
Best 36 Inch Sandwich Prep Tables for Your Restaurant
Running a food service business, especially in a smaller space, requires smart decisions about equipment. You need appliances that maximize efficiency without sacrificing valuable square footage. That's where the 36 inch sandwich prep table comes in. This workhorse combines a spacious prep area with convenient refrigerated storage, making it a must-have for any cafe, deli, or smaller restaurant. In this guide, we'll explore the benefits of a 36 inch sandwich prep table, key features to consider, and top models available at The Restaurant Warehouse. We'll also cover essential maintenance tips to keep your equipment in top shape and your business running smoothly.
Need a Sandwich Prep Table for a Small Kitchen?
Key Takeaways
- Maximize space and efficiency with a 36-inch sandwich prep table. This size offers a practical balance for smaller kitchens, providing ample workspace and storage without overcrowding your area. Look for durable stainless steel construction and a reliable refrigeration system to ensure long-lasting performance.
- Consider your specific needs when selecting a prep table. Think about your menu, the volume of sandwiches you make, and the number of staff who will be using the table. A compact model is perfect for small cafes, while larger restaurants may need a bigger unit.
- Proper maintenance is key to keeping your prep table in top condition. Regular cleaning, temperature checks, and attention to potential issues will not only extend the life of your equipment but also ensure food safety and efficient operations.
Understanding the 36 Inch Sandwich Prep Table
Benefits of a 36 Inch Prep Table
Space-Saving Design
When you’re outfitting a small commercial kitchen, every square foot counts. A 36-inch sandwich prep table offers a perfect balance between workspace and footprint. While larger sizes exist, a 36-inch model provides ample room for assembling sandwiches without overwhelming a compact kitchen. It's a smart choice for smaller cafes, delis, or food trucks where space optimization is essential. Different widths are available, including 27-inch and 32-inch models, so you can choose the best fit for your needs.
Ample Storage
Don't let the compact size fool you. A 36-inch sandwich prep table boasts surprising storage capacity. Models like the Cooler Depot Commercial Refrigerated Sandwich Prep Table offer generous refrigerated space underneath the cutting board, perfect for keeping ingredients fresh and readily available. This built-in refrigeration eliminates the need for separate refrigerators, freeing up valuable kitchen space.
Enhanced Productivity
A dedicated sandwich prep table streamlines your workflow and improves efficiency. Unlike general-purpose workspaces, these tables are designed specifically for sandwich making. Many models include pan rails for ingredient bins, keeping everything within easy reach. This organized setup minimizes wasted movement and allows your staff to assemble sandwiches quickly, especially during rushes.
Key Features to Look For
Refrigeration System
A reliable refrigeration system is crucial for food safety. Look for a prep table with consistent and adjustable temperature control, typically between 33-40°F. Features like the epoxy-coated shelves in the Avantco SS-PT-36-HC 36" model enhance durability and simplify cleaning. A robust refrigeration system ensures your ingredients stay fresh and safe.
Construction Materials
Durability is essential in a busy commercial kitchen. Choose a sandwich prep table made from high-quality stainless steel. Stainless steel is easy to clean, resists corrosion, and withstands daily use. Look for models with foamed-in-place polyurethane insulation for better temperature retention and energy efficiency, like the Avantco SS-PT-36-HC.
Cutting Board Options
The cutting board is a key component of your sandwich prep table. A built-in, removable cutting board offers convenience and promotes sanitation. Choose a durable, food-safe material that's easy to clean. Consider the thickness and depth of the cutting board, ensuring it provides ample space for comfortable and efficient sandwich preparation. The Avantco SS-PT-36-HC features a convenient 3/4" thick removable cutting board.
Atosa Sandwich Prep Table: A Closer Look
With all the features you need to make a great sandwich, this atosa msf8310gr 36 inches sandwich prep table refrigerator will be a welcome addition to your commercial restaurant.
Atosa 36 Inch Sandwich Prep Table: A Top Choice
Model Overview and Specifications
The Atosa MSF8310GR 36-inch sandwich prep table is designed for commercial kitchens. Its stainless steel construction ensures both durability and easy cleaning—essential for busy foodservice environments. The built-in, removable 3/4-inch thick cutting board makes sandwich preparation efficient and keeps your workspace organized.
Why Choose an Atosa Prep Table?
The Atosa sandwich prep table is an excellent choice for smaller kitchens because of its compact 36-inch design. It efficiently uses limited space and offers ample storage, accommodating ten 1/6 size food pans. This keeps all your sandwich toppings within easy reach, maximizing your workspace and minimizing prep time. If you are looking for other refrigeration options, check out The Restaurant Warehouse's selection of refrigerators and freezers.
Quality and Durability
Built to withstand daily use in a commercial kitchen, the Atosa prep table features a 430 type stainless steel exterior and a 304 type stainless steel interior. The foamed-in-place polyurethane insulation maintains food-safe temperatures. Investing in durable equipment like this Atosa prep table is a smart decision for any restaurant owner. The Restaurant Warehouse offers restaurant equipment financing to help you acquire the equipment you need.
Performance and Reliability
The Atosa prep table adheres to FDA regulations and NSF Standard 7, ensuring food safety by maintaining temperatures between 33°F and 41°F. The Restaurant Warehouse offers a full range of restaurant equipment, including deep fryers, to help you fully equip your kitchen.
Compact Sandwich Prep Table Refrigerator: Perfect for Small Kitchens
Perfect for any kitchen or small commercial restaurant, this atosa msf8310gr 36 inches sandwich prep table refrigerator is sure to make your cooking life easier. With extra space for ingredients and storage, it will be easy to assemble any dish you want with all the necessary components. Plus, with its attractive stainless steel finish, it won’t look out of place with the rest of your kitchen appliances
Choosing the Right Prep Table Size for Your Business
Picking the right prep table size is a big decision, no matter what kind of food service business you run. A prep table that’s too small will leave you cramped and inefficient, while one that’s too big will eat up valuable kitchen space. Let’s break down the ideal prep table sizes for different kitchen types.
Small Kitchens and Cafes
For smaller kitchens and cafes, space is always at a premium. Sandwich prep tables are your best friend here. These compact units offer a dedicated prep surface and refrigerated storage underneath for your ingredients. They typically come in sizes ranging from 27 to 36 inches wide, making them perfect for tucking into tight spaces. Look for models with adjustable shelves and different configurations to maximize your storage potential. A smaller footprint doesn't mean sacrificing functionality – a well-chosen sandwich prep table can be a game-changer in a small kitchen. Check out The Restaurant Warehouse's selection of prep tables to find the right fit for your small business.
Medium-Sized Restaurants
As your restaurant grows, so do your food prep needs. For medium-sized restaurants, a 36-inch sandwich prep table is often the sweet spot. These tables offer a good balance between workspace and storage. Look for models that can accommodate standard food pans (like the common 1/6 size) so you can keep ingredients organized and easily accessible. A durable stainless-steel construction is also key for withstanding the rigors of a busy kitchen environment. If you find you need additional refrigerated storage, consider adding a separate undercounter refrigerator to complement your prep table. The Restaurant Warehouse offers a variety of undercounter refrigerators to meet your needs.
Large Commercial Kitchens
In a bustling, high-volume commercial kitchen, efficiency is everything. Larger sandwich prep tables, ranging from 48 to 72 inches, provide ample space for multiple chefs to work simultaneously. These heavy-duty units are designed to handle constant use and often feature integrated cooling systems to maintain safe food temperatures. Think about your specific needs – how many people will be using the prep table at once? What types of food are you preparing? Consider models with varying pan openings and storage configurations to customize your workflow. Investing in a high-quality, larger prep table is a smart move for maximizing productivity in a large commercial kitchen. The Restaurant Warehouse offers a wide selection of prep tables to suit any size kitchen, so you can find the perfect fit for your business.
Atosa MSF8310GR 36" Sandwich Prep Table: Prep Like a Pro
Get the space you need to prep all your culinary creations with the atosa msf8310gr used 36 inches sandwich prep table refrigerator. With plenty of space for assembly and refrigerated prep table storage below, this small footprint features everything you need to be a pro in the kitchen.
Maximize Prep Efficiency with a 36 Inch Sandwich Prep Table
Streamlined Workflow
A 36-inch sandwich prep table is designed to enhance the efficiency of your kitchen workflow. With easy access to ingredients and a solid work surface, these tables allow chefs to quickly and effectively prepare sandwiches. This is especially beneficial in small kitchens where space is at a premium, enabling staff to work more productively without unnecessary movement. Having ingredients readily available within arm’s reach minimizes prep time and keeps orders flowing. Explore our selection of sandwich prep tables to find the perfect fit for your business.
Improved Food Safety
Food safety is paramount in any kitchen, and a 36-inch sandwich prep table helps maintain high standards. These tables are designed with food safety regulations in mind, ensuring that ingredients are stored at safe temperatures. Maintaining appropriate temperatures prevents bacterial growth and ensures that food remains safe for consumption. This protects your customers and helps you avoid costly food waste due to spoilage. Learn more about our restaurant equipment financing options to make essential investments more manageable.
Reduced Food Waste
Utilizing a sandwich prep table can significantly reduce food waste in your kitchen. By keeping ingredients organized and at optimal temperatures, these tables help ensure that food is used efficiently and remains fresh. Proper storage and temperature control prevent spoilage and contribute to more sustainable kitchen practices. This benefits your bottom line and reduces your environmental impact. Browse our collection of refrigerators and freezers to further optimize your kitchen's storage and minimize waste.
Maximize Your Space with a 36-Inch Refrigerated Sandwich Prep Table
Give your chefs the space and convenience they need to create a variety of soups, salads, and more. With a refrigerated base cabinet below the work area, this sandwich prep table is perfect for any kitchen.
Sandwich Prep Table Buying Guide
Assessing Your Needs
When selecting a sandwich prep table, think about your kitchen's specific needs. If you primarily make pizzas, a pizza prep table with its wider cutting board might be a better fit. If salads and sandwiches are your focus, a standard sandwich/salad prep table is ideal. Most models have pan rails for food pan storage and offer either doors or drawers underneath for refrigerated storage. Knowing your menu helps narrow down the right style. Understanding the differences between prep tables, chef bases, and worktops is also helpful.
Budget Considerations
Budgeting for a sandwich prep table goes beyond the sticker price. Investing in equipment that meets FDA regulations and NSF Standard 7 (maintaining food temperatures between 33°F and 41°F) is crucial. A well-built, energy-efficient model may cost more upfront, but saves money on energy and maintenance over time. Always check the warranty—it offers peace of mind. Financing options can also help manage your budget.
Space and Layout
The size of your sandwich prep table matters, especially in a small kitchen. Tables typically range from 27 to 72 inches in length and accommodate various pan sizes (most hold 1/6-size pans). Ensure the table fits comfortably in your kitchen while providing ample prep space. Most models include a 15-18 inch cutting board in front for efficient workflow. Consider how much space you need for ingredients and how the table fits with other restaurant equipment, like refrigerators and deep fryers. Learning more about prep table features helps you make the right choice.
Effortless Sandwich Prep: How a Prep Table Can Help
Save time and money by making sandwiches with this atosa msf8310gr 36-inch sandwich prep table refrigerator. It keeps your ingredients fresh and allows you to prepare more in less time. A sandwich prep table is a food service equipment that aids in the production of sandwiches and wraps. It's highly useful for catering companies and restaurants, and it's also used in schools, hotels, hospitals, and convenience stores. The typical design is a stainless steel countertop with an electric heating element beneath the surface. For efficiency, this type of kitchen appliance has two or more sinks on the back wall to serve as dirty dishes stations. A good-quality sandwich prep table will be made of heavy gauge steel that offers a high degree of durability while being easy to clean.
This article will discuss how to choose the right 36 inch sandwich prep table for your restaurant. Best suited for environments with high volume meal demands, these tables are designed to be rugged and dependable.
Maintaining Your Sandwich Prep Table
A well-maintained sandwich prep table is crucial for food safety and efficient operations. Regular care will extend the life of your equipment and save you money in the long run. Investing in a quality prep table, like the ones we offer at The Restaurant Warehouse, is a great first step. Keeping it in top shape is essential for maximizing its value.
Cleaning and Sanitizing
Regular cleaning is essential for the longevity of your sandwich prep table and, more importantly, for food safety. Think of all the ingredients that come into contact with your prep table throughout the day! To prevent bacterial growth and cross-contamination, establish a daily cleaning routine. Wipe down all surfaces with mild soap and water, paying particular attention to the cutting board and areas where food debris might accumulate. Clean gaskets regularly to ensure a proper seal, which prevents temperature fluctuations and contamination. The FDA recommends maintaining food temperatures between 33°F and 41°F to prevent foodborne illnesses (source), making a tight seal critical. After cleaning, sanitize with a food-safe sanitizer to eliminate any lingering bacteria.
Preventative Maintenance Tips
Beyond daily cleaning, preventative maintenance can significantly extend the life of your sandwich prep table. Train your staff on the proper operation and monitoring of the equipment. Make sure they understand the importance of temperature control and how to identify potential issues. Regularly check the temperature to ensure it stays within the safe zone. Store acidic foods like pickles and onions in sealed containers to prevent corrosion. Proper ventilation around the condensing unit is also key for efficient operation. Dust and debris can build up on the condensing coils, reducing their ability to release heat. While newer designs, like spiral or "jelly roll" coils, require less frequent cleaning (source), check them periodically and clean them as needed. Following these simple maintenance tips will ensure your sandwich prep table runs smoothly for years to come, keeping your food fresh and your customers happy. Looking to upgrade or add to your kitchen setup? Check out our selection of refrigerators and deep fryers at The Restaurant Warehouse.
Choosing the Right Sandwich Prep Cooler
TABLE DIMENSIONS: Dimensions 44.3(h) x 36.32(w) x 30(d). This size can accommodate four plya sandwiches across in each row, providing ample space for guests to prepare their own meals.
8.7 cu. ft. STORAGE CAPACITY: You should look at tables that provide storage capacity when choosing a 36-inch sandwich prep table for your restaurant because this allows you to cut down on the amount of time spent prepping dishes before service begins.
Where to Buy a 36 Inch Sandwich Prep Table
The Restaurant Warehouse: Your One-Stop Shop
The Restaurant Warehouse offers a wide selection of restaurant equipment, perfect for any business owner looking to upgrade their kitchen. We understand the importance of reliable and efficient equipment, and prioritize quality and affordability.
Wide Selection of Top Brands
Sandwich prep tables come in different sizes (27", 32", 36") and configurations, allowing you to choose the perfect fit. Whether you need a compact sandwich prep table or one with extra storage, The Restaurant Warehouse has options from leading brands. We know choosing the right equipment can be tough, so we offer resources to help you make informed decisions.
Competitive Pricing and Financing Options
We believe quality restaurant equipment shouldn't be unaffordable. The Restaurant Warehouse offers competitive pricing and financing options to make purchasing easier. When choosing a 36-inch sandwich prep table, consider the storage capacity to minimize prep time and maximize efficiency, ultimately impacting your profitability.
Expert Advice and Customer Support
Our team at The Restaurant Warehouse supports you throughout the process. We offer expert advice and customer support to help you find the perfect equipment. A good-quality sandwich prep table uses durable and easy-to-clean heavy gauge steel. Our knowledgeable staff can answer any questions and guide your selection.
Other Restaurant Equipment Suppliers
While The Restaurant Warehouse is a great option, exploring other suppliers is always recommended. Avantco offers the SS-PT-36-HC 36" 2-Door Stainless Steel Refrigerated Sandwich Prep Table, keeping ingredients cold (33-40°F) with ample storage on two epoxy-coated shelves. Comparing prices and features from different suppliers helps you find the best deal.
36 Inch Sandwich Prep Table FAQs
What is the standard depth of a sandwich prep table?
Prep table dimensions vary, but lengths range from 27 to 72 inches, with 6 to 24 pan openings, offering layout flexibility. The standard depth is typically around 30 inches. Measure your space to ensure a comfortable fit.
How much does a 36 inch sandwich prep table cost?
Costs vary based on brand, features, and supplier, ranging from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars. The Cooler Depot Commercial Refrigerated Sandwich Prep Table (model XSP-M36) offers 8.6 cubic feet of refrigerated storage at a competitive price. Compare prices and read reviews before purchasing.
What are the different types of refrigeration systems available?
Most commercial prep tables maintain temperatures between 33°F and 41°F, complying with NSF Standard 7. Some models offer advanced features like adjustable temperature controls and different refrigeration types. Understanding your needs will help you select the right system.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key benefits of using a 36-inch sandwich prep table in a small commercial kitchen? A 36-inch sandwich prep table offers a great balance of workspace and efficient storage without taking up too much room. It helps keep ingredients organized and readily available, which speeds up sandwich assembly and improves overall productivity, especially during busy periods. This size is particularly beneficial in smaller kitchens where space is limited.
What factors should I consider when choosing a sandwich prep table for my restaurant? Consider your kitchen's size and layout, your menu, and your budget. Think about how much prep space you actually need and how many ingredients you'll be storing. Look for durable construction, a reliable refrigeration system, and a convenient cutting board. Also, explore features like adjustable shelves and different pan configurations to maximize storage and organization.
How can I maintain my sandwich prep table to ensure its longevity and food safety? Regular cleaning and sanitizing are essential. Wipe down all surfaces daily with mild soap and water, and sanitize with a food-safe product. Pay close attention to the cutting board and any areas where food debris might collect. Regularly inspect gaskets and ensure a proper seal to maintain temperature and prevent contamination. Check the temperature frequently to ensure it stays within the safe food zone.
What are the different sizes available for sandwich prep tables, and which one is right for my business? Sandwich prep tables typically range from 27 inches to 72 inches wide. Smaller sizes (27-36 inches) are ideal for small cafes and food trucks. Medium-sized restaurants often benefit from a 36-inch table, while larger commercial kitchens may require 48-72 inch models for multiple chefs. Consider how many people will be using the table simultaneously and how much workspace and storage you need.
Where can I purchase a high-quality 36-inch sandwich prep table? The Restaurant Warehouse offers a wide selection of sandwich prep tables, including 36-inch models, along with other restaurant equipment. They focus on providing affordable, high-quality options and offer financing to help manage costs. You can also research other restaurant equipment suppliers and compare prices and features before making a decision.
About The Author

Sean Kearney
Sean Kearney used to work at Amazon.com and started The Restaurant Warehouse. He has more than 10 years of experience in restaurant equipment and supplies. He graduated from the University of Washington in 1993. He earned a BA in business and marketing. He also played linebacker for the Huskies football team. He helps restaurants find equipment at a fair price and offers financing options. You can connect with Sean on LinkedIn or Facebook.
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