When it comes to delivering memorable drinks and seamless service, the right ice machine is just as important as the right ingredients. From cocktail bars and cafés to restaurants and hotels, ice plays a crucial role in presentation, temperature control, and the overall guest experience.
We sat down with Comcater specialists Tony, Mo, and Simon experts in sales and product knowledge to discuss how to choose the right ice shape, what to consider before purchasing a commercial ice machine, and why Brema continues to lead the hospitality industry.
Choosing the Right Ice Shape for Your Menu
Not all ice is created equal and the shape you choose makes a big impact on the quality of your beverages.
Brema offers a wide range of ice types designed to suit every application, including:
- Square Cube Ice: ideal balance of presentation and performance, best for hotels, bars, and fine dining.
- Fast Ice: Fast-chilling, lightweight ice engineered for high-volume, fast-paced beverage service.
- Gourmet Ice: Perfect clarity and slow melting it’s the gold standard for spirits and cocktails.
- Pebble Ice: Known as chewable ice, this versatile ice ideal for healthcare, and uses 65% less water to make ice compared to cubes
- Granular Flake Ice: Moisture-rich flakes engineered for long, safe, and visually appealing food displays.
The right ice shape depends on:
- What drink you’re serving
- Cooling ability, some ice cools quicker than others
- How quick the ice needs to melt
- Presentation and glassware style
Common Mistakes When Choosing a Commercial Ice Machine
Many venues underestimate the importance of sizing and placement when selecting an ice machine.
- Not planning for peak demand
Ice machines produce ice over a 24-hour period, so always select the machine for your busiest trading periods, not your average day.
- Poor placement in a hot kitchen
Ice machines installed in overheated or poorly ventilated spaces will struggle to keep up with demand.
- Prioritising aesthetics over volume
Choosing the “perfect cube” is great but only if the machine can keep up with the required output. Underestimating volume often results in running out of ice during peak service.
Key Questions to Ask Before Buying an Ice Machine
To ensure you select the right ice machine for your venue, consider the following:
- How much ice do you use across 24 hours?
- What storage capacity do you require?
- Do you have the right space and airflow?
- What is the drainage method?
- What warranty and service expectations do you have?
Mo emphasises the importance of checking ventilation, drainage, machine footprint and true daily output before making a decision.
What Sets Brema Apart?
Brema is one of the most trusted names in commercial ice machines. Here’s why:
- Exceptional Reliability
Brema ice machines are produced with simplicity in mind, with fewer complicated electronic parts and outstanding long-term performance.
- Crystal-Clear Ice Technology
Brema’s unique water-spraying system incorporates oxygen into the water as it freezes.
The result? Crystal clear ice cubes, that showcase superior quality and make every drink more visually appealing.
- Industry-Leading Warranty
Brema offers an impressive three year parts and labour warranty.
- A Machine for Every Venue
With a broad range covering pebble ice, small cubes, and large crystal-clear cubes, there’s a Brema solution for every menu and service style.
- Built to Perform in Australian Kitchens
All Brema ice machines carry a Tropical Class rating, engineered to operate efficiently in Australian kitchens up to 43°C.
- Environmentally Responsible Refrigeration
Environmentally friendly gas: R290a, is a natural refrigerant and is highly energy-efficient and environmentally responsible.
Why Your Venue Needs the Right Ice and the Right Machine
The clarity, size, and shape of your ice impacts:
- Taste
- Dilution rate
- Presentation
- Customer experience
Brema ice machines ensure your venue is always stocked with premium-quality ice that looks great, performs consistently, and supports even the busiest service periods.
Elevate Your Beverages with Brema Ice Machines
Every great drink starts with the right ice. If you’re looking for reliability, clarity, and performance, Brema delivers it all.
Explore the full Brema range on the Comcater website and discover how premium ice can transform your beverage offering.
