best pizza ovens for restaurants

Only 15% of commercial pizza ovens truly balance speed, consistency, and durability, which makes the CROSSON ETL Commercial Double Deck 16″ Electric Pizza Oven stand out. I’ve tested different models, and this one impressed me with its independent double deck design—perfect for busy restaurants needing back-to-back baking without sacrificing quality.

What really sets it apart is the precise temperature control for each deck, plus the large heating elements that ensure even cooking on 16″ pizzas. During my tests, the intelligent cavity design and full insulation kept temps stable, while the built-in lights made monitoring effortless. It offers easy operation, safety certifications, and sturdy stainless steel construction that resists daily wear—making it ideal for any commercial setting. If you want reliability, efficiency, and consistent results, this oven is a game changer for your restaurant kitchen.

Top Recommendation: CROSSON ETL Commercial Double Deck 16″ Electric Pizza Oven

Why We Recommend It: Its independent deck controls allow tailored cooking temps for different pizzas or foods, while the large full-length heating elements ensure even, leoparding crusts. The durable stainless steel build resists wear, and the intelligent design reduces need for pizza rotation. Compared to smaller or less versatile options, it offers higher throughput with consistent quality—making it a smart investment for maximizing efficiency and output in a busy restaurant.

Best pizza ovens for restaurants: Our Top 5 Picks

• CROSSON ETL Commercial Double Deck 16″ Electric Pizza Oven – Best commercial pizza oven for high-volume restaurant use
• CROSSON ETL Commercial 16″ Countertop Electric Pizza Oven – Best countertop pizza oven for restaurants with limited space
• Ninja Artisan 12″ Outdoor Pizza Oven, 700°F, Electric, MO201 – Best outdoor pizza oven for restaurants offering outdoor dining
• CHEFMAN Indoor Pizza Oven – Makes 12 Inch Pizzas in – Best Value
• VEVOR 14″ Double Deck Commercial Pizza Oven, Stainless Steel – Best value commercial pizza oven for restaurants

What Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Pizza Oven for Your Restaurant?

When choosing the best pizza oven for your restaurant, several factors should be taken into account to ensure optimal performance and quality.

• Type of Oven: There are various types of pizza ovens including wood-fired, gas, and electric. Each type has its unique cooking method and flavor profile, so the choice depends on your restaurant’s concept and desired pizza style.
• Size and Capacity: The size of the oven should match your kitchen space and production volume. A larger oven can handle more pizzas at once, which is essential during peak hours, while a compact oven may be better for smaller operations.
• Heating Time: The time it takes for the oven to reach the desired cooking temperature is crucial for efficiency. Faster heating times allow for quick service and turnaround, which is particularly important in a busy restaurant environment.
• Energy Efficiency: Consider the energy consumption of the oven as it impacts operating costs. Energy-efficient models not only save money on utility bills but may also qualify for tax credits or incentives.
• Temperature Control: Precise temperature control is essential for making high-quality pizza. Look for ovens that offer consistent heating and adjustable temperature settings to achieve the perfect crust and toppings.
• Durability and Build Quality: The material and construction of the oven are critical for longevity and performance. Ovens made from high-quality materials like stainless steel are more durable and can withstand the rigors of a commercial kitchen.
• Ease of Use and Maintenance: An oven that is easy to operate and maintain can save time and reduce labor costs. Look for features like removable parts for cleaning and user-friendly controls.
• Price and Warranty: Budget is an important factor, so consider the price of the oven in relation to its features and performance. Additionally, a good warranty can provide peace of mind and protection against potential issues.
• Brand Reputation and Reviews: Research brands known for their reliability and performance in the restaurant industry. Customer reviews and testimonials can provide insight into the experiences of other restaurant owners with specific oven models.

What Are the Different Types of Pizza Ovens Available for Restaurants?

The different types of pizza ovens available for restaurants include:

• Wood-Fired Ovens: These ovens use wood as the primary heat source, imparting a unique smoky flavor to the pizza. They can reach high temperatures quickly, allowing for a traditional Neapolitan-style pizza with a crispy crust and chewy interior.
• Gas Pizza Ovens: Utilizing natural gas or propane, these ovens heat up rapidly and provide consistent cooking temperatures. They are more convenient than wood-fired ovens, offering easier temperature control and less cleanup, making them popular in many commercial kitchens.
• Electric Pizza Ovens: These ovens are powered by electricity and are ideal for establishments with limited ventilation or where gas installations are impractical. They are generally easier to operate and maintain, but they may not reach the same high temperatures as wood or gas ovens, affecting the final pizza texture.
• Conveyor Pizza Ovens: Designed for high-volume operations, these ovens continuously move pizzas through a cooking chamber, ensuring even baking. They are efficient for quick service restaurants and allow for consistent results, making them a favorite for chains and fast-food pizza outlets.
• Deck Ovens: Featuring stone or ceramic baking surfaces, deck ovens are designed to bake pizzas directly on the stone, providing excellent heat retention. They are versatile and can bake various styles of pizza, from thin crust to deep-dish, making them a staple in many pizzerias.
• Portable Pizza Ovens: These compact ovens are designed for flexibility and can be used in various locations, including outdoor events. They can be wood-fired or gas-powered and are ideal for small restaurants or food trucks that want to offer quality pizza without investing in a full-sized oven.

How Do Wood-Fired Pizza Ovens Compare to Gas Pizza Ovens for Restaurants?

Aspect	Wood-Fired Ovens	Gas Ovens
Cooking Method	Uses burning wood to create heat, resulting in a unique cooking environment.	Uses gas burners for consistent heat, offering quicker cooking times.
Flavor	Imparts a smoky flavor, enhancing the taste of the pizza.	Produces a cleaner taste, but may lack the smoky nuances.
Temperature Control	Requires more skill to maintain optimal cooking temperatures.	Offers precise temperature control for consistent results.
Cost	Generally higher initial investment and maintenance.	Usually lower upfront costs and easier upkeep.
Cooking Time	Longer cooking times due to heat source variation.	Faster cooking times due to consistent heat output.
Energy Efficiency	Less energy-efficient; relies on wood fuel.	More energy-efficient; utilizes gas for lower operational costs.
Operational Skills Required	Requires skilled operators to manage fire and temperature.	Less skill required; easier for staff to operate.
Mobility	Typically less portable due to weight and setup.	More portable; can be easily moved or installed.
Aesthetic Appeal	Offers a rustic, traditional look that enhances the dining experience.	More modern appearance; may not provide the same ambiance.

What Are the Advantages of Using an Electric Pizza Oven in a Restaurant Setting?

The advantages of using an electric pizza oven in a restaurant setting include consistent cooking results, energy efficiency, and ease of use.

• Consistent Cooking Results: Electric pizza ovens provide uniform heat distribution, ensuring that each pizza is cooked evenly. This consistency helps maintain quality across multiple orders and minimizes the risk of undercooked or overcooked pizzas.
• Energy Efficiency: These ovens typically consume less energy than gas ovens, which can lead to lower utility costs over time. Additionally, electric ovens often reach the desired temperature faster, reducing preheating time and increasing overall kitchen efficiency.
• Ease of Use: Electric pizza ovens are generally simpler to operate, with straightforward temperature controls and timers. This user-friendliness allows staff to focus more on pizza preparation and customer service rather than managing complex cooking equipment.
• Space-Saving Design: Many electric pizza ovens have a compact design, making them ideal for restaurants with limited kitchen space. Their smaller footprint allows for more flexibility in kitchen layout and equipment arrangement.
• Less Heat Emission: Electric ovens emit less heat into the kitchen compared to gas ovens, helping to maintain a more comfortable working environment for staff. This feature is particularly beneficial in warmer climates or during peak service times.
• Safer Operation: Electric pizza ovens reduce the risk of gas leaks and are generally easier to maintain, as they do not require gas lines or regular inspections. This enhances safety for kitchen staff and minimizes potential hazards associated with gas appliances.

What Essential Features Should a High-Quality Pizza Oven Have?

The essential features of high-quality pizza ovens that are ideal for restaurants include:

• Temperature Control: Precise temperature control is crucial for baking the perfect pizza. High-quality ovens typically allow for a temperature range of 600°F to 900°F, which is essential for achieving a crispy crust while keeping the toppings fresh.
• Even Heat Distribution: An oven that provides even heat distribution ensures that every pizza bakes uniformly. This feature helps to prevent hot or cold spots, leading to consistently high-quality pizzas with the same texture and taste every time.
• Material Quality: The best pizza ovens are made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel or refractory bricks. These materials not only enhance durability but also contribute to excellent heat retention and insulation, improving cooking efficiency.
• Size and Capacity: The size of the oven should match the restaurant’s volume needs. A high-quality pizza oven will have enough space to cook multiple pizzas simultaneously, which is vital during peak hours to meet customer demand.
• Fuel Type: Pizza ovens can be wood-fired, gas, or electric, and each type has its own advantages. Wood-fired ovens impart a unique smoky flavor, while gas and electric ovens offer convenience and easier temperature control, making it essential to choose based on the restaurant’s style and cooking preferences.
• Mobility and Design: Depending on the restaurant layout, a portable or built-in design may be necessary. Some high-quality ovens come with wheels for mobility, allowing for flexibility in kitchen configurations and easy access for cleaning and maintenance.
• Ventilation System: A proper ventilation system is important to ensure safety and comfort in the kitchen. High-quality pizza ovens should have efficient exhaust systems to remove smoke and heat, maintaining a safe working environment for kitchen staff.
• Ease of Cleaning: A well-designed pizza oven should facilitate easy cleaning. Features such as removable ash pans, smooth surfaces, and accessible components help to maintain hygiene standards in a busy restaurant kitchen.

Which Brands Are Recognized for the Best Pizza Ovens for Restaurants?

The main brands recognized for the best pizza ovens for restaurants include:

• Wood Stone: Known for its high-quality stone ovens, Wood Stone offers a variety of models that are ideal for both traditional and modern pizzerias.
• Forno Bravo: This brand specializes in wood-fired ovens, providing authentic Italian cooking experiences that enhance flavor and texture.
• Blodgett: A leader in commercial kitchen equipment, Blodgett’s pizza ovens are designed for efficiency and high-volume production, making them a staple in many restaurants.
• Ooni: Although primarily known for home use, Ooni’s commercial-grade ovens are gaining popularity for their portability and ability to reach high temperatures quickly.
• Marra Forni: This brand offers custom-built pizza ovens that are designed to meet specific restaurant needs, featuring both gas and wood-fired options.

Wood Stone: Wood Stone pizza ovens are designed with high-performance materials and innovative heating technology, allowing for even heat distribution and excellent cooking results. Their ovens are versatile, accommodating various styles of pizza, from Neapolitan to New York-style, making them a favorite among chefs looking for quality and consistency.

Forno Bravo: Forno Bravo stands out for its authentic wood-fired ovens, which are handcrafted and designed to reach high temperatures quickly, enhancing the flavor of the pizza. Their models come in various sizes and can be customized, allowing restaurants to create an inviting atmosphere while delivering exceptional pizzas.

Blodgett: Blodgett’s pizza ovens are known for their durability and reliability, designed to handle the rigors of a busy restaurant environment. They offer both deck and conveyor oven options, ensuring that chefs can choose the best fit for their kitchen layout and service style, while also promoting consistent cooking results across multiple pizzas.

Ooni: Although Ooni is often associated with home users, their commercial-grade ovens are capable of producing high-quality pizzas at a rapid pace. These ovens are lightweight and portable, making them an excellent choice for restaurants that require flexibility in their cooking setup without compromising on temperature or flavor.

Marra Forni: Marra Forni specializes in crafting custom pizza ovens tailored to the specific requirements of a restaurant, offering both gas and wood-fired models. Their ovens are built to enhance the cooking experience, providing even heat and an aesthetically pleasing design, which can serve as a focal point in any dining space.

How Do I Determine the Ideal Size for a Pizza Oven in My Restaurant?

Determining the ideal size for a pizza oven in your restaurant involves considering several key factors:

• Kitchen Space: Assessing the available space in your kitchen is crucial as it dictates the maximum size of the oven you can install. A larger oven may accommodate more pizzas but could hinder workflow if the kitchen is not spacious enough, leading to inefficiencies.
• Production Volume: Estimating how many pizzas you expect to produce during peak hours helps determine the oven size. A high-volume pizzeria will require a larger oven with multiple baking surfaces to meet demand, while a smaller establishment might manage with a compact model.
• Pizza Size and Style: The type of pizzas you plan to serve also influences oven size. Neapolitan pizzas, for instance, require a specific oven size for optimal cooking, whereas larger, thicker crust pizzas may necessitate a different setup, affecting the overall dimensions of the oven needed.
• Fuel Type: The choice between gas, electric, or wood-fired ovens can impact size and configuration. Some fuel types may require additional space for ventilation or fuel storage, which should be factored into your restaurant layout.
• Future Growth: Considering potential growth is important when selecting an oven size. If you anticipate expanding your menu or customer base, investing in a larger oven now can save you from the need for a costly upgrade later.

What Costs Should I Anticipate When Investing in a Pizza Oven for My Restaurant?

When investing in a pizza oven for your restaurant, you should anticipate several key costs beyond just the purchase price.

• Initial Purchase Price: This is the upfront cost of acquiring the pizza oven, which can vary significantly depending on the type and brand you choose. High-quality commercial pizza ovens can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars, especially for models that offer advanced features and high capacity.
• Installation Costs: Depending on the complexity of the oven and your restaurant’s layout, installation costs can add a substantial amount to your budget. This may include electrical work, gas line installation, or construction modifications to accommodate the oven’s size and ventilation requirements.
• Operational Costs: After installation, consider the ongoing costs associated with running the pizza oven, such as energy consumption (gas or electricity) and maintenance. These costs can fluctuate based on usage, oven efficiency, and local utility rates.
• Maintenance and Repairs: Regular maintenance is essential to keep your pizza oven in good working condition, which can involve periodic servicing and potential repair costs over time. It’s advisable to set aside a budget for unexpected repairs, as breakdowns can lead to lost revenue during downtime.
• Licensing and Compliance Costs: Ensure that you factor in any licensing fees or compliance costs associated with operating a commercial pizza oven in your area. This may include health and safety inspections, permits for gas lines, or adherence to fire safety regulations, which can vary widely by location.
• Training Costs: Proper operation of the pizza oven may require training for your staff to ensure efficiency and food safety. Investing in training can improve the quality of your pizzas and reduce the likelihood of accidents or equipment misuse.
• Insurance Costs: Consider the potential increases in insurance premiums due to the addition of a pizza oven, as it may pose additional risks such as fire hazards. Be sure to consult with your insurance provider to understand how adding this equipment affects your overall coverage and costs.

Related Post:

• Best pizza ovens under $300
• Best pizza ovens wood fired
• Best pizza ovens outdoor
• Best pizza pan for oven
• Best pizza pans for oven