Top Bar Refrigeration Brands

Top bar refrigeration brands in the industry power the essential equipment that maintains beverage quality and service efficiency in bars and restaurants. These refrigeration systems play a vital role in keeping diverse beverages at optimal serving temperatures, from beer and wine to soft drinks, ensuring maximum customer satisfaction. Commercial establishments must carefully select equipment that can handle frequent use while providing precise storage conditions for their specific beverage inventory. Wine storage, for example, demands more sophisticated temperature and humidity control than canned beverages. The leading manufacturers offer specialized solutions designed to meet these varied refrigeration requirements:

Investing in a high-quality unit from a well-known brand can make all the difference in your operations. A good brand will manufacture reliable, durable units and provide customer support should anything go wrong. These 11 brands have proven themselves through great reviews and customer support systems.

True Refrigeration

True Refrigeration has been in business since 1945. They claim to have the best warranties in the industry with 7-year labor, 7-year parts, and 7-year compressor warranties. They manufacture various refrigeration units such as reach-ins, undercounter units, merchandisers, display cases, bar refrigeration (such as keg coolers and wine coolers), refrigerated chef stations, prep tables, ice machines, holding cabinets, blast chillers, water filtration systems, and cartridges.

They offer custom finishes to their products to make them more aesthetically pleasing to their customers. The company especially stands out with its reach-in refrigerator models that are varied in size and features to meet various business demands. True T-50-GC-HC glass and plate chiller and True TBB-1-HC back bar coolers are popular among business owners because of their durability, storage capacity, solid doors, and superior insulation.

True’s extensive product offerings make it an excellent option for new bar setups. Many custom finishes and products are in different sizes and shapes for variable layouts.

Traulsen

Traulsen was founded in 1938 and has a comprehensive range of products, including reach-in refrigerators, prep tables, refrigerated prep tables, milk coolers, under-counter units, and blast chillers. All products are engineered and assembled locally in Texas, which is a huge bonus when sourcing parts quickly if needed. The brand offers a premium 6-year part and labor and a 7-year compressor warranty on all their products.

Traulsen RH126W-WR01 is a popular model of the Traulsen wine cooler and offers a 77-bottle capacity. It easily meets the needs of a medium-sized establishment. Traulsen UPT7212 models are under-counter prep tables and are highly favored for their efficiency and compact design. It is ideal for kitchens with limited space and where efficient workflow is key to a smooth service. It comes with drawers and a spacious pan top. Traulsen RBC50 is a blast chiller model that rapidly reduces food temperatures to ensure safety and quality. They are commonly utilized by hotels and some fast-paced bakers who need quick chilling for their desserts.

Krowne

Krowne has been in the business for over 70 years, providing top-notch refrigeration and bar equipment. Knowne for its customer-centric approach, Krowne offers extensive warranties and excellent customer support. The company manufactures under-bar refrigeration units, bottle coolers, back bar coolers, direct draw coolers, mug frosters, ice bins, cocktail stations, and beer dispensers.

Krowne is highly regarded for its innovative designs and space-saving solutions, making it a popular choice for busy bar environments. They manufacture great beverage dispensers that can help you expedite drink serving with taps. Krowne is used by new bars, mainly thanks to their innovative solutions and high-quality beverage coolers.

Krowne KR24R-36 under-bar refrigerator models have robust performance and efficient cooling. It is commonly utilized by baristas to store soft drinks or cocktail ingredients for easy access. Krowne BC48 bottle cooler is known for its large capacity and durability and keeps pre-made beverages at optimal serving temperatures. Krowne BD48 beer dispenser is highly praised for its reliable draft system and user-friendly design.

Hoshizaki

Hoshizaki is a global leader in commercial refrigeration and ice-making equipment, with a history dating back to 1947. Their products are known for their reliability, durability, and energy efficiency. Hoshizaki offers a broad range of products, including reach-in refrigerators, back bar coolers, bottle coolers, direct draws, pass-thru coolers, ice and water dispensers, display cases, freezers, ice machines, and prep tables.

Hoshizaki is mainly distinguished by its high-quality ice makers, which are widely used in bars and restaurants worldwide to keep drinks cool and delicious. Their back bar units and bottle coolers are sought explicitly after by establishments serving large beverages. Thanks to being a global brand, the brand has an extensive customer support system, which is a massive bonus for food service business owners.

Hoshizaki has several popular bar refrigeration options, such as the Hoshizaki KM-901MRJ ice machine, known for producing clear and high-quality crescent-shaped ice. Hoshizaki BB80-S back bar cooler with robust cooling performance and ample storage space for establishments. Hoshizaki CPT46 prep table is highly praised for its efficient design and durability, making it ideal for busy kitchens and chefs who need everything in one place.

Turbo Air

Turbo Air has been providing high-quality refrigeration products since 1997. The company is known for its innovative technology and eco-friendly solutions. All their refrigerators use natural refrigerants; over 140 of their products are Energy STAR certified. Turbo Air is endorsed by the world-renowned chef Gordon Ramsey, who says a lot about the integrity and quality of the brand.

Turbo Air manufactures under-counter units, reach-in refrigerators, food prep tables, merchandisers, chef bases, worktops, ice cream merchandisers, milk coolers, and display cases. They are notably recognized for their energy-efficient models and advanced self-cleaning condenser technology, which enhances performance and longevity. 

Turbo Air TGM-22RV is a very popular and reliable commercial merchandiser for displaying beverages and perishable goods. Turbo Air TBB-3SGD-N back bar cooler is known for its energy efficiency and robust performance. Turbo Air JUR-48-N6 under-counter refrigerator features one of the most compact designs and reliable cooling capabilities for space-constrained kitchens.

Perlick

Perlick has been a leader in bar and beverage refrigeration since 1917. They are renowned for their premium quality, innovative designs, and customization options. Perlick is committed to raising the bar for every bar in the country. They create solutions for cocktail bars and wine bars with their diverse range of products, including back bar coolers, freezers, step-in keg coolers, countertop displays, bottle coolers, glass and plate chillers, beer dispensers, glass washing machines, beverage dispensers, and wine refrigerators.

Perlick products stand out in the industry for their sleek designs and advanced features, making them a preferred choice for upscale bars and restaurants. Perlick is dedicated to creating solutions for bars so you can buy your entire bar layout from them without hassle. If you only need a couple of products for your establishment, Perlick’s top models include the Perlick HP24CS, a high-performance beverage dispenser known for its reliability and sleek design, the Perlick H50IMW, an under-counter ice maker, praised for its efficiency and high-quality ice production, and the Perlick BBS108, a back bar cooler, highly regarded for its spacious interior and energy-efficient operation. These three units combined take care of your storage and service needs efficiently.

Beverage-Air

Beverage-Air has been a prominent name in commercial refrigeration since 1944. They are known for their reliable and energy-efficient products, backed by strong warranties and customer support. Beverage-Air manufactures reach-in refrigerators, back bar coolers, merchandisers, deli cases, food prep tables, worktops, chef bases, blast chillers, bar mobiles, bottle coolers, and beer dispensers. They are particularly well-known for their durable and versatile back-bar refrigeration units.

Beverage-Air BB58HC-1-G-S back bar cooler is one of the brand’s top models, known for durability and high storage capacity. Beverage Air BB48HC-1-B back bar cooler is another popular model with 2 sections, solid doors, energy efficiency, and high performance. Beverage-Air BB78HC-1-B back bar cooler features 3 sections and solid doors. Bar and restaurant owners prefer it because of its heavy-duty, durable structure, environmentally friendly, energy-efficient refrigerant, and ability to meet all regulatory requirements for CARB, SNAP, and DOE.

Continental Refrigerator

Continental Refrigerator has been a trusted provider of commercial refrigeration equipment since 1989. They are known for their high-quality products and extensive customization options. They believe that each business is unique and that standard solutions are insufficient to drive a company to success. They claim to be flexible and work with buyers to tailor a product to their needs perfectly. Continental Refrigerator is also the 2024 partner of ENERGY STAR certification, proving their commitment to eco-friendliness.

They offer a variety of products, including reach-in refrigerators, under-counter units, sandwich units, warmers, blast chillers, merchandizers, bakery cases, chef bases, milk coolers, and refrigerated prep tables. The brand is mainly distinguished by the robust construction and energy-efficient design of its products and by its commitment to creating tailored solutions for business owners.

Their top models include the Continental Refrigerator SW48N, a worktop refrigerator unit with a spacious preparation area and reliable cooling. Continental Refrigerator BB50NGD back bar cooler features 2 glass doors, a 16 cu ft-volume, and a performance-rated front breathing refrigeration system.

Glastender

Glastender has been manufacturing bar equipment since 1969. They are known for their innovative designs and high-quality products. Glastender offers a comprehensive range of products, including under-bar refrigeration, cocktail stations, glass washers, bottle coolers, wine coolers, ice bins, bar sinks, workstations, and beer dispensers.

Glastender makes highly configurable custom cocktail bar stations perfect for new businesses. The company considers everything while designing these stations, from cup dispensers to waste management in bar areas. Their products stand out for thoughtful design and user-friendly features, making them popular, especially for new bar owners.

Glastender’s top models include the Glastender MF24-B2 24″, an under-bar glass froster used for quick frosting to improve the presentation and quality of beverages, the Glastender CT-36, a customizable cocktail station or a beer/wine dispensing tower known for its comprehensive features and efficient layout to quickly serve many different types of drinks, and the Glastender CP1FB pass-thru back bar refrigerator models for front of the shop service ease.

Atosa USA

Atosa USA is known for their competitive pricing and excellent customer service, Atosa USA offers refrigeration units, cooking equipment, combi ovens, walk-in coolers and freezers, warming and holding units, stainless steel fabrication, merchandizers, ice machines, and pizza pre tables. As a growing company, they are more concerned with making a good impression on their clients, and they have warehouses all across the United States to expedite delivery processes.

Atosa USA stands out for its user-friendly designs. They are exceptionally easy to operate, which is excellent for inexperienced staff. Atosa USA’s top-selling models are Atosa USA MBB23GR back bar cooler, a one-section bar refrigeration with a solid door, and Atosa MBB59GR back bar cooler, a two-section with a solid door.

Maxx Cold

Maxx Cold is a well-established brand known for its durable and energy-efficient refrigeration products. They offer reach-in refrigerators, freezers, sandwich and salad stations, pizza tables, back bar coolers, merchandisers, chef bases, dipping cabinets, beer dispensers, ice machines, and prep tables.

Maxx Cold stands out in the industry for its extensive product range and dynamic promotions. These features make them a preferred choice for many bar and restaurant owners starting from scratch and looking for good financing options and budget-friendly quality equipment. 

Their budget-friendly catalog includes bestselling equipment, such as the Maxx Cold MXBD60-1SHC, Maxx Cold MXBD60-2BHC draft beer coolers, and Maxx Cold MXCR50BHC bottle cooler. These units feature efficient cooling at affordable prices and are well-known for their practical designs.

Other High-Quality Bar Refrigeration Manufacturers

In addition to the 11 brands that are well known and mentioned above, there are 33 other high-quality bar refrigeration manufacturers you can shop from based on your budget, the options available at your local dealer, and your specific business circumstances and needs. 

What are The Key Features to Look for in Bar Refrigerators?

There are 5 key features in bar refrigerators: temperature consistency, energy efficiency, capacity and space optimization, customization, and adaptable accessories. These features ensure that your operations are cost-effective, safe, and compatible with your inventory’s needs. 

Temperature Consistency

The temperature consistency of a bar refrigerator is important to preserving the quality and safety of beverages, especially delicate ones like wine. You should look for refrigerators with advanced temperature control systems that provide precise and stable cooling. Bar refrigeration with digital thermostats and automatic defrost functions are ideal, as they ensure that the internal environment remains at the desired temperature, preventing spoilage and ensuring optimal serving conditions.

A simple model can store soft packaged drinks, but you must invest in an advanced model for storing wine and similar drinks. Ensure the insulation around the door is thick and has a high R-value. A bar refrigerator will be frequently opened, and the interior temperature will be constantly disturbed if the insulation isn’t good enough. 

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is a significant factor in reducing operational costs and environmental impact in a bar setting. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified refrigerators with high energy efficiency ratings. Features like LED lighting, energy-efficient compressors, and well-insulated self-closing doors can significantly reduce energy consumption.

Capacity and Space Optimization

The capacity of the bar refrigerator should match your storage needs without taking up excessive space in your kitchen. The best way is to opt for vertical models with adjustable shelves and compact designs that maximize storage capacity without taking up much-needed foot traffic in your kitchen. Space optimization is particularly important in smaller bars where every inch counts. Also, consider your expansion goals, if you have any, before purchasing a unit. Invest in a larger model to accommodate such a shift if you plan to expand your operations soon.

Customization

Customization options for bar refrigeration units allow you to tailor the refrigerator to your specific circumstances and requirements. Certain brands offer minor customizations such as adjustable shelving, reversible doors, and modular components, while some brands, like Continental Refrigeration, aim to customize the entire design process for their clients. Such flexible features can make a significant difference in usability and space maximization. Some brands also offer customizable finishes to match the bar refrigerator to your bar’s aesthetic, which is a huge bonus in terms of branding. 

Adaptable Accessories

Adaptable bar refrigerator accessories improve your bar refrigerator’s functionality and make your operations run smoother. The best accessories you can find for a bar refrigerator are bottle organizers, can dispensers, and wine racks. These accessories can help you organize your inventory efficiently and improve accessibility. Streamlining the bottle retrieval process is a great perk in a fast-paced kitchen. Additionally, some refrigerators come with specialized compartments for different types of beverages, ensuring optimal storage conditions for each. Investing in a multi-zone unit would be brilliant if you have a diverse inventory. 

How to Choose the Best Brand for Your Bar

To choose the best brand for bar refrigeration asses following 15 considerations: including considering your bar needs, your beverage selection, assessing bar layout and size, assessing key features, temperature precision, energy efficiency, durability and build quality, matching the brand to your budget, affordable options, premium choices, mid-range solutions, looking at customer support and warranty, warranty terms, customer service, checking reviews and recommendations. 

Consider Your Bar Needs

When choosing a bar refrigerator brand for your restaurant, you should consider your bar needs. Take the time to carefully evaluate what your bar requires explicitly regarding refrigeration. You might need storage for a large volume of drinks or specialized cooling for different beverage types; you might need to adjust the shelf sizes based on standard bottle sizes of your inventory; understanding your needs will help narrow down the brand options significantly.

Consider the amount of space you have and the location of your business. Your circumstantial conditions will define the unit size range you should look for, while your business location will show you which brands have customer support services in your region. If you are in a remote location, you should double-check with your dealer to see if your region will get professional support in case of a breakdown. 

Consider your beverage selection when picking a bar refrigerator to store each drink in its ideal condition. Wine is the most delicate beverage you can store, and you should buy a special wine cooler. If the right conditions aren’t met, wine can age prematurely, beer can lose its texture, and you can lose a lot of inventory. If you have a diverse selection of beers, wines, and spirits, you might need a refrigerator with different compartments or adjustable temperature zones to cater to each type of beverage. Dual-zone coolers are especially great for restaurants. 

Assess Bar Layout and Size

Assess your bar layout and size and compare them with the product offerings of your top bar refrigeration brands. You should carefully measure the available space in your bar to figure out the size you can accommodate and consider the layout of your kitchen to figure out the shape of your unit. Ensure your chosen refrigeration fits seamlessly into your bar without obstructing workflows or occupying excessive space.

Assess Key Features

Assess key features on all bar refrigerators offered by your top brands. Look for essential features such as temperature control, adjustable shelves, and easy accessibility, and make sure they are up to your standards. While some brands might have extremely tech-savvy features, prioritize features that align with your operational needs, are easy to use, and enhance efficiency for the best results.

• Temperature Precision: Ensure that the bar refrigerator offers precise temperature control. This is crucial for maintaining the quality of beverages, particularly for craft beers and wines requiring specific storage temperatures. Temperature precision can be achieved through digital, advanced thermostats, high R-value insulation layers, and self-closing solid doors. 

• Energy Efficiency: Choose an energy-efficient bar refrigerator model to save on operational costs and reduce environmental impact. ENERGY STAR certification is a good indicator of efficiency. Look for brands that are ENERGY STAR partners and have refrigerators with features like LED lighting and energy-efficient compressors.

• Durability and Build Quality: A bar refrigerator brand’s durability and build quality can make or break their reputation. Opt for brands known for their durable and high-quality build. Stainless steel interiors and exteriors, robust shelving, and sturdy door seals contribute to the longevity of the refrigerator. Make sure to check what the refrigerator is made of. The lower price point of certain brands might be due to cheaper materials like aluminum, which won’t insulate or last as long as stainless steel. 

Match the Brand to Your Budget

Match the brand to your budget when picking a bar refrigerator brand. Determine your budget and find a brand that offers the best value within your price range. Balancing cost with quality and features is key to making a sound investment. Don’t fall for cheap price tags. While it might be appealing, you shouldn’t compromise on your essential needs. 

• Affordable Bar Refrigeration Options: If you are on a tight budget, look for brands that offer reliable yet cost-effective refrigeration solutions. Ensure that the lower price does not compromise essential features and durability. For example, Atosa is a good budget-friendly option among bar refrigeration brands. Maxx Cold is preferred by small-scale operations looking to set up their bar without breaking the bank.

• Premium Bar Refrigeration Choices: Premium choices for bar refrigerators include brands that offer advanced features, superior build quality, and often better customer service. These are ideal for high-end bars where performance and aesthetics are crucial. Well-established brands are the way to go for these goals. True and Perlick have proven themselves to be good partners for chefs across America. They have custom finish options and high-end designs for premium businesses.

• Mid-Range Solutions: Mid-range brands can offer a balanced mix of affordability and quality. These options are great for bars looking for reliable performance without the high price tag of premium models. This is why you need to assess your needs. Premium price tags come with premium features that you might not necessarily need. Turbo Air and Beverage Air are great brands that balance quality and price.

Look at Customer Support and Warranty

Strong customer support and comprehensive warranty terms are essential for long-term satisfaction. There are three types of warranties for refrigeration units: labor, parts, and compressors. Brands that offer extended warranties and reliable customer service can provide peace of mind. Refrigeration unit breakdowns can cost you thousands of dollars in inventory, and you might even need to shut down your business till the problem is fixed. With a good warranty, you will have professional support only one call away. 

• Warranty Terms: Examine the warranty terms closely. A good warranty can save you significant repair costs and hassles in the future. Look for brands offering extended warranties on parts and labor since you need them the most. 

• Customer Service: Responsive and helpful customer service is crucial, especially if you encounter issues with your refrigerator. Opt for brands known for their excellent customer support so that you don’t end up with spoiled inventory in case of a breakdown. Check in with your dealer to ensure that your chosen brand serves your area if you operate remotely.

• Check Reviews and Recommendations: Check reviews and recommendations from other bar owners or industry professionals to gain insight into a brand’s long-term performance in terms of technical performance and customer support. Real-world experiences and feedback will show you if the brand is reliable and better than other options. True, Turbo Air, and Hoshizaki have excellent customer reviews, which is a testament to their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

How to Enhance Your Setup with Bar Supplies

You can enhance your setup with bar supplies in terms of storage and operational efficiency by carefully designing and planning your kitchen. The right equipment will help you maximize storage, monitor temperatures better, and adequately meet daily and seasonal demands.

Maximize Storage Efficiency

You can maximize the storage efficiency of your bar by investing in the right bar supplies and accessories. Efficient storage is essential for maintaining an organized and functional bar, and these can be game-changers:

• Adjustable Shelving: You can use refrigerators with adjustable shelves to accommodate various bottle sizes and shapes. This will make your investment more versatile and help you adapt to inventory changes.
• Bottle Organizers and Dividers: Implement bottle organizers and racks to keep your inventory orderly and easily accessible. You should be able to quickly locate and retrieve bottles easily in a fast-paced kitchen. 
• Space-Saving Units: Invest in compact, under-counter refrigerators and freezers that fit seamlessly into your bar layout without wasting space.

Upgrade Your Bar Equipment

Upgrading the bar supplies you own is the key to improving your setup. Old and out-of-date equipment might slow you down and impact the quality of your service. Insufficient refrigeration can ruin wine and beer storage for good. Assess the state of your current equipment and find the gaps in your service.

• Modern Refrigeration Units: Replace outdated refrigeration units with modern, energy-efficient models that offer better temperature control and reliability.
• Advanced Ice Machines: Invest in high-quality ice machines that produce ice quickly and in various shapes and sizes to meet different drink requirements.
• Glass Chillers: Install glass chillers or glass frosters to serve drinks in perfectly chilled glasses, enhancing the drinking experience for your customers.

Use Temperature Monitoring Tools

Maintaining the correct temperature is crucial for beverage quality and safety. You can improve your current setup by utilizing these tools for optimal temperature control:

• Digital Thermometers: Equip your refrigeration units with digital thermometers for accurate temperature readings.
• Temperature Alarms: Install temperature alarms that alert you if the temperature deviates from the set range, preventing spoilage and ensuring compliance with health standards.
• Remote Monitoring Systems: Consider remote monitoring systems that allow you to check and adjust temperatures from your smartphone or computer.

Benefit from Specialty Supplies for Bar Refrigeration

Specialty supplies for bar refrigeration can make your bar setup more versatile, functional, and efficient overall. You can invest in products such as wine coolers, keg refrigerators, beverage dispensers, back bar coolers, and more, depending on your inventory and business needs, and get niche perks and benefits.

• Humidity Control for Wine Refrigerators: Wine refrigerators with humidity control features maintain the ideal environment for storing wines, preventing corks from drying and preserving the wine’s quality.
  
• Reusable Beer and Soda Holders: Invest in reusable beer and soda holders to organize and display canned beverages neatly, making them easy to access and serve.
  
• Air Circulation Fans: Air circulation fans in refrigeration units ensure even cooling throughout, reducing hot spots and maintaining consistent temperatures.

Get Seasonal and Event-Specific Supplies

Having the right supplies for different seasons and events can boost your bar’s versatility and appeal and help you seize and turn seasonal opportunities into profit. Portable coolers and bar mobiles are your best bet regarding bar refrigeration units. 

• Summer Bar Essentials: Stock up on cooling towels, portable ice buckets, and outdoor-friendly refrigeration options to keep beverages cold and refreshing during the hot summer. Thanks to these supplies, you can expand your business outdoors and even participate in festivals.
  
• Event Accessories: You can quickly expand into event service with mobile bar carts and countertop dispensers, perfect for catering or special events. They allow you to serve drinks efficiently and stylishly wherever you go, which is a great flexibility.

Conclusion

In conclusion, selecting the right bar refrigeration unit is essential for maintaining beverage quality, and to do so, you need to know the best brands in the industry and what they offer. Ensuring efficient service in a fast-paced restaurant or bar setting is no easy task; having the right partner in your corner can make all the difference.

Top bar refrigeration brands such as True Refrigeration, Traulsen, Krowne, Hoshizaki, Turbo Air, Perlick, Beverage-Air, Continental Refrigerator, Glastender, Atosa USA, and Maxx Cold have consistently proven their worth with reliable, durable units and excellent customer support. These brands offer a wide array of products, from reach-in refrigerators to specialized wine coolers, all designed to meet the specific needs of your establishment.

When investing in bar refrigeration, consider key features such as temperature consistency, energy efficiency, capacity, customization options, and adaptable accessories to ensure your unit meets the demands of your business. Proper temperature control, especially for delicate beverages like wine, and energy-efficient models can significantly impact your operational costs and beverage quality. Customizable units and adaptable accessories further enhance usability and efficiency.

Ultimately, the best brand for your bar will depend on your specific needs, beverage selection, bar layout, and budget. By carefully evaluating these factors and consulting product catalogs from reputable brands, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your bar’s performance and customer satisfaction.