JES Equipment Blog | Home Kitchen Guides

How to Maintain Your Commercial Ice Machine

Posted by Troy Alston on 5/30/2025

Extend Lifespan, Improve Ice Quality & Avoid Costly Repairs Whether you run a busy restaurant, café, hotel, or healthcare facility, your commercial ice machine is one of your hardest-working (and often overlooked) pieces of equipment. Ice is

Air Fryer vs. Convection Oven: Which One’s Right for You?

Posted by Troy Alston on 4/30/2025

Air Fryer vs. Convection Oven: Which One’s Right for You? In recent years, both air fryers and convection ovens have become kitchen staples for home cooks and professionals alike. They offer faster cooking, crispier textures, and greater efficiency

Navigating Tariffs in the Restaurant Business: A Guide for Owners and Chefs

Posted by Troy Alston on 3/31/2025

Tariffs can have a significant impact on the restaurant industry, affecting everything from ingredient costs to equipment purchases. Restaurant owners and chefs must navigate these challenges strategically to maintain profitability while continuing

The Unsung Heroes of the Kitchen: Oven Mitts and Pot Holders

Posted by JES Team on 1/31/2025

When it comes to kitchen essentials, we often think of cutting boards, knives, and skillets. Yet, two humble tools—oven mitts and pot holders—play a crucial role in ensuring both safety and convenience. They may not be the flashiest items in your

The Boos Block R-Board Series—Craftsmanship at Its Finest

Posted by JES Team on 5/28/2024

Are you in search of a dependable, sustainable wood cutting board that stands the test of time? Look no further than the renowned Boos Block R-Board Series Cutting Boards—an epitome of excellence beloved by professional chefs.

Avoiding Common Warewashing Mistakes: Tips for a Smooth Operation

Posted by JES Team on 4/9/2024

By addressing these common warewashing mistakes and implementing proactive maintenance strategies, you can streamline operations, minimize disruptions, and uphold the highest standards of cleanliness in your commercial kitchen.

Unlocking the Secret to Fresh and Safe Food Delivery: The Power of Insulated Carriers

Posted by JES Team on 3/26/2024

In the fast-paced world of food delivery, maintaining the quality and safety of meals during transportation is highly important. Enter the unsung hero: the insulated food delivery bag. These specialized carriers are engineered to keep food at a consistent temperature, ensuring that it arrives fresh and safe at its destination.

Embracing Tech-Driven Trends: This Week in Foodservice Insights

Posted by JES Team on 2/27/2024

As brands embrace innovative solutions and navigate economic shifts, staying abreast of these developments is essential for anyone interested in the dynamic world of foodservice.

Maximizing Efficiency: A Comprehensive Guide to Installing Your RATIONAL Combi Oven

Posted by JES Team on 12/20/2023

Integrating a RATIONAL combi oven into your kitchen can be a game-changing move for efficiency. However, improper preparation can lead to costly and inconvenient setbacks during installation.

The Top 10 Wines in the World

Posted by JES Team on 11/26/2021

The Top 10 Wines in the World (Red Wine, Champagne, & More) What are the top 10 wines? From bubbly sparkling wines to complex reds and crisp whites, there are many great wines on the market. Choosing the right one can be overwhelming and

How to Make a Restaurant Menu

Posted by JES Team on 11/19/2021

How to Make a Restaurant Menu Whether starting from scratch or polishing up an existing one, knowing how to develop a restaurant menu is key to profitability. The dishes you create are the heart of your restaurant, and your guests first

The Best Hidden Bars and Secret Restaurants

Posted by JES Team on 11/12/2021

The Best Hidden Bars and Secret Restaurants Hidden bars and secret restaurants, concealed behind secret entrances, offer unique dining and drinking experiences. Discovering a unique spot off the beaten path is exhilarating. You get to be the

15 Non-Food Ways to Use Food Items

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 2/16/2021

woman with curlers in her hair looking into a mirror and applying coffee ground exfoliant to face

You might be surprised at how food can be used in non-food ways. Check out this list and find out how else you could be using common food items around the house!

Can Spices Go Bad?

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 2/9/2021

market stall with piles of various spices

Could your spices be bad? Find out how long spices last and the proper way to store them and never use bland spices again!

8 Ways to Prepare your Restaurant for Major Holidays

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 2/2/2021

dining area with tables set for fine dining

You'll be surprised at how much goes into preparing for a major holiday event! Find out 8 things you can do to make sure your restaurant is prepared!

The Best Way to Remove Oil Stains from Clothing

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 1/26/2021

A stray splash of oil can ruin a perfectly good piece of clothing. Learn the best way to get rid of oil stains and save your wardrobe!

Everything You Need to Know About Pizza Stone Care

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 1/19/2021

You'd be surprised at how easy a pizza stone is to take care of! Learn how to take care of your pizza stone and never order pizza again!

A Guide to Commercial Food Pans

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 1/15/2021

You'd be surprised by just how useful and versatile food pans can be in the kitchen. Find out the 3 things you should consider when buying commercial food pans!

6 Types of Cookware Finishes

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 1/12/2021

collage of cookware with variety of finishes

Did you know your cookware doesn't have to match? Different cookware finishes can meet different cooking needs in the kitchen better than a matching set. Find out which finish your cookware should have!

3 Things to Consider When Choosing a Commercial Mixer

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 1/5/2021

countertop stand mixers in commercial kitchen

Determining the right size mixer for your restaurant, bakery, or business can be a tricky task. Take these 3 things into consideration when choosing your next mixer to find the right one for your business!

Guest Post: How to Customize a Range to Fit your Restaurant's Menu

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 12/29/2020

Does your kitchen's range fit your restaurant's menu? Learn about the different commercial range top options and find the best fit for your restaurant!

Gift Giving in 2020

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 12/15/2020

wrapped presents on porch in front of front door

Instead of traditional gift exchanges, surprise loved ones by sending a holiday care package or dropping off a bag of goodies.

2020 Holiday Gift Guide

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 12/3/2020

This holiday season gift loved ones in your life with some new kitchen gadgets they'll love.

5 Ways to Still Celebrate the Holidays in 2020

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 11/17/2020

artificial fall leaves with give thanks written below in marker

While the holidays this year may look very different from previous years, it's still possible to celebrate regardless of where you and your loved ones are.

10 Items You Should Never Put in the Dishwasher (And 7 You Can)

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 11/12/2020

dishes and pot in bottom rack of dishwasher

Here are 10 items that should never be put in the dishwasher and 7 items that can.

Prevent Burnout in the Kitchen

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 11/10/2020

female chef screaming while holding hand mixer to temple

Don't get burnt out on cooking. Keep kitchen burnout at bay with these helpful tips!

How to Get Rid of a Stinky Kitchen Sink

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 10/29/2020

hand holding teaspoon of baking soda above a covered sink drain

You'll be surprised at how easy it is to get rid of that unpleasant smell coming from your kitchen sink. Find out how to banish bad smells from your sink for good and never have a stinky kitchen sink again!

17 Useful Cooking Substitutions to Know

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 10/15/2020

rows of various herbs and vegetables laid out on wooden surface

You'll be surprised how useful it can be to know what ingredients can stand in for others when cooking. Read our list and find out what to do the next time you run out of something!

How to Change the Filter in your Refrigerator

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 10/13/2020

clear glass of water next to three different kinds of refrigerator filters

When was the last time you changed the filter in your refrigerator? Learn how to change your refrigerator's filter and how often experts recommend doing it!

10 Spoons Everyone Should Know

Posted by JES Team on 10/6/2020

Spoons are essential utensils found in every kitchen, serving a multitude of purposes beyond just stirring and scooping. These humble yet versatile tools come in various shapes and sizes, each designed for specific culinary needs.

9 Coffee Makers Every Coffee Drinker Should Know

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 9/29/2020

coffee maker on countertop next to gas stovetop with two cups of coffee

If you love coffee, you should know these coffee makers. Find out how many of these coffee makers you know and add to your coffee knowledge!

The Only Cooking Utensils You Need in Your Kitchen

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 9/22/2020

kitchen countertop full of variety of kitchen tools including toaster, knife block, cutting board, pots, and kettle

Everyone needs a certain amount of cooking utensils in their kitchen, but it can be difficult to know which ones are essential. Check out this guide to see what utensils you need in the kitchen and which ones you don't!

The 4 Types of Commercial Dishwashers

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 9/17/2020

row of plates coming out of commercial dishwasher with worker in background

Dishwashers are a very important part of the overall flow of a commercial kitchen. Check out this guide and find out which type of dishwasher is best for your business!

6 Basic Forks You Need to Know

Posted by JES Team on 8/27/2020

When it comes to fine dining or even casual meals, using the right utensils can elevate the entire experience. Among the most essential tools on the dining table, forks stand out for their versatility and practicality.

7 Other Ways to Use Apple Cider Vinegar in the Kitchen

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 8/25/2020

bottle of apple cider vinegar on its side with homemade label

Apple cider vinegar can be just as versatile as its cousin, white vinegar, in the kitchen.

How to Fix These 14 Common Cooking Mistakes

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 8/20/2020

man holding hands to face in distress while looking into open oven where smoke is billowing out

The next time you find yourself making one of these cooking mistakes, try one of these solutions to fix it.

How to Sous Vide the Perfect Steak

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 8/18/2020

pieces of meat, fish, and chicken vacuum sealed in bags next to pieces of garlic, peppercorn, and half a lime

Want to cook the perfect steak every time? Learn how to sous vide your steak and get perfection every time!

Bar Glassware 101

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 8/11/2020

row of mixed drinks, cocktail shaker, and liquor bottles on bar top

You'll be surprised at how many glasses there are for various alcoholic drinks. Learn more about what glasses are used for specific drinks and become your own bartender!

Choosing the Right Ice Maker for your Business

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 8/4/2020

close up of metal tongs holding a cylindrical piece of ice with hole in the middle

There are as many options when it comes to ice machine features as there are types of ice. Find out which ice machine is best for your restaurant or business!

Equipment Every Food Truck Needs

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 7/30/2020

couple walking up to a white and pink food truck

There are a lot of things needed when outfitting a food truck. Check out this guide to help you get started!

The Top Tools Every Grill Master Should Own

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 7/28/2020

grill turner, tongs, and fork resting on round charcoal grill

If you love to grill, you know how important having the right tools can be. Find out what tools every grill master should have and what tools you might be missing!

How to Choose the Right Outdoor Furniture for Your Restaurant

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 7/24/2020

row of rectangular tables set for outdoor seating

Having good outdoor furniture can be paramount for attracting customers during the warmer months. Learn how to pick the right type of outdoor furniture for your restaurant and watch your customers come back again and again.

A Beginner's Guide to Kitchen Knives

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 7/22/2020

row of different types of kitchen knives with shortest knife in background and largest knife in foreground

You'll be surprised at how many different knives you can find in a kitchen. Check out this guide to see what ones you absolutely should know (and have)!

Caring for Wooden Kitchen Tools

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 7/8/2020

close up of rows of wooden cutting boards of different grains and stains

Did you know your wooden kitchen tools could outlast your plastic ones? Find out how to properly care for your wooden cutting boards and utensils and watch them last for years to come!

5 Tips for Creating the Perfect Playlist for your Restaurant

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 6/26/2020

While it may seem like a minor detail, what music you play in your restaurant is vastly important.

8 Ways Restaurants can Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 6/24/2020

It's never too late to begin implementing tactics aimed at maximizing a restaurant's inventory and making it eco-friendlier.

How to Care for Copper Cookware

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 6/19/2020

If properly maintained, copper cookware can last for years.

10 Ways to Clean your Kitchen with Lemons

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 6/12/2020

Did you know lemons could be used to clean your kitchen?

When was the Last Time you Deep Cleaned your Kitchen?

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 6/10/2020

We use the kitchen several times a day and wash dirty dishes or clean up spills, but when did you last deep clean your kitchen?

DIY Your Own Disinfectant Wipes

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 6/5/2020

Running out of disinfectant wipes? Make your own!

How to Wash your Face Mask

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 6/3/2020

You have a face mask, but how do you care for it?

How to Season your Cast Iron Cookware Like a Pro

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 5/29/2020

To ensure your cast iron lasts for decades, make sure your cookware is seasoned properly.

How to Avoid Food Waste

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 5/27/2020

Maximize the food in your kitchen and get as much mileage out of them as possible.

Basic Baker's Tools

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 5/20/2020

You don't need to be an expert baker to make chocolate chip cookies or banana bread, but it does help if you have a few of the right tools.

Health Tips Restaurant Goers Should Keep in Mind

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 5/15/2020

As restaurants begin to reopen, there are several things restaurant goers can do to help ensure their health and the health of other diners and restaurant employees.

Keep your Employees and Customers Healthy: Tips for Restaurant Owners

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 5/13/2020

There are several things restaurant owners can do or implement to protect their employees and customers as restaurants begin to reopen.

How to Help Local Businesses Right Now

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 5/6/2020

Local businesses and smaller organizations could use your help right now.

Guest Post: Planning and Setting up your First Restaurant--Your Comprehensive Checklist

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 4/29/2020

To help you become the most successful business owner we've developed a comprehensive checklist of item your restaurant needs to succeed.

What's in Season This Spring

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 4/17/2020

Spring is the season of new beginnings.

Get the Most Out of your Food

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 4/15/2020

Improperly storing your food could shorten its shelf life and raise the risk of bacteria or mold.

Create an Easter Feast at Home

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 4/8/2020

Easter this year will most likely be very different but that doesn't mean you have to skimp on celebrating with a nice meal.

Cooking Made Easy

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 4/3/2020

There are several kitchen appliances that can help expedite the cooking process and keep it from feeling like a chore.

5 Cooking Tips for Those who Don't Cook

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 3/31/2020

Now is the perfect time to start mastering the basics.

Same Ingredients, Multiple Meal Options

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 3/27/2020

If you've stocked up on a lot of staple ingredients but are now wondering what you can make so you're not eating the same meal over and over, we've come up with a few suggestions.

Equipment Every Healthcare Facility Should Have

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 3/25/2020

While having enough masks, gloves, and gowns is paramount for hospitals and other healthcare facilities at this time, having enough other, properly functioning equipment is equally as important.

Restaurant Sanitation from a Restaurant Owner's Perspective

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 3/18/2020

There are several things you can do to promote sanitation in your establishment and fight against bacteria, viruses, and illness.

Restaurant Sanitation from a Restaurant Diner's Perspective

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 3/18/2020

There are several things restaurant diners can do to prevent catching bacteria, viruses, and illness when dining out.

Energy Efficient Equipment

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 3/4/2020

As consumers are becoming more eco-conscious, so too are restaurant equipment manufacturers.

Rice Cooker vs Insta Pot

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 2/28/2020

What is the difference between a rice cooker and an Insta Pot?

How to Choose Food and Drink Pairings

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 2/21/2020

Did you know there's a method to choosing food and drink pairings that compliment each other?

How to Clean your Oven

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 2/19/2020

The oven is one of the most important pieces of kitchen equipment. But how often do you clean it?

Galentine's Day Ideas

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 2/12/2020

Galentine's Day is a day to celebrate friendship with your closest gal pals.

Express your Love in the Kitchen

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 2/7/2020

Instead of buying a cute teddy bear or a heart-shaped box of chocolates this Valentine's Day, consider doing something for your partner that they will really appreciate.

Tea 101: Tea Around the World

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 1/22/2020

Drinking tea is part of almost every country's culture in the world.

10 Easy Ways to Step Up your Cooking Game in 2020

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 1/10/2020

Everybody can improve their skills in the kitchen--and it doesn't have to be hard or require purchasing expensive equipment.

What's in Season This Winter

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 1/8/2020

Knowing what is season can help lower grocery bills and can inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.

12 Holiday Gift Ideas

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 12/6/2019

If you have any cooks in your life, a new kitchen gadget makes for the perfect gift!

Thanksgiving Essentials

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 11/13/2019

The Thanksgiving meal is the most important part of Thanksgiving.

Five Ways to Cook Your Thanksgiving Turkey

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 11/6/2019

Like with most meats, there are several ways to cook a turkey.

Tea 101: Loose Leaf vs Tea Bags

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 10/31/2019

How to prepare tea can spark debates between die-hard tea drinkers over which method is best—tea bags or loose-leaf tea.

Tea 101: Tea Flavors

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 10/11/2019

Within each category of tea are endless flavor combinations.

Guide to Apples

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 10/9/2019

While an apple may just be an apple to some, they can actually have different suggested uses based on their variety.

Canning 101: A Beginner's Guide to Canning

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 10/4/2019

While there are two methods of canning--pressurized and water bath--water bath canning is more popular.

Guide to Commercial Sinks

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 10/2/2019

Choosing the right sink for your commercial kitchen is just as important as simply having one since different sinks serve different purposes.

Tea 101: Types of Tea

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 9/18/2019

In general, there are 6 basic types of tea from which the thousands of varieties we see in the store are made.

What's in Season This Fall

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 9/13/2019

Buying produce when it's in season can help cut down on cost.

10 Mushrooms You Should be Cooking With

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 9/3/2019

Mushrooms are extremely versatile as they can be added to virtually any meal for extra flavor, texture, and variety.

Coffee 101: Coffee Around the World

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 8/27/2019

While Starbucks and your local coffee shops have a seemingly endless list of ways you can order your coffee, even that isn't every combination.

10 Kitchen Gadgets for Those Who Love to Cook

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 8/20/2019

For the person who already loves to cook or for the curious chef just delving deeper into the world of food, here are ten items any lover of cooking will want to have in their arsenal.

Types of Cooking Oils

Posted by Rachel Schwartz on 8/16/2019

The world of cooking oil is experiencing a major boom. Although the new selection may seem excessive, not all oils are created equal.

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