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Sep 06

XLT FAQ – Does XLT finance?

By XLT FAQ

Yes, XLT uses a third party partner, North Star Leasing, that offers financing for all XLT equipment.

XLT is committed to excellence in every aspect of the commercial foodservice industry, including the purchasing experience for our equipment.  That’s why we’ve made financing your XLT equipment straightforward, convenient, and hassle-free.  Regardless of the size of your operation, we’re dedicated to providing cost-effective solutions tailored to every kitchen. It’s all part of our mission to provide smart solutions to simplify and enhance your business operations.

To explore flexible leasing options with our trusted financing partner, North Star Leasing or to customize a payment plan that suits your needs, click here.

Watch the video below for more information:

Sep 05

How Shady Gators Achieves Consistency and Efficiency with XLT Conveyor Pizza Ovens

By Make The Switch, XLT Customer Spotlight

Nestled in beautiful Lake Ozark, Missouri, you will find the busy Shady Gators venue.

Shady Gators, a bustling restaurant and entertainment venue, has found the key to meeting high demand and delivering consistent quality with XLT conveyor ovens. Co-owner Troy Wormsley recently shared how their purchase of XLT conveyorized impingement ovens has transformed their kitchen operations, allowing even new staff to produce perfect results every time.

The Challenge of Traditional Deck Ovens

While Troy appreciates the craftsmanship of a deck oven, he acknowledges its challenges: the need for constant supervision, rotating items for even cooking, and the risk of errors from mistiming. For Shady Gators, a venue with high-volume service demands and a diverse menu, these inefficiencies became a barrier to growth. That’s when they turned to XLT ovens.

Why XLT Ovens Are a Game-Changer

XLT conveyor pizza ovens simplified Shady Gators’ kitchen operations and improved their ability to deliver consistent, high-quality food.  Here’s why Troy believes XLT ovens are the cornerstone of their success:

  • Ease of Use for Any Team: Shady Gators employs many first-time kitchen staff, including international students on J-1 programs.  With minimal training, these team members quickly adapt to using the XLT impingement ovens.  The process is simple: place food on one end, and it emerges perfectly cooked on the other.
  • 100% Consistency: Troy emphasizes that the conveyorized impingement oven eliminates the human error often seen with traditional ovens.  By mapping out clear cooking paths—full, three-quarter, half, or quarter pass—the team achieves uniform results every time, whether they’re cooking pizzas, subs, or appetizers.
  • Streamlined Workflow: The oven’s automation allows the team to handle high volumes without delays.  With clear settings for temperature and timing, the XLT conveyor ovens ensure that every dish is cooked to perfection, reducing stress and improving efficiency.
  • Unmatched Quality: According to Troy, the food coming out of the XLT ovens is flawless.  Whether it’s pizza, wings, or another menu item, the oven’s consistent performance ensures that every order meets Shady Gators’ high standards.

Building Success with XLT Impingement Ovens

For Shady Gators, the switch to XLT conveyor pizza ovens has not only simplified their operations but also elevated the quality of their menu.  Troy describes the XLT ovens as “100% perfect every time,” a testament to their ability to deliver reliability and consistency.

With their conveyorized impingement ovens, Shady Gators has built a kitchen system that accommodates a high volume of customers, a diverse team, and a varied menu—all while ensuring top-tier results. Whether it’s for a high-speed kitchen or a growing restaurant, XLT ovens are a proven solution for efficiency and quality.

Watch the Full Episode Here:

Learn about more customers that choose XLT here.

Check out more of the story on YouTube here.

Sep 04

How Shady Gators Delivers High-Volume Dining with XLT Conveyor Ovens

By XLT Customer Spotlight

Shady Gators uses their XLT ovens to bake their very diverse menu.

At Shady Gators, a popular restaurant and entertainment complex in Lake Ozark, MO, efficiency and consistency are key to serving their vast customer base. Co-owner Troy Wormsley knows this firsthand, crediting XLT Ovens as the backbone of their kitchen operation. Describing XLT as the “Cadillac of pizza ovens,” Troy explains how the conveyorized impingement oven has allowed Shady Gators to meet increasing demand while maintaining exceptional food quality.

XLT: The Cornerstone of Shady Gators’ Kitchen

With over 35 years in the restaurant business, Troy has used nearly every type of oven on the market, from deck ovens to Lincoln and Middleby Marshall conveyor ovens.  However, the XLT conveyor pizza oven stands out as a game-changer for his operation.

Here’s why:

  • Versatile Cooking for a Diverse Menu: Shady Gators’ menu is built entirely around their XLT conveyor ovens.  From pizzas and subs to wings and appetizers, the oven handles it all. Its impingement oven technology ensures even cooking across a variety of items, allowing the restaurant to execute a large and diverse menu seamlessly.
  • Unmatched Efficiency: During peak hours, Shady Gators achieves ticket times as low as 8 to 10 minutes, with most menu items cooking in just 5.5 minutes.  The speed and reliability of the conveyorized impingement oven allow the team to serve seated, unseated, and to-go orders efficiently, even during high-volume weekends.
  • Reliability and ROI: After four years of continuous use, Troy highlights that the XLT conveyor ovens have never failed, making it a dependable investment.  Its performance has exceeded expectations, enabling the restaurant to grow exponentially without requiring additional cooking equipment.

Supporting Growth and Volume with XLT

Shady Gators operates two kitchens within their complex, but the one powered by the XLT oven has grown to rival the main kitchen in output.  Despite working out of a modest 24×24 square foot space, Troy and his team manage to serve large volumes of food, meeting the demands of seated diners and takeout customers alike. With an XLT conveyor pizza oven, Shady Gators has not only expanded its menu but also increased its capacity to feed a growing clientele.

A Worthwhile Investment for Any Restaurant

Troy emphasizes that for restaurants looking to handle serious volume with efficiency, the XLT conveyor oven is the ultimate solution. From its ability to handle a full menu to its rapid cook times, the XLT impingement oven consistently delivers. For Shady Gators, it’s more than just an oven—it’s the foundation of their success.

Watch the Full Episode Here:

Learn about more customers that choose XLT here.

Check out more of the story on YouTube here.

Sep 03

The Ultimate Pizza Solution: Why Shady Gators Chooses XLT Conveyor Ovens for Consistency and Quality

By XLT Customer Spotlight

Shady Gators serves up favorites at their lakeside location in Lake of the Ozarks

In the fast-paced restaurant environment of Shady Gators and Lazy Gators in Lake Ozark, Missouri, JG and his team face a unique challenge: delivering a wide range of consistent, high-quality dishes while minimizing mistakes. When JG discovered XLT Ovens, a game-changer emerged. In a recent discussion, JG shared the journey that led him to the XLT conveyor pizza oven, shedding light on why it’s now their oven of choice.

The XLT Advantage: Consistent Quality Without the Guesswork

Shady Gators initially faced issues with traditional ovens that require careful monitoring—something difficult to manage during peak times. JG highlights that “consistency” was the primary reason they switched to the XLT conveyor oven. Traditional deck ovens might produce authentic flavors, but they come with a risk of human error: pizzas left unattended can easily burn, leading to waste and lost time. With the conveyorized impingement oven from XLT, every pizza is cooked evenly, creating a reliable and efficient process that produces the same results every time. As JG notes, this feature allows Shady Gators to avoid “backups and burnt pizzas.”

Expanding the Menu with Confidence

While pizzas are central to their menu, Shady Gators has expanded its offerings thanks to the versatility of XLT ovens. This conveyorized impingement oven isn’t limited to pizzas alone—it’s perfect for sandwiches, wings, pasta, and even appetizers like spinach artichoke dip and mac and cheese bites. With XLT’s oven, JG and his team confidently add new items to the menu, knowing they’ll come out just right. According to JG, this ability to expand their offerings without sacrificing quality has been crucial to the restaurant’s growth.

Reliability and Durability: Built to Last

In over four years of use, Shady Gators has only had to call XLT once for a minor adjustment. JG emphasizes that XLT ovens are low-maintenance, describing them as the “best piece of machinery” he’s ever owned. Unlike other equipment prone to frequent repairs, XLT’s conveyor ovens have proven highly reliable, requiring minimal upkeep and delivering consistent results every day.

Enhancing Creativity in the Kitchen

One of the unexpected advantages of the XLT impingement oven has been the creativity it has inspired in the kitchen. Troy, one of the chefs at Shady Gators, experiments with new recipes using the oven, from unique pizzas to fun appetizers. JG describes Troy as a “mad scientist,” always looking for new ways to leverage the capabilities of their XLT oven to wow customers.

Why XLT Conveyor Ovens Stand Out for Restaurant Owners

For restaurant owners seeking a dependable, consistent, and flexible oven, XLT conveyor ovens are an ideal choice. With XLT, Shady Gators can manage a high-volume kitchen efficiently, delivering consistent results across their menu. As JG puts it, he would “recommend them [XLT ovens] to anybody” for their quality, reliability, and ability to support a diverse menu.

Conclusion

For restaurants like Shady Gators, where consistency, quality, and speed are paramount, XLT ovens are the ultimate solution. Whether for conveyor pizza ovens or expanding menu items with confidence, XLT has proven itself an invaluable asset in Shady Gators’ kitchen. By using an XLT oven, JG and his team have the freedom to create, expand, and serve with confidence, knowing every dish will meet their high standards.

Watch the Full Episode Here:

Learn about more customers that choose XLT here.

Check out more of the story on YouTube here.

Sep 02

XLT Customer Spotlight: Meet JG – The Man Behind Shady Gators and Lazy Gators (and One Heck of a Pizza)

By XLT Customer Spotlight

If you’re familiar with the Lake of the Ozarks scene, then you’ve likely heard of Shady Gators and Lazy Gators – two of the hottest spots for good food, cold drinks, and all-around fun. But have you ever wondered about the mastermind behind it all? Let us introduce you to JG, one of the co-owners of Shady Gators, and your go-to guy for everything from epic parties to – wait for it – pizza!

Shady Gators and Lazy Gators: A Brief History

JG and his team have been serving up good times at Shady Gators for over two decades. Located on prime real estate at the lake (seriously, the views are incredible), Shady Gators has always been the place to go for great food and even better company. Lazy Gators, its laid-back neighbor, offers the ultimate pool bar experience. Perfect for those who want to sip a cocktail while taking in the Ozarks’ charm.

The Pizza Plot Twist

But here’s the kicker: JG wasn’t always slinging drinks by the pool or managing live music mayhem. His journey began with something a bit…cheesier. Before owning Shady Gators, JG worked at a local joint called The Big Easy. There, he honed his craft, whipping up the best pizza on the lake – a claim that still stands, according to JG and anyone lucky enough to try a slice.

Inspired by his pizza-making roots, JG decided to bring the iconic pizza back to Lazy Gators. He even convinced his mentor, the legendary pizza guru Troy Wormsley, to share all the top-secret recipes. So now, alongside your poolside margarita, you can also enjoy a slice of pizza perfection at Lazy Gators.

Want to see JG in action? Check out the video below and get a behind-the-scenes look at how he’s making waves at the lake.

So, next time you’re at the lake, pop by Shady Gators or Lazy Gators. Whether you’re there for the food, the drinks, or just the view, remember there’s a slice of pizza history waiting for you too. Cheers!

Aug 30

Make the Switch – XLT Lounge Episode 8 – Tasting Time – Twisted Pizza

By Make The Switch, XLT Customer Spotlight

Anthony Lopez, Twisted Pizza, provides his choice between conveyor oven and deck oven

In the latest XLT Lounge episode, Anthony from Twisted Pizza shares his experience using XLT conveyor ovens and explains how these ovens have elevated his business.  From improving crust quality to maintaining consistency across locations, XLT ovens have proven to be a valuable asset for Twisted Pizza. Here’s why Anthony believes conveyorized impingement ovens are the best choice for pizzerias.

Maintaining Crunchy, Consistent Crust with XLT Conveyor Ovens

One of the main challenges pizza restaurants face with conveyor ovens is achieving the perfect crust crunch. Many believe that only traditional ovens can deliver the desired texture, but Anthony debunks this myth. In fact, XLT conveyor ovens create a crisp crust that stays crunchy even after a 25-minute drive. This level of consistency allows Twisted Pizza to serve high-quality pizzas that hold up well over time, whether customers are dining in or taking out​.

Why Twisted Pizza Chose XLT Ovens

Anthony emphasizes that switching to XLT ovens was a smart choice for Twisted Pizza, especially when it came to producing a reliably perfect pizza. Some of the standout benefits he highlights include:

  • Consistent Bake Quality: XLT ovens use impingement technology, which directs hot air onto the pizza to ensure an even bake on all sides. This guarantees a consistent product, whether it’s a busy Friday night or a quiet weekday afternoon​.
  • Improved Efficiency: Traditional deck ovens require constant attention and skilled labor to maintain quality, while XLT conveyor ovens streamline the process. Employees at Twisted Pizza can now rely on the conveyorized impingement oven to bake every pizza to perfection with minimal oversight​.
  • Superior Product for High Demand: Anthony notes that customer favorites like the Twisted Special and the BBQ Buffalo pizza are in high demand. With XLT ovens, he’s able to handle volume without compromising on taste or texture, which has contributed to the restaurant’s popularity and helped them earn several awards​.

Award-Winning Quality, Simplified Operations

Twisted Pizza’s success with XLT conveyor ovens underscores how important reliable equipment can be for a pizzeria. Anthony mentions that his locations have received awards for best pizza in Rhode Island multiple times, thanks in part to the consistent results XLT ovens provide. The ability to offer award-winning pizzas without the labor-intensive demands of deck ovens has allowed Twisted Pizza to grow without sacrificing quality.

Final Thoughts: Why XLT Conveyor Ovens are Ideal for Pizzerias

For pizza businesses looking to enhance quality and streamline operations, XLT conveyor ovens offer a clear solution. Anthony’s experience shows that conveyorized impingement ovens can deliver the crispy, flavorful pizzas customers expect. In the accompanying video below, you can hear Anthony’s firsthand account of how XLT ovens have transformed Twisted Pizza’s operations and allowed him to serve top-quality pizzas every day.

Watch the video below to see why Anthony trusts XLT conveyor ovens to deliver award-winning results for Twisted Pizza.

Watch the Full Episode Here:

Learn about more customers that choose XLT here.

Check out more of the story on YouTube here.

Aug 29

Make the Switch – XLT Lounge Episode 7 – Bake Quality (Part 2) – Twisted Pizza

By Make The Switch, XLT Customer Spotlight

For Anthony, the XLT conveyor oven has essentially become another reliable “employee”

Continuing a recent discussion with Anthony Lopez of Twisted Pizza, Lopez shared his insights on the transition from traditional deck ovens to XLT conveyor ovens. His experience with XLT ovens highlights how conveyor ovens, specifically conveyorized impingement ovens, can transform pizza operations by improving consistency, efficiency, and bake quality.

The Convenience and Consistency of XLT Conveyor Ovens

Anthony’s journey with XLT conveyor ovens began as he sought ways to streamline operations at Twisted Pizza without compromising on quality. According to him, making the switch was a “no-brainer.” Here’s why:

  • Ease of Use: Operating a deck oven requires skilled labor and constant attention, often needing two employees to manage efficiently, especially with high demand. Anthony noted how switching to XLT conveyor ovens simplified his operations. Unlike deck ovens, which demand hands-on work to ensure even baking, conveyor ovens automate the process, allowing even new team members to operate them with ease​.
  • Consistent Quality: One of the biggest challenges with deck ovens is achieving a uniform bake every time. Anthony pointed out that even the best-trained staff struggle to deliver the exact same quality consistently with a deck oven. With XLT’s conveyor pizza oven, he no longer has to worry about quality variations between staff members. The impingement technology in XLT ovens ensures that each pizza is baked to perfection, with consistent results regardless of who is operating the oven​.
  • Enhanced Customer Satisfaction: Before transitioning to conveyor ovens, customers would often visit on specific days to get a pizza baked by their favorite cook. Now, Anthony’s customers are happy with the product every day, knowing they’ll receive the same high-quality pizza regardless of who is working. This reliability has even helped Twisted Pizza win awards, all while using a conveyor oven instead of a deck oven. This goes to show that conveyorized impingement ovens not only maintain but can elevate bake quality​.
  • Efficient Workflow and Labor Savings: By eliminating the need for constant oversight, XLT ovens free up staff to focus on other tasks, reducing labor costs and improving overall efficiency. For Anthony, the conveyor oven has essentially become another reliable “employee,” one that doesn’t require a break and consistently performs its job well.

The Winning Formula: XLT Conveyorized Impingement Ovens

XLT conveyor ovens use advanced impingement technology to direct hot air at the pizza, ensuring even cooking on the top and bottom for a balanced texture and bake. For Twisted Pizza, this technology has meant higher customer satisfaction and a streamlined operation. From the award-winning results to the increased efficiency, Anthony’s experience speaks volumes about the benefits of switching to XLT.

Final Thoughts: A Game Changer for Pizzerias

For businesses looking to enhance consistency, save on labor, and improve customer satisfaction, XLT conveyor ovens provide a powerful solution. Anthony’s experience shows that making the switch to conveyorized impingement ovens is not only practical but also beneficial to bake quality.

Watch the video below to hear Anthony’s full experience with XLT conveyor ovens and learn how they can make a difference in your business, too.

Learn how you can Make The Switch to XLT here.

Check out more of the story on YouTube here.

Aug 28

Make the Switch – XLT Lounge Episode 6 – Bake Quality (Part 1) – Twisted Pizza

By Make The Switch No Comments

Getting quality pizza is not limited to deck ovens.  XLT conveyor ovens provides the same quality with consistency and speed.

XLT Ovens: Elevating Bake Quality with Conveyorized Impingement Ovens

In the world of pizza-making, achieving a perfect bake consistently is essential. Many pizza restaurants have long relied on traditional deck ovens to produce that crispy crust and perfectly cooked toppings. However, as the demand for quicker service and higher volumes increases, many are now making the switch to XLT conveyor ovens—specifically conveyorized impingement ovens—without sacrificing bake quality.

The Fear of Switching from Deck Ovens to Conveyor Ovens

For many operators, there is a common fear: will switching from a deck oven to a conveyor oven affect the quality of the final product? This concern is understandable. The belief that a deck oven delivers a more authentic or superior product has been prevalent for years. But what if you could produce the same high-quality pizza in a fraction of the time?

As discussed in this episode of the XLT Lounge (Episode 6), this fear was one of the biggest obstacles for the Twisted Pizza team when considering a switch to conveyor ovens. They were worried that the change might compromise the quality of their pizzas. However, once they took the plunge and properly dialed in their XLT ovens, the results spoke for themselves.

Consistent Quality, Faster Production

One of the most significant discoveries for Anthony Lopez and Twisted Pizza after switching to XLT conveyor ovens was that there was no noticeable difference in the final product compared to their old deck ovens. They conducted extensive tests—cooking pizzas for hours—and were amazed by the results. The impingement oven technology allowed them to cook pizzas perfectly in just 7 minutes, compared to as long as 25 minutes it used to take in a deck oven.

And the customers? They couldn’t tell the difference either.  There were no complaints, no comments about the pizzas tasting different.  That’s when the team realized the power of XLT Ovens. Not only could they produce pizzas faster, but the quality was identical to what they had been making in their deck ovens.

How Conveyorized Impingement Ovens Work

Conveyorized impingement ovens like the ones offered by XLT use streams of hot air (impingement) to cook food more evenly and rapidly than traditional ovens. The airflow technology ensures that heat is distributed consistently across the pizza, eliminating the need for skilled operators to constantly check, rotate, and adjust the pizzas.

The result? You get evenly cooked pizzas with a crisp crust and perfectly melted cheese in a fraction of the time. This efficiency allows restaurants to serve more customers during busy times without compromising on quality.

The Benefits of Switching to XLT Conveyor Ovens

  • Speed and Efficiency: A significant advantage of XLT conveyor ovens is the speed at which they can cook. Pizza that once took 25 minutes to bake can now be ready in just 7 minutes. This reduction in time allows for quicker service, higher output, and happier customers.
  • Consistency: One of the most impressive aspects of impingement ovens is their ability to produce consistent results. Every pizza is baked evenly, every time, regardless of who is operating the oven. This consistency reduces training time and eliminates the need for highly skilled staff to monitor the cooking process.
  • Labor Savings: With XLT conveyor ovens, you no longer need someone constantly tending to the oven. This allows staff to focus on other tasks, such as cutting pizzas or serving customers, making kitchen operations more streamlined.
  • Improved Work-Life Balance: For owners and operators like those at Twisted Pizza, the switch to XLT ovens was life-changing. After years of working every Friday night to manage the deck ovens, Anthony could finally take a night off. The ease of use with XLT conveyor ovens means anyone can operate them without specialized training, giving business owners more freedom to step away from the kitchen.

Conclusion: Is It Time to Switch?

For pizzerias still using traditional deck ovens, switching to XLT Oven’s conveyor pizza ovens could be a game-changer. With faster cooking times, consistent quality, and improved operational efficiency, the benefits are clear.  Anthony and the team at Twisted Pizza found that their fears were unfounded—XLT conveyor ovens deliver the same high-quality pizza, just faster.

If you’re looking to optimize your kitchen and boost productivity without sacrificing the quality of your pizzas, it might be time to make the switch to XLT.

Watch the Full Episode Here:

Learn how you can Make The Switch to XLT here.

Check out more of the story on YouTube here.

Aug 27

Make the Switch – XLT Lounge Episode 5 – Deck versus XLT ovens – Twisted Pizza

By Make The Switch

Twisted Pizza owner Anthony Lopez talks about how XLT ovens have impacted his customers on busy Friday nights.

Why Twisted Pizza Made the Switch to XLT Conveyor Ovens

At Twisted Pizza, the journey from traditional stone deck ovens to advanced XLT conveyor ovens has been a game changer.  Like many busy pizzerias, they were struggling to keep up with the increasing demand for quality pizzas during peak hours.  After experiencing the limitations of their old ovens, they made the switch to conveyorized impingement ovens from XLT.

The Challenges with Traditional Deck Ovens

Before upgrading, Twisted Pizza relied on double-deck stone ovens.  While these ovens had been a staple for years, they soon proved inefficient when business began to boom. The owner recounts how, on a typical Friday night, it was nearly impossible to keep up with the volume of orders.  Cooking times for pizzas could stretch to 20 minutes, causing long waits and frustrated customers. Even with the addition of a third deck oven, the challenge remained—only one person was capable of operating the ovens, and the number of pizzas waiting to go in seemed endless.

At its peak, Twisted Pizza could only handle 250 pizzas on a Friday night, with customers often waiting 45 minutes to an hour for their food.  This delay in service was driving customers away, especially those who needed quick meals during busy family evenings.

Why XLT Conveyor Ovens Were the Perfect Solution

The switch to XLT ovens revolutionized Twisted Pizza’s kitchen operations.  The most noticeable improvement was the reduction in cooking time.  What once took 17 to 20 minutes with a deck oven could now be done in just 7 to 9 minutes, thanks to the conveyorized impingement oven technology.  This drastic reduction in cooking time allowed Twisted Pizza to significantly speed up their service.  On a busy Friday night, they could now tell customers their pizza would be ready in just 25 minutes, compared to the previous 45-minute wait time.

Key Benefits of XLT Ovens

  • Speed: The time saved with an XLT conveyor oven is invaluable.  Faster cooking means more pizzas produced in less time, leading to shorter wait times for customers.
  • Consistency: Every pizza is cooked evenly and consistently.  With impingement ovens, there’s no need for skilled operators to manually turn or monitor each pizza.  Every pizza comes out perfect, every time.
  • Ease of Use: Training new staff became easier.  Unlike deck ovens, which require experience and skill to use efficiently, anyone on the team can operate an XLT conveyor oven with minimal training.
  • Customer Satisfaction: Faster service means happier customers.  When parents with busy schedules can get their pizza in 10 minutes, they’re more likely to stay and dine in, enhancing the overall restaurant experience.

Final Thoughts: Is It Time for You to Switch?

For pizzerias facing similar challenges, upgrading to an XLT oven or other conveyorized impingement ovens could be the solution. The benefits in terms of speed, consistency, and ease of use are undeniable.  If your kitchen is struggling to keep up with demand, it may be time to consider making the switch just like Twisted Pizza did.

With the ability to handle higher volumes without compromising quality, XLT ovens are becoming the go-to solution for pizzerias looking to boost efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Watch the Full Episode Here:

Learn how you can Make The Switch to XLT here.

Check out more of the story on YouTube here.

Aug 26

Make the Switch – XLT Lounge Episode 4 – Why XLT? – Twisted Pizza

By Make The Switch

Anthony from Twisted Pizza talks about how the little things make a big impact.

The Perfect Slice (of Time): How Twisted Pizza Found Its Oven Soulmate in XLT

In this episode of XLT Lounge, Anthony from Twisted Pizza gives us a peek behind the curtain —or more accurately, behind the oven door. As it turns out, running a successful pizza franchise isn’t just about tossing dough in the air or perfecting your sauce (though that helps). It’s also about efficiency, consistency, and, as Anthony puts it, making sure the ovens don’t “fail on a Friday night.”

Cooking with XLT: Faster, Better, Stronger

Anthony kicks things off by talking about his love for the XLT conveyor oven. Now, this might not seem like the most romantic partnership at first, but hear him out. Previously, Twisted Pizza used a competitor’s oven, but since switching to XLT, they’ve seen big improvements in both cook time and consistency.

Imagine shaving nearly two minutes off your pizza cook time. It might not seem like a lot, but when you’re running a bustling pizzeria, that time adds up—fast. “With XLT, we’re at 7:15,” Anthony says, knocking almost a full two minutes off their previous 9:05 cook time. That means more pizzas, faster. But it’s not just about speed. According to Anthony, the XLT ovens give a more even cook, especially for items like pastas and those golden, melty cheese-topped dishes we all know and love.

The Secret to Success: Consistency and Clean-Up

Let’s face it: running a kitchen is messy business. But Anthony’s quick to point out how XLT’s design makes his life a whole lot easier. With their competitor’s oven, cleaning was a challenge. Big trays meant awkward washing processes, and their location on the ovens meant digital gauges were taking heat —literally. Cue Friday night oven meltdowns. But with XLT? Not anymore.

The trays are smaller, easy to remove, and —get this— you can just pop them in the dishwasher. It’s a small change, but anyone who’s ever worked in a busy kitchen knows that convenience and time-saving tricks are worth their weight in gold (or pepperoni).

The Magnetic Magic of XLT

One of the unsung heroes of the XLT oven? Its magnetic door latches. If you’re scratching your head wondering why Anthony is so excited about magnets, let’s just say the alternative wasn’t pretty. With their old ovens, doors would wear out constantly. Anthony says they went through about 70 doors. With XLT, the magnet system keeps everything secure and running smoothly, saving time, frustration, and potentially dozens of doors.

A Match Made in Pizza Heaven

So, what’s the takeaway? In Anthony’s words: “I love it. It’s briliant.” And when you’re running a pizza empire, loving your equipment is kind of a big deal. From faster cook times to easier cleaning, XLT has helped Twisted Pizza streamline their operation without sacrificing quality. It’s a partnership that proves that sometimes, a little change can make a big difference —and maybe even save your Friday night.

Watch the Full Episode Here:

Learn how you can Make The Switch to XLT here.

Check out more of the story on YouTube here.

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