Author Archives: Pitco

Frying isn’t just a cooking technique. It’s an art form shaped by regional flavors, culinary traditions, and the expertise of chefs who take it to the next level. From bustling street stalls in Southeast Asia to the classic kitchens of Europe, frying connects cultures. To unlock the secrets behind some of the world’s best frying...
Fried foods hold a universal appeal, bringing crispy textures and savory flavors to dining tables everywhere. While regional tastes and culinary traditions vary widely, the demand for fried delights transcends borders. For commercial kitchens, understanding global frying trends is vital to staying competitive and catering to diverse palates. The commercial frying world is rapidly evolving...
Oceania’s culinary identity is a mosaic of diverse cultures, each contributing unique flavors and traditions. Comprised of thousands of islands in the Pacific Ocean, the region’s many fried foods reflect a rich heritage. With options from Hawaii to French Polynesia, the fried dishes of Oceania captivate diners and offer commercial kitchens opportunities to stand out....
The global foodservice industry faces challenges like never before, with the rising cost of cooking oil reshaping how operators approach frying. From supply chain disruptions to geopolitical conflicts, the price and availability of essential frying oils are causing headaches for restaurants worldwide. Navigating these uncertain times requires a blend of strategic choices and technological innovation...
There’s a lot in store for 2025, particularly regarding commercial fried food programs. From new fryer innovations to figuring out how to help profitability, many of the trends we expect to see are all rooted in particular challenges. Operators are pressured to meet rising customer expectations for innovative menus while navigating challenges like labor shortages...
In Pitco’s ongoing Passport series, we’ve traveled the world to uncover the most iconic fried dishes and their significance in commercial kitchens. For North America, fried food is not just a menu option but a culinary staple that resonates across borders.  In this edition, we’ll explore North American fried classics, from crispy fried chicken to...
Here in the United States, the concept of Australian foods can seem quite, well, foreign. But the reality is Australians can be quite indulgent with Aussie fried foods. Across the country, fried dishes have become a cornerstone of the dining experience that blends the unique cultures of the Land Down Under while serving up innovative and...
French fries have long held a special place on restaurant menus, but their appeal isn’t just in taste; it’s in their profitability. Because of their high profit margin, French fries can help offset other costs on a menu. Operators can turn French fries into a powerhouse menu item by incorporating top French fry styles and...
As a restaurant operator, every decision made about kitchen equipment directly impacts profitability. One often overlooked investment is oil filtration. In comparison, it may seem like an extra expense, but investing in a high-quality oil filtration system can significantly reduce long-term costs. Oil management affects everything from food quality to staff efficiency and even safety....
Corporate Chef Austin Schafer recently started at Philadelphia’s One Source Reps, but he brings a wide knowledge of cooking in the foodservice industry. From preparing meals for professional athletes and even one of the former presidents of the United States of America, Chef Austin has seen plenty. We sat down with this month’s Pitco Fry...