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Mobile Induction Cooking Stations » A Hot New Addition
Keeping buffet foods hot and fresh is an ongoing challenge for hotels. Chafers with old-style roll-top lids often do not close tightly, allowing steam to escape and making it virtually impossible to regulate food temperature. This usually means that food quality and presentation are compromised.
After seeing Spring USA’s SmartStone Induction System at the National Restaurant Association show, Jeffrey Cassell, director of F&B for the DoubleTree Hotel Chicago Oak Brook, was ready for a change.
“We first wanted to go with the mobile induction units for the breakfast buffet because we liked the consistency of heat and the looks,” Cassell says. “Then we got permission to use them in the banquet spaces as well.”
With the induction cooking stations, temperature-tuned warmers are installed beneath the counter and out of te way. They use radio frequency to heat only the metal cooking and serving pieces, leaving the glass top surfaces cool to the touch. There are no open flames or steam, which reduces the risk of injury to both staff and guests. “We were looking for a heat-resistant surface and found it in the commercial-grade SmartStone cooktop with its residential-look. I like the way it looks and the applications for use. It cleans up easily too—with only soap and water.”
The mobile induction cooking unit becomes a high-end piece of furniture once the chafers are removed, another feature that Cassell appreciates. “They are very versatile, and that is a definite benefit.”
Cassell was initially concerned with how the installation would fit with the hotel's current setup, but his apprehension quickly disappeared when the professionals from Spring USA showed up to do the job. “The guys created a template and mapped out where the units would go. The customization job was great, and they had it installed in just two days. My expectations were exceeded. It was perfect. Things lined up beautifully. We have six units now and plan to add more.”
Spring USA’s products range from chafing dishes to professional cookware, from induction ranges to coffee urns, and their customers include hotels, restaurants, and cruise ships. Spring products ensure that food is served healthy, hot, and not overcooked through high moisture retention, temperature regulation, and sanitary design.
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