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Nov 22

Slidders Pizza: Bringing Unique Flavor and Craftsmanship to Orlando with XLT Ovens

By XLT Customer Spotlight

Slidders Pizza was founded on the idea of building a pizza company unlike any other.

At XLT Ovens, we are proud to feature the incredible story of our customer, Slidders Pizza, a local pizzeria in Orlando, Florida, where tradition meets innovation, and every slice tells a story.

A Vision for Pizza Perfection

More than 20 years into his engineering career, Richard Gonzalez embarked on a new journey to create a pizzeria like no other. Moving from Massachusetts to Florida in 2004, he surveyed local pizza lovers to uncover what makes the perfect pizza. His findings revealed a fascinating divide: 33% valued the sauce most, 33% chose the crust, and 33% picked the cheese as the defining element. What all agreed on, however, was the lack of a pizza place that excelled in all three areas while remaining affordable.

Determined to meet this challenge, Gonzalez threw away the rule book. With the support of his family and a passion for culinary excellence, he aimed to craft the ultimate pizza experience.

Crafting the Perfect Slice

Slidders Pizza isn’t your average pizzeria. Every element is thoughtfully crafted:

  • The Cheese: Gonzalez developed a unique cheese blend, unlike anything commonly found in the pizza world, to provide a rich, balanced flavor.
  • The Sauce: Starting from scratch, Slidders’ pizza sauce includes a mix of 16 spices, creating a distinct flavor that has become a hallmark of their pizzas.
  • The Crust: Crisp on the outside, yet fluffy on the inside, the crust is perfected with careful dough preparation techniques, giving it a golden, satisfying texture.

A Legacy of Quality and Community

Now, more than a decade in operation, Slidders Pizza is thriving in Orlando’s vibrant food scene. Richard Gonzalez’s journey from engineer to pizzeria owner is a testament to what’s possible with passion, perseverance, and the right tools. At XLT Ovens, we’re thrilled to support Slidders Pizza’s mission to provide great pizza for everyone, treating each customer as a part of the family.

Watch the Full Episode Here:

Learn about more customers that choose XLT here.

Check out more of the story on YouTube here.

Nov 21

How XLT Ovens and Hood Systems Keep Buttercrust Pizza’s Kitchen Cool and Efficient

By XLT Customer Spotlight

For Brianna Feldman, owner of Buttercrust Pizza, it is important to keep it cool and comfortable for her staff.

For Brianna Feldman, owner of Buttercrust Pizza, expanding to a second location in Florida meant finding solutions to address the high demands of her busy kitchen while keeping it comfortable for her staff. With her first location just outside of Orlando, Brianna knew that reliable, efficient equipment was essential. For both locations, she chose XLT conveyor ovens with conveyorized impingement oven technology, but at her second location, she upgraded to a double-stack setup with a specialized hood system from XLT.  This setup has proven invaluable, ensuring that her team can work in a cooler, quieter, and more efficient kitchen environment.

Why XLT’s Hood System is a Game-Changer for Florida Kitchens

Running a pizzeria in Florida comes with the challenge of maintaining a comfortable temperature for both customers and staff. Brianna’s new XLT hood system not only keeps the kitchen cooler by capturing and containing heat but also reduces noise, making it an ideal choice for busy, high-traffic locations. Here’s how the XLT Ovens and Hood system make a difference at Buttercrust Pizza:

  • Efficient Air Management: The XLT hood system is designed to capture heat efficiently, reducing the amount of hot air pumped into the kitchen. This feature helps keep the kitchen cool, even during peak hours, which is especially valuable in Florida’s warm climate.
  • Reduced Noise for a Better Work Environment: Brianna notes that the hood system offers noise-canceling benefits, making the kitchen quieter and more pleasant for her team. This quieter environment allows staff to communicate more effectively, enhancing overall efficiency.
  • Energy Savings: With the XLT hood, less air conditioning is required to maintain a comfortable kitchen temperature, saving on energy costs. The system captures and contains heat, which minimizes the amount of makeup air needed, making the operation more energy-efficient.
  • Reliable, Consistent Bake Quality: At both Buttercrust locations, XLT’s conveyor pizza ovens deliver the consistent, high-quality bake that customers expect. The conveyorized impingement oven technology ensures that every pizza is cooked evenly, whether it’s a classic or one of Brianna’s unique creations.

Why XLT Ovens are Ideal for Busy Pizzerias

Brianna chose XLT from the start for its reliable equipment and impressive warranty, which allows her to focus on running her business without worrying about maintenance issues. For any pizzeria owner looking to improve kitchen comfort and efficiency, XLT’s conveyor ovens and advanced hood systems provide an excellent solution.

Buttercrust Pizza’s success story demonstrates how XLT Ovens and Hood systems can optimize a kitchen for quality, comfort, and energy efficiency, helping businesses thrive, even in hot climates like Florida.

Watch the Full Episode Here:

Learn about more customers that choose XLT here.

Check out more of the story on YouTube here.

Nov 20

How XLT’s Warranty and Reliability Won Over Brianna Feldman of Buttercrust Pizza

By XLT Customer Spotlight

Brianna Feldman, Buttercrust Pizza owner, ultimately chose XLT Ovens and XLT Hood due to the strength of XLT’s warranty.

For small business owners, investing in reliable equipment is essential to their success. When starting out, Brianna Feldman was initially exploring options like Middleby Marshall for conveyor ovens but ultimately chose XLT Ovens due to the strength of XLT’s warranty. As a first-time business owner, Feldman knew that the “heart of the kitchen” was backed by an industry-leading warranty provided invaluable peace of mind.

Why XLT Ovens Stood Out in the Search for Conveyor Pizza Ovens

While researching options, Brianna discovered XLT through a Google search on conveyor ovens and immediately noticed XLT’s comprehensive warranty. Here’s how XLT’s warranty and reliability made a lasting impression:

  • Comprehensive Warranty for Confidence: Starting a first business is challenging, and equipment downtime can disrupt operations significantly. XLT’s warranty offered a safety net, making it easier to focus on daily operations without the worry of unexpected repairs. This assurance, particularly for a small business owner, like Feldman, was a game-changer for her, helping to eliminate concerns over the oven’s reliability.
  • Trustworthy Performance with Impingement Technology: XLT’s conveyorized impingement ovens provide consistent, even baking results, ensuring that pizzas are cooked perfectly every time. The dependability of XLT Ovens has been essential for this business, allowing the owner to focus on growing the restaurant instead of worrying about equipment issues.
  • An Essential Asset for Small Businesses: For independent business owners, like Feldman, the choice of equipment can impact not only day-to-day operations but also long-term success. XLT understands this and offers reliable customer support and swift service, ensuring owners always feel supported in their journey.

XLT’s Conveyor Pizza Oven: A Perfect Fit for Independent Pizzerias

In the competitive world of pizzerias, XLT conveyor ovens have become a top choice for business owners who prioritize quality and peace of mind. The combination of XLT’s impingement ovens technology and exceptional warranty coverage empowers small business owners to operate with confidence, knowing their kitchens are equipped with reliable, industry-leading ovens.

For any pizzeria owner looking to invest in dependable equipment, XLT Ovens provides the reliability, support, and warranty needed to keep operations running smoothly and customers satisfied.

Watch the Full Episode Here:

Learn about more customers that choose XLT here.

Check out more of the story on YouTube here.

Nov 20

XLT Expands Distribution Network with Johnson Pike in CO, UT, WY, MT, ID, AZ, NM, and El Paso, TX

By Global Distributors

Wichita, KS — 11/20/2024 – XLT is pleased to announce an expanded partnership with Johnson Pike, bringing XLT’s renowned ovens and ventilation systems closer to customers in Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, Arizona, New Mexico, and El Paso, TX.  Recognized for their exceptional service and fast access to equipment, Johnson Pike maintains a stocked inventory of XLT products for immediate delivery.

With test kitchens and warehouses conveniently located in Colorado, Utah, and Arizona, Johnson Pike enables customers to experience XLT equipment firsthand, making product exploration more accessible. Their team includes seasoned sales professionals and services technicians, enhancing Johnson Pike’s ability to provide comprehensive support, from installations to service.

Johnson Pike:

  • www.johnsonpike.com
  • Main Office, JP Café & Showroom
    • 740 Umatilla St, Denver, CO 80204
    • (303) 572-0084
  • Arizona JP Café (Equipment)
    • 1600 East Northern Avenue, Phoenix, AZ, 85020
    • 480-616-1614
  • Utah JP Café
    • 3683 W 2270 S- Suite A, West Valley City, UT 84120
    • (801) 260-1840
  • info@johnsonpike.com

About XLT:

XLT is a leading manufacturer of high-performance conveyor ovens and custom ventilation systems for the foodservice industry.  Known for reliability, innovative design, and an industry-leading 10-year warranty, XLT provides solutions that increase efficiency and consistency for kitchens of all sizes.  With 24/7/365 customer support and a commitment to quality, XLT empowers foodservice operators worldwide to deliver exceptional food experiences. For more information, visit XLTovens.com.

Nov 19

Buttercrust Pizza’s Brianna Feldman on How XLT Ovens Help Serve Up Unique Pizzas with Speed and Quality

By XLT Customer Spotlight

Try the unique pizzas at Buttercrust Pizza in Orlando.

Buttercrust Pizza is quickly becoming a community favorite, known for its creative takes on classic pizza, like mac and cheese and bruschetta pies. Owner Brianna Feldman, who grew up in the pizza business, has crafted a menu that appeals to all ages, offering everything from classic pepperoni on butter crust to innovative specialty pies. To bring her vision to life, Brianna relies on XLT conveyor ovens and XLT hood to keep up with demand while ensuring her pizzas come out perfectly every time.

How XLT Ovens Support Buttercrust’s High-Quality, Creative Menu

One of the challenges Brianna faced was reducing cook times without sacrificing quality, especially for her hand-tossed dough and focaccia-style butter crust. By using XLT’s conveyorized impingement ovens, she’s able to maintain the high hydration dough’s integrity while ensuring it bakes quickly. Here’s how XLT helps Buttercrust Pizza maintain its commitment to quality:

  • Efficient Par Baking: For the butter crust pan pizzas, XLT ovens allow for a quick par-bake process. Brianna can bake the dough partially, making it ready for final preparation without long wait times. This method ensures pizzas reach customers in about 20 minutes instead of the usual 45 minutes, even during peak hours.
  • Consistency Across Styles: With both hand-tossed and pan-style pizzas on the menu, Brianna needs an oven that can handle varying cook times and crust textures. The XLT conveyorized impingement oven allows her to seamlessly manage different pizza styles while delivering consistent results every time.
  • Adaptability for Innovative Toppings: Unique menu items like the bruschetta and mac and cheese pizzas require specific bake settings. With XLT ovens, Buttercrust can achieve a uniform bake on all its specialty pizzas, no matter the toppings, ensuring customers get the quality they expect with every bite.

Why XLT Conveyor Ovens are Ideal for Community-Centric Pizzerias

Located in a food hall where customers can choose from various vendors, Buttercrust Pizza aims to offer quick, delicious meals that stand out. The XLT conveyor pizza oven helps Brianna serve unique, high-quality pizzas efficiently, making Buttercrust the go-to choice for diners looking for something special. With the power of XLT impingement ovens, Buttercrust can handle high customer volumes while keeping ticket times short and satisfaction high.

For pizzerias aiming to combine quality with quick service, XLT ovens provide the technology needed to meet demand and serve creative, consistent dishes that customers love.

Watch the Full Episode Here:

Learn about more customers that choose XLT here.

Check out more of the story on YouTube here.

Nov 19

XLT Announces Nordon Equipment as our Partner for Eastern PA, NJ, DE, Metro NY

By Global Distributors

Wichita, KS — 11/19/2024 – XLT proudly welcomes Nordon Equipment as our authorized distributor in Eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Metro New York, and Long Island, giving customers access to XLT ovens, hoods, and parts with immediate availability.  With a well-stocked warehouse, Nordon Equipment provides quick access and delivery options for customers, direct access to XLT equipment and enhanced service.

Not only does Nordon Equipment offer installation support, but their state-of-the-art test kitchen in Philadelphia, with additional satellite kitchens coming soon, brings the XLT experience closer to customers, allowing them to witness XLT performance up close. The Nordon Equipment team, including an experienced sales team and service technicians, is committed to supporting culinary needs across Eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Metro New York, and Long Island.

Nordon Equipment:

About XLT:

XLT is a leading manufacturer of high-performance conveyor ovens and custom ventilation systems for the foodservice industry.  Known for reliability, innovative design, and an industry-leading 10-year warranty, XLT provides solutions that increase efficiency and consistency for kitchens of all sizes.  With 24/7/365 customer support and a commitment to quality, XLT empowers foodservice operators worldwide to deliver exceptional food experiences. For more information, visit XLTovens.com.

Nov 18

Behind the Scenes at SoDOUGH Square Pizza – Authentic Detroit Style Pizza

By XLT Customer Spotlight

SoDough Square Pizza brings Detroit Style Pizza to Orlando.

Ever wondered what goes into making an authentic Detroit-style pizza?  At SoDOUGH Square Pizza, they are more than just your average pizzeria. Founded by Robert Bair, known for his innovative food concepts, SoDOUGH brings the iconic square pizzas of Detroit to the heart of Orlando. With over 40 years of collective experience, the SoDough team is dedicated to perfecting every detail of the pizza-making process, from dough to sauce to cheese.  That is why SoDough chose XLT ovens to bake their authentic DSPs – Detroit Style Pizzas.

What Makes SoDough Pizza Special?

The magic starts with the blue steel pans, imported directly from Michigan, which give each pizza its signature caramelized “frico” cheese crust.  Their proprietary brick cheese blend, shredded in-house, and high-hydration dough create a texture and flavor that stand out in every bite.  SoDough makes their tomato sauce from scratch, ensuring each ingredient meets SoDough’s high standards for quality and flavor.

Their pizza-making process is both an art and a science, and they’re excited to share it with you.  So, come on over to SoDough Pizza and taste the difference in every slice. Welcome to authentic Detroit-style pizza, Orlando!

Watch the Full Episode Here:

Learn about more customers that choose XLT here.

Check out more of the story on YouTube here.

Nov 18

XLT Welcomes Concept Equipment as Newest Distributor in New England States and Upstate New York

By Global Distributors

Wichita, KS — 11/18/2024 – XLT is excited to announce Concept Equipment as its newest distributor partner, expanding XLT’s reach and support network in New England and Upstate New York.  Known for their commitment to prompt delivery and exceptional service, Concept Equipment will stock XLT ovens, hoods, and essential service parts, ensuring that customers have immediate access to products when they need them most.

With a strategically located warehouse and test kitchen, Concept Equipment brings the XLT experience closer to customers who want to test bake and explore equipment options without the need to travel to XLT’s headquarters in Wichita, KS.

Concept Equipment:

About XLT:

XLT is a leading manufacturer of high-performance conveyor ovens and custom ventilation systems for the foodservice industry.  Known for reliability, innovative design, and an industry-leading 10-year warranty, XLT provides solutions that increase efficiency and consistency for kitchens of all sizes.  With 24/7/365 customer support and a commitment to quality, XLT empowers foodservice operators worldwide to deliver exceptional food experiences. For more information, visit XLTovens.com.

Nov 15

How XLT and the Radiant Grill Revolutionized Service at Val Du Lakes Bar & Grill

By XLT Customer Spotlight, XLT Radiant Grill

Val Du Lakes’ customers discuss with XLT’s Chuck Freer on how much they enjoy the food and service.

Val Du Lakes Bar & Grill, a favorite stop near Michigan’s scenic dunes, is known for serving up hearty, high-quality meals to locals and visitors alike.  With peak season bringing in large crowds, quick and efficient service is essential.  The XLT automated grilling system, featuring the XLT Radiant Grill, has helped the restaurant reduce ticket times, increase consistency, and keep customers satisfied.

How XLT Grills Transformed Val Du Lakes’ Kitchen

Before switching to XLT and the XLT Grill, ticket times at Val Du Lakes could reach up to an hour and a half or more on busy nights.  Since introducing the conveyorized grilling system, however, the restaurant has cut wait times significantly, down to 45 minutes at the peak and as low as 15-20 minutes on regular busy nights.  This drastic reduction has made a noticeable difference in service speed and customer satisfaction.

Here’s how XLT’s grilling system is making an impact:

  • Faster Ticket Times: The XLT Radiant Grill and conveyorized grilling system have more than halved the wait time for meals, with many dishes now coming out in as little as 10 minutes. High-quality entrees like sirloin steak with grilled vegetables and mashed potatoes are now served up fast, keeping patrons happy.
  • Consistent, Quality Results: The XLT Grill produces evenly cooked dishes every time. The new grilling system has turned even the most basic sirloin steak into a fan favorite. Customers have raved about the quality, some even comparing it to Michelin-starred meals. The grill consistently delivers tender, perfectly cooked steaks and burgers.
  • Customer Satisfaction: Val Du Lakes’ customers appreciate both the speed and quality brought by the XLT Automated Grilling System. According to one diner, the 8-ounce sirloin with bourbon sauce was among their “top five favorite steaks,” and many patrons are impressed with the speed at which the kitchen is able to serve up quality meals this season.
  • Efficient Kitchen Management: The reduced ticket times and consistent results have also relieved stress on the kitchen team. Chef Rob and his staff can handle the high-volume demands of peak season without sacrificing quality or speed, all thanks to the reliable performance of XLT equipment.

Elevating the Val Du Lakes Dining Experience with XLT

For Val Du Lakes Bar & Grill, the XLT automated grill has proven to be a worthwhile investment, transforming the kitchen’s efficiency and the overall dining experience.  With reduced wait times, consistent quality, and outstanding customer satisfaction, the XLT Radiant Grill has helped positioned Val Du Lakes as a must-visit destination for high-quality, quickly served meals near Michigan’s dunes.

Watch the Full Episode Here:

Learn about more customers that choose XLT here.

Check out more of the story on YouTube here.

Learn more about XLT’s automated grilling system, the XLT Radiant Grill here.  See more videos here.

Nov 14

From Long Waits to Quick Plates: Val Du Lakes’ Transformation with XLT Technology – The Radiant Grill

By XLT Customer Spotlight, XLT Radiant Grill

XLT’s Chuck Freer talks with Chef Rob about traditional flat-top grills versus the innovative XLT Radiant Grill.

Val Du Lakes Bar & Grill, a popular destination near Michigan’s dunes, has found a solution to its kitchen challenges with XLT’s automated grilling system – the Radiant Grill.  Chef Rob, an experienced cook at Val Du Lakes, has witnessed the transformation firsthand.  With the addition of the XLT Radiant Grill conveyorized grilling system, the restaurant has cut ticket times dramatically and streamlined its operations, especially during busy event nights.

How XLT Radiant Grills Have Improved Efficiency at Val Du Lakes

Before switching to the XLT Grill, Chef Rob managed orders on a traditional flat-top grill.  During high-traffic evenings, ticket times could reach up to two hours.  Now, thanks to XLT’s automated grilling system, that’s been reduced dramatically.  The automated setup has made the kitchen more manageable and efficient, with faster table turnover and happier customers.

Here’s what makes XLT equipment invaluable for Val Du Lakes:

  • Reduced Ticket Times: The XLT conveyorized grilling system has allowed Val Du Lakes to cut ticket times by more than half, creating a smoother workflow and faster service on busy nights.
  • Reliable Customer Support: XLT’s customer service stands out.  When Chef Rob had a minor technical issue late one night, XLT’s tech support provided immediate assistance over the phone.  The following morning, a technician checked in to ensure everything was still running smoothly—a level of care that’s hard to find in the industry.
  • Consistent Quality and Speed: With the XLT Radiant Grill, every meal is cooked evenly, regardless of volume.  This consistency has helped Val Du Lakes deliver quality food while meeting high demand, giving customers a reliably great experience.
  • Enhanced Kitchen Management: For Chef Rob and the kitchen team, the XLT Radiant Grill has made managing large events much easier, allowing them to keep up with high orders without sacrificing quality.

XLT Grills: A Game-Changer for Busy Kitchens

With the XLT Radiant Grill, Val Du Lakes Bar & Grill has drastically improved its ability to serve high volumes quickly and efficiently. XLT’s combination of cutting-edge equipment and exceptional customer service has empowered Val Du Lakes to deliver top-quality meals every time, ensuring both staff and guests enjoy a smooth, satisfying dining experience.

Visit Val Du Lakes near Michigan’s dunes to experience the quality and efficiency brought to you by XLT and the XLT Radiant Grill.

Watch the Full Episode Here:

Learn about more customers that choose XLT here.

Check out more of the story on YouTube here.

Learn more about XLT’s automated grilling system, the XLT Radiant Grill here.  See more videos here.

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