Café Startup Equipment Checklist: What You Do (& Don’t) Need!
When you’re opening a cafe or a coffee shop, it can be difficult to think through each and every item you’ll need to run a successful business. From industrial bean grinders to refrigeration systems, flatware, paper products, storage, and more – the number of items you need can be dizzying.

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Food and drink preparation
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Drip coffeemakers
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Coffee presses
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A high-quality espresso machine
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Industrial coffee grinders
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A water filtration system
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Food preparation tables
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Food storage bins, bottles, and pumps
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Commercial blenders
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Ovens/toasters/grills
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An ice maker
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Software
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A robust security system
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A POS system
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Employee management/scheduling software
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Payroll/accounting software
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Storage and refrigeration
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Industrial refrigerators
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A large freezer (walk-in for larger businesses)
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Insulated containers for cream and milk
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Industrial shelving for dry storage
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Food storage containers for opened ingredients
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Industrial plastic wrap
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Consumable Goods
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Napkins
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Insulated paper cups and lids
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Cardboard sleeves
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Plastic cups and lids
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Paper towels
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Straws
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Paper/cardboard plates
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Dishes and flatware
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Plates
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Mugs
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Cups and drinking glasses
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Spoons, knives, and forks
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Drink preparation utensils
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Cleanup and maintenance
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A 3-compartment sink for rinsing, washing, and sanitizing dishes
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Mop and dedicated mop closet/sink
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Rags and industrial cleaning spray
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Dishwasher
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Bus trays for dirty dishes
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Trash cans and bags
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Dumpster/trash compactor
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Furniture and decor
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Tables and chairs
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Counters/bar seating
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Outdoor furniture and umbrellas
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Food prep/work counters
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Display/storage cases
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Overhead menus
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In-store menus and displays
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Interior/exterior lighting
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Wall art, framed photos/posters, etc.
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Audio systems