For an Asian restaurant or takeaway, the wok table is the heart of the kitchen. It's where the speed, the flavour and that smoky "wok hei" character come from. Choosing the right one is about more than counting holes. Burner type, height, layout, gas supply and water all matter.
This guide walks through the main decisions, using the wok table styles we build at Suha Industries as examples.
Why a dedicated wok table?
A standard range burner can't deliver the concentrated, high heat that serious wok cooking needs. A commercial wok table is designed around it: powerful burners set into a recessed ring that cradles the wok, a sturdy frame that copes with constant tossing, and usually a water supply for rinsing the wok between dishes.
Burner types: jet vs chimney
The burner is the biggest decision you'll make.
Jet burners
Jet burners use a cluster of small jets to produce a fierce, focused flame. They're popular with cooks who want maximum heat for fast stir-frying and plenty of flame around the wok. Our WT series wok tables use jet burners.
Jet burners are loud and powerful. They suit high-volume kitchens with experienced wok cooks who know how to use that heat.
Chimney burners
Chimney burners direct the flame upward through a chimney-style burner, which gives a different heat pattern under and around the wok. Many cooks prefer them for their control and distribution of heat. Our WTV series wok tables use chimney burners.
The right choice often comes down to your cooks' preference and your style of cooking. If your head chef has spent years on one type, that's a strong reason to stick with it.
Height and style
- Standard wok tables: Our WTB standard wok tables suit a wide range of kitchens and general wok cooking.
- Low wok tables: Our WTL low wok tables sit lower, which can be more comfortable for cooks working with large or heavy woks for long periods.
- Domestic-style wok units: Our CW range covers smaller domestic-style applications.
Think about who's cooking. Wok work is physical, and the right working height can make a long service much easier on the cook's back and shoulders.
How many wok holes?
Work out how many cooks will be on the wok line at peak and how many dishes each will be pushing out. Then think about whether you want extra positions for things like a stock pot or a holding area. Wok tables can be configured with different numbers of wok holes, and some kitchens add a stock pot burner position alongside.
Don't forget space. Measure your wall, allow for clearances and make sure the table will fit under your exhaust canopy with room to spare.
Gas supply
Wok burners are among the most gas-hungry appliances in any kitchen. Before you buy, have your licensed gasfitter check that your meter, regulator and pipework can support the wok table along with everything else running at the same time. An undersized supply means weak flames right when you need them most.
Make sure you order the right gas type (natural gas or LPG) for your site. Any conversion must be done by a licensed gasfitter using approved parts.
Water and drainage
Most commercial wok tables include a water supply, typically with taps or swivel spouts so cooks can rinse and cool the wok quickly, plus a drainage channel. Plan your plumbing connections and drainage early in the fit-out. A licensed plumber will need to connect them.
Ventilation
High-powered wok burners produce a lot of heat, smoke and grease. A properly designed exhaust canopy is not optional. Talk to your ventilation supplier about the total heat load of your wok line so the canopy and fan are sized correctly. We also supply Simcohood products and can help you think this through.
Build quality
A wok table takes a beating. Look for:
- Solid stainless steel construction and strong framing
- Burners and wok rings that are easy to remove and clean
- Durable, easy-to-replace valves and controls
- Easy access to spare parts
Buying an Australian-made wok table from a local manufacturer means parts and advice are close by when you need them.
Custom-made options
Every kitchen is different. If you have an odd-shaped space, a specific layout in mind or a particular combination of burners and stock pot positions, a custom-made wok table may be the best answer. At Suha Industries, we offer custom-made options built at our factory in Sunshine North.
Certification and installation
Make sure any wok table you buy is certified for sale in Australia, with the certification mark and number on its data plate, and is installed by a licensed gasfitter. This protects your staff, your customers and your business.
Find the right wok table for your kitchen
Whether you need a jet burner WT series, a chimney burner WTV series, a low WTL or a standard WTB wok table, our team can help you choose the right configuration. You're welcome to see our range at our showroom at 2 Henderson St, Sunshine North.
Call Suha Industries on (03) 9334 5999 for free additional discounts on equipment and a free consultation.