What's Typically Included
Equipment varies by kitchen type and operator. Here's what you can typically expect.
Cooking Equipment
Refrigeration
Prep & Processing
Safety & Compliance
What You Need to Bring
Most rentals don't include small equipment and consumables. Budget for these items.
Small Equipment
- Knives and knife roll
- Thermometers (probe and infrared)
- Scales (portion and receiving)
- Timers
- Measuring jugs and spoons
- Blenders and immersion blenders
Consumables
- Food containers and labels
- Cling film, foil, parchment
- Cleaning chemicals
- Sanitiser and hand soap
- Disposable gloves and aprons
- Kitchen roll and cloths
Packaging
- Delivery containers
- Carrier bags
- Cutlery packs
- Napkins
- Branded stickers/labels
- Sauce pots and lids
Tech & Admin
- Tablet for orders
- Receipt printer
- Label printer
- HACCP documentation
- Temperature logs
- Cleaning schedules
Equipment by Kitchen Type
Equipment levels vary significantly based on the type of kitchen rental.
Shared Kitchen
Range, oven, fridge, freezer, worktops, extraction
You may share equipment with other operators
Private Dark Kitchen
All basics plus fryer, prep fridge, food processor
Dedicated space, equipment included in rent
Deliveroo Editions
Full setup including specialist equipment on request
Often includes tech integration, storage
Enterprise Kitchen
Bespoke to your requirements
Equipment fitting included, long-term lease
Kitchen Viewing Checklist
Use this checklist when viewing a potential kitchen space. Critical items are legal requirements.
Startup Equipment Budget
If equipment isn't included or you need additional items, here are typical costs.
If You Need to Buy
- Small equipment kit£500-1,500
- Initial consumables£200-500
- Packaging stock (month 1)£300-800
- Tech (tablet, printers)£200-400
- Total startup budget£1,200-3,200
Equipment Rental Options
- Fryer rental£25-50/month
- Mixer rental£30-60/month
- Extra fridge rental£40-80/month
- Full equipment package£150-300/month
- Many operators offer equipment add-ons - ask during viewing
James Mitchell
Ghost Kitchen Operations Director & Industry Expert
With 15 years in the food service industry, James Mitchell has managed operations for multiple ghost kitchen networks across the UK. He specializes in delivery-only kitchen models, kitchen equipment procurement, and helping startups scale their food businesses efficiently.
Areas of Expertise
Credentials
- MBA in Hospitality Management
- Former Operations Director at major ghost kitchen operator
- Food Hygiene Level 4 Certified
- 15+ years food service industry
- Managed 20+ dark kitchen locations
Kitchen Equipment FAQs
What equipment is usually included when renting a commercial kitchen?
Most commercial kitchen rentals include: commercial range/hob, oven, commercial fridge and freezer, stainless steel worktops, extraction and ventilation, hand wash station, and fire safety equipment. Shared kitchens may have additional equipment like fryers, food processors, and prep fridges. Always confirm the exact equipment list before signing.
Which ghost kitchen rental spaces include commercial refrigeration?
Nearly all ghost kitchen rentals include basic commercial refrigeration (upright fridge and freezer). More equipped spaces include under-counter prep fridges, walk-in cold rooms, and blast chillers. Deliveroo Editions and premium operators typically include the most comprehensive refrigeration. Confirm capacity meets your menu needs.
Do commercial kitchen rentals include cooking equipment?
Yes, most commercial kitchen rentals include core cooking equipment: commercial range (4-6 burners), convection oven, and often a fryer. Specialist equipment (wok burners, char grills, pizza ovens) is less common and may require negotiation or bring-your-own arrangements. Check the equipment list carefully against your menu requirements.
What do I need to bring to a rented commercial kitchen?
You typically need to bring: small equipment (knives, thermometers, scales, blenders), consumables (cleaning supplies, gloves, cling film), packaging materials (containers, bags, cutlery), and technology (order tablet, printers). Some items like pots and pans may be provided - always confirm with the operator.
Are extraction and ventilation included in kitchen rentals?
Yes, commercial extraction and ventilation is always included as it's a legal requirement. Check that the extraction rate is sufficient for your cooking style - high-heat wok cooking requires more powerful extraction than sandwich prep. Canopy cleaning and filter replacement is usually the operator's responsibility.
What storage is included in dark kitchen rentals?
Storage varies significantly. Shared kitchens may offer limited shelf/cage space. Private dark kitchens typically include dry storage, dedicated fridge/freezer space, and sometimes packaging storage. Premium facilities may include walk-in storage. Clarify storage arrangements and any additional costs.
Is packaging and delivery equipment included?
Packaging (containers, bags, cutlery) is almost never included - you source your own. Some dark kitchen facilities provide packaging storage areas and may have arrangements with suppliers for bulk discounts. Delivery bags/boxes are your responsibility unless using platform-provided packaging.
What safety equipment is included in commercial kitchens?
Commercial kitchens must include: fire suppression system over cooking equipment, fire extinguishers (multiple types), first aid kit, hand wash station, and proper extraction. All should have current certificates. Also check for non-slip flooring, adequate lighting, and emergency exit routes.