It doesn’t matter if you are a gourmet, professional chef, or a simple at home cook, you can make your kitchen work for you. Professional kitchens versus the home kitchen, how do they compare?

You are used to the typical kitchen that you find in your home. It usually has a stove, either gas or electric, dishwasher, microwave, vent fan, sink and never enough counter space. Your kitchen appliances may have a mix of low-end to high-end appliances, and if you purchase you home with appliances already in place, they may not even be to your style.

The professional kitchen is a little bit different. According to some professionals, the size of the kitchen is not as important as the layout of area. Counter space is the number one priority for most chefs. Some prefer granite, some marble, and some like butcher block wood. Many professional kitchens also have stainless steel. It depends on what type of food that is prepared and if the kitchen is in a restaurant, their own home or other area. The main thing though is having a good space to work.

The professional kitchen is typically organized. The professional chef does not like clutter, or items out of place. An organized kitchen is a must for making meal preparation easier. Your personal kitchen is not necessarily as organized as well as a chef’s kitchen, and if it’s anything like my kitchen, things are randomly placed in the cupboards. I can find things, however, a pro would get frustrated.

Professional chefs generally prefer gas stoves with six burners. This is because they can control the heat level quickly. Many of them have two ovens. Most home kitchens have a stove that has four to five burners, and is either gas or electric. Many now a days have the new ceramic top ranges. You are familiar with the home dishwasher that allows you to place the dishes on one of two racks for cleaning. Restaurants utilize a different style that can push dishes through at a rapid, high capacity rate. Sinks are another concern for the pro. Their kitchens have the luxury of having more than one industrial sink, while those of us at home have the standard kitchen sink.

One thing that you might consider for your home that the pros love…pot racks. Chefs like to hang their pots within easy reach. Most people don’t have the space in their home for this luxury, however, if you have the space, consider it.

Whether you are a professional, or an at home chef. Keep in mind, it’s your kitchen. Make it work for you, and you will be happy.