the type of consistent, outstanding results on a daily basis that your customers will come to depend on. The Blue Seal GT46E Vee-Ray Twin Pan Gas Fryer not only gives you the functionality that you need to take your food service offerings to the next level, but also comes with a digital display temperature control for easy operation at the same time.

Hot Food Displays

What good is the fact that you serve hot food if you can't show it off to customers to let them know how good it really is? Items like the Anvil DGHC0530 Countertop Curved Showcase really have you covered in that regard, allowing you to both make a lasting impression on your customers have that food ready to serve at the exact same time.

A Wood Fire Pizza Oven

If you really want to take your food service to the next level, a wood fire pizza oven is a great way to bring in a completely new level of customer in one fell swoop. The Modular Commercial Wood Fired Oven allows you to prepare pizza and all of the items that your customers will love in a way that is fun and engaging and that fits in perfectly with the visual style of your cafe at the same time.

Bromic Chillers and Cake Display Units

Is hot food not enough and you want to venture a bit into the arena of cold food and cakes? Items like the Bromic UBC0140SD Stainless Steel Under Bench Chiller have you covered in more ways than one. This item is large enough to allow you easy storage of all of the chilled items that you need and compact enough to fit conveniently under your workbench for easy access.

Anvil CGB1001 Cream Charger

Finally, no cafe would be complete without the trusty Anvil CGB1001 Cream Charger at its disposal. This best-selling item is designed to be used in conjunction with certain other appliances for producing the type of delicious whipped cream that your customers won't be able to get enough of. Anvil also makes a pie warmer and other important pieces of catering equipment that you'll definitely want to look at.

For all of your coffee shop or café essentials, whether it be commercial kitchen equipment, café furniture, food displays or the all-important commercial coffee machines, contact Cafeideas today.

With so many restaurants and café out there for you to compete with, it is crucial to make your name remembered. How? By providing an excellent customer service. It might sound obvious but so many places still fail to do so.

Customers are at the heart of the hospitality industry and that is why you really need to focus on them. You want them to enjoy the whole experience you deliver, you want them to come back more than once and you definitely do not want them so share bad ratings with other people.

Remember that customers are not here just for food but also for the ambience and the service. Your place, the cafe furniture, catering equipment, decoration and the whole ambience will have a key role in the experience you deliver. But something else will be even more important: your staff.

Your staff will be the face of your business and will carry your values. Remember, the people working for you are always on stage: they should smile, have a positive attitude and body language. You do not want grumpy waiters scaring customers away!

Be reactive, do not let your customers wander for too long. Give them time to look at the menu and take their order before they start waving at you to catch your attention. Also, focus on their needs and even be able to anticipate them. The customer ordered a steak? Make sure he has a steak knife. People appreciate the small things - they will definitely notice it.

Get the order right. True story: two people ordering a stack of pancakes and getting baked eggs instead. 1 hour later and two starving customers still waiting for their pancakes, you get two unhappy fellows who will not visit your place any time soon.

Customers are always right, remember that too! Even if they are wrong, they are right! Welcome any enquiry with serious and deal with it the way it should be. Do not make the customers feel embarrassed or they will get even angrier.

Excellent customer service is also about personalization. Try to remember your loyal customers’ names or any kind of information; it will surely make them feel special. You know, when you visit your favorite café around the corner and the waitress knows your name and already knows what you will order when you walk in? Doesn’t it make you feel special?

Fond farewell. Invite your customers to return and make them know they are welcome - next time they are around they will come back to you for sure.

Remember, if you are not taking care of your customers, your competitors will. Think about it and make a change today!

The challenge

Establishing their first hospitality business presented myriad challenges for Chris and Olga Papadopoulos, not the least of which was sourcing the furnishings and kitchen equipment for their new outlet, Yia Sou Souvlaki in Sydney’s Concord.

How Caféideas helped

Chris initially performed a Google search for furniture and equipment for cafes and though lots of hits popped up, the Cafeideas address appeared in the search results and Chippendale intrigued, given its trendy image. In addition to Cafeideas, the couple did visit another major supplier and found that while they offered a very similar range, the prices were higher and the service was lacking.

“Once we arrived at Cafeideas and were attended to by Ashleigh, we were in,” says Olga. “We were looking for so many items and also needed to discuss theming so we could be on trend. From our first encounter, we knew we’d found a supplier that cared about the success of our business and not just making a sale.”

Chris and Olga were impressed with the diverse product range and although Cafeideas were not able to supply a very specific item of equipment they needed, they were grateful for Ashleigh’s no-hard-sell approach. “Ashleigh advised us that before we purchased this particular item – from wherever we could find it – we should check with Council about permits. She was absolutely right. In the end, we did end up finding it elsewhere but we would have faced additional expense if it wasn’t for her advice.”

When it came to planning the outlet’s theme and look, Olga says that Ashleigh presented many suggestions. “Chris has unbridled enthusiasm and energy so it can be a bit hard to keep up with him sometimes, but Ashleigh was fabulous. She filled in the gaps on what we thought we knew and made the appropriate recommendations. She was always very professional, friendly and happy-go-lucky. Given our inexperience and the hassles we’ve faced, her personality enabled us to refocus and find solutions. Her paperwork was always excellent and she also performed brilliantly as a conduit for us as we secured a lot of our equipment through Silver Chef.”

Olga was particularly happy that throughout their experience with Cafeideas, they never felt ‘sold to’ and that Ashleigh listened to whatever ideas they had in mind and never tried to alter their vision. “She even tried to source a particular donut machine for us and gave us suggestions on where – outside of Cafeideas – we could get the exact one we wanted. This kind of service generosity means the world to us. As a result of this and our overall experience, Chris and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Cafeideas to other business owners.

From Cafeideas, Yia Sou Souvlaki sourced their Darlinghurst ottomans, F.E.D. display fridge, Moduline warming drawers, Austune chef base, LKK griddle hotplate, F.E.D. freezer, Baron benchtop barbeque, F.E.D. chip warmer, F.E.D. microwave oven, F.E.D. electric donut fryer, F.E.D. chilled food display, as well as several LKK units.

About Yia Sou Souvlaki

The inspiration for Yia Sou Souvlaki came from living in Concord and identifying the need for more take away alternatives. With three children and busy professional lives it seemed a great loss to the community which is very vibrant and communal. Added to this was Olga’s father who is a Chef. “He has always marinated his own meat,” she explains. “At family parties, everyone has always insisted he should open a shop just to let other people taste these amazing meats.”

Chris and Olga have always been professionals working in office environments – Chris, a Business Analyst/Consultant and Olga, a Lawyer – but they felt they owed it to Sydneysiders to introduce them to fabulous, authentic Greek food. Armed with some pretty good genes in the cooking skills department, when a lease opportunity came up in their area, the couple decided to take the plunge. They also believed that an outlet such as Yia Sou Souvlaki was needed to fill a gap. “This locality is filled with young professionals and families who are short on time but who want great quality food.”

Also making an appearance on the menu is Chris’s mother’s sumptuous Moussaka which “absolutely everybody loves” and her to-die-for galaktobouriko (custard and filo pastry with syrup).

Yia Sou Souvlaki seats thirty and is a place where customers can feel welcome to enjoy Greek hospitality and authentic Greek food. The regular menu will feature favourites such as kontosouvli (meat on a skewer), moussaka , spanakopita (spinach pie) and three varieties of salad, among other dishes. And of course, delectable Greek sweets including baklava, galaktobouriko and loukoumades (deep fried donut balls with Nutella or honey and cinnamon) will be on offer.

With its funky décor made up of a clever blend of industrial metal pipes and exposed brickwork, and homely wood and recycled vintage pieces, Yia Sou Souvlaki is bound to become a popular local haunt. Open 6 days from 11am to 8.30pm (later on Friday and Saturday) and with indoor and outdoor seating.

In a previous article we told you a little bit more about Bromic, our trusted supplier of commercial refrigeration, and the various solutions they offer. Today we focus on their gelato displays.

Freshly added to our website, the Fenice 13 might be the response to your freezing questions! This gelato display unit is an attractive solution to show off all the delectable ice-cold treats your have to offer to your customers.

With its crisp white panel and curved display canopy, you will love its look and so will your customers! Thanks to its modern design, you’ll be able to attract new customers and encourage impulsive purchases. Improve the way you display your ice creams and make your customers salivate before even tasting them!

The Fenice 13 includes 13 tubs with a 5-litre capacity each. With this large capacity, you can easily lay out numerous flavors and please even more customers.

Thanks to its fan assisted airflow and auto-defrost feature, you won’t even have to worry about anything. No need to manually defrost the unit and the temperature management will be only better. The digital temperature display will help you keep an eye on it. Plus, this will decrease humidity and condensation, and will allow a better visibility through the front glass.

And because Bromic understands you don’t want to spend hours cleaning up when your day is over, the Fenice 13 was designed ergonomically to allow a very quick and easy cleaning. The glass canopy protecting your ice creams from gluttonous customers during the day will shine again for another day.

Discover the Bromic gelato display range today. 

Commercial Coffee Machines

If you're looking for a great commercial coffee machine to get your business started right, look no farther than the F.E.D. UB-289 Caferina Pourover Coffee Maker. This elegant item is capable of serving no less than 130 cups of coffee per hour, making sure that you always have enough of that great brew on hand to meet up with demand. It features a six-minute brewing time and comes with temperature control so that you can always get your coffee just the way your customers like it. The stainless steel exterior and glass interior also make cleaning a breeze.

Rotor Juice Extractors and Drink Fridges

Just because you're opening a coffee shop doesn't mean that you will only be serving coffee. Customers may like something else every now and again, which is where the Rotor Vitamat Juice Extractor will come in handy. In addition to a powerful two speed motor and a 12 litre pulp container, this great product features an incredibly high juice yield. In addition to being quiet, it's also very easy to clean as all parts that are in contact with food can be cleaned in a dishwasher.

When you're done preparing those tasty juice drinks, you can keep them fresh and ready to go in the Skope TME1000 Double Door Drink Fridge. Powered by the Skope CYCLONE refrigeration system, this unit is a top mounted double glass door chiller that has an amazing 980-litre capacity. You'll never have to worry about how you're going to keep your juice drinks fresh and cool ever again.

Coffee Grinders

In order to achieve the perfect grind, you need the perfect grinder. The Mahlkoenig K30Vario Grinder not only features an electronically controlled shot timer but also step less grind adjustment, allowing you to make changes as necessary and never miss a bit as far as service is concerned. It features "grind on demand" functionality, allowing you to place the freshly ground portion directly into the port-a-filter for use as necessary. It can be used both manually and automatically and features hands-free operation for your convenience.

These are just a few of the many elements from Cafeideas that are essential requirements for creating the coffee shop not only of your dreams, but that your customers just can't get enough of. Join us next week when we'll be looking at some other types of items you'll want to look into, like cafe furniture and more.

100% Australian owned and operated, Brice has been around since 1939. Back in the days, they were the only manufacturer of electric slicers, mixers and potato peelers. Over the years, they have developed their offer and forged solid links with other food machine and retail equipment manufacturers. Today, they proudly offer high quality food equipment for commercial kitchens of every size.

Their selling point? Providing functional products at an affordable price. With Brice, it’s all about value and quality. Most of the products are made of stainless steel and have a solid construction that will last for years. Plus, they were independently risk assessed to ensure compliance with Australian Standards, which means they are absolutely safe to use.

Our supplier Brice currently counts 2 brands: Brice and Grange. Both ranges are now available at Cafeideas.

From small hands-on equipment through to fully automated process-line equipment, Brice can satisfy any of your business needs with food preparation solutions. Slicers, mixers, food processors… there is a whole new range of bench-top equipment and accessories for you to discover today!

Do you need to chop lettuce? Slice meat or vegetables? Blend a wide range or foods? Make patties? Brice surely has what you’re looking for! Browse through their Brice and Grange ranges today and be among the first ones to discover these hidden gems!

Hot Tips

In any commercial kitchen, you'll always be working around a large number of different pieces of equipment that generate heat at any given moment. One of the keys to preparing these types of meals as safely as possible involves making sure to use items that not only load in the front but return in the front as well. Griddles and Buffet Toasters are one such item, for example. You load bread into the front and toast is returned in much the same way, making sure that none of your employees ever have to reach over a hot piece of equipment in order to quickly retrieve a food item - potentially burning themselves in the process.

Blades and Sharps

Another thing that you'll want to keep in mind in order to prepare food safely involves a series of best practices that you'll use when working around items containing blades and other elements. Grinders, meat mincers and prep machines all need safety awareness when in use. Lettuce Choppers are another such example. While it may seem easy to use, the blades themselves are actually very sharp and could potentially cut an employee if they're not careful.

What makes our lettuce choppers so special, however, is that they contain a number of features that guarantee the safest possible operation at all times. They offer incredibly smooth push and pull operations, for example, making sure that the user's hands never have to go anywhere near the blades themselves in order to get the job done properly. The blades are also scalloped, which will allow them to perform more accurate cuts on lettuce and other food items without putting the operator at risk. The all stainless steel constructions are also incredibly easy to disassemble and clean, creating a much safer situation for everyone involved.

At Cafeideas, we're incredibly proud of the fact that these are just a selection of the high quality commercial kitchen equipment items that will allow you to prepare food safely and securely at all times. We're always adding catering equipment items to our inventory on a regular basis, so be sure to check back often to see what we have in store. We also stock a fantastic range of cafe furniture to create the perfect ambiance for your dream restaurant.

As mentioned in a previous article, LKK has been offering reliable and affordable kitchen equipment for over 25 years. All models have a modern design and are fully modular in order to suit any kitchen set-up. If you have a look at their extensive range, you will find both Asian and Western types of equipment, including the new LKK pasta and noodle cooker.

Does your menu include Asian and Western recipes? This cooker is for you! The LKKPC40 cooker is extremely versatile and can be used to cook a great variety of Asian noodles and any other kind of pasta. Definitely a great piece of equipment to have in your kitchen!

It is ideal for busy kitchens with fast-paced environments and high demand. Its large 25-litre capacity tank and 2 powerful burners will allow you to perform better, faster and stronger. It will allow you to cook important quantities and gracefully face rush moments. And with a flame failure safety device you can be sure you won’t set the whole place on fire while excitingly cooking wonders!

Besides, its solid stainless steel construction is synonym of reliability, durability and will not let you down when you need it most. Plus, you will surely enjoy the shining finish that will make your kitchen brighter!

This LKKPC40 model comes with 6 noodle or pasta baskets, here displayed on the picture. Simply specify on order. To make the most of this unique model, don’t limit yourself and purchase extra baskets to have the complete range of accessories available.

Last but not least, the LKKPC40 was designed in a way that allows you to easily keep it clean at any moment. The burner tubes were carefully positioned across the vat, hence enabling you to wipe effortlessly.

Visit Cafeideas website today and discover all about the new LKKPC40 pasta and noodle cooker.

Artwood Dining Table

The new Artwood Dining Table is minimalist, functional, and highly attractive all in one fell swoop. This plywood wood slat square dining table comes in 70 or 80cm for you to choose from depending on your needs. The slats are made from a combination of plastic and wood, allowing it to be used both indoors and outdoors depending on your preferences. In addition to the sleek and modern brushed aluminium or matt black finishes, the item is also available in a teak look-a-like or grey option to better fit in with the current visual aesthetic of your restaurant. This Artwood dining table will dutifully serve you for years to come.

Artwood Dining Chair

Another new item that we're incredibly excited about is the Artwood Dining Chair, which is the perfect complement to the Artwood Dining Table. Thanks to the fully welded aluminium frame (which comes in matt black to help maintain the unit's stylish appearance); this is the type of chair that can stand up to heavy-duty use. The chair comes pre-assembled, so all you have to do is put it wherever you'd like it in your restaurant and the hard work is already done for you. Because of the high quality construction inherent in the item, it is more than suitable for outdoor use as well as use inside.

Artwood Bar Stool

Few items are able to inject a sense of fun and community into your restaurant in quite the same way as a barstool. The Artwood Bar Stool comes with a teak look or with grey slats for you to choose from depending on what you're chosen décor. This is yet another Artwood item with a brushed aluminium frame, making it every bit as sturdy as it is gorgeous. The fully welded frame is available in brushed aluminium or in matt black, allowing you to either maintain visual consistency with the rest of your Artwood items or go after something unique depending on how you want to do things. Note that matching Artwood dry bar tables are also available to help you get the most out of your purchase.

At Cafeideas, we're adding new items to our selection of cafe furniture, catering equipment and more all the time. Be sure to check back often, as you just never know what you might find, or contact us for your specific requirements.

The challenge

Oliver Brown’s outdoor chairs were originally supplied by a different company but unfortunately, customers were complaining that the legs were wobbly or breaking and that the chairs didn’t feel safe or comfortable. “We’re all about comfort and a great experience for our customers,” says Ivan. “We needed to find new chairs that would not just be suitable for comfort but which would be safe and problem-free as well.”

How Cafeideas helped

Ivan set about searching for chair suppliers online and the short list included Cafeideas. “We went to visit each supplier,” Ivan explains, “but we were instantly amazed by the superior level of service provided by Cafeideas.”

Cafeideas’ General Manager Damien Aitken personally oversaw Ivan’s requirements for Oliver Brown. “We were very grateful to have the assistance of the GM. Damien was easy to contact, always had things delivered quickly to us and had all the systems in place to get everything done perfectly.”

The Parisian arm chair is the product that Oliver Brown ultimately purchased from Cafeideas and it is a highly durable outdoor chair that would not let customers – or the business – down. “We could see right away that it would be perfect for our needs,” Ivan says. “And we were pleasantly surprised that this particular chair was not only of a much better quality than what we had been using, but it was also even cheaper!”

Furthermore, Ivan was pleased with the systems Cafeideas has in place, to ensure a smooth transaction every time. “Now whenever we need more chairs, we don’t have to go into a store, Damien will just keep supplying them to us on demand. We’ve experienced no faults, no complaints, no issues at all. Delivery is always good and we can literally place an order via email and within an hour or so, we’ll have a confirmation email back, complete with the invoice and delivery time frame.”

Never having to follow up has been an important element of the Cafeideas experience. “It’s a stress I don’t need to deal with,” Ivan explains. “I know the job will be done on that day and I don’t have to think about it.”

About Oliver Brown

Oliver Brown was established in 2010 after both founders returned from a trip around Europe and discovered Belgian chocolate. They had noticed a growing trend in consumers’ expectations for quality foods and quality ingredients due to the popularity of TV programs such as MasterChef. Piggy-backing on the developing culture, Oliver Brown put down roots in Sydney.

Today, there are over forty Oliver Brown outlets and the company remains determined to serve its customers a wonderful experience along with quality chocolate desserts and coffee. GM of Marketing, David Kwag says the stores are designed with comfort in mind so that customers can stay as long as they want to do what they need to. “We have students come in to do their assignments and take advantage of our free wi-fi while enjoying their favourite sweet treats or a light snack. We welcome customers who need to drop in for a quick business meeting then be on their way or those who want to catch up with girlfriends or even just read a book.”

Detail-oriented design at Oliver Brown sets the tone for sophisticated but approachable ambience. Meanwhile, the menu highlights exquisite Belgian whole chocolate. “We know our customers want something much better than powdered chocolate,” David says. “All of our chocolate and mocha drinks feature top quality Belgian chocolate buds that melt right through. You really can’t compare this with powdered chocolate.”

As Oliver Brown continues to spread its chocolatey goodness throughout Australia, there is one thing for certain … those outdoor chairs from Cafeideas will go the distance and provide comfortable, inviting seating for an ever-growing fan base.

]]> Fri, 02 Oct 2015 01:27:00 +0000 https://www.cafeideas.com.au/blog/giving-your-stainless-steel-that-perfect-shine/

Few materials are capable of putting off that natural shine and overall brilliance in quite the same way that stainless steel does. They are durable, long lasting and look good in any envionment. 

Despite these natural benefits, many people shy away from purchasing stainless steel benches, shelving and trolleys due to a perceived difficulty with keeping it clean. Giving your stainless steel that perfect shine is actually quite easy, so long as you go about things in the right way. Here are two interesting ways! 

#1 Homemade Solutions

Whenever you clean any type of surface near where food is prepared, you always need to keep a few things in mind. This is especially true in a commercial kitchen, where you're preparing food for the countless customers that are walking through your door throughout the day. Harsh chemicals may not only damage your stainless steel surfaces, but they could make your customers sick and damage your reputation if used improperly.

Because of this, one of the best ways to give your stainless steel the perfect shine and eliminate all of these fears is to use a simple baking soda and water combination. Not only will this help decontaminate the surface, but it will also remove all dust, dirt, grime and fingerprints before you know it. This is a great option for people who don't want to have to worry about keeping up with orders for specially designed cleaning products.

#2 Vinegar

There are a few specific types of issues that baking soda and water alone might not be strong enough to overcome. When working in a commercial kitchen, for example, you will often be dealing with issues like water spots that not only diminish the shine of your stainless steel, but also instantly make the kitchen look much dirtier than it really is.

However, you're in luck - so long as you have some vinegar around, you have everything that you need to remove water spots with minimal effort. Make sure that you use white vinegar for the best results. Also, always make sure that you're using a clean, soft cloth when wiping down your stainless steel or you run the risk of creating new scratches that will be very expensive to fix if you're not careful.

We recently added an extensive range of stainless steel items to our website. Discover the Vogue range today.

Fine Food is a major event taking place each year and gathering the entire hospitality industry – not to be missed! For Cafeideas, it is always an absolute pleasure to visit our suppliers’ stands, catch up with everyone and discover what’s new on the market.

Standing between Birko, providing us all day long with fresh water, and Roller Grill, feeding us with delicious waffles and melted Nutella, it couldn’t get any better. Exquisite too treated us, showcasing their new under-bench freezers and throwing our way delicious Pat and Stick’s ice creams – to die for!

Unox was also in the place, amassing and entertaining an ever-growing crowd. Every time we passed by their stand we could see people fascinated with the new MIND.Maps range being showcased for the very 1st time in Australia.

Not far from there, the Convotherm ovens were also showcased and we got the chance to taste delicious Asian dumplings, pork burgers and other dishes. Definitely a great way to demonstrate the versatility of their products and the beauty and consistency of the results achieved.

Across their stand was Roband, introducing their new Sycloid buffet toaster. We actually wrote a blog about it a few weeks ago, you might want to have a look and find out more about this revolutionary conveyor toaster.

In the meantime, Bromic was featuring their vibrant and colorful retro display chiller, giving a nice green shine to the rest of their stand, and LKK was telling all about their brand new noodle and pasta cooker.

Finally, Skope was launching their Activecore program but we won’t tell you all about it just yet. More information to come very soon - stay tune!

Last but not least, our finance partner Silver Chef created the buzz over the 4 days and provided visitors with an amazing virtual reality experience. Simply wearing goggles, people could literally step into a real life restaurant. We tested it and loved it. We have photos and videos to prove it !

We invite you to browse through our photos and get a glimpse of the Fine Food effervescence. We hope to see on our stand next year in Melbourne!

Roller Grill GES 70 Waffle Machine

If you want to make the perfect Belgian waffle for your customers, one item that you're definitely going to want to learn more about is the Roller Grill GES 70 Waffle Machine. Made in France, this item features cast iron plates, a high quality temperature thermostat and makes one waffle at a time. In addition to a removable dip tray, this item is also incredibly compact - at just 10 by 10 mm in size, it will fit comfortably in just about any environment it is required and will continue to reliably serve you for years to come.

Waring WW200E Double Waffle Maker

Do your patrons love Belgian waffles and you're looking for a way to increase your speed but maintain your standard high quality at the same time? Look no farther than the Waring WW200E Double Waffle Maker. This double Belgian waffle maker can make up to 50 18 cm waffles per hour. In addition to embedded heating elements (for easy operation) and non-stick plates (for easy cleaning), the rotary feature also allows this unit to be used for baking, browning, and similar types of functions. It features a space-saving, dual-sided design and offers all of the electronics and reliable insulation that you need to run a high volume kitchen and still put out the best possible product each and every time the need arises.

Silex GTT-521 Belgian Style Single Waffle Baker

Another incredible piece of equipment that will help you on your quest to make the perfect Belgian waffle is the Silex GTT-521 Belgian Style Single Waffle Baker. It features both housing and a bonnet that are made of stainless steel, making cleaning the unit an absolute cinch. The plates themselves are made from heavy-duty cast iron and are handmade, giving you access to the best quality materials at unbeatable prices. The electronic control panel also allows you to take complete control over both temperatures and baking times, allowing you to adjust the machine on the fly as volume demands.

Cafeideas

At Cafeideas, we're proud to offer an unparalleled selection of commercial kitchen equipment, catering equipment and other items that you need to take the restaurant or cafe of your dreams and turn it into a reality in an instant. To find out more about the high quality items that feature in our range (with more being added all the time) please visit our site today.

The Coffee Experience is boutique event gathering about 40 exhibitors and attracting hundreds of coffee lovers. It gives them the opportunity to smell, taste and touch all of the best new coffee products on the market.

We got there at coffee time and directly got overwhelmed by the deliciously familiar smell of coffee. There were busy bees everywhere, excited and ecstatic. Not sure if they were after 10 coffees already or if they were just absolutely thrilled to be there.

Anyway, it’s how our tasting journey began. Us too, we started to fly from stand to stand, sipping coffees like bees gathering nectar. We tasted a Brazilian coffee with a chocolate and caramel flavor - this velvety and syrupy beverage delighted our taste buds! Then we tried a Colombian coffee with a blueberry aftertaste – wow! It was like drinking coffee and eating a blueberry muffin, all at the same time. Imagine the explosion of sensations and flavors in your mouth!

In the meantime, a coffee competition was taking place on the side, providing highly skilled baristas with an opportunity to showcase their coffee making expertise. In front of a roaring crowd, baristas had to replicate patterns such as swans, hearts and Rosetta leave. They were judged on accuracy, cleanliness and time. It was pretty hectic!

And there, in the middle of the hive, was majestically standing Coffee Works Express, one of our favorite coffee machine suppliers. Their name might not sound familiar but you know them well as they bring you great brands such as Wega and Franke coffee machines, Mazzer grinders and Metallurgica Motta jugs and accessories. They were at the Coffee Experience trade-show to introduce their new Polaris 2015 range. Both the matt black and chrome & stainless steel finished panel models were displayed on their stand, shining like diamonds.

Visit Cafeideas to find out more about the new Wega Polaris 2015 coffee machine. Plus, it’s on special in September so we invite you to check it out today!

If you’d like to know more about the exotic caramel and blueberry coffees we had, visit the ONA coffee connoisseurs website.

#1 Cocoon 4 Piece Lounge Setting

If you ask a child what their number one priority is when it comes to restaurant seating, the answer will undoubtedly be the same regardless of your sample size: comfort. With an item like the Cocoon 4 Piece Lounge Setting, you get one coffee table, two single sofas, and one triple sofa. All items are as comfortable as possible and still put forward the professional look that you're after. These outdoor seating options come with an aluminium frame, are a hand woven wicker lounge setting, and have a UV resistant flat PE wicker rattan. Kids will have fun sitting in such a comfy chair and their parents will enjoy them just as well, too.

#2 Keep Them Entertained

Even going above and beyond your ability to make kid-friendly dishes, there are a few key steps that you can take to make little ones excited to dine in your establishment. If you keep crayons, colouring sheets and other kid-friendly items up by the concierge desk or front counter, for example, a waiter can pass them out to any little ones along with the menus for adults. If you have television sets in your restaurant like a sports bar would, you may also choose to keep kid-friendly DVDs on hand to play all-ages content during dining sessions when children are most likely to be around.

#3 Cold Comfort

Children are inherently visual - the most detailed description on a menu for a particular item might mean nothing to a young child, but if they saw an image or even a real-life example of the same item they might start to get excited. As a result, items like the Anvil Aire Ice Cream Display are so important - they give a child an active role in the food service process. This is perfect for both scoop and pre-packed ice cream and comes with high quality LED lighting. It also includes heated front glass and a high quality auto defrost feature to make sure that the display is always clear, even when the temperature outside starts getting warm.

The machine’s “Cool touch” feature means that staff and patrons can safely use the toaster with no risk of being burnt. The Sycloid® is also robust in design featuring durable stainless steel elements and a reliable conveyor mechanism. Furthermore, it also provides intelligent energy efficient operation by scaling back energy consumption during quiet periods and automatic detection when a slice of toast is placed in the machine.

With the stylishly sculpted toast return chute and LED lighting providing easy and illuminated viewing of the toast holding bay, your customers can easily see when their toast is ready from across the buffet. No more crowds forming around, impatiently waiting for their toast to be ready! Plus, the wide opening of the bay allows easy access to toast.

Finally, you will appreciate the slide-out crumb tray feature, making it much easier for you to clean every day.

The Sycloid® toaster is optimized to handle bread up to 20 mm thickness however can accommodate toast up to 30mm thickness. The range features two models which are functionally the same, but with different power input and toast production output. The ST350A has a 10amp plug and toasts up to 350 slices per hour, whilst the ST500A has a 15amp plug and toasts up to 500 slices per hour.

Visit Cafeideas today and be among the first ones to purchase this brand new conveyor toaster!

The challenge
Vinay explains that he didn’t want to use multiple suppliers in order to establish Swagath Biryani House and also his other restaurant, Darbar Fine Indian. “I pretty much knew from the start what I was looking for so it was great being able to go only to Cafeideas and get what I needed.”

How Cafeideas helped
During his initial searches online, Vinay came across Cafeideas and made the call which was answered by Rachel. Upon going into the store, he was able to have a look at a wide range of products, narrowed down by Rachel according to Vinay’s specifications, to save him time.

“I was looking for something to suit my budget but which would be of a quality that would be reasonable for the price. We found middle of the range items that suit our restaurant perfectly and were within the price bracket we were looking to spend,” Vinay says. “Rachel was able to work out a better price than what was initially shown and we were happy with the final cost.”

Ultimately, in terms of furnishings, Vinay purchased all the tables and chairs from Cafeideas: the Modena armchairs, the Paris table bases and the Hesperides table tops. Additionally, he was glad to be able to buy all the kitchen equipment needed and was impressed with the range and quality.This includes a F.E.D chest freezer, a Roband heat lamp, a Turbofan convection oven, a Scotsman ice machine and an Austune under-counter fridge.

When asked if he would recommend Cafeideas to associates, he said he’d be glad to do so as his own experience with the company was simple and straightforward, saving him time and money in the setup phase. “I didn’t want to have to run around doing everything. Rachel provided great communication and always got back to me quickly when I had questions.”

About Swagath Biryani House
Swagath Biryani House is a 145-seat establishment that serves northern and southern Indian cuisine in what Vinay calls “a fusion that incorporates local produce”. Indeed, his use of scallops and soft shell crab – not used in traditional Indian dishes – is testament to his creativity and desire to infuse his dishes with valued ingredients his customers love.

Chef/Owner Vinay came up through the ranks, first starting out in fast food eateries and moving on to functions catering and restaurants. Eventually, he decided to establish his own restaurant. He started out with basic Indian cuisine but slowly over the years, modified his dishes more to suit the local palate. He is particularly passionate about exploring new ideas and experimenting with ingredients until he comes up with a kind of culinary nirvana.

Stylish in presentation, Swagath Biryani House is the place for families to go when they are looking for a wonderful, authentic Indian meal and to come together as a community. His staff chefs come from different regions and each inspires the menu based on their own local recipes. The menu changes twice a year as ideas are developed into reality.

Vinay also owns Darbar Fine Indian, a higher end restaurant offering special occasion and intimate dining. Spectacular in appearance with its white linens and exposed old stonework, it’s a popular venue for private functions as well as romantic dinners for two.

“Better is worse than good enough” they’re used to saying. Looking at what Unox did with their new ranges of combi ovens, it looks like “better” can actually be much better!

You might have seen it already; the new Unox BakerTop and ChefTop ranges are now available at Cafeideas. Get excited! These new combi ovens become an extension of the chef’s mind and hands. It’s not quite science fiction but almost! The new Unox ovens have amazingly cool features and you will love it. They are very similar and very different at the same time, but don’t get confused and instead allow us to tell you all about it!

Don’t select a cooking program, draw yours!
Probably the main wow feature, this new technology will blow your mind. You can now draw your cooking program – think about it for second, how cool is that! Are you the kind of person who gets so enthusiastic in the kitchen that you lose words to describe your recipes? Then this feature is for you and it will revolutionize your cooking experience! With the MIND.Maps technology you can draw cooking processes made of infinite steps with one simple touch. This will allow much more flexibility and accuracy.

Don’t be scared of this groundbreaking technology; it was developed to make your life easier and is certainly ergonomic. Plus, after purchasing your combi oven, a Unox Active Marketing Chef will visit you to check the install of the oven and provide a comprehensive training. Isn’t it ideal to be trained by a chef who knows what he’s talking about and understands your challenges? If you’d like to find out more about the Top.Training program, click here.

Watch this short video featuring the MIND.Maps technology

The more options, the better.
Before you could choose between 2 options, gas or electric, but now you can choose from 3 options including, PLUS electric , ONE electric and PLUS gas. MIND.Maps PLUS is the ultimate combi oven, packed with features and the latest technologies. MIND.Maps ONE has less features but they are both here to challenge the future.

La mise en place (available on the “plus” options only).
MISE.EN.PLACE is a clever technology allowing you to synchronize the food loading in the baking chamber to have every pan ready at the same time. Simply enter information about ingredients used, cooking times and let the oven tell you when to load each tray.

Don’t be afraid to multi-task.
With the new MULTI.Time technology, you can manage up to 10 timers to cook or bake different products at the same time. This feature alone will allow you to exponentially increase your productivity!

The new UNOX guarantee, your best cooked food, at the quickest return of investment, every single day.

Many more features to discover! Visit Cafeideas website today to find out more or call (02) 9690 2116 to ask all your burning questions.

Listen to Chef Sean Cunnington explaining the MIND.Maps technology

Have you heard of That Sugar Film? It is a documentary about this man investigating and discovering the truth about the sugar consumption in Australia. During his researches he finds out that the average consumption of Australians is equivalent to 40 teaspoons of sugar a day*. Can you imagine? This movie was not only entertaining but also extremely informative. It definitely changes your perception on sugar and healthy food.

After watching that movie I had a closer look at my own sugar consumption and started to count my daily teaspoons (and freak out a little). Like many other fellows, I eat out and take away a few times a week but after watching that movie, I totally reconsidered my habits because I know cafes and restaurants don’t always offer healthy options.

In 2012, Australians ate out on average 3.5 times and buy takeaway food 4.1 times a month*. This trend and overconsumption of some foods and drinks have lead to a dramatic increase in overweight and obesity. People are trying to change, people want to eat healthy and if you don’t offer them suitable options, they won’t have lunch at your place. It’s that simple.

Now, let’s zoom in on sugar. Sugar is composed of 3 components: glucose, lactose and sucrose. Glucose is found in bread, pasta and veggies, and is used to fuel the brain, cells and organs. It is vital. Then there is lactose, found in cheese, milk and yogurt. Lactose is a great source of calcium and vitamin D and is also crucial to grow and maintain healthy bones. Finally, there is sucrose, composed of 50% of glucose and 50% of fructose.

While the first 2 kinds of sugar are healthy, the last one might not be. Well, some people say it is dangerous and some others still have doubts. In the past, it was quite rare to find fructose but nowadays it is everywhere. Fructose is what makes food sweet, but it doesn’t have to be added to make your food tasty.

So now, what can you do with this knowledge?

Say goodbye to processed food and unnecessary fructose! Articulate your menus around healthy ingredients. When you can, avoid using prepackaged food such as tomato paste because it certainly includes way too much bad sugar! Built your sauces from scratch, your customers will tell the difference for sure!

Do your serve self-made lemonade or other fresh drinks? Cut on sugar! Add some, but not too much. Sugar sweet doesn’t necessarily mean tasty. Add more fruits instead, and live it marinating for a longer period of time.

In case you need some inspiration, you can find hundreds of websites and blogs with “healthy recipes” sections. You can start with taste.com.au.

In 2012, eating out was the second most discussed topic in Australia with 62%* of the population ready to recommend your restaurant to family and friends. Think about it and make a change today! Increase your reach and activate word of mouth.

If you’d like to know more about something mentioned in this article, we highly encourage you to check the websites listed below.

Sources:
Thatsugarmovie.com
Roymorgan.com
Goodfoood.com.au
Eatforhealth.gov.au
BIS Shrapnel 2011

Our New Range of Furniture

The type of seating that you choose to use at your business is hugely important for creating the most welcoming and comfortable environment for your customers. That's why our current sale showcases a plethora of indoor and outdoor seating options, like this stunning Parisian Ottoman. This is a European style wicker ottoman with two-tone weave UV treated surface materials. The hand painted coffee colour aluminium frame will look absolutely perfect in your environment. Four different colour combinations are available for you to choose from depending on the exact style that you're going for and the feeling that you're trying to create.

Parisian Ottoman Cafe Chair

Heaters

Your business doesn't shut down just because it gets a little chilly outside, nor should it. This is another reason why we've chosen to showcase the huge variety of outdoor heaters that we have available, like the Bromic COMP710-4 Patio Heater. This powder coated grey heater has a base diameter of just 460mm. Despite its compact size, it is capable of heating 28 square metres incredibly effectively whenever the need arises. It doesn't sit on fixed wheels of any kind, meaning that it will always stay in one place and will dutifully serve both you and your customers for years to come. The high quality, stainless steel burner is designed to ensure maximum heater life and a protective cover is also included. The unit is AGA approved and must be installed by a licensed technician.

Commercial Kitchen Equipment

As always, we're also offering incredible savings on many of our high quality commercial kitchen equipment items right now. Take the Waring Heavy Duty Juice Extractor, for example. This unit features a brushed stainless steel polycarbonate housing and an impossibly large three inch feed chute to help take care of all of your juicing needs. Not only does the unit already come equipped with an easy to remove pulp collector at the time of purchase, but it also operates on a triple interlock system to help guarantee the safest operation possible at all times.

At Cafeideas, we love being able to provide our customers with commercial kitchen equipment, catering equipment and all of the other valuable tools that they need to run the business that they've always dreamed of. Our current winter special runs until August 31, so make sure that you check out the rest of our catalogue to see what we have in store for you. These prices aren't going to be around forever, so don't delay - your customers will thank you! Terms and conditions apply.

We currently count over 5,000 products on our website. In such a case, it is only too easy to miss out on great brands such as Coldline, one of our suppliers of high quality refrigeration equipment. Based in Italy, one of the most productive areas in Europe, they have been serving the catering, pastry, bakery, ice cream and pizza industry for over 20 years.

Your delicious recipes depend on the quality of ingredients you purchase, but also on the equipment you get to store all of it. With Coldline, you select healthy and natural ingredients, and they keep them perfect for you.

Their extensive range counts cabinets, counters, blast chillers, preparation tops and roll-in including storage units and retarder provers – pretty much everything you could possibly need in your commercial kitchen.

Professional, modern and practical, all units were developed alongside chefs who understand your challenges, expectations and needs. The Research & Development team was inspired by the principles of quality, energy saving and environmental protection. Units come in different sizes, capacities and configurations to suit your needs, offering the same quality and performance across the whole range.

High-quality equipment, yet affordable, these units are real hidden gems. They are innovative, reliable and stylish, which make them very competitive with other better-know brands. Plus, Coldline units have a clever modular design and simple shapes that make them elegant, easy to clean and easy to fit anywhere in your commercial kitchen.

Coldline units are already being used in thousands of kitchens around the world and you could be the next one on the list. Don’t settle for good; go for excellent! Visit Cafeideas and discover Coldline today. And stay tuned, we will soon be publishing more articles about each individual line included in the Coldine range.

The challenge

Lin explains that once she had secured the leases for the properties, the race was on to open in order to minimise the period of time during which no income would be generated. “I knew what I needed from working in similar businesses before,” Lin explains. “And as this is the first food business that I own, I needed to deal with a company that would understand my needs, help me get it up and running as quickly as possible and not waste any time.”

How Cafeideas helped

Initially searching the Internet for suppliers that could furnish a specialised crepe maker, Lin came across Cafeideas. Her first phone call to the company led to a visit to the premises to inspect in person. “First I went in and looked at what they had in the store and after that, I was able to do everything online via email,” Lin says.

Lin was impressed by the ‘one stop shop’ nature of Cafeideas and that she could consider many other items for her stores without having to travel around or conduct too much research. “Vibha helped me understand and suggested several different brands. I told them what products I needed and unfortunately, not many places supply the crepe machine I need so I chose Cafeideas because they had exactly what I was looking for.” Lin also obtained fridges and fryers for the Bing Tan stores.

In the case of Bing Tan, no furniture was required because the style of fit-out required shopfitting installations rather than mobile furnishings.

A small hiccup

One day, there was a problem with the deep fryer and Lin had to call Cafeideas to arrange a service call. “They came within a few hours and fixed it so we were able to use it again very quickly.” Lin says Cafeideas have consistently exceeded her expectations and on this particular occasion, the rapid turnaround of the fryer repair meant loss of revenue was minimised.

As Lin explains, business owners are busy, they don’t have time to research every product they’re considering using in their shops. “I felt very good with Cafeideas so I didn’t go with any other companies. From the start, Vibha was very helpful and gave good advice. She told me which brand she recommends for my needs, which is the most durable. This is very important because we need our equipment to work hard and last well.”

From Cafeideas, Bing Tan have sourced kitchen equipment including 2 Roller Grill crepe machines, Exquisite underbench fridge, Exquisite upright chiller, F.E.D. electric fryer, Crathco drink dispenser and F.E.D. soup kettle.

About Bing Tan

A fun and engaging concept, Bing Tan’s Chinese street-style crepes combines the appeal of quick-service Asian food with the visual excitement of the colourful, fresh ingredients and the preparation in front of the customer. Located at Westfield Parramatta and in Sydney Central Plaza, both outlets are meccas for hungry, rushed customers looking for a quick meal that they can eat on the run.

“Our business itself is something fresh,” Lin says. “We offer something different, our crepes are like a wrap, they’re easy to grab when you don’t have much time but yet they’re healthy and fresh and made to order.” Customers can choose the protein such as satay chicken, smoked salmon, barbecue duck or barbecue pork, then the salad vegetables they want and finally, their favourite sauce.

Also on the menu at Bing Tan are crisp, inviting salads and hot soups. The outlets open from 9am daily, greeting hungry business people and local workers with delicious casual meals. They go right through to dinner time when shoppers, movie-goers and tourists drop by for a bite to eat.

The Bing Tan concept has been eagerly received by customers who enjoy the traditional Chinese flavours combined with the classic French crepe.

]]> Tue, 11 Aug 2015 23:00:00 +0000 https://www.cafeideas.com.au/blog/essential-small-appliances-for-the-commercial-kitchen/ One of the great aspects of running a food service business involves the shift that your identity will go through over time. While you definitely have an idea in mind of the type of commercial kitchen that you'd like to run, there also will be a certain amount of flexibility required as you listen to your customers and their needs. You may think that you're just running a pastry business, for example, but soon enough your customers will tell you that they also want breakfast sandwiches or even lunch items, too.

It is inevitable, so you always want to make sure that you have the most versatile small appliances to help make sure that all of your needs are accounted for. Cafeideas has all the essential commercial kitchen small appliances that you will need.

F.E.D. GH-811E Large Single Contact Grill

One of the most important items that you'll definitely want to look into is the F.E.D. GH-811E Large Single Contact Grill. This high quality small appliance offers temperature control of between 50 and 300 degrees Celsius, high quality non-stick cast iron plates and more. It's perfect for not only making breakfast items but also pressing warm sandwiches and other types of food of that nature. The all stainless steel body makes cleaning the unit an absolute breeze, as well.

LKKCG3-2 2 Burner Gas Char Grill

Another high quality item that you'll want to look into is the LKKCG3-2 2 Burner Gas Char Grill. At just 300mm in size, this item is compact enough to fit into even the busiest of kitchens without making any type of significant adjustment to the layout. In addition to industry leading insulation and a convenient undershelf, this item features 304-grade stainless steel for its body construction. Not only will you never have a problem cleaning it, but the high quality stainless steel also means that it can stand up to just about anything that you can throw at it.

Roller Grill 400 CFE Single Crepe Machine

The Roller Grill 400 CFE Single Crepe Machine, one of our best-sellers, is another piece of equipment you might want to consider. It can be used to make traditional French crepes or less-traditional Chinese crepes - no matter what’s your recipe, it will allow you to cook wonders for sure. Its stainless steel construction is synonym of solidity and durability. Plus, its cat iron plate is an excellent heat conductor and it allows a better and even cooking.

At Cafeideas, we believe that these are just a few of the high quality small appliances that are essential for any commercial kitchen. We have many more similar products available on our site right now, making sure that you always have the machinery to run the business that you've always dreamed of when you need it the most. We're always adding new items to our inventory, so be sure to check back often to see what Cafeideas has in store for your business today.

The reality is that choosing and maintaining the right refrigeration systems can make a significant difference not only to your trade, but to your bottom line.

So what really makes a difference?

1. Food Safety is Paramount

Ensuring food safety is the most obvious.

Serving food that has spoiled is only going to lead to costs to your business in terms of wasted and compliance requirements, a potential shutdown if there is a food poisoning issue, and of course the cost in lost business, reputation and good will from your customers.

Think of these potential costs to your business

- Compliance requirements
- Potential shutdown to get standards back up to code
- Lost business while the kitchen, restaurant or café is closed
- Loss of patronage and goodwill from affected customers
- Loss of potential new customers through word of mouth or media coverage of the negative experience 

So how do I get it right?

- FIFO – First in, first out. Make sure you clearly write dates on food containers and use the oldest food first.
- To assist this place new stock behind older items to ensure regular turnover.
- Ensure containers are airtight to eliminate the chance of oxygen spoiling the food.
- Invest in an internal thermometer to ensure food temperatures are consistent. This is crucial in a busy environment where doors are continually opened and closed.
- Don’t overload. Refrigerators need a good airflow between items to work efficiently. Crowding fridges not only leads to an increased risk of spoilage but also makes the motor work harder – which costs you more in power.

Education of staff is crucial

- Remind staff about the importance of storage, and especially storing uncooked and cooked meats at the bottom of the refrigerator units to avoid it contaminating other food.
- Ensure staff carefully wrap food and store in containers that are not punctured.
- Date every product – that way there is no confusion on how old an item actually is.
- Keep items off the floor. Ensure shelving keeps the product off the ground (stainless or galvanised shelves are perfect) and doesn’t rest directly against walls or ceilings to avoid stale air.
- Keep things organised. Food products and cleaning products should be stored well apart, chicken away from fish and the like.
- Don’t forget that what staff bring with them to work can be a hazard too. When in doubt throw or leave it out.

2. Choosing the Right Equipment Matters to your Bottom Line

The refrigeration unit you choose makes a tremendous difference to the performance of your business as a whole.

Refrigeration options can vary to suit your specific requirements. SKOPE offer a variety of units from glass door front of house display fridges that can display your products and drive sales, through to fit for purpose industrial chillers.

One aspect that doesn’t change when you choose SKOPE however is our ongoing commitment to reliability, quality of build, and energy efficiency.

Minimise your electric bill and increase your efficiency.

We have all read an article that demonstrates the fallout noted above when a restaurant makes a customer ill through poor handling, hygiene or equipment.

However have you also considered that choosing an energy efficient refrigeration unit can provide significant cost savings that help to build your profitability, as well as ensuring the ongoing quality of your products.

At SKOPE we continue to redevelop and redesign our products to ensure industry leading energy efficiency. A SKOPE cabinet today uses approximately 70% less energy than one made just ten years ago – and our work in this area continues.

By understanding your needs you can ensure you choose the ideal SKOPE option for your business using the easy product selector tool on our website. All SKOPE units feature our smaller but more powerful, higher performing fan motors ensuring outstanding chilling and maximum energy efficiency. Look out for the ‘High Energy Effeciency’ icon throughout the product portfolio, this signifies the very best in engineered efficiency and performance. High Energy Efficiency

The choice of door type and additional features – self closing doors, long life magnetic door gaskets, low/e argon glass, slotted back panels designed for precise temperature control – can improve efficiencies and drive cost savings further.

No matter the environment, SKOPE have a product to suit. It’s an easy decision and a smart choice to pay less in the long term while ensuring your products – and what you deliver to your customer – are kept in optimum condition.

Original article available here : http://www.blog.skope.co.nz/are-your-frozen-assets-costing-you-money

The Kate Ottoman. This model is available in 2 versions, both extremely lovely. First, we have the rubberwood one, composed of a round wooden seat with a gold walnut brushed finish. The 2nd version is composed of a round upholstered PVC in brown. Both have powder-coated matt-black legs. Its unique sprawling shapes might confuse at first but you will quickly adopt and love them. Perfectly balanced and ergonomic, we have no doubt you will enjoy the perfectly-adjusted footrest.

The Hairpin Ottoman. This model too counts 2 versions. The wooden one, looking like milk chocolate, and the upholstered PVC one, slightly darker and looking more like dark chocolate. Both have matt-black legs. While this model doesn’t have any footrest, it doesn’t look any less interesting.

To match with these awesome stools, we also have new industrial table tops. Made in Australia, these square wooden table tops are ideal for cafes, restaurants, bars and pubs. You can either use them indoor or outdoor but undercover to protect them. Different styles are available, as well as different dimensions – you can choose from 60, 70 or 80cm.

You can start getting excited today but please keep in mind that lead time applies for the table tops.

 Visit Cafeideas website today and if you are near by, come to our showroom in Chippendale and have a look !

Wood Pizza Ovens

The major benefit of a wood pizza oven is one of tradition. The best pizza in the world has been made on wooden ovens for centuries. Once you get them hot enough, you can be churning out delicious pizzas all day long that customers won't be able to get enough of.

One of the major downsides of a wooden pizza oven is one of cost. Generally speaking, you'll be paying a significantly larger amount of money for wood than you will for a gas-fired option. This price difference may or may not pay for itself, however, in the form of the increased business that you'll see as a result.

One great wood pizza oven is the Modular Commercial Wood Fired Oven. Made it Italy, this high quality piece of equipment can go from cold to 300 degrees Celsius in as little as 120 minutes. It's cost effective to operate; low maintenance and can cook a pizza to perfection in two to three minutes - guaranteed.

Gas-Fired Pizza Ovens

One of the major benefits of a gas-fired pizza oven is that it will allow you to make the same great pizzas that your restaurant will soon be known for, but with a significantly smaller amount of hassle. Gas-fired pizza ovens are generally much easier to use than their wooden counterparts and require less effort on your part in order to get things "just right."

The major downside to this type of equipment, howevers, is one of flavour. More specifically, certain pizza aficionados say that they can absolutely taste the difference between an authentic pizza that has been made in a wood oven and one that was cooked in a gas alternative. Is this taste big enough that the average customer will be able to tell the difference if they're not taste-testing pizza all day long? Probably not, but the decision to go with a gas-fired pizza oven may be one that you don't want to make for that very reason - particularly if you're trying to establish your restaurant as one of the authentic pizza spots in town.

One high quality gas-fired pizza oven is the Goldstein G236 Gas Single Pizza and Bake Oven. This incredible product has a refractory tile heart to help guarantee not only even heat distribution, but optimum-baking conditions at all times. It's stackable to minimise your floor space requirements and even has a stainless steel face and door that are both incredibly easy to clean at a moment's notice.

Cafeideas has a great range of pizza equipment and accessories to suit your needs. From dough mixers to pizza conveyor ovens you’re sure to find the equipment to make pizza parlour perfection!

Wine, this delicious alcoholic beverage made from fermented grapes, is a fragile living thing. Constantly changing, this liquid requires more care and attention than you might think.

Dampness, heat and bright light are wine top enemies, and if you want to store your bottles properly, you should aim to find a dry, cool and dark place. Ideally, you should store them in a cellar located in the basement but we understand it’s not always possible and that is why we happily offer a great and inexpensive alternative: wine chiller cabinets. These thermo-controlled chillers are the best way to keep wines intact.

Please note, these wine cabinets are ideal for direct consumption and allows you to serve chilled wine to the perfect temperature. If you would like to store bottles (sealed with cork) and let them age, you should seek another alternative.

F.E.D. has developed two dual zone wine chiller cabinets: one unit allows you to store up to 149 bottles and the other one up to 54 bottles. With different dimensions and capacities, both models have these solid wooden shelves allowing you to neatly align all your bottles.

The great thing about these F.E.D. units is their dual zone feature letting you set different temperatures within the same unit: temperatures of the upper part range between 5 and 10ºC and the lower part between 10 and 18ºC.

This enables you to organize your wines and have the whites and reds stored at the exact right temperature. Whites should be stored between 6 and 11ºC and reds between 12 and 18ºC.

 The digital temperature control allows you to keep an eye on operating temperatures and this is extremely important as even slight changes might alter the quality and taste of your wine.

We also have a Bromic wine chiller cabinet. With its curved glass door and silver exterior, it looks as appealing as the bottles you will display. With its 5 solid wooden shelves, you can store up to 120 bottles.

Consumed to enhance your menu flavors or simply for the pleasure of tasting, wine plays an important role and you should definitely look after it. Visit Cafeideas today and browse through our wine chillers options.

WEGA Polaris 3 Group Electronic Coffee Machine

Does your business depend on a steady stream of loyal customers who look to you to fill their coffee needs each morning? With the WEGA Polaris 3 Group Electronic Coffee Machine, you'll be able to take care of these customers with a level of efficiency that they may have never thought possible. This superior item includes one manual hot water tap, two chromed steam wands and a manual brewing option for your convenience. There are four volumetric programmable dose settings per group, allowing you to churn out the best possible cups of coffee with minimal fuss and effort. A built in rotary pump keeps things moving smoothly and it's available in three distinct colour options for you to choose from depending on your needs.

Blue Seal Evolution Series Gas Cooktop

You'll be shocked at the high level of efficiency that your commercial kitchen is capable of achieving when you install this Blue Seal Evolution Series Gas Cooktop. The entire product is made out of stainless steel, making it easier to clean than ever. It features aluminised steel internal construction; vitreous enamel control panels, a vitreous enamelled cast iron post stand and open burner spill cover and more. The griddle sections are standard on the RH side and the steel griddle splashguards measure just 2.5mm in length, creating an option that is every bit as compact as it is convenient to use.

As a business owner, you're no doubt always on the hunt for the right bench top equipment, food preparation machines and similar types of items that you can use to propel your business forward into the future and to give yourself the competitive advantage that you need to thrive. With that goal in mind, be sure to check out the rest of the items in our "Winter Sale" catalogue to find out more about all of the great, top quality items that you can start saving money on immediately! At Cafeideas, we go out of our way to always add new and innovative items to our already massive selection of products on a daily basis, so be sure to check out the rest of our catalogue and browse our website to see all of the offers we have in store for you!

Hot Sandwiches

Anybody can take some cheese, a few slices of lunchmeat and a nice pickle, slap it between two pieces of bread and call it a day. Only a true master can build the perfect hot sandwich from the ground up. Even something as minimalist as roast beef and cheese between two sides of ciabatta bread is made that much better when it has been properly heated - and NOT in a microwave.

One item that you'll definitely want to keep nearby for your entire sandwich making needs is the Sirman PD.VC.L Double Ceramic Sandwich Press. This high quality product features both upper and lower plates that are constructed of durable ceramic glass, making for evenly pressed and wonderfully cooked sandwiches at a moment's notice. The upper plates are both self-balancing and adjustable and a useful drip tray is included to catch any liquids that may otherwise make a mess. The product also comes with a Ceran ceramic-glass cooking surface and a digital thermostat control option for your convenience.

Vegetarian Options

Many people think that you need meat to make the ultimate sandwich - not true. You can replace any type of meat with a few red peppers, cucumbers and other assorted veggies and have something just as delicious, if not more so.

If you're looking for the perfect item to make vegetarian sandwich making easier than you could have ever thought possible, look no farther than the F.E.D. VRX120 Deluxe Pizza and Sandwich Bar Prep Top Unit. Coming in at just 1200mm wide and with a maximum pan depth of 150mm, this unit will make sure that you have all of your delicious sandwich ingredients at arm's length at all times. The stainless steel interior and exterior construction make cleaning the unit a breeze and the Dixell digital temperature control and readout will give you complete control over the temperature of your items.

At Cafeideas, we're honoured to be one of the premiere destinations for commercial kitchen equipment, food preparation machines, bench top equipment and more. Whether you're looking for the tools that you need to make the perfect sandwich or the restaurant furniture that you need to create the environment that you've always dreamed of, we're here to help. We also offer a wide range of different products at incredible discounts by way of sales like our current "Winter Sale", so check back often for the types of unbeatable deals that you just won't find anywhere else.

The Robot Coupe power mixers family welcomes the brand new MicroMix stick blender. Our current range counts a series of mini mixers ideal for small quantities, compact mixers ideal for restaurants, and large mixers ideal for institutional and commercial caterers.

The new MicroMix mixer sits at the entry of the range and is ideal to handle small quantities. Extremely versatile, it will be your new magic weapon to prepare succulent soups and sauces, as well as produce delightful emulsions.

Are you into molecular cuisine or simply wish to add fluffiness to your dishes? With MicroMix, you can choose to explore new culinary paths.

Like the rest of the range, the MicroMix is robust and durable. With its sturdy stainless steel tube, it is powerful and allows you to prepare wonders in seconds.

For more convenience, the speed adjustment knob was ergonomically designed and placed, allowing you to keep a good grip on the mixer and use it effortlessly. To improve your experience, an extendable-coiled power cord was also added.

The big novelty of this MicroMix blender is Aeromix, a patented tool specially designed to produce light and airy emulsions. Thanks to the unique shape of the blade, you will be able to produce foamy vinaigrettes, hollandaise and other adventurous sauces. Give a whole new substance to your toppings and a new dimension to your menu.

Want to add a delicate touch to your dishes? Something new to your menu? Something modern to your current style? The MicroMix will help you reach all these goals! Check it out today !

To say that finding the right equipment for your commercial kitchen environment is difficult is something of an understatement. It's one thing to read a spec sheet for a particular product and see that it will, in theory, meet your requirements. It's another thing entirely to get that unit into your kitchen, put it to work and see exactly what it is really capable of. There are few in the commercial kitchen industry that haven't made a purchase that they eventually regretted after only a few days - it's long been considered a "cost of doing business." That is, until now. At Cafeideas, we're proud to offer a wide range of rent-try-buy solutions that are designed specifically to help you avoid these types of scenarios in the future.

The Benefits of Rent-Try-Buy: Time

One of the major benefits of rent-try-buy situations is that time is well and truly on your side. At Cafeideas, you begin to rent the equipment of your choice for a period of 12 full months. This not only gives you the ability to really put it through its paces, but it lets you see exactly how that piece of equipment is going to perform for you on a daily basis for an extended period of time. You don't have to worry about if your new purchase is going to suddenly break down after three months, as you've got more than enough time to make sure that won't happen before committing to a purchase.

From a business perspective, you also have enough time to make sure that it's a product that you're actually going to use on a regular basis. Many business owners can tell you that there are few things worse than spending a lot of money on equipment that you initially thought would be valuable, only to see it sit unused for huge periods of time.

It Saves You Money

One of the biggest benefits of rent-try-buy is that it is a process designed to save you money from the outset. If you purchase the equipment in question during the first 12 months of your agreement, you will receive a 75% rental rebate. If you ultimately decide that the product in question isn't right for you, don't worry - you can return it at the end of the 12 months without any further obligation on your part. If you decide that you need a little more time to really see what this product can do, you can continue to rent it and Cafeideas will continue to reduce your purchase price. You can even upgrade your rent-try-buy equipment if you decide that your business has outgrown it or if you need something with a little more power. It really is that simple.

At Cafeideas, we're proud to be able to say that we're looking out for businesses all over the country. Our rent-try-buy options are only a small part of that, but are an important part nonetheless. Be sure to check out our website regularly to find out more information about all of your rent-try-buy options.

We’ve recently added a few models to our existing Norris range and thought it would be a great opportunity to talk about our best seller, the Glassmate under bench glass washer.

Created in 1954, Norris is an Australian company that has been manufacturing and supplying the hospitality industry with exceptional glass and dishwashers for over 60 years. They are committed to producing a superior range of products using the latest technology.

Small yet big enough to accept beer jugs, wine carafes and champagne flutes, it is ideal for modern pubs and bars. Plus, with its compact size it can be fitted anywhere around your back bar or kitchen.

This Norris model is made of high-grade stainless steel for, which ensures durability and longevity. Plus, its durable double skinned door is tough and reliable. You will certainly appreciate this feature as it allows a considerable reduction of the heat loss and noise. When it gets busy behind the counter, no need for these 2 elements to add up!

The Norris Glassmate glass washer is very easy to operate so you and your staff won’t waste any second using it, keeping yourself ready to face busy thirsty-hours.

Its automatic detergent injection combined with the 30-second quick cycle will enable you to get consistent results on every load, as well as an express turnaround.

To avoid unwanted surprises when receiving and installing your Norris washer, every machine is factory tested before packing. Cheers for that!

The Norris team has a pretty cool Facebook page where you can see pictures of their happy customers posing with heir favorite Norris glass and dishwashers. Go check it out!

Discover the Glassmate under bench glass washer today. And while you’re at it, browse through the entire Norris range.

The challenge

“It was really important that each of our venues is different, but still cohesive, all offering outstanding coffee and food quality and excellent customer service. We wanted to create venues where customers could meet, enjoy the ambience, catch up on work or with friends and know they would get the same overall experience no matter which Espresso Warriors they visited.”

How Cafeideas helped

Tony explains that he and Trung had heard about Cafeideas from other hospitality colleagues and upon their first visit to the website, decided to drop in and take a look in person. “It seemed like they had a large variety of items we’d end up using so we went in and met Vibha who became our Consultant.”

From their initial meeting, Tony found that he could count on Cafeideas for equipment, décor, advice and service. “We didn’t have to source our needs through multiple suppliers,” he explains. “Not only could we get the bulk of what we needed but all at competitive pricing. And Vibha was instrumental in helping us understand which products would be useful and which wouldn’t, thereby saving us from wasting money.”

Espresso Warriors have worked with Cafeideas in establishing each of their four locations and have found Vibha’s assistance to be invaluable. “Whenever I go in there, Vibha is focused on my requirements and never makes me feel as though she has more important things to do. I hugely appreciate this as I’m always on a short time frame and don’t have time to waste.”

Given the rapid expansion of the Espresso Warriors business (each location has opened three months apart), Tony admits he has often felt overwhelmed by its enormity. The assistance of Vibha and Cafeideas has been instrumental in bringing the cafés to life. “I’ve gone in with ideas in mind but I’m not a designer. Vibha has helped enormously with the colour selections and the furnishing choices. She’s selected some really cool one-off showpieces that completely nail the look and feel we’re aiming to achieve.”

Tony says that since the beginning, Cafeideas has exceeded his expectations. “I simply don’t have time to waste on the phone or waiting for an email response. With Cafeideas, I’ve never had to chase anything up. Vibha goes out of her way to make sure everything is done, turnaround times are met and my questions are answered.”

From Cafeideas, Espresso Warriors’ four locations have sourced kitchen equipment including Anvil door chillers, Anvil heat lamps, Koldtech cake displays, Scotsman icemakers, Bromic flat glass chest freezers and Skope Centaur solid door under-counter freezers. Their benchtop equipment includes Hamilton blenders, Woodson salamanders, Roband grill stations and Robot Coupe centrifugal juicers.

At front-of-house, Espresso Warriors are using Toffee side chairs, Nardi Ibisco folding table bases, Nardi Flute folding table bases, Maxx coffee tables, Industry stool ottomans and Werzalit by Gentas tabletops, all procured from Cafeideas.

About Espresso Warriors

Espresso Warriors serves up a vibrant and dynamic café experience across four different locations, each with its own unique personality in line with local demographics. Co-owners Tony Nessem and Trung Bui determined from the start to create a café that places the emphasis on engagement and personality. “We are friendly, never robotic,” Tony says. “Our customers feel welcome and like part of the family, as do our staff. We’re about community and supporting local.”

Indeed, Espresso Warriors seeks to always purchase from local suppliers whenever possible and also to support local charities and organisations. Fundraising, donations and relationships are just some of the ways they aim to build a warm and welcoming presence around the hubs of each location.

Tony explains that Espresso Warriors is not a franchise and not a chain per se, but all members of the same family. “We think ‘family’ is a pervasive theme throughout our business. We love to look after our customers and have them feel at home here, and the best way we can do that is if we also behave as a family behind the counter and behind the scenes.”

The food, drinks and of course, the coffee add yet another layer to the friendly, welcoming theme. The sweets, baked goods and meals are hearty and colourful with a particular slant towards comfort food. Customers can choose from boutique beverages or something whipped up to order by the talented staff. Espresso Warriors’ signature coffee blend has been happily embraced by customers who additionally appreciate the baristas’ attention to detail and getting-to-know-you approach.

]]> Wed, 08 Jul 2015 23:46:30 +0000 https://www.cafeideas.com.au/blog/Nemco-Benchtop-Equipment/ Our broad range of kitchen equipment currently counts hundreds of brands and products, and we know it’s a challenge for you (and even for us!) to remember all of them. Today, we spotlight Nemco, an US manufacturer. Created in 1976, they have developed their know-how and provided the hospitality industry with a simply yet clever line of manually operated food preparation equipment. All products are designed, engineered and manufactured in the US.

Among other items, the Nemco range includes a great lettuce cutter and vegetable slicer we want to tell you about.

The Nemco lettuce cutter can tackle all sorts of food preparation cutting jobs. Cut your lettuce, chicken, melon and so much more … It will only take you a few seconds and one move of your arm.

With only one single handle to operate, the Nemco lettuce cutter is extremely easy to use. It is handy and compact, which makes it possible to move around your counter effortlessly. Its extra-sharp blades allow a clean cut for the lettuce to stay fresh longer with no rusting or browning.

Its stainless steel and cast aluminum construction makes it very solid and durable. Plus, it has angled legs and no-slip feet, making it very stable and safe.

And because there is no time to waste on cleaning either, blades and pusher head were designed to come easily apart and allow you to clean without using extra tools.

The Nemco vegetable slicer is ideal to make easy, fast, precise and consistent work of fruits and vegetables. Versatile, it can slice and shred anything. Super easy to use, you can even let your most inexperienced kitchen personnel use this tool! Plus, with its suction-cup feet, it is incredibly stable and safe. Compact and portable, it is also easy to carry around your counter.

These Nemco lettuce cutter and vegetable slicer are simple tools you might want to add to your current range of bench top equipment. They are affordable and will save you a lot of time! Check out the video below. Alternatively, visit Cafeideas website and browse through the range.

Employees and Burn Hazards

When you're working with commercial kitchen equipment, one of the biggest hazards will always be heat and burns. Regardless of the type of business you're running, you probably work with things like hot oil and open flames on a daily basis, for example. These two elements are the most common ways that employees are burned, sometimes in incredibly severe and painful ways. Make everyone aware of just how dangerous hot oil and steam can really be for the best possible results moving forward.

Chemicals

In order to maintain the cleanest possible commercial kitchen environment at all times, you likely use a wide range of different chemicals during maintenance of your business on a daily basis. These chemicals are often incredibly harsh, as they need to be to deal with some of the dirt, stain and other related issues that you work with on a daily basis.

Commercial chemicals that are great for cleaning up stains on floors or sanitizing benchtop equipment can also be incredibly detrimental to human health. People can be burned or scarred if these chemicals are exposed to skin and can get very sick if they happen to be ingested. Make sure that everyone knows to practice safe cleaning techniques at all times to prevent these types of things from happening in the first place.

Floor-Related Accidents

Many people don't realize that the floor in their kitchen is actually one of the biggest hazards that employees will face every time they come to work. Things like uneven or cracked floors, cables connecting kitchen equipment to wall outlets, mats or rugs that are overturned and more can also present falling hazards that could injure a person greatly before you know it. Make sure that all spills are cleaned up as quickly as possible and that anyone is aware of any potential hazards before they enter the kitchen area.

Protecting your commercial kitchen workers is something that should always be on the forefront of your mind with each passing day. So long as you've taken steps to correctly identify hazards that naturally exist in this environment and understand what you have to do to share the same knowledge with your employees, you'll find that you've created a safe, happy and healthy environment for everyone involved.

With its modernized brushed silver front and frame, these displays will give your place a whole new shine. Add a bright curved lightbox with rounded edges to it and you can be sure these Bromic units won’t fail to draw your customers’ attention and encourage impulsive purchases. To top it of, you have the possibility to customize the header and use personalised decals.

For more convenience and flexibility, all Bromic units are equipped with adjustable shelves and some models even come with bright interior LED lighting to enhance your products visibility.

Other novelty, an ergonomic curved handle was designed to make it easier for your customers to open the door and grab their favorite drinks within nanoseconds. How frustrating would that be to for them to stand in front of their so-wanted fresh drinks and not being able to simply open the door!

Now you know everything about how cool these Bromic units look, you must be wondering how effective they are. They have a double (for chillers) or triple (for freezers) glazed glass door and a toughened safety glass, which is great to keep your goods cold but also to reduce condensation and improve visibility through the door. Plus, you will appreciate the self-closing door helping you to reduce the potential attack from high temperatures when the door is opened for too long. Finally, these Bromic units have a fan-assisted circulation, which allows a fast and even cooling.

These Bromic units are efficient, they look as cool as the merchandise within it and will help you to create an extremely attractive display. Wait no longer! Visit Cafeideas website today and have a look.

Tax Deduction Specifics

In order to qualify for the $20,000 in immediate write-offs, a few key conditions have to apply. For starters, your small business must have an aggregate annual turnover of less than $2 million in order to qualify for the deductions in the first place. Additionally, the assets that you plan on writing off have to have been purchased or installed and ready for use before 30 June 2017.

It's also important to note that the $20,000 deduction limit applies to each individual item that you're purchasing, so long as the asset in question cost less than $20,000 in the first place. Depending on the type of business that you're running, you may be able to deduct up to the full amount on as many items as you wish so long as all of these terms and conditions apply to your specific situation.

Cafeideas bonus

At Cafeideas, we're incredibly excited about the tax deduction opportunities that are being extended to small business owners all over the country. After all, they are the foundation of our economy and they play such an important role in our lives and in our communities on a daily basis.

It is with the spirit of that idea in mind that we're incredibly proud to offer a robust selection of commercial kitchen equipment, catering equipment and other items on a daily basis. In order to help take the advantages of these tax deductions one step further, we're even offering deep discounts on a huge number of items available today.

Cafeideas is currently running an End of Financial Year Sale, for example, allowing you to get maximum upfront savings on thousands of different items in our inventory. You can feel free to check out our catalogue for more information. Keep in mind, however, that the End of Financial Year Sale isn't something that is going to be around forever (one more week in fact!), so you need to act fast before these items return to their regular prices.

You'll also want to act fast so that you can take full advantage of the tax deductions along with our sale, as well. By combining the two, you're giving your business the added benefit that it needs to continue to grow and evolve well into the future.

Norris Under Bench Glasswasher and Drain Pump

One item that we're particularly proud to be able to offer is this Norris Under Bench Glasswasher and Drain Pump. It not only sports a 30 second cycle, which allows it to clean up to 1800 glasses per hour, but it also includes both automatic detergent injection and a selectable cold cooling rinse feature! This is the type of tough and reliable glass washer that will dutifully serve you for years to come, thanks to the fact that it was specifically designed to operate under whatever demanding conditions you need!

Sammic Cutlery Dryer and Polisher

Speaking of reliable equipment, look no farther than this Sammic Cutlery Dryer and Polisher for all of your hygiene needs. In addition to the stainless steel body and polishing tank, this fully automatic unit is capable of an hourly output of up to 3000 pieces - perfect for restaurants or food services businesses of any size! The included germicidal UVC-ray lamp is designed to sterilize both the cutlery inside and the polishing product, allowing you to guarantee the highest level of hygiene that your patrons will come to expect from a reputable business such as yourself.

Sammic Cutlery Polisher

Another item that we're proud to be able to offer in our current sale is this Sammic SAS-6001 Cutlery Polisher, which dries, polishes and even eliminates spotting on cutlery at the fastest possible rate. This unit isn't just speedy - it's capable of an hourly output of up to 8000 separate pieces! This particular unit is also equipped with a motor brake, which goes a long way towards not only shortening stopping time but also reducing vibrations and even improving the overall level of durability of the machine itself!

Whether you've got your eyes on that hot new warewashing item or if you're looking for food preparation machines, bench top equipment or more, check out the rest of our "End of Financial Year Sale" catalogue for more information! These amazing savings aren't going to be around forever, so act fast before you find yourself left behind! At Cafeideas, we're always adding new items to our inventory on a regular basis, so be sure to check back often to see the great equipment that you can use to run the best business possible on a daily basis!

The 4 meter law will apply, meaning that it will be forbidden to smoke within 4 meters of an entrance to or exit from a restaurant, pub, café or club. Additionally, smoking will be banned in any seated outdoor dining area of a café, restaurant or licensed venue while food is being served.

In order to keep your business competitive and avoid to loose potential smoking smokers, you will be allowed to create designated outdoor smoking areas. However they should not be located within 4 meters of the seated dining area and must meet other requirements.

“No smoking” signage must also be displayed within outdoor dining areas. Click here and order today free posters, flyers and signs compliant with Smoke-free environment regulation 2007.

You can download the factsheet here. Additionally, you can receive updates by registering here. For full information, visit NSW Health website today.

Heavy fines apply so you better be prepared!

LKK Griddle Toaster

One of the incredible items in the LKK product line that you can save money on right now is the LKK Griddle Toaster. Available in NG and LPG, this unit has three distinct burners that will make sure you always have the power you need when you need it the most. It has a full stainless steel constructed body, making it impossibly hygienic and easy to keep clean at all times. It's also height adjustable thanks to specially designed front feet with rear castors.

LKK 6 Gas Open Burner Cooktop and Oven

If you're in need of an item with a little more "oomph," look no farther than the LKK 6 Gas Open Burner Cooktop and Oven. This product truly has it all, including a modular, modern design that will look great in any type of environment and a flame failure safety device to help keep your employees and your customers as safe as possible at all times. It also has one of the most heavy-duty thermostats available on the market today - you can go from 100C to 340C with just a quick flick of your wrist. This particular item is also available in both NP and LPG for you to choose from depending on your needs.

LKK Waterless Double Burner Gas Wok Cooker

Last, but not least, you can put the power of the LKK brand name to work for you with this impressive LKK Waterless Double Burner Gas Wok Cooker. It features a sleek and stylish modern design, a stainless steel exterior, cast iron wok rings, a swivel laundry arm and more - all aimed at bringing you the most comprehensive solution possible for all of your wok needs. The flat iron front panel includes valve control options with both knee push and hand turn action. The removable drip tray and front gutter were also included to help make cleaning the unit easier than you could have ever thought possible.

If you're looking for incredible discounts on LKK Asian cooking equipment, you've certainly come to the right place. Be sure to browse our "Lead up to the End of Financial Year" sale catalogue so that you can see all of the other items that you can save money on, too. If you're looking for bench top equipment, industrial style furniture, food preparation machines and more, rest assured - Cafeideas is here to help.

Exquisite Double Door Upright Display Fridge

One of the items in our current sale that we’re particularly excited about is this incredible Exquisite SS1000P Upright Glass Chiller and Display Fridge. In addition to the type of high quality stainless steel construction that you can depend on for years to come, it has an amazing 100-litre capacity and comes complete with not one but EIGHT adjustable shelves! An electronic digital temperature control and an internal LED light are also standard features. This unit operates on a temperature range from 0 to 10C depending on your needs.

Bromic Two-Door Chiller

Another high quality item that you won’t be able to find anywhere else is this Bromic Two Door Under Bench Chiller. It’s got a 282-litre capacity, a digital temperature display, a high quality and durable stainless steel construction and more! The unit is designed to operate in a temperature range from +2 to +8 degrees Celsius depending on your preferences. It also includes high quality 50mm insulation for increased energy efficiency, which will translate to savings on your utility bill each month!

Bromic Four-Door Chiller

Finally, Cafeideas is also proud to offer incredible savings on this Bromic Four Door Chiller. This unit uses forced air cooling, which helps keep internal temperatures as consistent as possible at all times. The unit also uses an advanced Carel electronic controller, which not only provides an incredibly easy set point control but also a convenient temperature display. This product also offers energy efficiency control of the compressor with regards to run time and defrost settings and lockable front casters for increased efficiency! Legs are also available for you to install depending on your needs!

At Cafeideas, we’re committed to offering you unbeatable prices each and every day. We’re adding bench top equipment, food preparation machines and other items to our inventory all the time, so be sure to check back often to help make sure that you have every last piece of equipment you need to run the business you’ve always dreamed of. To find out more about the other items that we currently have on sale, be sure to check out the rest of our “End of Financial Year” sale catalogue. We guarantee that you’ll find something in there that you just won’t be able to live without!

From restaurants to caterers, from cafes to ice cream manufacturers, the Irinox range is suitable for all foodservice and food preparation industries. Its new technology ensures extended food freshness, greater food management, reduced costs and improved food safety standards.

The advantages of using an Irinox system:

✓ Pre-prepare meals without compromising food texture, flavour and freshness
✓ Cool and freeze food with speed and delicacy
✓ Continuously serve high quality food
✓ Reduce production costs
✓ Reduce food wastage
✓ Limit food weight loss
✓ Preserve food for longer

The results:

✓ Greater food management
✓ Maximum food quality, freshness and consistency
✓ Expand food menu options
✓ Better organisation
✓ Quicker customer service
✓ Improved safety standards
✓ Significant ongoing savings
✓ Ability to work smarter and boost profits

Are you baking croissants? The Irinox range has an ideal cycle for rising and preserving leavened dough. The cycle lets it rise and holds it until it is time to go into the oven.
Are you cooking specific types of meat or fish? The Irinox range has another cycle allowing you to enhance flavor and aroma and ensure even cooking and color preservation.

No matter what your needs are, you can choose from different cycles: delicate chilling, strong chilling, delicate freezer, and strong freezing. One will allow you to preserve maximum quality, aroma, taste and extending shelf life. The other will allow you to crystallize the liquid inside food without damaging its structure, maintaining moisture, texture and color.

Additionally, an innovative magnetic self-closing door was added for more convenience and to help you minimize the risk of temperature drop when the door kept opened for too long.

Finally, the HACCP system helps you to control your food and make sure it is not comprised through oxidation and spread of bacteria in every step of the storage.

Visit Cafeideas today and discover the brand new Irinox range.

Blue Seal Compact Combi Oven Steamer

If you're looking for one of the most powerful pieces of commercial kitchen equipment on the market today, look no farther than this incredible Blue Seal Compact Combi Oven Steamer. This is one item that has it all, including 6 x 1/1 GN tray capacity and high visibility alphanumerical displays for your convenience. It also comes complete with a two-speed fan, core temperature probes, a state-of-the-art fully automatic wash system and more.

Turbofan Electric Convection Oven

Another item that we're incredibly proud to offer a deep discount on is the Turbofan E31D4 Electric Convection Oven. With 80mm of tray spacing and a compact 810mm width and 616mm depth, this item is low profile enough to stay out of your way and powerful enough to be incredible valuable and versatile when you need it the most. It also includes many great features like a stay-cool door handle, a safe-touch vented side hinged door, vitreous enamelled oven chambers, a single directional low-velocity fan and more. Thanks to the large, easy to view 20mm high displays and the digital display time and temperature controls, you'll be hard pressed to find a more convenient solution for your kitchen.

Unox XF199 LineMiss 4 Tray Convection Oven

Another item that you can save a huge amount of money on is the Unox XF199 LineMiss 4 Tray Convection Oven. If you're looking for a smaller and more compact convection oven for your kitchen, this Unox LineMiss is the solution for you. It includes a humidity function that you can always depend on thanks to a water solenoid, the automatic opening of the door at the end of baking, compatibility with steam condensers and many other valuable and worthwhile features.

If you're interested in seeing other amazing convection oven and combi oven steamer deals, please check out our "End of Financial Year" sale catalogue for more information. You can also get a look at all of the bench top equipment, food preparation machines and other items that are heavily discounted for a limited time only. Act fast because these incredible savings definitely aren't going to be around forever and be sure to check the Cafeideas inventory often, as we're always adding as many new items as possible to help your business in any way that we can.

All the way back in Germany where all the Hobart machines are made, the Research & Development team developed the AM series around two main issues: environment protection and operational cost saving. In order for you to save money and contribute to a greener planet, every single element composing the AM models was carefully designed to achieve great results with fewer resources. With the AM series, it’s all about efficiency.

Their wash system ensures more effective cleaning results thanks to an efficient water distribution that avoids any masked areas and provides a broader and more precise spray pattern.

Additionally, the GENIUS-X fine filter system filters the wash water continuously and pumps out the soil particles. This is really important, as permanently clean wash water is the key requirement for an optimal wash result with less detergent.

Consistently high wash temperature will also be needed to reach excellent results as it extracts maximum cleaning performance from the wash water and optimize detergent performance. Finally, the E-STORE system was developed to maintain heat in the machine. This allows maintaining consistent wash results, as well as saving energy and reducing operating costs. Thanks to this system plus the hood insulation helping to further retain valuable energy during operation, you can save up to 3.5kWh.

Secondly, with the ACCURINSE system you can save on water bills. This system “pulls” rather than “pushes” the rinse water through the booster and is totally independent of flow pressure on site, thus preventing any mixing incoming cold water. It delivers precisely 2.0L of fresh water every cycle and allows saving up to 17%* water, energy, detergent, and rinse aid.

Finally, with a 440mm usable high, Hobart washing machines can wash a great variety of dishes and utensils. Plus, the EASY-LIFT innovative hood design reduces the physical stain on machine operators and is optimized for one hand operation. Visit Cafeideas today and discover the AM series that reduces water consumption and lower energy usage.

* Figures provided by Hobart.

“I was really impressed with Caféideas, even from looking at their website,” Abe explains. “They have good quality, plenty of options and they had a showroom that I could visit to choose what I needed.”

Once at the showroom, Abe was served by Vibha who became his representative throughout the transaction.

What problems had you experienced?
Originally, Abe would import tables and chairs from China, attempting to keep costs low. While cost was a positive factor – especially given that these items need to be replaced every two years or so – it was not possible to obtain replacements at short notice, should anything become damaged.

“We move our tables and chairs around a lot to accommodate different events, customer numbers and a range of activities we offer at La Cita. Now that we are dealing with Caféideas, we realise that it’s going to be a whole lot easier to have a local supplier.”

When doing his due diligence and looking into who else was using Caféideas, Abe was pleased with what he found. “Mind you, when I saw the way the place was functioning – and it was very impressive – I didn’t need to ask around. I simply decided for myself.”

Abe explains that he was happy with the ‘no hassle’ customer service, the quality of the products and the simplicity with which the transaction was conducted. “Everything arrived in excellent condition and on time and I was fully satisfied with the company’s terms and conditions.”

When asked if he would continue to use Caféideas for his tables and chairs purchases, he was quick to reply: “Absolutely. I see no reason to change now.”

About La Cita Restaurant/Bar/Nightclub
La Cita is the brainchild of Swedish world traveller, Abe Mafi. Starting in the hospitality industry in 1986, his first big foray into restaurant ownership came when he established a club in Tokyo in 1990. Named ‘Salsa Sudata’ (Spanish for ‘sweaty salsa’), the venue was such a success that it continues to be a favourite destination for Tokyo locals and tourists to this day. In October 2003, after more travels and absorbing more inspiration over the years, Abe decided the time was ripe to open a new, exciting venue in Australia. When he settled on the location – a new development at Kings Wharf – he purchased the site off the plan and built La Cita from the ground up.

Somewhat of a ‘sister venue’ to Salsa Sudata, La Cita is a concept different from anything else available in Sydney today. “It’s the concept, the flavour of the music, we are a one stop shop and we welcome patrons from age 20 right through to 70. We’re above all fun and exciting,” Abe says.

With two levels of entertainment and dining, there is plenty of room for the crowds of revellers who come in looking for much more than a meal and a drink. “It’s an amazing ambience,” Abe enthuses. “People who come here know that they can get some incredible South and Central American cuisine and wonderful drinks and they can have a dance into the early hours. Even the older people come to dance and they are happily embraced by the younger crowd. It’s fun and light and energetic.”

La Cita’s menu features all-you-can-eat churrasco as well as speciality dishes that hail from Colombia, Mexico and Peru. But customers can also be assured of a great steak, fresh seafood and other traditional Aussie fare.

Frequented by Sydney locals, interstate visitors and international tourists, La Cita has been running hot for more than 12 years and Abe is exceptionally proud of its longevity. “To be going for 12 years, there must be something pretty good about it!” he smiles.

Exhaust hoods are often undervalued, yet they have numerous benefits for you and people visiting your place. You should absolutely consider having one, if it’s not already the case. Today, all lights are on our range of Woodson countertop exhaust hoods.

Why should you have a countertop exhaust hood?
First, it will allow you to filter and remove hazardous air pollutants that come from cooking. You will be able to improve the air quality of your place, make it cleaner, and your customers will certainly appreciate that. After all, who enjoys being lost in the midst of smoke while enjoying a chai latte? No one.

By acting as a filter, it will offer health protection for everyone in the household, the cook as well as the customers.

Another great benefit of the countertop exhaust hoods, and this one is for the cook, is that it will help you reducing the excess of heat, smoke and stream produced while cooking. That way, you can focus on your recipe and not the sweat on your brow!

Why should you have a Woodson countertop exhaust hood?

These countertop models require no ductwork and are designed specifically for use over countertop equipment. They are made of stainless steel with a satin finish. All filters are easily removable and extremely simple to clean.

Woodson models include a powerful 4-speed variable speed fan and a ceiling-mounted fluorescent lighting for extra light - a great plus for the cook! The Woodson models are available in 2 sizes: 750mm and 1000mm wide.

Visit Cafeideas today to find out more about this must-have tool.

At Cafeideas, we understand that our robust selection of furniture is one of the most important elements of your business. It is only one element out of many, however. We pride ourselves on not only allowing you to find the solution you need to create the exact environment you've always wanted for your cafe, bakery or other restaurant, but also in empowering you to do so at the most affordable prices possible. It is with the spirit of that goal in mind that we are proud to announce our ongoing Easter Sale that will allow you to extend our normal, everyday savings even further. If you're looking for industrial style furniture at prices that won't eat into your bottom line, you've certainly come to the right place.

Vintage Side Chair

One item in our catalogue that we're particularly excited about is this bold Vintage Side Chair. It was designed both with extreme comfort and maximum versatility in mind thanks to both its sleek, curved back and its heavy duty sturdy steel frame. This is the type of chair that not only looks great, but that is strong enough to stand the test of time and remain something that you can depend on for years to come. This chair is available in two different industrial finishes for you to choose from depending on your needs - coffee rust and matt red rust. Note that both of these finishes can only be used indoors due to the specific type of treatment that was used on the metal to obtain its classical rustic appearance.

Brooklyn Chair

Another industrial style item that we're proud to be able to bring to your business is the gorgeous Brooklyn Chair, which is a high quality unit with a light weight aluminium frame. In addition to being as sturdy and as durable as possible, this chair is also easily stackable with others thanks to that aforementioned lightweight frame. If you're after a bentwood inspired chair that is as durable as possible, this is certainly the item that you've been waiting for.

Vintage Stool

In addition to chairs, we also have a variety of bar stools available in our Easter sale - like this beautiful Vintage Bar Stool. It's a heavy duty steel bar stool with a 75cm seat height. It is available in coffee rust or matt red rust finishes for you to choose from depending on the current visual design of your restaurant. It is easily stackable and is also designed for indoor use only.

It doesn't matter what type of industrial style furniture you're actually looking for - you'll be able to find everything you've ever wanted and more at Cafeideas. Our Easter Sale isn't just limited to this particular type of furniture, either - table bases, bench top equipment, food prep machines and more are all on sale during our Easter promotion. We urge you to check out the other promotional sections in our Easter Sale catalogue to find the products that you've been looking for today!

Even though the French cuisine counts numerous mouth-watering recipes, crepes have somehow managed to become the best-known dish from this beautiful country. Crepes have become a symbol, more, a synonym of France.

Making crepes has become a national pride, so yes, you can trust our French supplier Roller Grill, they sure know how to make the best crepes ever. It is a serious matter. With their 6 models and a full range of accessories, 100% made in France, Roller Grill offers you a complete solution that can be simply purchased and used.

All the models are made of a solid and durable stainless steel construction that perfectly resists heat damage. Plus, its shining finish gives it a pleasing appearance.

Plates are made of cast iron. This material has many benefits. First, it is an excellent heat conductor and it allows a better and even cooking. Second, it doesn’t scratch and lasts for decades. You can use any kind of utensils, plastic or metal. Finally, cast iron renders the plates nonstick so you do not need to add oil and your crepes will be lighter and non-greasy. It also avoids the toxic fumes that accompany most non-stick cookware and keep your place clean and fresh.

A temperature thermostat is located on the front of the units so you can easily adjust the temperature at any moment. Be aware, it is a critical element! A too-cooked crepe will be crunchy and a not-enough-cooked crepe will be indigestible. You don’t want to disappoint your customers, do you ?

The Roller Grill range includes single and double plate options, as well as 350 mm and 400 mm diameter options. Simply choose the combination that will best meet your requirements. All units come with a timber spreader tool.

Some say the quality of your crepes depends on the quality of the batter, some others say it depends on the way you spread the batter or the cooking temperature. At Cafeideas we believe all elements matter. We proudly supply Roller Grill crepe machines and stand by the French know-how and the quality of these units.

With winter just a few weeks away, start thinking today about the French options you can include in your menu. Of course, you can also include the American cousins, pancakes. Visit Cafeideas today and browse through our range. You can also get some inspiration here.

Bon appétit!

Please note, this article was written by a French person, hence the love for French crepes hidden behind the words of this article!

Now, thanks to Cafeideas and our new line of Flat Technology table bases, you won't have to worry about the wobbly table problem ever again.

What Are Flat Technology Table Bases?

Flat Technology table bases are exactly that - ones that are designed with a versatile self-levelling system to help both automatically stabilize the table itself and allow you as a business owner to align your table tops in any way that you see fit - guaranteed. Flat Technology is constantly sensing and adjusting to the surface below, making sure that the surface area is always safe and secure at all times.

Wobbly tables are one of the most common (and most costly) complaints in the food service industry. Now, thanks to Cafeideas and Flat Technology, you won't have to worry about it anymore. You can provide a better level of service to your customers, improve your brand's reputation and increase revenue all in one fell swoop.

Easter Sale on Table Bases

As if the benefits of Flat Technology weren't enough, we're also proud to announce that we're currently running an Easter promotion that will allow you to stretch the normal savings that you've come to expect from Cafeideas even further. A large amount of items from our robust inventory are heavily discounted during this time, like the Corsica 4 Way Aluminium Table Base. Available in either an aluminium or black finish depending on your needs, this high quality item includes adjustable feet and extra weight to help make sure that your table stays in one place at all times.

Corsica 4-Way Aluminium Table Base

During the sale you can also save an additional 10% off all orders placed over $2000 and a whopping 15% of all orders placed over $5000 (excluding GST), extending these incredible values even further.

Whether you're looking for a way to get rid of your wobbly table problems once and for all or are just looking for new table bases to give your restaurant that look you've been after, Cafeideas is here to help. You can check out these and all of the other wonderful products that are on sale during Easter by checking out our Easter Sale catalogue here. We've got deals on everything from industrial style furniture to outdoor chairs to commercial kitchen equipment and more. These savings aren't going to be around forever, so be sure to check out our promotion before you miss out!

Sammic Vegetable Prep Machine

If you or your employees do a lot of work with vegetables, you can save time, money and energy with this gorgeous Sammic Vegetable Prep Machine. This unit features high quality, stainless steel construction - creating the type of item that is truly in it for the long haul. You get a uniform, unparalleled cutting result every time thanks to the advanced tools that are at work. You can obtain over 70 different styles of product with this one solution. In addition to featuring an electronic, user-friendly control board, the machine also includes an ergonomic design that is incredibly comfortable at all times.

Sammic CA-301 Vegetable Prep Machine

Sirman Single Ceramic Sandwich Press

Are you looking for the type of high quality, versatile sandwich press that you know will dutifully serve you for years to come? Look no farther than this Sirman Single Ceramic option. In addition to fully ceramic glass upper and lower plates, this product features the type of high quality stainless steel construction that offers easy maintenance and unparalleled durability. The self-balancing and fully adjustable upper plates also give you complete control over the operation of the unit at all times. The list price on this item is $1,350, but during our Easter sale you can take it home for just $810 - beat that!

Bargains Galore!

Cafeideas’ Lead up to End of Financial Year Sale is chock-full of extraordinary bargains on bench top equipment and food prep machines. Check out our fabulous Boema coffee machine package deals and Juicer specials. These are the type of discounts that you'll definitely want to take advantage of before it's too late! Sale prices are applicable to available stock only, so get in and grab a bargain today.

In addition to deep discounts on bench top equipment, food prep machines and more, we're also offering terrific deals on industrial style furniture, table bases, indoor and outdoor furniture and more. Head on over to our website to check out our full Lead up to End of Financial Year Sale catalogue to find out about all of the money that you can start saving today!

A few weeks ago we were telling you about our refrigeration equipment supplier Bromic and their amazing range of refrigerated cake displays. Today we tell you about their range of back bar glass chillers. With 35 years in business, they have developed experience and know-how, and have become one of the best on the market.

The Bromic back bar glass chillers combine robustness and styleand are ideal to display drinks in bars and restaurants. Available in one, two and three door models, these units feature glass doors and LED lighting to create a stunning visual impact.

Made of black powder coated steel they are solid and durable. Small and compact, they can be fitted anywhere around your counter. Their extra storage capacity ranges from 108 to 330 litres, depending on the model. Even their durable adjustable shelves make it easier for you and offer a greater flexibility to store your products.

So, these Bromic freestanding chillers are small, robust and stylish. Their black external finish gives them such an elegant look and has such a positive impact on the products displayed. It enhances your drinks and makes them even more irresistible. It is an excellent way encourage spur-of-the-moment decisions and increase impulsive purchases.

Thanks to an efficient and bright LED lighting, your products receive the best exposure possible. LED lighting is indeed brighter than normal lighting and enhances colours, which means your customers can perfectly and easily recognise their favourite drinks and grab them. Additionally, LED lighting does not produce heat, which ensures the chillers remain cool, ranging from 0 to +10°C. Last but not least, low energy LED lighting is more efficient and environment friendly.

And because smaller details also matter, there is a digital temperature display that makes it easy for you to adjust and control the temperature at any moment.

Visit Cafeideas today to find out more about these little gems.

Lipari Bench Seat and Marte Table

Nardi Aria Armchair

Are you looking for the perfect outdoor furniture solution that immediately says, "Come over here, sit back and relax?" to customers as they walk by your restaurant? Look no farther than the gorgeous Nardi Aria Armchair. It's available in eight different colours to choose from including avana, coffee, green, orange, purple, red and more. Made in Italy, this unit is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use thanks to the high quality polypropylene construction and the fact that it's UV stable. It also comes complete with a full two-year warranty that was generously provided by Nardi to help cover any unfortunate issues that you may experience.

Nardi Lipari Outdoor Bench Seat

Made in Italy from an incredibly high quality, UV resistant polypropylene resin, the Nardi Lipari Outdoor Bench Seat is the perfect option for the quaint and cosy environment that you're trying to create in your restaurant. You can choose from anthracite or white colours depending on your needs. The resistant nature of the piece makes it perfect for outdoor use, but it would also look great indoors should you prefer. Thanks to the durable polypropylene resin that was used during its construction, the item won't degrade due to atmospheric pollutants over time. It's also stackable for your convenience.

Nardi Marte Round Outdoor Table

Outdoor seating is great, but it ultimately won't mean a thing if you don't have other high quality furniture options to back it up. In that regard, the Nardi Marte Round Outdoor Table is just what the proverbial doctor ordered. Also made in Italy, this round table features a gorgeous stone tiled print and features a top that is covered with a film that can be cleaned easily over time. The table is constructed from high quality polypropylene resin making it both UV resistant and ultimately recyclable.

The savings during this promotion aren't limited merely to the Nardi outdoor furniture range. You can find incredible discounts on bench top equipment, food prep machines, table bases, Cobra griddles, oven steamers and more. Head over to our official website and check out our full Easter Sale catalogue to find out what you've been missing!

Vienna Chair

One of our outdoor chairs that we're particularly excited about is the Vienna Chair. Made out of a high quality polypropylene material, this elegant item is available in lime green, black, red, orange, yellow, blue and white. These chairs are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, creating a versatile solution that will always be there for you in your time of need. These chairs are designed to be stackable for easy storage when not in use and come pre-assembled, so no additional work will be required. It really doesn't get much easier than that.

Vienna Chair

Ribbon Chair

Another high quality outdoor seating option that we're enthusiastic about is the Ribbon Chair, which is available in red, yellow, light grey, white, lime green and black. The chair allows for maximum comfort at all times and also features a unique design that will allow you to make the best possible impact on your patrons. This is another option that is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, allowing for maximum versatility at all times. In addition to being a full polypropylene chair, the Ribbon Chair is also easily stackable, allowing you to quickly make room when you need it.

Ribbon Chair

Additional Promotions

If you thought the prices of the items themselves was the only thing notable about our Easter Sale, think again. For a limited time, you can also save between 10 and 15% on your entire order when paying in full at the time of purchase. You can save an incredible 10% off any order over $2000 (excluding GST), and 15% off on any orders over $5000 (excluding GST). This is the type of promotion that won't be around forever, so be sure to take advantage today while you still have the chance. At Cafeideas, the savings never stop!

Regardless of what type of outdoor chair you're looking for, Cafeideas is here to help. Feel free to browse the rest of our Sale catalogue and be sure to check out the other sections, as well. We also have amazing deals going on that will allow you to take advantage of incredible savings on industrial style furniture, table bases, bench top equipment, food prep machines and more!

Located very close to the city center, the factory was nearly destroyed during the earthquake in 2011. Despite recommendations to relocate the factory to a safer place, owner Guy Stewart was adamant that it remains in Christchurch, saving all their employees from losing their jobs.

One of the highlights of this trip was to visit the test chamber. We had previously heard a lot about it and were looking forward to seeing it. As its name implies, the main purpose of this chamber is to test commercial refrigeration and foodservice products before they are launched on the market. Skope invested $1 million in their Research & Development department to build this test chamber and continue to design and manufacture market-leading products.

Made from MISA modular cool room panels, a product Skope imports from Italy, the test chamber measures 11m x 6.2m x 3.3m and can be set to temperatures ranging from 3 to 50°C, with up to 90% humidity. With all these settings available, Skope engineers are able to simulate almost any kind of environment, which is important when refrigeration units need to perform at the highest standard in some of the harshest climates in the world, such as Darwin.

Testing all products in these conditions and over a specific period of time ensures you are guaranteed high quality refrigeration equipment and your customers are guaranteed better service with a cold drink every time they visit your place. Most importantly, it ensures food and safety standards are consistently met. Food stored between 5 and 60°C allows rapid growth of bacteria so it is extremely important to invest in high-quality equipment you can rely on.

Do not be afraid of investing more as you will eventually get a great return on investment. First, Skope products will last longer and will require only low maintenance, if any, so in the long run you will save money. Second, because you will be able to offer your customers a better experience, you will get a higher satisfaction rate and more loyal returning customers.

From under counter chillers to upright freezers, we count over 100 Skope products on Cafeideas website. Browse through their range today and discover you next purchase!

A big thank to the Skope team for having us!

Additionally, you can check this cool video and take the factory virtual tour:

When it comes to actually picking out those furniture items for use in your cafe or bakery, there are three main reasons why you should definitely consider custom made options.

Custom Cafe Booth

1. They're Unique by Their Very Nature

One of the best ways that you can stand out from your competition has to do with the visual style of your restaurant. Even if you and your closest competitor have the same basic menu, you will guarantee repeat customers through the careful use of theme. Custom made furniture is one of the best ways to solidify that theme by creating the type of environment that your customers won't be able to find anywhere else. Custom made log stools, for example, are solid hardwood iron bark logs that can be designed in any size, shape or configuration that you'd like.

2. They're Incredibly Versatile

No two businesses are created equally. Two different cafes can offer largely the same items and may even be using the same types of catering equipment, but the one area where they will usually vary the most has to do with layout and configuration. Your cafe will have a size, shape and style all its own. As a result, traditional furniture options may not allow you to make the most out of the space you have available to you. You may find that perfect dining table, for example, only to be disappointed when you find out that it doesn't quite fit in the space that you're actually working with.

With custom furniture options, you don't have to worry about those issues. Custom made seating and partitions can be made to any size or special requirement, for example, and even come in a wide range of different colours for you to choose from depending on your needs.

3. They Can Help You Achieve Exactly What You're After

When it comes to designing the look and feel of your restaurant, you probably have a pretty good idea of what you're trying to accomplish. The issue is that while you may be able to find seating options, surface areas or other types of products that get you pretty close, it's difficult to find the absolute perfect item to allow you to recreate exactly what is in your head. With custom made furniture, you're limited by nothing - items are designed to your exact specifications and will help you achieve exactly what you're after with minimal fuss.

If you are in the market for new furniture for your café or restaurant and you can’t seem to find exactly what you are looking for, why not consider purchasing custom-made furniture? Cafeideas can supply your café or restaurant with the widest range of custom-made furniture to satisfy your every design whim. Contact us today for further information.

One of our best sellers is the ES32 pass-through recirculating dishwasher. It has the features and benefits listed below.

This high capacity upright dishwasher is economical and efficient. With its standard 500 x 500mm racks and 30L capacity tank, you can wash up to 700 pieces per hour. Thanks to its large opening (340 mm height) you can even fit all your bulky kitchen utensils. This model will wash all types of crockery, cutlery and glassware and accept.

It was ergonomically designed and is suitable for corner on inline installation. Its bench height pass-through operation eliminates the need for operators to bend over during loading and unloading, ensuring greater efficiency, safety and convenience. Made of stainless steel, non-ferrous and durable synthetic materials, this model is reliable and durable.

Its fully automatic operation makes this model extremely easy to use. Just slide the loaded rack in and the cycle will start automatically when the hood is closed. The same way, it will stop automatically if the hood is opened. Electro mechanical controls are here to help you master this unit.

Equipped with a powerful wash system composed of a high volume pump and upper and lower spray arms, this Eswood dishwasher ensures high wash quality and hygiene. The high water circulation guarantees dishes and glasses are cleaned thoroughly. This also allows a faster cleaning, and you will appreciate this point as you can’t afford to spend time waiting for your washer to complete long cycles. With this ES32 dishwasher you can choose from 2 wash cycles are available: 85 and 115 seconds.

Visit Cafeideas today and discover the entire Eswood range of dishwashers and glasswashers.

The challenge
To create a healthy noodle bar with appropriate décor to suit the foods on offer and the kinds of customers that would frequent the business.

How Cafeideas helped
Pat explains that by far, the biggest benefit of having Cafeideas on board was the fact that they could get advice, equipment and furnishings, all from the one supplier. She says they did originally look around at approximately five other suppliers but found that it was easier to deal only with Cafeideas. “The staff are very nice at Cafeideas, they help us a lot,” Pat says. “We discuss our requirements and they give us solutions.”

Offering takeaway and dine-in, Food Buds offers seating for thirty customers. Given the diversity of the cuisines available – Thai, Japanese and Korean – it was important that the décor would reflect the Asian influence, but also be comfortable for the local people. Pat tells us they already had pretty firm ideas on how they would want the shop to look. “Marisa really enjoyed being able to look around at the colour ranges, the leg style and height of the tables and chairs. We felt Cafeideas had lots of different variety to choose from.”

It was also necessary to put in place some help-yourself fridges so that customers could select their favourite drink and be ready to quickly pay for their order and run out the door to continue with their busy day.

Cafeideas supplied benches, under-bench fridges, display cabinets, tables, chairs, the cooker and deep fryers. Pat says that the choices made were not always dependant on price and that some elements were more or less costly according to the specific requirements. “Vibha would explain that something might be cheaper but that it will last as long as we need it to and then left it to Marisa to make the final decision.”

Not being her first shop, Marisa had plenty of knowledge to draw upon but found it invaluable to have a supplier who could help nail down the final solutions. “They were never pushy but they always helped with advice and product. We particularly loved that we could send them an email and by the next day we’d have a list of product suggestions by return email from Cafeideas. They’re really good at keeping up good communication about stock availability. And we were always able to deal with the same person at Cafeideas.

Asked if they would use Cafeideas again in any future business, Pat was emphatic: “Of course, they really made everything so easy and we appreciated their customer service.”

About Food Buds
Food Buds offers fresh Japanese, Thai and Korean noodles of various types including egg, udon and hokkien. They even have a special sweet potato noodle from Korea that is Paleo-appropriate, something that is becoming more and more in demand. Along with the noodles – or rice, if they prefer – customers can select the sauce and the meat they’d like and their dish is prepared before their very eyes. Some choose stir fried vegetables, others go right to the fresh salad bar and make up their lunch or dinner with their favourite ingredients.

Food Buds is about healthy options and accommodating customer requirements. They have gluten free noodles, sauces and salads as well as items that are safe for those with nut allergies. There are also superfoods such as the increasingly popular quinoa, and all ingredients are shown in full view for customers’ interest and peace of mind. Fresh juices are made to order.

The business’s weekday customers are busy professionals who work in the surrounding offices and stores, who come in looking for a healthy, quick and delicious meal. Some rush in and rush right out again whereas others stay and eat or even meet clients or associates at Food Buds to discuss business.

For those looking for something a little less virtuous, there are tasty burgers, fish and chips on offer so there is a selection to suit a variety of tastes.

Open from 10.30am to 8pm Tuesday to Saturday, the coffee machine keeps the place humming all day long. Food Buds is seriously good food for the busy, the famished and those whose dietary challenges narrow their choices. And with plenty of care and consideration in the menu, everybody can be happy at Food Buds!

Thu, 30 Apr 2015 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.cafeideas.com.au/blog/emerging-restaurant-design-trends-2015/ Make no mistake: Restaurant and Shop Fit Out Design is one of the most important tools that you have in your arsenal; regardless of the type of business you're running. Your competition might be able to offer similar food, but the one thing they'll never be able to recreate is the experience that people actually get from dining in at your establishment. Restaurant design doesn't just allow you to set yourself apart from the rest of the pack, but it also allows you to invoke a particular feeling or emotion out of every last person that walks through the door.

Out of all of the emerging restaurant design trends for 2015 and beyond, there are a few in particular that we at Cafeideas think you're definitely going to want to pay attention to.

High Tech Advancements

Thanks to the plummeting cost of high tech electronics, one emerging restaurant design for 2015 has to do with the ways in which restaurants of all types are embracing these components. Many restaurants are incorporating elements like tablets right at the table, for example, allowing patrons to quickly change an order and more. Not only are these tech items handy to keep the flow of the restaurant moving as quickly as possible, but they're also a great way for the businesses themselves to save a little money through increased efficiency at the same time. A high tech atmosphere may not be the right style for every type of business, but for those that find it to be a good fit it is definitely worth looking into.

Tablet Ordering System

Bringing Food Preparation Out of the Kitchen and Onto the Table

For many years, food preparation is something that was routinely handled "in the back" of a building, far away from the eyes of the patrons. One interesting emerging restaurant design trend bucks that norm, however, and is seeing more and more businesses essentially include customers in all parts of the process. With a Modular Commercial Wood Fired Oven, for example, you can easily allow customers to get up close and personal with their pizza as it is prepared by placing this item right out in the open. This type of design trend will only enhance the overall experience that you're capable of offering in a fun, bold and interesting way. Many restaurants are also adding more options for tableside cooking, allowing a chef to prepare a customer's food right at the table instead of in the kitchen at all.

Local, Local, Local

As businesses expand and get more successful, it can be natural to want to appeal to the largest group of people possible. This appears to be reversing, however, as an emphasis on all things local is yet another emerging restaurant design trend for 2015. Really embracing everything that makes your restaurant a local business, from the menu items to the look and feel of the space itself, is another popular way that business owners are embracing authenticity and offering patrons something they can't get anywhere else in the world.

Tastes and trends are in constant flux, so nobody can accurately predict what may be the hot new thing in any industry. The team here at Cafeideas keeps abreast of modern trends in cafes and restaurants as part of maintaining our industry leading knowledge. We scour the world for the finest furniture and commercial kitchen equipment to ensure your business is ahead of the competition. Contact us today to discuss your needs.

Fresh Baked Bread

1. Embrace Technology

While it's true that bakeries existed long before the technological advancements of today's modern era, you don't necessarily have to do everything "the old fashioned way." Embracing the boldest and brightest that technology has to offer isn't just a way to stay head of the game - it's a way to meet demand head on. Take the Maestro Mix ROL-MOL280 Freestanding Roll/Loaf Moulder, for example. With its adjustable dough hopper and reverse operational capabilities, this product brings unprecedented flexibility and versatility to your business. The fact that you'll be spending less time and energy handling dough means that you get to save on labour costs. The digital controls also allow you to fine tune the machine to your liking so that you can turn out the same high quality product time and again.

2. Versatility in Supplies

Another important factor to keep in mind is that there isn't necessarily one "magic" equipment solution to all of your bakery needs. If you want to achieve the best possible results, you'll have to employ a wide range of tools that don't try to do everything with mixed results, but that do specific things exceedingly well. The F.E.D. MENDOZA Conical Rounder is an example of this type of logic at play. It's a celeste conical rounder that is perfect for making ball shaped dough. It also features the type of compact and noiseless design that will allow it to work exceedingly well and still keep a low profile in the back room of your bakery at all times.

3. Theme

Another great way to separate yourself from the competition is to develop a theme to call your very own. Visit local bakeries in the area and take a look around. Forget the actual product itself for a moment and closely consider the environment. What type of image are they trying to create? What are the fixtures and other design elements that they're using to achieve that goal? More importantly, what thematic hole is being left by the competition in the bakeries in your area that you can fill with your own establishment? That is the type of opportunity you need to seize.

The team here at Cafeideas love the smells and environment of a quality bakery as much as anybody, and we pride ourselves in sourcing and supplying only the finest bakery equipment to ensure your bakery rises above the competition. If you wish to discuss any of our bakery equipment or to seek advice on outfitting, please contact us today.

This simple-looking yet efficient Anvil sandwich press with flat plates will allow you do cook wonders.

Small and compact, it is ideal for delis, bars, cafes and many other food service operators. Are you serving French croque-monsieurs, Italian focaccias or Cuban sandwiches? This countertop cooking equipment will become your best friend and allow you to toast sandwiches, as well as grill burgers, tomatoes and any kind of vegetables.

This Anvil sandwich press can heat up to 300°C and thank to its cast aluminium plates, it will dutifully withstand the high temperatures required to cook food properly. Additionally, the heat resistant handle will allow you to manipulate this hot stuff without burning your wings!

This strong and durable material that is cast aluminium will remain useful for a number of years and operate consistently with no more than minimal care. Easy to clean, with just a damp cloth or a sponge dipped in soapy water. Additionally, the drip cup will catch the excess of grease and help you to keep the counter clean. We all know how untidy it can get if we don’t clean quickly after use!

The cooking surface of this Anvil appliance is 330 x 355 mm, which is equivalent to 4 slices - much appreciated during rush hours when the demand suddenly increases. These sandwich presses are medium duty electrical appliances capable of toasting a variety of bread products and sandwiches. And thank to its adjustable top flat plate, a variety of food thicknesses can be cooked in an uniform way on both sides.

Wait no longer and visit Cafeideas website today to discover our Anvil sandwich presses. Alternatively, we also have many other brands - go have a look while you visit our website!

Since its beginning in 1988, our supplier LKK has been designing and manufacturing commercial cooking equipment. Thank to their know-how and the ever-improving technologies used, they are today able to offer a reliable and impressively extensive range of appliances including burner woks, cooktops, chargrills, griddles and burner + griddle models.

All the LKK items represent a perfect combination of a high quality construction, a modern design and an affordable price. Today we focus on our OB series, which includes our best seller: the LKKOB6 6 open burner cooktop. This series comes with a variety of configurations designed to save space and fit in any kitchen layout.

Design and construction
The LKK OB series includes freestanding models with a modern and elegant design. Their full stainless steel construction makes them solid, durable and also gives them a nice shine.

They come with a splash back, high enough to prevent the aspirant painters among your staff from coloring the wall behind and dirtying around. Their adjustable front feet and rear rollers allow you to find the perfect height.

All units are fully modular and you can select your very own settings. Natural gas or LPG? 2,4,6 or 8 burners? Side grill plate on the left or on the right? It’s up to you! Visit Cafeideas website today to read full specifications about each model.

Safety
The LKK units are equipped with a standard flame failure technology, which means that if pilot flames go out it will shut down the main flow of gas to the burner. When the main flow of gas is shut down it will prevent the opportunity of large amounts of gas to build up which could ignite and cause an explosion.

Hygiene
Because units are made of a stainless steel exterior, they are extremely easy to clean. Additionally, burner caps and drip trays are removable, which makes the cleaning even easier.

The LKK OB series goes from $1,000 to slightly over $3,000. Discover the range today and discover the numerous other series available at Cafeideas.

Wood Fire Pizza Oven

1. Brand

One of the key factors that you're looking for when purchasing a wood fire pizza oven is the brand. Just as you wouldn't buy something as expensive as a high definition television set from a company that you didn't explicitly trust, the same theory is true of something as important for your business as a wood fire pizza oven.

CafeIdeas.com.au offers an extensive range of pizza ovens from companies like Vesuvio. Vesuvio in particular has been around for decades and is now recognized by industry leaders as one of the best brands that are currently operating in the market today.

2. Designs and Kitchen Efficiency

Another important factor that you'll need to pay attention to has to do with the design of the pizza oven, the size of the product and how that will relate to the environment that you're actually placing it in. Some larger units are designed to stand freely directly on the floor of your kitchen. Depending on the size of the unit and the current configuration of that kitchen, however, this may not be an ideal solution. Wood fire pizza ovens tend to be quite large, so buying a unit that is too big and placing it in just the wrong spot could make the normal day to day functionality of your kitchen quite a bit more difficult for the staff, resulting in lost productivity.

On the other hand, certain wood fire pizza ovens are designed to stack directly on top of one another. These tend to have shorter legs than those that are intended to be freestanding. The benefit of this is that it allows you to have access to the latest in wood fire pizza oven technology, all while allowing you to maximize the floor space available to your kitchen staff at the same time.

3. Capacity

You'll also need to purchase a wood fire pizza oven that is the right fit for your specific business. Some pizza ovens are designed for large capacity situations and offer peak performance at an incredibly high volume. This would be great for popular restaurants where pizza is one of the top items on your menu. If you don't have these types of high capacity requirements, however, smaller options are also available. One of the great things about these wood fire pizza ovens is that you can always choose the right option that will meet your productivity requirements, regardless of what those requirements happen to be.

With ANZAC day just around the corner, you’ve probably noticed that people around you have started to share their very own recipes of ‘the best Anzac biscuits ever’. Yes but, did they tell you about the best oven ever to bake them? No worries, we have this part sorted for you.

The Turbofan 20 series of convection ovens will provide you with what you need. With their modern and smart design, these ovens will look amazing in your front of house. This series offers a new standard in reduced oven footprints, a broader product series and increased loading capacity to suit any application. It enables you to achieve consistent results and evenness of baking.

The Turbofan 20 series offers the following footprint configurations.

✓ Vitreous enamel oven chamber
✓ Safe-touch vented drop down door
✓ Stay-cool door handle
✓ Heavy-duty door hinges
✓ Easy clean door glass system
✓ 100% recyclable packaging

Single ovens can be mounted on Turbofan stands, all of them being made of stainless steel and having standard 6 trays. These stands come in a flat pack kitset and require simple 10-minute assembly.

Among the Turbofan 20 series, our best sellers are the E22M3 and E27M3.

The E22M3 is a 3-tray half size manual electric convection oven. This model is very simple to use and has a small footprint, which makes it portable and ideal for countertop use and/or small kitchens. It is great for baking of morning and convenience foods such cookies, muffins, biscuits, and even baked potatoes, frozen pizzas. For all your snack and takeout foods, this is the perfect model. Its single direction fan makes the E22M3 oven perfect to use across a wide range of applications.

The E27M3 is a 3-tray full size manual electric convection oven. It provides an increased heating power and capacity as it offers the output of three full trays. Its single bi-directional reversing fan system allows the heat to circulate efficiently and effectively. The E27M3 oven is ideal for delivering a variety of perfectly baked and cooked goods.

Both models are perfect to bake ANZAC biscuits. It only depends on the quantity. Buy your oven today and start baking tomorrow.

Visit Cafeideas website today to find out more about the Turbofan 20 series and the rest of the range. Additionally, discover our best Anzac biscuit recipe here ever. Tested and approved!

Dining Table Chairs in a Hotel Restaurant

1. Thematic Restaurant Design

In an era now long passed, many hotel restaurants took their design cues from the business they were literally inside of. The biggest advantage a hotel restaurant or bar had was that there were already hundreds of guests staying just a few feet away at any given moment. Practicality was key. Thanks to fierce competition, this is no longer the case.

As a result, hotel restaurant design has had to evolve through the use of things like creative themes. By making excellent use of a particular theme, a business is creating a space that is more than just an extension of the hotel itself. The restaurant becomes a destination all unto itself and one that people will feel compelled to visit even if they aren't necessarily staying in the hotel at all. A theme allows for a restaurant to be the true, memorable exhibition space that it should be.

2. Focus on the Lighting

Humans are intensely visual creatures - the way something looks will dramatically affect the way that same thing is ultimately perceived. In terms of restaurant design ideas for hotels, unique and strategic lighting is one of the best ways to create a uniquely unforgettable space that people will come from miles around to experience.

By utilizing not only strategic lighting but also dynamic lighting, you can chance the look and feel of a restaurant at a moment's notice. You can create a dimly lit and much more intimate space for small gatherings or private parties or a much more bright, fun and "energetic" space when the crowds start to pour in. More importantly, you can pivot between these two types of ideas and back again at a moment's notice - creating a much more versatile space that caters to the needs of your customers as they continue to change.

3. Incorporating Commercial and Industrial Design Trends

One of the major design trends with regards to restaurant ideas for hotels that is certainly worth paying attention to has to do with the ways in which businesses are incorporating certain necessary elements as part of the aesthetic. Commercial kitchen equipment, catering equipment and more isn't necessarily something that needs to be hidden - it can be placed "up close and personal" in the design to help patrons feel like they truly are a part of their environment. This will also create the type of unique dining space that people won't be able to find anywhere else.

The challenge

To transform a space previously occupied by a Japanese restaurant into a Mediterranean coffee house/restaurant in a timeframe of around three months.

How Caféideas helped

Tom explains that even before signing the lease, a major priority was a phone call to Damien Aitken at Caféideas to discuss some early planning.

“I’ve been dealing with Caféideas for twelve years,” Tom says. “I’ve had other restaurants and cafés and I’ve always found that I get the best service and advice from them. I don’t bother calling anyone else.”

Damien, Tom says, has become integral to the success of the café. “I first worked with Damien 12 years ago and I trust his advice completely. I simply told him what I was doing and what I needed and he helped me turn what used to be a Japanese restaurant into a rustic Greek-style café.”

The refit took around three months and in that time, Tom was able to turn to Damien for the equipment including grills, char grills and toasters plus other must-have kitchen items. At times, Tom explained what he was considering installing and Damien provided advice that saved money and delivered better efficiency.

“Yes, Damien knows his product, for sure. He doesn’t just go for the sale. He tells us exactly what we need and I trust him. Sometimes the best solution is not the most expensive and Damien will always point us in the right direction.

Ironwood also purchased the chairs and tables for the restaurant and were again guided by Damien and his product knowledge. He selected items that would not only match the décor but be appropriate for the style of food that would be served.

The fit-out was not 100 per cent without problems. “We took delivery of some equipment but it didn’t fit,” Tom says, “but Damien sorted everything out quickly. In fact, I once had a problem at a previous restaurant where I called him and said I needed four or five microwaves urgently and would you know, Damien turned up himself with them that afternoon!”

When asked if he had shopped around among other suppliers, Tom was insistent. “I wouldn’t even consider it. I’m getting great service, always the right advice and I know that I’m getting the best product for my needs at the best price.”

About Ironwood Coffee Company/Café

At its heart, Ironwood is about extraordinary boutique coffee roasted by passionate people. The business only buys organic, fair trade coffee from small farms with a maximum of 4 to 6 acres. On any small farm, there will naturally be a prime spot with perhaps half a dozen trees that produce the finest of the beans thanks to variations in soil, rainfall or sun exposure. The Ironwood gents have a profound understanding of these conditions and know exactly where to find a coffee in response to niche consumer demand. “If someone wants to try a particular coffee from a particular country,” Tom says, “we can get it for them any time.” Customers can purchase exquisite, hand-roasted beans from Ironwood to take home and explore at their leisure.

In addition to fabulous coffee, Ironwood serves up vibrant Mediterranean dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner and offers irresistible cakes and desserts throughout the day. A bustling, family-friendly environment that also caters to those seeking specialist coffee advice, Ironwood welcomes all who enjoy great food, superb coffee and a hearty welcome.

Wed, 01 Apr 2015 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.cafeideas.com.au/blog/Goldstein-Pizza-Ovens/