Display Toppers
Display Toppers (also known as Refrigerated Topping Rails) are the perfect add-on for any countertop, turning a standard worktable into a professional prep station. These compact, versatile units sit atop your existing counters or fridge units, providing a chilled environment for ingredients in Gastronorm pans. Connacht Catering offers a variety of lengths and configurations, many featuring glass "sneeze guards" to protect food from contamination while keeping it visible to customers. Ideal for sushi bars, salad stations, and pizza prep, these toppers ensure you comply with food safety regulations without the need for a full-scale kitchen remodel.
How to Choose the Right Display Toppers
Start by measuring your existing counter to ensure the topper fits securely. You must decide if you require a glass surround for customer-facing areas or a stainless steel lid for back-of-house prep. Check the cooling type—static cooling is common in these units to keep the energy footprint low. Ensure the unit is compatible with the GN pan depths you plan to use (usually 100mm or 150mm). Lastly, consider the placement of the compressor; some models have the engine on the left or right, which may affect where you can place the unit.
Care & Maintenance
-
Glass Clarity: Clean the sneeze guard daily with a food-safe glass cleaner to maintain a professional appearance.
-
Pan Removal: Always remove pans at the end of service; never leave food in the topper overnight.
-
Manual Defrost: Since many toppers use static cooling, manually defrost the rail periodically to prevent ice buildup.
-
Temperature Probing: Use a handheld probe to ensure ingredients at the top of the pans are staying below 5C.