Opening or expanding a restaurant requires a major investment in commercial kitchen equipment—but buying everything upfront can quickly drain your capital. That’s where restaurant equipment financing comes in.
From ovens and refrigerators to prep tables and espresso machines, financing gives restaurant owners the flexibility to outfit their kitchen with the tools they need—without large upfront costs.
What restaurant equipment can be financed?
Items like ovens, refrigerators, dishwashers, fryers, and food prep stations can all be financed or leased to support your restaurant’s operations.
You can finance nearly any essential kitchen or dining equipment used in food service. Here are the most commonly financed items:
Commercial ovens (convection, combi, deck)
Stoves and ranges
Grills and fryers
Steamers and microwaves
Walk-in coolers
Freezers and ice machines
Prep fridges and reach-in coolers
Mixers and slicers
Food processors
Cutting stations
Stainless steel prep tables
Commercial dishwashers
Three-compartment sinks
Sanitizing equipment
Espresso machines
Soda fountains
Bar coolers
Keg systems
POS systems
Seating and tables
Host stations
Menu boards
Used equipment is often eligible too, especially if sourced from reputable dealers.
Keep your startup or expansion budget intact by spreading costs across predictable monthly payments.
Use your cash for inventory, staffing, marketing, or renovations—not locked into ovens and coolers.
Many lenders approve loans or leases in 24–72 hours, getting your kitchen operational faster.
Choose terms that fit your seasonal cash flow, with options to upgrade, renew, or buy out at lease-end.
Monthly payments may be fully deductible as business expenses. Some assets also qualify for Section 179 write-offs.
Use the Section 179 calculator here (opens in new tab)
Choose your equipment and vendor
Get a quote or invoice
Apply with a lender or lease provider
Receive approval (often within days)
Sign agreement and receive equipment
Make monthly payments over 12–60 months
Pro tip: Some providers bundle equipment, installation, and soft costs (like delivery or setup) into one loan.
Most lenders require:
6+ months in business (or strong credit for startups)
$100,000+ in annual revenue
Credit score of 600+ (flexible with business performance)
Vendor quote or invoice
Startups may qualify with a personal guarantee and solid business plan.
| Feature | Lease | Loan (Buy) |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | ✅ Lower | ❌ May require 10–20% down |
| Ownership | ❌ No (unless buyout) | ✅ Yes after loan is paid off |
| Flexibility | ✅ Upgrade or return at term end | ❌ Committed to owned equipment |
| Tax Benefits | ✅ Deduct lease payments | ✅ Depreciate asset over time |
| Long-Term Cost | ❌ Higher if used long-term | ✅ Lower if kept for many years |
Crest Capital – Restaurant-focused equipment loans
Balboa Capital – Known for quick lease approvals
National Funding – Flexible terms for restaurants and food trucks
All links open in a new tab.
Restaurant success depends on efficiency, speed, and quality—all of which rely on your kitchen equipment. Restaurant equipment financing helps you get the tools you need now, without draining your savings or stalling growth.
Ready to open a new location, upgrade your kitchen, or replace outdated gear?
Compare financing and lease options, and find the best fit for your business goals.
Serve more customers—without overcooking your budget.