The type of cooling appliance that is best for a small restaurant really depends on the specific needs of the restaurant. Each type of appliance has its own uses:
Fridge: This is used for storing perishable goods at low temperatures but not freezing them. This is perfect for items that are used regularly in the kitchen such as fresh produce, dairy products, beverages, and leftovers.
Freezer: A freezer is used for preserving food for longer periods by storing them at freezing temperature. It's great for preserving meats, frozen foods, ice cream, and other items that need to be stored for a longer period.
Commercial Fridge: Commercial refrigerators are designed for restaurant or commercial food service applications. They are larger, more durable, and built to withstand constant use. They have more storage space and are more efficient in cooling. They can also have specific features like display sections for beverages or desserts, under-counter models for easy access, etc.
If your restaurant handles a lot of fresh produce and serves food that is prepared on the same day, a fridge or commercial fridge would be a good option. If you need to store a lot of food for longer periods, then a freezer would be better.
However, most small restaurants would benefit from a commercial fridge because they are designed for the heavy-duty use associated with a restaurant setting. You may also want to consider a combination of appliances. For example, a commercial fridge for daily needs, along with a small freezer for longer-term storage, could provide the best of both worlds.