Ice-skating rinks are built around memorable experiences, family outings, birthday parties, school trips, hockey practices, and public skate sessions. But one of the most overlooked revenue drivers in rinks and arenas isn’t on the ice at all, it’s in the concession stand.

A strong foodservice program can significantly boost per-cap spending, keep guests on-site longer, and transform a rink into a true community destination. With the right equipment, even limited-space or understaffed rinks can deliver high-quality food quickly and safely.

Why Foodservice Is Critical for Ice-Skating Facilities

Skating is active, cold, and energy-burning, which means hungry guests. When food options are appealing and easy to access, guests are far more likely to buy.

Key benefits of a strong rink foodservice program include:

• Increased revenue beyond admission and rentals
• Higher concession sales during peak skating times
• Improved guest satisfaction and return visits
• Added value for parties, leagues, and special events
• More reasons for guests to stay longer

Whether it’s parents watching practice or kids warming up between sessions, food is an essential part of the rink experience.

Challenges Ice Rinks Face in Foodservice

Many rinks struggle to expand food offerings due to:

• Limited kitchen space
• Minimal or no ventilation
• Small or seasonal staff
• Safety concerns around hot oil
• The need for fast service during rushes

That’s where automation and ventless cooking become game-changers.

How AutoFry® Fits Perfectly in Ice-Skating Rinks

AutoFry is a fully enclosed, ventless commercial fryer designed for high-volume environments with limited kitchen infrastructure, making it ideal for ice-skating rinks and arenas.

Why AutoFry works for rink foodservice:

• Ventless design eliminates the need for expensive hood systems
• Fully automated operation ensures consistent food quality
• Built-in fire suppression enhances safety
• Compact footprint fits easily into concession areas
• Simple operation helps reduce labor challenges

With AutoFry, rinks can expand menus without expanding staff or kitchen build-outs.

High-Profit Menu Items Perfect for Ice Rinks

Fried favorites are consistently top sellers at skating rinks. AutoFry allows operators to serve these items quickly, safely, and consistently.

Popular menu options include:

• French fries (straight cut, crinkle, or seasoned)
• Chicken tenders or nuggets
• Mozzarella sticks
• Tater tots
• Onion rings
• Corn dogs
• Pretzel bites

These items are easy to batch, hold well, and appeal to all ages, especially families and youth groups.

Bundle Meals to Increase Per-Cap Spending

AutoFry also makes it easy to build combo meals that drive higher ticket totals.

Menu bundle ideas:

• Skater Snack Basket: fries + chicken tenders
• Family Combo: mozzarella sticks, tots, and onion rings
• Warm-Up Combo: corn dog + fries
• Party Platters for birthdays and group events

Bundling fried items with drinks increases efficiency and profitability.

Faster Service During Peak Times

Ice rinks experience predictable rushes, before sessions, during intermissions, and after public skates. AutoFry’s automated cooking cycles allow staff to focus on serving guests instead of monitoring fryers.

Operational advantages include:

• Faster turnaround during high-traffic periods
• Less training required for staff
• Reduced risk of inconsistent cooking
• More reliable output during tournaments and events

Turning Concessions into a Revenue Engine

When paired with the right menu and layout, AutoFry helps ice-skating rinks turn concessions into a major revenue stream instead of an afterthought. The ability to add popular fried foods without ventilation or complex staffing makes expansion realistic, even for smaller facilities.

Ice-skating rinks that invest in strong foodservice programs don’t just feed hungry skaters, they increase revenue, improve guest experience, and create lasting impressions. With AutoFry, rink operators can safely and efficiently deliver crowd-pleasing favorites that keep guests warm, satisfied, and coming back for more.

For rinks looking to elevate concessions without adding complexity, AutoFry offers a simple, powerful solution, no hood, no hassle, just great food.