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Contact Grills & Panini Grills

Commercial contact grills and panini grills are essential kit for UK cafés, delis and restaurants looking to serve toasted sandwiches and grilled specialties with speed and consistency. These professional sandwich presses feature heavy-duty ribbed plates that cook both sides simultaneously, slashing preparation time while delivering perfect results every time. With robust stainless steel construction and temperature controls ranging from 50-300°C, these commercial grills are built specifically for high-volume food service environments. They're the perfect companion to coffee machines in busy cafés or alongside commercial ovens in restaurant kitchens where efficiency and reliability aren't just nice-to-haves—they're absolute necessities for daily service.

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Commercial Contact Grills & Panini Grills for Cafés & Restaurants

Brands Trusted by Industry Professionals

Key Features and Benefits

  • Adjustable Temperature Controls Precision heat settings from 50-300°C for perfect results across different menu items.
  • Versatile Cooking Surface Handles everything from paninis and wraps to meats and vegetables—menu flexibility from one appliance.
  • Commercial-Grade Construction Robust stainless steel housing withstands relentless daily use in busy food service environments.
  • Rapid Heat Technology Reaches optimal cooking temperature in minutes—essential for busy service periods.
  • Even Heat Distribution Eliminates hot spots for consistent cooking results across the entire grilling surface.
  • Non-Stick Cooking Plates Ensures food releases cleanly and reduces cleaning time between service rushes.
  • Integrated Grease Management Removable drip trays capture excess fats—simplifies cleaning and maintenance.
  • High-Volume Capacity Designed for continuous operation during peak times without performance degradation.

Essential Buying Considerations

Capacity and Size

  • Single units (210-300mm width) work brilliantly for cafés with limited counter space.
  • Double models boost output—perfect for busy lunch services in high-traffic locations.
  • Consider overall footprint including lid clearance—especially in compact kitchen setups.

Power Source and Usage

  • Most commercial models operate on standard 13A plugs—easy installation alongside coffee machines.
  • Higher-capacity units (2.2kW+) deliver faster recovery times during continuous service.
  • Energy-efficient models with thermostat controls reduce running costs without sacrificing performance.

How Commercial Contact Grills & Panini Grills Work

Commercial panini grills operate on a brilliantly simple principle—two heated plates (typically cast iron or non-stick) close together over your sandwich or food item like a professional clamshell. Powered by 1.5-3kW heating elements, they conduct heat evenly through both surfaces, cooking food simultaneously from top and bottom. The temperature-controlled plates can be adjusted from 50-300°C depending on what you're grilling, while floating hinges automatically adjust to accommodate different food thicknesses. Most models feature ribbed plates for those appetizing grill marks, though flat versions are available for specific menu items. Within 2-3 minutes, your paninis emerge perfectly toasted—crisp on the outside, deliciously melted inside—ready for service!

Oliver Bennett, commercial catering equipment specialist, smiling in a sharp suit. Posed in a modern kitchen showroom, he looks professional and trustworthy.

Trusted Insights from Oliver Bennett

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Commercial Catering Equipment Specialist

12+ years experience
"Contact grills are a café’s secret weapon—fast, compact, and perfect for turning out toasted paninis or seared meats without hogging space or energy. Go for a model with adjustable plates and solid heat distribution—you’ll thank me during the lunch rush!"
View Profile ->

Safety Guidelines

  • Regular Inspection Check plates and hinges for damage before each service—prevents accidents.
  • Secure Placement Position on level, heat-resistant surfaces away from water sources.
  • Avoid Overcrowding Don't overload plates—ensures proper cooking and prevents mechanical strain.
  • Proper Handling Always use tongs or heat-resistant gloves—never touch hot surfaces.
  • Switch Off Protocol Power down and disconnect after service—prevents accidental burns.
  • Electrical Safety Ensure proper earthing and regular inspection of cables and plugs.

Top Tips for Using Commercial Contact Grills & Panini Grills

To get the absolute best from your commercial grill, always allow a proper 10-15 minute preheat before the first service—this ensures consistent results from your very first sandwich. Clean plates thoroughly after each service while still warm (not hot) using a grill brush or scraper designed specifically for professional equipment. For cast iron plates, regular seasoning with high-temperature oil maintains the non-stick surface. Consider using panini paper or parchment sheets for messier fillings to simplify cleaning and protect the plates from acidic ingredients that might damage the surface.

Benefits of Using Commercial Contact Grills & Panini Grills

  • Superior Food Quality Seals in flavors and creates appealing grill marks—enhances menu presentation.
  • Operational Efficiency Reduces preparation time by 60-70% compared to conventional grilling methods.
  • Business Profitability Low running costs and high output boost margins on sandwich and panini offerings.

Did You Know?

  • Time Efficiency Commercial contact grills cook 3-4 times faster than conventional ovens or grills.
  • Longevity Professional-grade models typically last 7-10 years with proper maintenance.
  • Menu Expansion Beyond sandwiches, they're brilliant for quesadillas, vegetables, and even chicken breasts.
  • Energy Advantage Uses up to 40% less energy than separate top/bottom heating methods.
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Expert Insights on Commercial Contact Grills & Panini Grills

After equipping thousands of UK food businesses over 50 years, we've learned what separates average grills from exceptional ones. 'The best commercial panini grills deliver consistent results while standing up to punishing daily use,' explains Mark, our equipment specialist. 'It's about heat recovery—how quickly the unit returns to temperature between batches during busy periods.'

  • Pros: Quick service times, versatile menu applications, durable construction, easy cleaning.
  • Cons: Requires regular maintenance, larger models demand significant counter space, quality units require investment.

Who Needs Commercial Contact Grills & Panini Grills?

  • Cafés & Delis Essential for quick-service sandwich menus and lunchtime rushes.
  • Hotels & B&Bs Perfect for breakfast services and all-day dining options.
  • Restaurants & Bistros Expands menu offerings without requiring additional kitchen staff.
  • Mobile Caterers Compact, efficient solution for food trucks and event catering.
Contact Grills & Panini Grills

Real-World Success with Commercial Contact Grills & Panini Grills

The Riverside Café in Bristol faced a classic problem—lunchtime queues were growing while their outdated sandwich press couldn't keep pace. After upgrading to a double commercial contact grill alongside their espresso machine, everything changed. 'We've doubled our lunchtime sandwich output without adding staff,' shares owner Emma. 'The consistent results mean our paninis are always spot-on, and the faster turnaround has actually increased our coffee sales too. We're serving 50% more customers during peak hours, and the quality of our toasties has customers coming back specifically for them—it's been a proper game-changer for us.'

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FAQs

  • What's the best way to clean a commercial panini grill? Clean plates while warm (not hot) with a dedicated grill brush, then wipe with a damp cloth.
  • How much counter space do I need for a commercial contact grill? Allow 30-50cm width plus 40-60cm depth including lid clearance and rear ventilation space.
  • Can commercial panini grills cook foods other than sandwiches? Absolutely—they're excellent for chicken, vegetables, burgers, and even breakfast items like bacon.
  • How long do commercial contact grills take to heat up? Quality models reach optimal temperature in 10-15 minutes—perfect for morning prep time.
  • What's the difference between ribbed and flat plates? Ribbed plates create attractive grill marks and channel away fats; flat plates provide maximum contact for even browning.
  • How often should I replace commercial sandwich press plates? Quality cast iron or non-stick plates should last 3-5 years with proper care and regular cleaning.

Looking for Equipment by Business Type?

Not sure where to start? Whether you're running a bustling café, opening a pizzeria, or managing a school canteen, we've made it easy to shop by business type. Explore handpicked equipment bundles and essentials tailored to your industry—saving you time and making sure you get exactly what you need.

Restaurants Cafés & Coffee Shops Takeaways & Fast Food Catering & Event Hire Sandwich Shops & Sub Counters Pubs & Bars Hotels & Accommodation Microbreweries & Taprooms

Other Categories You Might Find Useful

We’ve selected some closely related categories that might be essential for your setup. Whether you’re expanding your kitchen or just making sure you’ve got everything covered, these links will help you explore more equipment that fits your needs.

Commercial Salamander Grills Commercial Electric Kettles Commercial Kitchen Thermometers Commercial Grill Cleaners Commercial Hand Wash Basins Commercial Kitchen Floor Mats Commercial Knife Sharpeners Commercial Toaster Accessories

What our Customers Say

  • 'These grills have transformed our lunchtime service—consistent, quick and absolutely brilliant!'

    J James Café Owner, Newcastle

  • 'Best investment we've made—our paninis fly out during lunch rush now!'

    L Lucy Bistro Manager, Glasgow

Why Choose EasyEquipment for Commercial Contact Grills & Panini Grills?

  • 50 Years' Experience Half a century selecting reliable commercial kitchen equipment for UK businesses.
  • Next-Day Delivery Order by 2pm for next working day delivery to most UK postcodes.
  • Price Match Guarantee Found the same model cheaper? We'll match it—simple as that.
  • Expert Technical Support Professional advice before purchase and dedicated after-sales care.

Ready to Explore Commercial Contact Grills & Panini Grills?

Browse our comprehensive range of professional-grade contact grills and panini presses—selected specifically for UK cafés, restaurants and catering businesses. With fast delivery nationwide and our 50 years of catering equipment expertise, we'll help you find the perfect commercial grill for your operation.

Contact Us 0333 355 0535

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