What is the best tortilla machine for a small business?
For any small business serving Mexican cuisine, having a high-quality tortilla machine is essential. Fresh, warm tortillas are a staple of Mexican food and can make a big difference in the taste and quality of dishes like tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and more. But with so many tortilla makers on the market, it can be tough to know which one is best suited for a small business operation.
When choosing a tortilla machine, there are several key factors to consider:
Production Capacity: How many tortillas does the business need to produce per hour? A small taco truck may only need a low-capacity machine that makes 300-500 tortillas per hour, while a busy restaurant may require a higher volume of 1000+ per hour.
Tortilla Size: Most machines can make tortillas from 6-12 inches in diameter. Decide what sizes are needed based on the menu offerings.
Ease of Use: Look for a machine that is simple to operate, with clear instructions and minimal training required for staff.
Durability: A commercial tortilla maker needs to be built from sturdy materials that can withstand heavy, continuous use in a kitchen environment.
Cleaning & Maintenance: Choose a machine that is easy to disassemble and clean to maintain proper food safety. Replaceable wear parts are also ideal.
Footprint: Space is limited in many small business kitchens, so consider the physical size and whether the machine can be placed on a countertop or needs a dedicated table.With those criteria in mind, here are some of the top tortilla machine options for a small business:
SSS-BP Small Tortilla Making Machine
For businesses needing larger tortilla sizes up to 16″, the Estrella press is a great mid-range option. It uses two cast aluminum plates to press out tortillas from balls of masa dough. Simple but effective for making tortillas to order.
Pros:
- Can make tortillas from 6″-16″
- Sturdy construction built for commercial use
- Compact countertop design
Cons:
- Manual operation requires some labor
- Lower output of around 90 tortillas per hour
