Double Contact Grills & Panini Grills
Commercial double contact grills are essential kit for UK cafés, sandwich shops, and busy restaurants wanting to serve perfectly pressed paninis and grilled delights. These robust double-sided grills cook food from both sides simultaneously—ideal for rapid service when the lunch rush hits. With heavy-duty cast iron or non-stick plates and temperatures reaching up to 300°C, they're built specifically for continuous commercial use. After 50 years in the business, we've seen how pairing these grills with prep stations and display units creates a complete sandwich service setup. They're a brilliant investment for any food service operation looking to expand their hot sandwich menu without expanding their wait times!
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We Recommend
Commercial Twin Panini Grill | Heavy Duty Sandwich Press | Flat Base & Ribbed Top | Modena TPG8
Twin Contact Grill
- Top grid: 214w x 214d mm
- Bottom grid: 475w x 230d
- Dimension: 570w x 305d x 210h mm
- 2 X 13 Amp
- 3 KW
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Commercial Twin Panini Grill | Heavy Duty Sandwich Press | Flat Base & Ribbed Top | Modena TPG8
10 KGout of stock
210H x 570W x 305D mm
13 amp plug fitted
Bottom grid: 475w x 230d
Stainless Steel with cast iron plates
£179.99 £396.00 -
Commercial Panini Grill | Twin Contact Grill | Ribbed Plates | Modena TPG10
10 KGout of stock
210H x 570W x 305D mm
13 amp plug fitted
Bottom grid: 475w x 230d mm
Stainless Steel with cast iron plates
£189.99 £396.00 -
Commercial Twin Panini Grill | Heavy Duty Panini Press | Flat Base & Flat Top | Modena TPG9
10 KGout of stock
210H x 570W x 305D mm
13 amp plug fitted
Bottom grid: 475w x 230d mm
Stainless Steel with cast iron plates
£199.99 £396.00 -
Commercial Sandwich Grill | Toastie Maker | Panini Press | Modena WF114
In Stock
220H x 390W x 360D mm
13 amp plug fitted
Temperature Range: 50-250°C
Stainless Steel
£144.99 £394.00 -
Commercial Panini Press | Flat Top and Bottom Grill | Sandwich Toaster | Modena PG813B
10.6kgIn Stock
215H x 565W x 360D mm
13 amp plug fitted
Temperature Range: 50-300°C
Stainless Steel
£189.99 £584.00
Commercial Double Contact Grills & Panini Grills for Cafés & Restaurants
Brands Trusted by Industry Professionals
Key Features and Benefits
- Independent Temperature Controls Adjust top and bottom plates separately—perfect customization for different foods.
- Versatile Cooking Surface Choose ribbed, flat, or mixed plates for ideal sandwich marks or meat searing.
- Commercial-Grade Construction Heavy-duty stainless steel bodies withstand years of kitchen punishment.
- Rapid Heat Recovery Maintains temperature during busy service—no waiting between batches.
- Even Heat Distribution Eliminates cold spots for consistent results every single time.
- Non-Stick Cooking Surface Seasoned cast iron or PTFE coating prevents sticking—easy food release.
- Integrated Drip Trays Captures excess oils and fats—simpler cleaning and maintenance.
- Double Cooking Capacity Twice the output of single units—perfect for high-volume venues.
Essential Buying Considerations
Capacity and Size
- Measure counter space—standard doubles need 400-600mm width.
- Consider cooking area—larger plates handle 4-6 paninis simultaneously.
- Check height clearance—allow 300-400mm when lid is open.
Power Source and Usage
- Verify electrical supply—most require 13-16A hardwired connections.
- Check power rating—1.8-3.6kW affects heating time and recovery.
- Consider baking parchment or silicone mats for sticky ingredients.
How Commercial Double Contact Grills & Panini Grills Work
These professional panini grills operate on a brilliantly simple principle: two heated plates—either ribbed or flat—close together like a clam shell around your sandwich, meat, or vegetables. Powered by 1.8-3.6kW elements, they apply direct heat to both sides of the food simultaneously, cooking it twice as fast as conventional methods. The floating top plate adjusts automatically to food thickness, ensuring even pressure across irregularly shaped items. Most models feature independent temperature controls for each plate, typically ranging from 50-300°C, letting you fine-tune the perfect sear. The result? A perfectly toasted panini with those signature grill marks in just 2-3 minutes flat—keeping your service moving when it matters most!
Trusted Insights from Oliver Bennett
Commercial Catering Equipment Specialist
12+ years experience
"Double contact grills are a café’s secret weapon—fast, efficient, and perfect for high-volume service without sacrificing quality. Go for models with independent controls so you can multitask like a pro and save energy while you're at it!"
Safety Guidelines
- Regular Inspection Check power cords and plates for damage—prevents accidents.
- Secure Positioning Place on level, heat-resistant surfaces—stops sliding.
- Mind the Heat Surfaces reach 300°C—use proper tools, never bare hands.
- Use Long Tongs Keep distance from hot surfaces—prevents burns.
- Switch Off After Service Never leave unattended when powered—fire hazard.
- Professional Installation Have hardwired models properly connected—ensures safety.
Top Tips for Using Commercial Double Contact Grills & Panini Grills
To get the most from your commercial panini press, always preheat for 10-15 minutes before service begins—this ensures even cooking from the first sandwich. Season cast iron plates regularly with vegetable oil to maintain their non-stick properties. For cheese-heavy items, consider using baking parchment to prevent mess. Clean plates while still warm (not hot) using a stiff brush for ribbed surfaces, and never immerse electrical components in water. Finally, periodically check and tighten hinges to maintain proper plate alignment—crucial for even toasting.
Benefits of Using Commercial Double Contact Grills & Panini Grills
- Enhanced Food Quality Simultaneous cooking seals in moisture—tastier results.
- Doubled Service Speed Serves twice the customers in busy periods—boosts profits.
- Operational Efficiency One staff member runs multiple grills—reduces labor costs.
Did You Know?
- Time Savings Double contact grills cook 60% faster than traditional methods.
- Longevity Quality cast iron plates can last 10+ years with proper care.
- Menu Innovation Beyond sandwiches—perfect for vegetables, chicken, and flatbreads.
- Business Impact Hot sandwich offerings can increase average lunch spend by 15-20%.
Expert Insights on Commercial Double Contact Grills & Panini Grills
With half a century kitting out commercial kitchens, we've seen these double contact grills transform café operations. 'The trick is finding the right balance between capacity and counter space,' notes Dave, our equipment specialist. 'Double units might seem large, but they're worth their weight in gold during peak times when you're pushing out dozens of hot sandwiches.'
- Pros: Double the output, consistent results, built to last.
- Cons: Higher power consumption, requires more counter space than singles.
Who Needs Commercial Double Contact Grills & Panini Grills?
- Busy Cafés Essential for rapid lunchtime service—keeps queues moving.
- Hotels Perfect for all-day dining and room service sandwich offerings.
- Sandwich Shops Cornerstone equipment for toasted sandwich specialists.
- Food Trucks Compact double units maximize limited space—double the output.
Real-World Success with Commercial Double Contact Grills & Panini Grills
A bustling sandwich shop in Bristol makes for a perfect case study. They were struggling with lunch rushes, using two single contact grills but still facing bottlenecks. After upgrading to one of our double commercial panini grills, alongside dedicated prep fridges, their output doubled instantly. 'We can now handle 120 hot sandwiches an hour without breaking a sweat,' says the owner. 'The double unit saves counter space compared to our old setup, and we've added three new panini options to our menu—our lunchtime revenue is up nearly 30%!'
FAQs
- How long do commercial double contact grills take to heat up? Most models reach optimal cooking temperature in 10-15 minutes—ready for service quickly.
- What's the difference between ribbed and flat plates? Ribbed creates classic grill marks, flat provides even searing—some models offer both.
- Can I cook raw meat on a commercial panini press? Yes, but ensure internal temperatures reach food safety standards—perfect for chicken and burgers.
- How do I clean a commercial double contact grill? Brush debris while warm, wipe with damp cloth—avoid harsh chemicals on cooking surfaces.
- What power supply do I need for a double contact grill? Typically 13-16A dedicated supply—larger models may require three-phase power.
- How many sandwiches can a double contact grill cook hourly? Approximately 80-120 paninis per hour depending on model size and sandwich complexity.
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.
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.
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What our Customers Say
'The double contact grill has transformed our lunchtime service—fantastic bit of kit!'
M Mark Café Owner, Birmingham'Heats quickly and cooks evenly—worth every penny for a busy kitchen.'
L Lisa Head Chef, Bath Bistro
Why Choose EasyEquipment for Commercial Double Contact Grills & Panini Grills?
- 50 Years' Experience Half a century helping UK food businesses find perfect equipment.
- Rapid UK Delivery Next-day options available—get cooking quickly.
- Price Match Guarantee Found it cheaper? We'll match it—fair deals always.
- Expert After-Sales Support Technical advice and maintenance tips—we're here to help.
Ready to Explore Commercial Double Contact Grills & Panini Grills?
Browse our complete range of commercial double contact grills and panini presses with confidence. With our expert advice, fast UK delivery, and trusted brands, you'll find the perfect sandwich solution to boost your menu and satisfy hungry customers!
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