Top 9 Commercial Kitchen Equipment Trends That Shaped Modern Foodservice

The foodservice industry is constantly evolving. While 2019 saw a surge in third-party delivery, low-alcohol beverages, and sustainable packaging, 2020 introduced a wave of commercial kitchen equipment innovations, many of which continue to shape the way we design and operate kitchens today.

Whether you're launching a restaurant, renovating a space, or working with our ChefVue design team, here are the most impactful trends that still matter in today’s market:

1. Greener Single-Use Alternatives

Single-use plastic bans have driven restaurants to adopt eco-friendly disposables. From starch-based containers to compostable cutlery, sustainable swaps now perform just as well as plastic, without harming the environment.

2. Ventless Hood Systems

Perfect for non-traditional spaces and mobile kitchens, ventless hoods improve air quality and capture grease without requiring exterior ductwork. They’re ideal for historic buildings, food halls, and compact layouts.

3. Open Kitchens with Transparent Equipment

The “kitchen-as-theater” trend is growing. Appliances now come with transparent windows, making food preparation part of the guest experience. They support open-concept layouts and elevate the restaurant's visual appeal.

4. Green Growing Cabinets

With the rise of plant-based eating, indoor micro-green gardens like Farmshelf let chefs grow fresh herbs and greens on-site regardless of climate. These cabinets ensure a steady supply of hyper-local ingredients.

5. Automated Kitchen Equipment

Repetitive or risky tasks are now automated. Automated fryers and portioners reduce labor demands, improve safety, and deliver consistent results, freeing up staff for higher-value tasks.

6. Space-Saving, Multi-Functional Equipment

From stackable ovens to combo steamers, space-saving units are revolutionizing small kitchen designs. These versatile appliances boost efficiency without compromising performance, a key feature in modern ChefVue layouts

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7. On-Site Composting Solutions

Sustainability isn’t just trendy, it’s expected. In-kitchen composting units pair well with biodegradable packaging and help reduce waste while producing usable compost for community gardens or local farms.

8. Multi-Step Water Filtration Systems

Clean water affects taste and food quality. Reverse osmosis water dispensers improve flavor, reduce scaling in equipment, and meet health-conscious diner expectations.

9. Smart, Energy-Efficient Appliances

Power-saving appliances are essential in today’s high-utility commercial kitchens. New smart systems reduce energy bills, track usage, and ensure compliance with local efficiency regulations.

As commercial kitchens evolve, these innovations are no longer trends; they're the standard. Whether you’re starting a small food concept or managing a multi-kitchen facility, staying ahead means investing in design and equipment that supports sustainability, efficiency, and performance.

Need help designing a future-ready kitchen? Explore our ChefVue remote design process to co-create a smarter space- faster.

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