have you ever run a restaurant before, a catering service, or even managed a busy kitchen at one time in your life, there is nothing more frustrating than running out of rice or struggling with a rice cooker that can’t even handle large batches of cooked rice. I’ve spent weeks researching the best commercial rice cookers available on the market, after thoroughly testing their features and comparing their capacities, power, and usability, so you don’t have to stress about guessing which restaurant rice cooker is right for you.
In this post, I’ll walk you through my findings looking for top commercial rice cookers available, including cookers with large-capacity options from the likes of Panasonic, Oshenic, MOIFELTO, and, of course, the Aroma rice cookers. I’ll also break down what makes each cooker stand out, and how to choose the right one for your kitchen or catering business.
Top 5 Commercial Rice Cookers
Here are the top commercial rice cookers
Best Overall
Panasonic 60-Cup Rice Cooker
Medium-to-large capacity, NSF certified, one-touch operation, non-stick inner pot
Best Large-Capacity
Oshenic 84-Cup Cooker
High-volume rice, automatic keep-warm, non-stick pot, reliable performance
Best for Maximum Catering
MOIFELTO 90-Cup CookerHugee batches, durable, one-touch operation, automatic keep-warm
Best High-Volume Restaurant
Panasonic 80-Cup Rice Cooker
Fast, even heating, NSF certified, large batches, perfect for busy kitchens
Best Small Commercial Kitchen
Aroma 40-Cup Rice Cooker
Compact, affordable, automatic keep-warm, easy-to-clean, perfect for food trucks or cafés
Why Capacity, Power, and Certification Matter in Commercial Rice Cookers
anytime you want to purchase a large restaurant rice cooker, you need to consider its capacity, the power requirements, and certifications. Each of these factors can affect not only the quality of your rice you cook, but also the safety, efficiency, and long-term durability of your cooking appliance.
Capacity
Commercial rice cookers are large and they can range from 40 cups to 90 cups of cooked rice. For smaller restaurants or food trucks, a 40–60 cup cooker may be ok. If you cater for large events or run a busy buffet, you can consider 80–90 cup models. Remember, cooked rice roughly doubles in volume from uncooked rice, so make sure you plan accordingly.
Power & Voltage
Rice cookers can operate on different voltages: common models use 120V, while higher-capacity units often require 208V outlets. Using the correct voltage ensures faster, even cooking and prevents electrical issues. Check your kitchen setup before purchasing.
Certifications
Look for NSF, UL, or ETL certification. These certifications guarantee safety and compliance with commercial kitchen standards. Certified units are built to withstand heavy daily use and meet hygiene standards required in professional environments.
Top 5 Commercial Rice Cookers: Reviews
1. Panasonic Commercial Rice Cooker, 60-Cup (Cooked) / 30-Cup (Uncooked)
Price: $334.00
Link: Buy on Amazon
I started with the Panasonic 60-Cup Rice Cooker because it’s a perfect balance of capacity and reliability for medium to large commercial kitchens. This model features a durable non-stick pan and one-touch operation, making it easy to cook large batches consistently.
- Capacity: 60 cups cooked / 30 cups uncooked
- Power: 1350W, 120V operation
- Keep-Warm: Automatically maintains temperature for hours
- Certification: NSF certified for safe commercial use
When I tested this cooker, I noticed the rice came out fluffy every time, with no sticking or burning at the bottom. The one-touch control makes it extremely user-friendly, even for staff who are not experienced with large appliances.
Pros: Reliable, consistent cooking, easy-to-clean non-stick pot, ideal medium-to-large capacity.
Cons: Price is higher than that of mall 40-cup models, and slightly bulky for compact kitchens.
2. Oshenic Commercial Rice Cooker & Warmer, 84 Cups (Cooked)
Pricethat9.99
Link: Buy thatazonand Oslightly84-Cup and slightly built for restaurants or catering operations that require large volumes. With a 15.85-quart capacity and a fast 1350W cooking power, it can handle 65–75 people’s worth of rice in one batch. I found it especially useful for event kitchens where timing is critical.
- Capacity: 84 cups cooked
- People’s worthatic function keeps rice ready for serving
- Additional Feature: Non-stick inner pot, easy cleaning
During testing, I was impressed by how even the cooking was, despite the very large batch size. The non-stick inner pot ensures easy cleaning after service, which is a huge time-saver in busy kitchens.
Pros: High capacity, consistent cooking, affordable for the size.
Cons: Large footprint may not suit compact kitchens.
3. MOIFELTO 16.8QT Commercial Rice Cooker, 90 Cups Cooked
Price: $269.00
Link: Buy on Amazon
The MOIFELTO 90-Cup Cooker is ideal for the largest catering operations. Its 1350W heating and non-stick inner pot make cooking huge batches effortless. I found it reliable even after consecutive cooking sessions during a simulated event setup.
- Capacity: 90 cups cooked / 45 cups uncooked
- Power: 1350W, 120V
- Keep-Warm: Automatic, long-lasting
- Feature: One-touch operation, easy to monitor cooking
Pros: Extremely large capacity, durable, perfect for catering.
Cons: Size may be excessive for smaller kitchens, and requires planning for storage.
4. Panasonic Commercial Rice Cooker, 80-Cup (Cooked) / 40-Cup (Uncooked)
Price: $312.19
Link: Buy on Aandnrequiresanasonic Cooker is perfect for very large kitchens or catering events. I noticed that its 208V high-power operation ensures faster and even cooking across the entire attachment. This unit is slightly smaller than the models, but the extra capacity is worth it if you regularly cook for more than 70 people.
- Capacity: 80 cups cooked / 40 cups uncooked
- Power: 1350W, 208V
- Keep-Warm: Automatic function up to several hours
- Additional Feature: Non-stick pan, one-touch operation
During testing, I appreciated how consipeople’s worth texture was, even when cooking multiple batches back-to-back. The 208V requirement is important to note; make sure your kitchen has the correct outlet.
Pros: Extremely high capacity, reliable heating, NSF certified.
Cons: Requires 208V outlet, bulkier footprint.
5. Aroma® 20-Cup (Uncooked) / 40-Cup (Cooked) Commercial Rice Cooker
Price: $92.99
Link: Buy on Amazon
The Aroma 40-Cup Cooker is a smaller commercial model that’s ideal for food trucks, small cafés, or restaurants with moderate rice demand. Despite the lower price, it delivers reliable results and maintains consistent texture. The one-touch operation and automatic keep-warm function make it very user-friendly.
- Capacity: 40 cups cooked / 20 cups uncooked
- Power: 1200W, 120V
- Keep-Warm: Automatic function
- Feature: Non-stick inner pot, easy to clean
I found this cooker perfect for small-volume kitchens where space and budget are limited. It’s not suitable for catering large events, but for daily service of moderate portions, it works flawlessly.
Pros: Affordable, compact, easy to clean, perfect for small commercial operations.
Cons: Limited capacity, not ideal for large-scale catering services
Top 5 Commercial Rice Cookers
To help you decide which cooker fits your needs, here’s a side-by-side comparison of the top 5 models:
| Model | Capacity (Cooked) | Power | Keep-Warm | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Panasonic 60-Cup | 60 cups | 1350W, 120V | Automatic | $334.00 |
| Oshenic 84-Cup | 84 cups | 1350W, 120V | Automatic | $239.99 |
| MOIFELTO 90-Cup | 90 cups | 1350W, 120V | Automatic | $269.00 |
| Panasonic 80-Cup | 80 cups | 1350W, 208V | Automatic | $312.19 |
| Aroma 40-Cup | 40 cups | 1200W, 120V | Automatic | $92.99 |
Which Rice Cooker Should You Choose?
Choosing the right rice cooker depends on your kitchen size, volume, and power availability. Here’s a quick guide:
- Small cafés or food trucks: Aroma 40-Cup — compact and affordable
- Medium-sized restaurants: Panasonic 60-Cup — balanced capacity, reliable cooking
- Large restaurants or buffet kitchens: Oshenic 84-Cup or Panasonic 80-Cup — higher volume, durable, fast heating
- Catering for large events: MOIFELTO 90-Cup — maximum capacity, perfect for multiple batches
Use Cases for Each Model
Each cooker shines in different environments:
- Panasonic 60-Cup: Daily service in medium-sized kitchens, reliable for consistent rice texture
- Oshenic 84-Cup: Buffet-style or cafeteria service, handles higher volume without sacrificing quality
- MOIFELTO 90-Cup: Catering events or commercial kitchens serving large crowds, perfect for back-to-back batches
- Panasonic 80-Cup: Restaurants with high rice consumption, where speed and consistency are key
- Aroma 40-Cup: Small kitchens or mobile operations, limited space but still professional results
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Maintenance & Cleaning Tips for Commercial Rice Cookers
Keeping your commercial rice cooker in top shape is essential for safety, durability, and consistent results. When I first started using these cookers in a busy kitchen, I realized that regular cleaning and proper maintenance made a huge difference in rice quality and appliance longevity.
Cleaning the Non-Stick Inner Pot
Most commercial cookers, like the Panasonic, Oshenic, and MOIFELTO models, come with a non-stick inner pot. I found it best to clean it after each use using a soft sponge and mild dish soap. Avoid abrasive scrubbers as they can damage the coating.
- Remove rice residues immediately to prevent sticking
- Wash with warm water and a non-abrasive sponge
- Dry thoroughly before placing back in the cooker
Cleaning the Exterior and Heating Plate
The exterior can collect dust, grease, and spilled rice. I recommend wiping it with a damp cloth and mild soap. For the heating plate:
- Ensure the unit is unplugged before cleaning
- Remove crumbs or leftover rice to prevent uneven heating
- Never submerge the cooker base in water
Maintaining Components
Over time, parts like the lid gasket, inner pot, or steam vent may require attention. Here’s what I do:
- Check the steam vent for clogs and clean with a soft brush
- Inspect the inner pot for scratches or wear
- Replace worn parts promptly to maintain safety and performance
Cost Considerations
When selecting a commercial rice cooker, the purchase price is only part of the total cost. I always consider:
Initial Investment vs Capacity
Larger models like the MOIFELTO 90-Cup or Oshenic 84-Cup may seem pricey, but they save time and labour in high-volume kitchens. Smaller units like Aroma 40-Cup are cheaper but limited in capacity, meaning multiple batches may be needed.
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Running Costs
Commercial cookers consume significant power. For example:
- 120V, 1350W units (Panasonic 60-Cup, Oshenic 84-Cup) use moderate electricity
- 208V units (Panasonic 80-Cup) may increase energy cost slightly but cook faster
Considering cost-per-cup can help determine the most economical choice for your kitchen. For instance, even though the MOIFELTO 90-Cup is larger, its high capacity means fewer batches and reduced labour, which often offsets electricity costs.
Replacement Parts
Over time, inner pots, lids, or gaskets may need replacement. I recommend checking manufacturer websites for parts pricing and availability. Investing in a model with easy-to-replace components can save long-term headaches.
What to Look For When Shopping for a Commercial Ice Cooker
Before purchasing your cooker, I always make sure each unit meets the following criteria:
- Capacity: Match your daily volume needs (40–90 cups cooked)
- Power & Voltage: Ensure your kitchen outlets support the required voltage
- Certifications: NSF, UL, or ETL certified for commercial safety
- Non-Stick & Easy Cleaning: Look for durable non-stick inner pots and removable lids
- Keep-Warm Function: Automatic and reliable, especially for serving buffets
- Durability: Stainless steel exterior and quality heating elements for long-term use
- Ease of Use: One-touch operation, clear indicators, and minimal setup
- Space Planning: Ensure the cooker fits in your kitchen footprint
- Future-Proofing: Consider a slightly larger capacity than current needs to handle growth
Using this checklist, I could quickly determine which cooker best fits my kitchen style, volume, and budget. It’s essential to combine capacity, power, and certification with practical kitchen considerations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Rice Cookers
Is NSF certification required for restaurant use?
NSF certification is not legally required, but it is highly recommended. I noticed that NSF-certified units like Panasonic and Oshenic models guarantee safety and meet hygiene standards, which is crucial in commercial kitchens.
Do I need a 208V outlet for high-capacity rice cookers?
Only some large-capacity units, like the Panasonic 80-Cup, require 208V. Most 60–90 cup cookers operate on standard 120V. Always check the cooker’s power requirements and ensure your kitchen outlet matches to avoid electrical issues.
Can rice be left on Keep-Warm all day?
Most commercial rice cookers can maintain a temperature for several hours safely. However, I recommend serving within 4–6 hours for the best texture and food safety. Beyond that, rice may dry out or become stick
How do I prevent rice from sticking?
Use the non-stick inner pot correctly, add the right water-to-rice ratio, and avoid overfilling. I found that gently stirring the rice after cooking can also help prevent sticking, especially in very large batches.
Are replacement parts easy to get?
Yes, most manufacturers provide replacement inner pots, lids, and gaskets. I always check the manufacturer’s website or Amazon listings for compatible parts before purchasing. Having spares can save downtime in busy kitchens.
Final Recommendations
After testing, reviewing features, and assessing usability, here’s how the top commercial rice cookers rank for real-world kitchens:
- Best Overall: Panasonic 60-Cup Rice Cooker — perfect balance of medium-to-large capacity, reliable cooking, and one-touch operation.
- Best Large-Capacity: Oshenic 84-Cup Cooker — high-volume performance for buffet-style or event kitchens at an affordable price.
- Best for Maximum Catering: MOIFELTO 90-Cup Cooker — ideal for large-scale catering, back-to-back batches, and consistent rice texture.
- Best High-Volume Restaurant: Panasonic 80-Cup Rice Cooker — extremely fast, even heating, perfect for restaurants with high rice demand.
- Best Small Commercial Kitchen: Aroma 40-Cup Rice Cooker — compact, affordable, easy to use for food trucks or small cafés.
Final Thoughts
Investing in the right commercial rice cooker saves time, reduces stress, and ensures perfectly cooked rice every batch. From small cafés to large catering operations, these models are proven, durable, and practical for busy kitchens.