Babak Food Equipment Reviews: How to Choose a Restaurant Supply Store

Babak Food Equipment reviews are public on Google, where the Burnaby showroom holds a 4.9 star rating from more than 380 reviews. This guide explains what to look for in reviews of any restaurant supply store, then gives you a practical checklist for choosing the right partner for your kitchen, whether you are opening a new place or replacing a single unit.

This is part two of our series. If you are still getting oriented, start with part one on finding a restaurant supply store, then come back here for the part most buyers skip: how to judge a supplier before you spend money.

What our Google reviews tell you, and what they cannot

A rating of 4.9 from 380+ reviews is a useful signal. It means a large number of customers took the time to share their experience, and the overall result is consistently positive. We encourage you to read them yourself: search for Babak Food Equipment on Google Maps and sort by newest to see recent experiences.

A rating cannot tell you whether the store fits your project, so read reviews for patterns, not just stars:

• Volume and recency. Hundreds of reviews spread over several years say more than a burst of reviews in one month.
• Detail. Reviews that mention a specific purchase, a staff conversation or a problem that was solved are more informative than one-line praise.
• How problems are handled. Every business has an occasional issue. Look at whether the owner replies and whether the reply is constructive.
• Similar customers. A pizzeria owner should weigh reviews from other food businesses more heavily than reviews from a one-time home buyer.

Check the same patterns for every supplier on your shortlist, including us.

How to choose a restaurant supply store: the checklist

Reviews are one input. These are the other questions that separate a good supplier from a convenient one.

1. Does the store cover your whole kitchen?

A supplier that carries only part of what you need forces you to coordinate several vendors, deliveries and service contacts. Look for a store that covers cooking equipment, refrigeration, ovens, food prep, beverage equipment, tables and storage and smallwares in one place. That makes quoting, layout planning and ordering far simpler.

2. Can you see and touch the equipment?

Photos and spec sheets only go so far. A showroom lets you check door swing, work-surface height, build quality and noise before you commit. Our showroom is at 7190 Randolph Ave, Burnaby, open Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm. Call (604) 566-9747 before you visit so we can have the relevant units ready to show you.

3. Does the supplier know the brands it sells?

Ask which brands the store represents directly. Babak is an authorized dealer for UNOX, Thunderbird and Giles, which means we can speak to those lines in detail. For other brands, ask your salesperson how they help with specifications, installation requirements and parts.

4. Is there a clear quote process?

Good suppliers put quotes in writing, itemize equipment and accessories, and tell you what is included. Ask how long a quote stays current, who to contact with questions and how changes are handled. We work quote-based, so you can compare options without pressure.

5. What happens after the sale?

Equipment needs cleaning supplies, spare parts and occasionally repairs. Ask where you would buy parts and accessories and who you would call when something stops working. A supplier that is easy to reach after the sale is worth more than a small saving at checkout.

6. Are there options beyond buying everything new?

Budgets are tight when you open. Look for a store that also offers certified pre-owned equipment and can discuss leasing and financing options. Our guide to buying used kitchen equipment and our financing overview explain the basics.

7. Does the store understand BC requirements?

Food premises in BC go through plan review with the regional health authority, such as Vancouver Coastal Health or Fraser Health. Gas appliances need a certification mark and installation by a Technical Safety BC licensed gas fitter. A local supplier is used to these questions and can point you in the right direction, while you should still confirm details with the authority that covers your premises.

Matching the supplier to your type of restaurant

Different concepts lean on different parts of the catalog, so test the supplier against your own menu.

• Bakeries and pastry shops need bakery ovens, mixers, dough prep equipment and proofer cabinets.
• Pizzerias and Italian restaurants look for deck ovens, pizza prep tables, dough rollers and pizza supplies.
• Asian restaurants often need rice cookers, steamers, ranges with high-output burners and sushi display cases.
• Bars and cafes rely on bar refrigeration, ice machines, espresso machines and blenders.
• Full-service restaurants usually need a complete line: cooking, reach-in refrigeration, dishwashers and ventilation.

Ask each supplier to show you examples in your category. A store that has helped similar kitchens before will ask better questions about your layout.

Showroom or online store?

Online shopping is convenient for smallwares and simple reorders, and our website lets you browse the full catalog and request a quote at any time. For larger equipment, a conversation with a salesperson who has seen kitchens like yours usually saves money, because it prevents the most common mistakes: wrong size, wrong power supply, wrong gas type, or a unit that does not fit through the door.

The best approach combines both. Research online, shortlist models, then visit or call to confirm what fits your space and utilities.

Smarter ways to save money

A low sticker price is not always the lowest cost. When you compare suppliers, look at the full picture.

• Compare itemized quotes, not totals. Make sure each quote covers the same model, accessories and options.
• Consider energy and water use. Efficient equipment can cost less to run over its life.
• Mix new and certified pre-owned equipment where it makes sense, for example work tables and shelving.
• Ask about bundling. A supplier that supplies the full kitchen can often discuss the whole package.

Configurations, options and market conditions change, so request a quote on any product and our team will respond with current details.

Getting the most out of a showroom visit

• Bring your floor plan, even a rough sketch, with measurements for doors, hallways and utility locations.
• Bring your menu or a list of dishes and peak-hour volumes.
• Know your utilities: gas or electric, voltage, single or three phase, water and drain locations.
• Write down your budget range and a timeline for opening.
• Ask for model numbers in writing so you can compare later.

Build a long-term relationship with your supplier

Equipment needs do not end at opening day. You will add a second fryer, replace a worn mixer, restock smallwares and eventually expand. A supplier who knows your kitchen can recommend the right replacement faster and helps you avoid repeating research every time. Consistency also matters for staff training: standardizing on a few brands makes cleaning, parts and repairs simpler.

Supplier comparison summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Want to see for yourself? Visit our Burnaby showroom at 7190 Randolph Ave, call (604) 566-9747, or browse our full catalog and request a quote on the equipment you need. Pricing, availability, delivery and installation are confirmed at the time of purchase.