Must-Have Smallwares for Any Commercial Kitchen

Key Takeaway:
Smallwares are the unsung heroes of a commercial kitchen. From prep to plating, the right utensils, containers, and tools are essential for daily speed, safety, and consistency. Stock these must-haves to build a kitchen that’s efficient and inspection-ready.

What Are Smallwares?

Smallwares refer to the non-electric, handheld tools and supplies used in cooking, food prep, storage, and service. Unlike large equipment (like ovens or fridges), smallwares are often low-cost but used constantly—and often replaced regularly.

These items are critical to:

Prep line efficiency
Food portioning and accuracy
Health code compliance
Streamlined plating and service

Whether you’re outfitting a new kitchen or restocking after years of wear and tear, the list below ensures you cover every essential.

1. Food Prep Tools

Start with quality prep gear to ensure speed and consistency.

Chef knives and knife sets (stainless steel, ergonomic grip)
Cutting boards (color-coded for HACCP compliance)
Mixing bowls (stainless steel and nesting)
Measuring cups and spoons
Mandolins, graters, and peelers
Colanders and strainers

Look for NSF-certified products that hold up to daily sanitizing.

2. Cookware and Utensils

Whether you sauté, sear, or simmer—durable cookware is non-negotiable.

Fry pans and sauce pans (aluminum or stainless steel)
Stock pots with lids
Sheet pans and baking trays
Tongs, spatulas, whisks, and ladles
Portion scoops and serving spoons

MarketsDepotUSA.com offers full smallwares kits designed for high-volume kitchens.

3. Portioning and Plating Tools

Accuracy in portioning supports profit margins and consistency.

Portion control scoops (various sizes)
Squeeze bottles for sauces and condiments
Plating tongs for fine dining or catering
Food rings and molds for visual presentation

These tools help streamline plating in fast-paced environments.

4. Food Storage and Handling

Maintaining freshness, safety, and order starts with proper storage.

Food pans and lids (full, half, third sizes)
Cambros and deli containers
Ingredient bins with scoops
Airtight lids and color-coded containers
Labeling systems and day-dot stickers

Don’t forget shelving and racks to keep everything organized and compliant.

5. Beverage and Bar Tools

For bars, cafés, or beverage service stations, stock essentials like:

Glass racks
Cocktail shakers and strainers
Bar spoons and muddlers
Pitchers, jiggers, and bottle pourers

Bar-specific smallwares impact speed and service quality just as much as back-of-house tools.

6. Cleaning and Sanitation Supplies

No kitchen is complete without tools that keep it clean and inspection-ready.

Sanitizer buckets (red/green)
Thermometers and probe wipes
Dish caddies and drying racks
Scrubbers, brushes, and sponges
Gloves, aprons, and hairnets

These are essential for health department compliance and daily operations.

7. Service and Front-of-House Tools

If you operate a dine-in or counter-service model, stock:

Tray stands and bus tubs
Napkin dispensers
Condiment organizers
Check holders and guest check pads
To-go containers and utensils

Every touchpoint with your customer should reflect the same efficiency and quality as your kitchen.

Pro Tip: Buy Smallwares in Kits

When opening a new restaurant or refreshing your kitchen, consider pre-built smallwares kits. These bundles typically include:

Prep utensils
Storage containers
Cookware
Plating and service tools

It’s a cost-effective way to ensure you don’t miss a category.

MarketsDepotUSA.com offers smallwares kits that align with different kitchen sizes, formats, and menu types.

Final Thoughts: Small Tools, Big Impact

Smallwares may not be glamorous, but they power your kitchen every hour of every shift. When you invest in the right tools, you set your team up for smoother service, safer food handling, and greater consistency.

Need help building your smallwares checklist?
Browse top-rated tools and complete starter kits at MarketsDepotUSA.com or reach out for personalized support.