Outfitting a commercial kitchen is one of the largest startup or expansion costs for a restaurant—and ovens, grills, fryers, and prep stations don’t come cheap. The good news? You don’t have to pay for everything upfront. With smart equipment financing, you can get the commercial ovens and cooking gear you need while preserving your working capital.
How do I finance commercial ovens and restaurant kitchen equipment?
You can finance restaurant equipment through loans, leases, or equipment financing agreements, which offer fixed payments over time and flexible ownership options.
Purchasing commercial kitchen equipment outright can cost anywhere from $50,000 to $150,000—just for the essentials. Financing allows you to:
Conserve cash flow for staffing, inventory, and marketing
Get the equipment now instead of waiting to save
Choose ownership or lease flexibility based on your business model
Deduct payments as a business expense in many cases
Related: Restaurant Equipment Financing: Kitchens, Ovens, and More
You can finance nearly any commercial-grade kitchen appliance, including:
Convection and combi ovens
Ranges and flat-top grills
Fryers and steamers
Refrigeration and prep tables
Exhaust hoods and fire suppression systems
Dishwashers and sanitation stations
Point-of-sale (POS) systems and back-of-house tech
Tip: Some providers also include delivery, installation, and warranty options in the financing package.
Here are the most common financing structures:
Low upfront cost
Flexible end-of-term options (return, renew, or buy)
Great for short-term needs or tech that evolves quickly
You own the equipment from day one
Fixed interest rates and payment terms
Ideal for long-life equipment like ovens or walk-ins
Offered by vendors or lenders that specialize in the food industry
May include bundled equipment + maintenance packages
Often have relaxed credit requirements
Every lender is different, but most will ask for:
Business license or LLC documentation
Equipment quote or invoice
3–6 months of bank statements
Credit score (typically 600+)
Time in business (startups may still qualify!)
Pro tip: A detailed business plan can help secure approval if you’re a new restaurant.
Before signing, evaluate:
Lease vs. loan structure – Do you want ownership or flexibility?
Total cost of financing – Understand interest rates, fees, and buyout terms
Maintenance and warranty coverage – Who pays if something breaks?
End-of-term options – Can you upgrade or return old equipment?
Related: What to Consider Before Signing an Equipment Lease Agreement
Here’s a sample estimate for outfitting a small commercial kitchen:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Convection Oven | $6,000 |
| Flat-top Grill | $4,500 |
| Deep Fryer (2 baskets) | $3,800 |
| Refrigerator & Prep Table | $5,200 |
| Exhaust Hood & Suppression | $8,000 |
| Total | $27,500 |
48-month lease
Monthly payment: ~$625
Buyout option: $1 or FMV
Decide if you want to lease or own
Identify which kitchen equipment you need
Get quotes and compare financing terms
Prepare your business documents
Apply with a restaurant-friendly lender
Review the contract and maintenance terms
Financing your commercial ovens and kitchen equipment allows you to launch or expand your restaurant with less financial pressure. It’s a strategic move that aligns your expenses with your growth—without sacrificing quality or performance.