When you open a new café, a large part of the budget goes on equipment. The right equipment list ensures fast, consistent service from day one; wrong or missing choices affect both the customer experience and running costs. The list below summarises the essential equipment for a typical café serving espresso-based drinks.
1. Espresso machine
It’s the heart of the café. The most important criterion is the number of groups: 2 groups are usually enough for a low-volume boutique café, while busy locations opt for 3 groups or two machines. Also consider the heating system (single boiler, heat exchanger, multi-boiler), steam power and service support.
2. Coffee grinder
Good espresso starts with freshly and correctly ground coffee. For espresso you need at least one on-demand grinder (grinding to order). If your menu includes filter coffee or different beans, it’s worth planning a second grinder.
3. Barista equipment
A tamper or automatic tamper (for consistent tamping)
Milk pitchers, precision scales, a knock box
Cleaning brushes and espresso machine cleaning products
4. Filter and brewing equipment
If your menu includes brewed coffee, you’ll need a filter coffee machine for high-volume service, and brewing equipment such as a V60 or Chemex for third-wave coffee.
5. Refrigeration
An undercounter refrigerator for milk, desserts and ready-to-eat food is needed in almost every café. If you serve cold drinks, add an ice machine; if you sell products from a display, add a display refrigerator.
6. Dishwasher
A professional glasswasher or dishwasher for fast, hygienic washing of cups and glasses directly affects service speed at peak times.
7. Water treatment
A water softener or treatment system for the espresso machine and ice machine protects both the taste of your drinks and the life of your equipment. It’s one of the most often forgotten items — and one of the biggest money-savers.
Planning tips
Finalise your menu before choosing equipment — the menu determines the equipment.
Plan the counter around the equipment dimensions and decide on water, drainage and power points in advance.
Factor spare parts and technical service support into your purchasing decision.
KEF supplies everything a café needs, from the espresso machine to the dishwasher, from a single source. Get in touch to plan your project together.
