Panini Press Buying Guide: Features to Look For

With a slew of Panini presses available on the market, it can be difficult to choose one that is right for your
business. Here are a few key features you should look out for when shopping for a Panini press:

• Temperature Control
Most commercial-standard Panini presses will have an adjustable thermostat. High-end presses will carry clearly marked thermostats with a wide range of temperatures. This not only increases the versatility and usability of the press, it also allows for minute adjustments, which can make a huge difference in end product. The Admiral Craft Panini Grill (SG-811E-F) and the Globe Bistro Panini Grill (GSG10) offer temperature control up to a whopping 570° F.

• Removable Catch Tray 
Removable catch trays – sometimes called drip trays – are essential for effective workspace cleanliness. They prevent large messes on counter tops, and make cleanup much easier. Many catch trays, especially those made out of stainless steel, are also dishwasher safe. Aside from cleanliness, catch trays assist in fat drainage for users who prefer healthy grilling, or would simply like to have the option. The Globe Sandwich/Panini Grill (GPGDUE14D) comes standard with a stainless steel catch tray.

• Floating Hinge
Floating hinges allow the Panini press to be closed at a variety of heights, thus accommodating a number of sandwiches and bread types. Many floating hinges are spring hinges, and offer adjustable tension. In this way, the cook is in charge of the amount of contact and the pressure of contact between the sandwich and the grill's upper plate. The Globe Bistro Panini Grill (GSGDUE10) offers a floating spring hinge with adjustable tension.

• Grilling Surface
There are a number of factors to consider with regards to grilling surface. These include the grilling surface area and the material the grill surface is made out of. Cast iron grilling plates are commercial favorites. Well-seasoned cast iron plates improve with age, last a lifetime, and are easy to clean. Their excellent heat retention abilities allow for a uniform cooking temperature across the entire grill. The larger the grilling surface, the more food can be cooked at one time. Combining a large surface area with cast iron material creates a precision cooking tool that is both cost- and time-effective. The Globe Panini Grill (GPG1410) and the Globe Bistro Panini Grill (GPG10) both have high-quality, well-seasoned cast iron plates with large surface areas.

The Panini press is a wonderful investment for a commercial cook, and can be a versatile tool in the right hands. It is important to consider all the features of a Panini press before choosing one that is right for you. Let us know if we missed any aspects in a Panini press you are interested in via the comments below.