Designing a restaurant kitchen doesn’t have to break the bank. Whether you're launching a brand-new concept or remodeling an existing space, you can achieve a well-planned, code-compliant, and efficient commercial kitchen—without overspending.
At Cresco Resco, we specialize in budget-friendly restaurant design services that help you get the most value for every dollar. From smart layouts to strategic equipment choices, our team helps you save money without cutting corners on quality or safety.
The Real Cost of Restaurant Kitchen Design
Kitchen costs don’t just come from equipment—they also include design fees, permitting, construction labor, and unexpected change orders.
Typical costs include:
- Design services & drawings
- Equipment purchase
- Fabrication & installation
- HVAC & MEP coordination
- Health department compliance
- Ventilation and fire suppression systems
- Redesigns due to poor planning
Our job is to help you avoid the hidden expenses that eat into your startup budget.
How We Help You Design Smarter (And Cheaper)
1. Right-Sizing Equipment
Buying oversized or unnecessary equipment is a top way restaurants waste money. We:
- Recommend equipment that matches your menu and service style
- Offer compact, multi-functional units
- Suggest value-engineered brands with strong warranties
Explore affordable restaurant equipment →
2. In-House Layout and Drafting Services
Third-party design can add thousands. Our in-house CAD layout services save you fees and delays. We offer:
- Floor plans and elevations
- MEP coordination diagrams
- Hood and ductwork planning
- Permit-ready drawings
Learn more about our Restaurant Design Services →
3. Avoiding Change Orders and Delays
Our expert layouts help prevent costly surprises. We:
- Submit compliant drawings from the start
- Anticipate space and clearance needs
- Coordinate with code enforcement
4. Package Pricing and Equipment Bundling
Save more when you source through us:
- Discounted equipment bundles
- Consolidated shipping
- Volume discounts
Bundling design and equipment often reduces total project cost by up to 80%.
5. Energy-Saving Solutions That Pay You Back
We help you select:
- ENERGY STAR® certified equipment
- LED lighting and smart HVAC
- Rebate-eligible appliances
Real-World Example: Opening on a Budget
Opening a fast-casual pizzeria with a $75,000 budget? Here’s a smart spend breakdown:
| Item | Budget Allocation |
|---|---|
| Compact double-deck pizza oven | $10,000 |
| Refrigerated prep station | $4,500 |
| Undercounter fridge + freezer | $6,500 |
| Utility sinks + hand sinks | $2,200 |
| Ventilation system | $8,000 |
| Dish area setup | $4,000 |
| CAD & layout services | $0 (included) |
| Shelving, tables, racks | $3,800 |
| Smallwares & install support | $6,000 |
Total: ~ $45,000–$50,000, with buffer for construction, permits, or future upgrades.
Where Not to Cut Corners
- Undersized Ventilation: Can delay inspection and increase operating issues
- Cheap Knockoff Equipment: May not meet code or last long
- Skipping Professional Layouts: Leads to design flaws and wasted space
We help you cut cost where it makes sense—without sacrificing quality.
Tips to Stay Within Budget
- Finalize Your Menu Early: Design around actual food prep needs
- Keep the Kitchen Layout Simple: Straightforward flow reduces buildout costs
- Choose Multi-Use Equipment: One appliance can do the job of three
- Work With Local Codes: Avoid costly revisions later
- Phase-In Upgrades: Buy only what’s essential at launch
Why Choose Cresco Resco?
- 40+ Years of Experience: Across QSR, food trucks, full-service, and more
- Design + Equipment in One Place: Saves time and money
- Professional Layouts Included: CAD drawings and MEP plans
- Nationwide Shipping and Support
- No Upselling: Just smart, honest recommendations
Client Testimonial
“We had a small space and limited budget for our bakery. Cresco Resco helped us design a perfect layout, recommended compact energy-efficient ovens, and even helped us submit our layout for local permitting. We opened under budget and on time.”
– Sarah, Owner of Flour & Bloom Café
Build Smart, Spend Smarter
Designing a restaurant kitchen doesn’t have to mean maxing out your credit line. With strategic planning, expert support, and the right equipment, you can create a high-performance kitchen that delivers long-term value—without overspending.
Start your budget-friendly kitchen design consultation today →
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