Best 73+ Striking Very Small Restaurant Kitchen Design With Many New Styles

Small restaurants may have limited space, but that doesn't mean their kitchens have to be cramped and inefficient. With some creative design ideas, even the smallest of restaurant kitchens can be transformed into a functional and efficient space.

If you're struggling to make the most of your small restaurant kitchen, here are some compact design ideas that can help you maximize space and improve workflow:

Utilize Vertical Space

When you're working with a very small kitchen, it's important to make use of all available space. This includes vertical space, which is often overlooked. Consider installing shelving or hanging storage units on the walls to free up counter and floor space. You can also use wall-mounted racks to store pots, pans, and utensils.

Invest in Multi-Functional Equipment

Instead of buying separate equipment for different tasks, invest in multi-functional equipment that can perform multiple tasks. For example, a combination oven can be used for baking, roasting, and steaming, saving you valuable space in the kitchen.

Opt for Smaller Appliances

When choosing appliances for your small restaurant kitchen, opt for smaller versions that don't take up too much space. For example, a countertop fryer or griddle can be just as efficient as a larger one, but won't take up as much room.

Use Portable Workstations

If you have limited counter space, consider using portable workstations that can be moved around as needed. This can include rolling carts or tables that can be easily stored when not in use.

Think Outside the Box

When it comes to small restaurant kitchen design, sometimes you have to get creative. Think outside the box and consider unconventional solutions, such as using a hanging pot rack or installing shelves above doorways for extra storage.

The layout of your small restaurant kitchen is crucial to its functionality and efficiency. A well-designed layout can help minimize movement and maximize space, making it easier for your kitchen staff to work together seamlessly.

If you're struggling to come up with a layout for your small restaurant kitchen, here are some ideas to consider:

Single-Line Kitchen

A single-line kitchen layout is ideal for small spaces as it involves placing all equipment and workstations along one wall. This layout allows for a smooth flow of work as everything is in one straight line.

L-Shaped Kitchen

A popular choice for small restaurant kitchens, the L-shaped layout involves placing equipment and workstations along two adjacent walls, forming an L-shape. This layout is efficient as it allows for a natural workflow, with prep and cooking areas on one side and plating and serving areas on the other.

U-Shaped Kitchen

Similar to the L-shaped layout, the U-shaped layout utilizes three walls to create a U-shape. This layout is ideal for small kitchens as it provides ample counter and storage space, making it easier for multiple people to work in the kitchen at once.

Island Kitchen

If you have a slightly larger space, you could consider an island kitchen layout. This involves placing a central island in the middle of the kitchen, providing extra counter space and storage. It also allows for a circular workflow, making it easy for multiple people to work together.

Zone Kitchen

A zone kitchen layout is ideal for small restaurant kitchens that need to accommodate different types of cuisine. This involves dividing the kitchen into different zones, each with its own equipment and workstations. For example, a bakery zone, a prep zone, and a cooking zone.

An efficient kitchen design is crucial for any restaurant, but it's especially important for small establishments. With limited space, every inch of your small restaurant kitchen needs to be utilized effectively to ensure smooth operations and maximum productivity.

Here are some tips for designing an efficient kitchen for your small restaurant:

Plan Ahead

Before designing your small restaurant kitchen, take the time to plan and consider your specific needs. Think about your menu, the type of cuisine you'll be serving, and the equipment and workstations you'll need. This will help you create a design that is tailored to your restaurant's specific needs.

Keep it Simple

When it comes to small restaurant kitchen design, less is often more. Avoid clutter and unnecessary equipment or appliances that can take up valuable space. Stick to the essentials and find ways to make the most of the space you have.

Organize and Label

In a small kitchen, organization is key. Make sure everything has a designated place and is labeled for easy identification. This will save time and minimize confusion, especially during busy periods.

Streamline Workflow

The layout of your kitchen should be designed to streamline workflow and minimize movement. This means placing equipment and workstations in a way that makes sense for the tasks at hand. For example, prep areas should be close to the cooking area for easy transfer of ingredients.

Maintain and Upgrade

To ensure your small restaurant kitchen continues to operate efficiently, it's important to regularly maintain and upgrade equipment as needed. This will prevent breakdowns and keep your kitchen running smoothly.

When working with a very small kitchen, sometimes you have to think outside the box to make the most of your space. Luckily, there are plenty of creative solutions that can help you maximize space and improve efficiency in your small restaurant kitchen.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

Use Wall-Mounted Shelves

Instead of bulky storage units, opt for wall-mounted shelves to save space in your small restaurant kitchen. These can be used to store dry ingredients, spices, or even small kitchen tools.

Install a Drop-Leaf Table

If you need extra counter space for prep work, consider installing a drop-leaf table that can be folded down when not in use. This can also double as a dining table for small restaurants that offer dine-in options.

Utilize Under-Shelf Baskets

Make use of the vertical space in your kitchen by installing under-shelf baskets. These can be used to store items such as cutting boards, baking sheets, and even utensils.

Invest in Stackable Equipment

To save space in your small restaurant kitchen, consider investing in stackable equipment such as stacking food containers or nesting mixing bowls. This will help keep your kitchen organized and make it easier to store items when not in use.

Use Magnetic Strips for Knives

Instead of using a bulky knife block, install magnetic strips on the wall to hold your knives. This will free up counter space and also keep your knives easily accessible.

Working with a very small restaurant kitchen can be challenging, but with some clever tips and tricks, you can make the most of your space and still run a successful kitchen. Here are some space-saving tips to consider:

Invest in Quality Storage Containers

Instead of using bulky storage containers, invest in quality airtight containers that can stack easily on top of each other. This will save space and also keep your ingredients fresh.

Use Color to Your Advantage

Opt for light, reflective colors for your walls and cabinets to make the space appear larger. You can also use color to create an optical illusion, such as painting the ceiling a darker color to make it seem higher.

Hang Pots and Pans

Make use of wall space by hanging pots and pans from hooks or racks. This will free up cabinet space and also make your kitchen look more organized.

Store Small Appliances Away

Small appliances such as blenders, food processors, and mixers can take up valuable counter space. Store them away in cabinets or on shelves when not in use to free up space.

Consider Portable Equipment

If your space is extremely limited, consider using portable equipment that can be stored away when not in use. For example, a portable induction burner or a tabletop dishwasher.

When it comes to small restaurant kitchen design, choosing the right equipment is crucial. Not only do you need to consider space constraints, but also functionality and efficiency. Here are some essential equipment and design tips for small restaurant kitchens:

Commercial-Grade Equipment

Investing in commercial-grade equipment is a must for any restaurant, but especially for small kitchens. These are designed to withstand heavy use and are more efficient, saving you time and money in the long run.

Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances

In a small kitchen, every bit of energy and space counts. Opt for energy-efficient appliances that will not only help the environment but also save you money on utility bills.

Consider Equipment Size and Placement

When choosing equipment for your small restaurant kitchen, consider the size and placement carefully. Make sure you have enough space for the equipment you need, but also leave enough room for movement and workflow.

Design for Easy Cleaning

In a small kitchen, keeping things clean and organized is essential. Choose equipment that is easy to clean and maintain, and design your kitchen in a way that makes cleaning and sanitizing a breeze.

Don't Forget Ventilation

Proper ventilation is crucial in any restaurant kitchen, but it's even more important in small spaces where heat and steam can quickly build up. Make sure your kitchen is equipped with a good ventilation system to keep the air clean and safe.

A functional kitchen is essential for the smooth operation of any restaurant, but it's especially important for small establishments. With limited space, every aspect of your kitchen design needs to be carefully considered to ensure maximum efficiency and productivity.

Here are some tips for designing a functional kitchen for your small restaurant:

Plan Your Workflow

Before designing your kitchen, consider the flow of work and how tasks will be completed. This will help you determine the best layout and placement of equipment and workstations.

Separate Cooking and Cleaning Areas

In a small kitchen, it's important to separate cooking and cleaning areas to avoid cross-contamination. This means having separate sinks and workstations for food preparation and dishwashing.

Design for Multiple Staff Members

In a small restaurant kitchen, it's likely that multiple staff members will be working together at once. Design your kitchen to accommodate this by leaving enough space for movement and avoiding any bottlenecks.

Consider Ergonomics

Ergonomics is crucial in any kitchen, but it's especially important in small spaces where movement can be limited. Make sure workstations are at the right height and equipment is easily accessible to avoid strain or injury.

Leave Room for Growth

As your restaurant grows, you may need to add more equipment or expand your kitchen. Leave some room for growth in your design to avoid having to make major changes in the future.

When you're working with a tiny restaurant kitchen, every inch of space counts. It's important to be strategic with your design and utilize every nook and cranny to make the most of your limited space.

Here are some tips for maximizing space in your tiny restaurant kitchen:

Use Under-Shelf Storage

Take advantage of the space under shelves by installing under-shelf storage units. These can be used to store small items such as spices, condiments, or even utensils.

Install Slide-Out Shelves

To make the most of deep cabinets, install slide-out shelves that allow you to easily access items in the back. This eliminates the need to dig through layers of items to find what you need.

Utilize Wall Space

Don't let wall space go to waste. Install shelving, racks, or hooks to store items and free up counter and floor space. You can also use magnetic strips or pegboards to hold knives and other small tools.

Choose Compact Equipment

When space is limited, choose compact versions of equipment such as refrigerators, ovens, and dishwashers. These can be just as efficient as their larger counterparts but won't take up as much valuable space.

Think Vertical