What to Look For When Choosing a Chef-Base Refrigerator
A chef-base refrigerator (also called a refrigerated chef base, undercounter refrigerated base, or worktop chef base) is a kitchen workhorse — it combines chilled storage with a stainless steel work surface so chefs can prep fast and efficiently. Pick the wrong unit and you lose space, efficiency, or worse: food safety. Here’s a practical guide to the key features you should consider before buying, with tips to match the right model to your kitchen. 1) Size & capacity — fit for your workflow Measure the space and think through how staff move during service. Chef bases come in widths from ~36" to 72" (and larger modular units). Pick a width that: fits under your intended worktop or range, gives enough drawer or cabinet volume for peak service, and leaves room for ventilation and service access. (Products are offered in multiple widths — check specs for internal capacity and drawer layout). 2) Drawer vs. door vs. combination design Drawers : Fast acce...